Perhaps due to the economy it seemed that more people stayed home in the local communities to celebrate the 4th of July instead of traveling out of the area.The annual tradition of the Old Fashioned 4th of July festivities in Steilacoom saw a larger turnout than in years past and with a significantly larger number of food vendors, crafts for sale, and politicians (hopefully not for sale).
The parade featured everything from military units and marching bands to classic cars and the Steilacoom puppets making their tenth appearance in the parade.
Despite the blanket of clouds and a brisk breeze that kept flags flying, not a drop of rain fell. People were celebrating and enjoying the day from 7 a.m. setup onward, helping each other, reconnecting with old friends, and welcoming the opportunity to sample a variety of foods from the traditional to the unusual, all in a spirit of good fun.
One of the new vendors this year was Union Jacks "incredible British edibles with the wow factor" serving Jacket Potatoes (gigantic baked potatoes) loaded with toppings that were extraordinary.
