Even though the Grand Old 4th has happened in Winslow since 1967, there are always bunches of visitors and newbies who haven’t seen the wonder of this event before – for them, we offer this list of frequently-asked-questions around the GO4’s activities.
If you have a different question, please contact the Chamber Team, and we will get you an answer (and perhaps add your excellent point to this list below!)
What time is the parade?
1:00 PM (and it generally lasts between 90 minutes and 2 hours).
Is there an entrance fee?
There is no entrance fee for spectators, or for admission to the event or entertainment stages.
There are entrance fees to participate in the BYS Fun Run, to enter the Car Show, enter a float into the parade, or to be a vendor at the Street Fair.
Make sure, however, to bring credit cards/cash for the Pancake Breakfast, for the amazing food, arts and crafts in the Street Fair, to enjoy the beer and wine garden, and for those pony rides and fun games in the Kids Zone!
Who is welcome?
All people of all ages are always welcome at the Grand Old 4th, be they local — Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, Suquamish, Kingston, and the rest of our friends in Kitsap County, or from Seattle, or from further afield. The only (obvious) exception is the Beer & Wine Garden – which only admits people who are 21+ (and have the legal picture ID to prove it). Beyond where you are coming to Winslow from, the Bainbridge Chamber is clear in our belief that everyone is welcome – regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, immigration status, religion or disability. We can’t wait to see you!
What can I expect in the way of activities and performances?
The centerpiece of the Grand Old Fourth is the 1pm mile-long Hometown Parade (presented by First Fed) which runs down Madison Avenue (starting just south of High School Road), turns on Winslow Way (and ends at the intersection of Winslow and Ericksen Avenue).
From 9am to 5pm, stroll through our Street Fair (presented by Kitsap Bank) of 100+ vendors, featuring arts & crafts, information booths and many great local food choices.
Also from 9-5, the Kid’s Zone (presented by The Marshall Suites) features pony rides, miniature golf, toy sailboat building and other fun stuff.
Car buffs will enjoy our Car Show from 9am to 1pm (presented by Modern Collision, Green Light Garage, Island Center Auto, Rolling Bay Auto, and Mac n Jack’s) featuring dozens of antique, classic & specialty entries. Gearheads should also take a moment to check out the one-of-a-kind (and much-admired) award trophies hand-made made by Dick and Aaron Strom of Modern Collision.
Finally, the Live Music Stage (presented by Urban Renaissance) will feature performances between 10am and 5pm, taking a break only when the Parade is in full swing a block away…
Do you have recycling at the event?
Yes! Our goal is to make this event as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible. Our recycling and composting efforts have reduced our landfill waste by 75% over the past four years. Our local Zero Waste volunteers are available to help festival attendees. Watch for recycling stations throughout the festival.
What can I eat and drink?
Bainbridge Island is has a reputation for offering a fine culinary experience and the offerings at the Grand Old 4th are no exception. The day starts out with a hearty pancake breakfast. The Street Fair boasts several food vendors. International cuisine is well represented, with American, African, Asian, European, and Middle Eastern choices all available alongside traditional fair favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, barbecue, elephant ears, corn dogs, funnel cakes, ice cream, baked goods, kettle corn, and yes, vegetarian and vegan option.. Soft drinks, lemonade and other juices, slushies, sno-cones and water are available from many food vendors.
Our Beer & Wine Garden, hosted this year by Bainbridge Island Brewing and Eleven Winery, will be serving tasty adult beverages to those 21 and over (IDs are required).
Can I refill a reusable water bottle?
Yes! Thanks to a new partnership with the City of Bainbridge Island’s Climate Smart campaign, there will be 7 hydration stations located around downtown Winslow and Waterfront Park Watch (many will be next to the recycling stations). The goal of the hydration stations is to replace single-use water bottles by encouraging visitors to bring their own water bottle from home. Re-usable and single-use water bottles will also be available for purchase at the Street Fair and in the Beer & Wine Garden.
How can I find my lost child/spouse/phone?
The Chamber of Commerce has several information booths located around the event. Our main location for lost and found items and individuals will be Grand Old 4th Headquarters at the Chamber Offices (395 Winslow Way E next to the Streamliner Diner).
Can I bring my dog?
This is a large event – we are expecting somewhere between 25,000 and 30,000 attendees. We feel it would be best for everyone’s comfort and safety if dogs were left at home (but accredited service dogs are always welcome).
What roads will be closed and when?
Various streets in Winslow will be closed to vehicle traffic at different times on July 4 to accommodate the Family Fun Run and the Parade. Look for signs posted on the affected streets 48 hours before any closures occur
Will there be bicycle parking?
Cyclists will be able to use the existing bicycle racks on Winslow Way and Madrona Lane.
Winslow Way East will be a pedestrian zone between Madison and Ericksen Avenues, so please walk your bike in that area.
Will there be disabled parking?
Definitely! We are a disabled accessible event with designated parking in the Eagle Harbor Church parking lot on Winslow Way West. Please let one of our traffic attendants know and they will direct you to the disabled parking area. If you have a large special needs group or have questions please call the Chamber’s Mickey Molnaire at 206-842-3700.
What if it rains?
This is the Pacific Northwest – our event goes on rain or shine.
Can I volunteer to help with this event?
Absolutely! The Grand Old 4th needs a large number of volunteer workers for set-up on the evening of July 3 and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 4 in 2- or 4-hour shifts. We really appreciate all the folks who can give us a few hours of their time.
To volunteer, please contact GO4 coordinator Ms. Mickey Molnaire at the Chamber.
Why are the politicians always at the end of the parade?
There is no slight intended—it’s a matter of logistics. Many political figures and candidates also want to be in the Kingston parade, which begins about an hour before ours. The Bainbridge parade lasts about 90 minutes, so there is just enough time to get back to Bainbridge if we put them right there at the parade’s caboose.