For as long as we can remember, friends and families have gathered by the shores of Commencement Bay to celebrate Independence Day. This wonderful, free event features numerous activities and draws 150,000 spectators every year. It's one of the largest Fourth of July festivals in the West. Now it's known as one of the Ten Worlds Best fireworks events thanks to recognition by the Travel Channel. Tacomas grand celebration has been honored among the nation's best by CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today!as well as one of The United States ten best according to CNN, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today! Visit www.FreedomFair.com for event details.

Presented by the Puyallup Tribe, a symphony of light and sound will begin at 10 p.m. with a pyrotechnic filled night air show act performed by Eric Beard. The main event starts at 10:20 on a barge offshore from Old Town. This year the Puyallup Tribe has made it possible for us to enjoy the most massive show ever shot in the South Sound! The show is synchronized to music broadcast on the waterfront sound system, Warm 106.9 FM, and KLAY 1180 AM. The best place to view the show is down on Ruston Way and where you can hear the music. So, come early and enjoy a full day of free entertainment, great food and fun!

About 150 artists, craft vendors and commercial exhibitors will transform the Ruston Way Waterfront into a colorful and bustling public market. Merchants offer a wide assortment of toys, clothing, jewelry, art works, home decorations, personal services and much more. Bring your checkbook and comfortable shoes!

Leave your ice chest and picnic basket at home. To really enjoy all that the Freedom Fair has to offer you need to be free to roam. Explore the whole festival site, from the Lobster Shop to Jack Hyde Park, and you will find fifty great places to get something good to eat.

The waterfront will be packed with great family activities like carnival rides, jumping toys, giant slides, pony rides, box hockey, sack races, and the chance to ride a segway scooter! The Remote Control Car Races are back. By the Les Davis Pier you will find the world longest running beach pole vault championship event!

Thrilling aerobatic performances by top civilian air show stars are always a highlight of the Freedom Fair. Skilled pilots in powerful aircraft will sour, spin, flip and dive through the skies over Commencement Bay between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m.

Street Rods, Classic Antiques and Special Interest Cars will be on display and competing for top honors in several categories. Cast your vote for the Peoples Choice Award.

Eight locations on the waterfront will showcase a variety of great local and touring talent. Dont miss Congo Productions Drum Circle in Marine Park near the Metro Parks Fun Zone. You can be part of the action and play an authentic African drum or rhythm instrument. Study the schedule and fill your day with great entertainment.