KINGSTON — The clock is ticking on fundraising for the Kingston 4th of July celebration. Organizer Pete DeBoer said the committee still needs $30,000.
The Kingston 4th of July celebration has never had one major sponsor, but has relied on local business sponsorship and community donations. DeBoer said he’s confident the organization will raise enough money in the next two months.
“This community gives,” he said.
The Kingston 4th of July organizers still need to pay for $15,000 worth of fireworks, $2,500 for Tiny Town activities, plus insurance and the fireworks barge. The event is run by volunteers.
DeBoer said he is talking with The Point Casino, which has contributed funds in the past.
“Usually, The Point [Casino], the [Port Gamble S’Klallam] Tribe, and the Gliding Eagle Market have always helped,” he said.
There are envelopes in businesses all over town for mail-in donations, and the Kingston4thofJuly.com has a link to Paypal.
DeBoer said even a small donation is welcomed and will contribute to the celebration — he just needs people to donate.
Kingston’s streets are filled with families, pets and visitors during the celebration — seeing their friends and neighbors in the parade, watching children get their faces painted at Tiny Town, and sitting back in awe as fireworks light up Appletree Cove.
DeBoer said the committee is still booking activities for Tiny Town at Kola Kole Park — circus or acrobatic acts, or a train for children to ride in. Tiny Town features activities, amusements and contests for children.
The celebration will kick off on July 3 with Tiny Town, Kingston’s Got Talent and a community open-mic night at Kola Kole Park. The next day, the parade (still taking applications) will wind down State Highway 104 to Washington Boulevard. Vendors and live music will be set up at Mike Wallace Park. The event features such local bands as Blues Counselors, The Hep Replacements, Garage Heros and House of Cards. Fireworks are set up on a barge in Appletree Cove, and the show usually begins about 10:30 p.m.
For more information or to donate, visit www.kingston4thofjuly.com, or mail checks to P.O. Box 1274, Kingston, WA 98346.
