A Boater's Paradise

Enjoy the Show on the Water from behind the log boom

Planning on taking the boat out to enjoy the Fourth of July festivities? Do you want the best spot on Commencement Bay to view the Tacoma Freedom Fair Air Show and Fireworks Extravaganza? It will be located just off shore from Ruston Way restaurants. Boaters will have the opportunity to stay overnight from July 3rd to the morning of July 5th.

Because boaters can drop anchor in advance, this is a fantastic way to avoid the rush at public boat launches and marinas on the 4th of July. Positioning your boat between the log boom and the shore offers the best place on the water to see the air show and fireworks, so you can safely enjoy the Tacoma Freedom Fair from the comfort of your own boat. The log boom will be stretched between Marine Park and Dickman Mill. Event organizers recommend arriving early because there will be no movement permitted from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. during the airshow. Mariners are required to stay out of the area between the log boom and 3,500 off shore. The FAA requires that this area be kept closed and clear of all boat traffic during the air show and fireworks. The U.S. Coast Guard requires boaters to please stay at least 1,500 feet clear of the fireworks barge too. Old Town Dock will also be closed all day on the Fourth of July. The best rule of thumb is to stay between the shoreline and the log boom. It is the safest and most convenient place to secure your boat and enjoy the ultimate Fourth of July experience without interfering with the presentation of the festival.

A small donation will be collected to help offset the expense of placing and maintaining the log boom. Space for boats under 20’ will be $20 and boats over 20 feet are $40.

Please download the log boom rules and application (PDF).