Federal Way rocked the Fourth of July with a Red, White and Blues Festival that had something for everyone at Celebration Park.

A crowd estimated at 21,000-strong enjoyed blues, dance hits and classic rock from three of the Puget Sound’s biggest musical acts.

An enthusiastic group of dancers of all ages bopped to the beats in front of the main stage. A crowd of kids showed their patriotic fervor waving miniature American flags during the Kid’s Parade that wound from 324th Street to the entrance of the park.

The festival featured a host of fun activities for youngsters, including two bouncy houses, an inflatable maze, the Power Jump, dodgeball and much more.

Emcee Alex Zerbe made his Red, White and Blues debut to the delight of festival goers of all ages, with a zany, high-energy performance, clean humor and fire juggling. After a stirring rendition of The Star Spangled Banner on bagpipes, the lights went dark and fireworks rocketed into the air above the Celebration Park softball fields, exploding into multi-colored streamers.

The 22-minute fireworks spectacular was choreographed to a crowd-pleasing medley of popular music that included Neil Diamond’s America, The Beatles Birthday, Pharrell’s Happy, and God Bless America, among others.

North Lake event

In addition, Mayor Jim Ferrell was the grand marshal for the 62nd annual North Lake Fourth of July parade.

Elaborate floats, young and old, walkers, bikers and strollers marched the parade route ending at the North Lake Clubhouse.

A super heroes-in-training float included familiar characters like the Incredibles, Batman and Robin, Super Girl and more. Grandma’s bed took a year-long to build, with Little Red Riding Hood being chased by the Big Bad Wolf.

The neighborhood also enjoyed a hot dog barbecue.

Photos courtesy of Bruce Honda, Shelley Pauls and Chris Carrel, city of Federal Way. Fireworks photos courtesy of Todd Dearinger.