The Eastside’s largest fireworks display will burst over Bellevue on Thursday, July 4 at the city’s Downtown Park. Come early, stretch out your picnic blanket and chairs and enjoy a full day of food and festivities.

While personal barbecues aren’t allowed, the 20-acre park will be filled with a total of 22 food vendors offering everything from traditional American burgers, New Orleans Cajun food, Greek Gyros, German sausages, Mexican and Japanese food, and those summertime staples kettlecorn, elephant ears and shaved ice.

There will also be a variety of musical acts throughout the day along with a family fun zone that will include kids’ activities, some free, others with a fee. The culmination of the day begins with a performance by the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra beginning at 9:30 p.m. and then accompanying  the fireworks at 10:05 p.m.

The event is free, as is parking at several locations including City Hall at 450 110th Ave. NE and at the Bellevue Collection, which includes Bellevue Square, Bellevue Place and Lincoln Square. A number of Metro buses also serve downtown.

A reminder: Pets, alcohol, personal fireworks, weapons of any kind and smoking are no-nos at the park.

While Fido isn’t allowed at the park, a new event this year will let leashed dogs and their people participate in a 4K walk. The Four on the Fourth Dog Jog and Walk will start and end at Ashwood Park, next to the Bellevue Library, which will offer free parking. Registration is from 7:30-9 a.m.  with the walk from 9 a.m. to noon. There’s even a dog costume contest at 10:15 a.m.

Those looking for a more intimate venue can head to Lake Boren Park for Newcastle’s Fourth of July event, which includes a fireworks show.  Food vendors will be on site beginning at 6 p.m. and the band Big Dog Revue will perform from 8-10 p.m. Fireworks start at dark.

The park is located at 13058 SE 84th Way.