Downhill racers in a kelp box derby, a dunk tank, a community barbecue featuring wild Alaska salmon and square dancing are all part of Cordova’s free annual Independence Day festivities, coming up on Wednesday, the Fourth of July.
The celebration is sponsored by the Cordova Chamber of Commerce with support from local businesses and volunteers.
The fun begins at 10 a.m. with the kelp box derby, dubbed “Alaska’s Premier Gravity Racing Event” by race coordinator Kelley Weaverling. Competitors check in for the race at 9:30 a.m. at the top of First Street. Register for the event at cordovachamber.com/driver and contact the chamber to get a kelp box to build a race car.
Children’s games, under the direction of Kayti Ammerman, begin at 11 a.m. All children ages 2 and older are welcome to participate, with a parent or caregiver. There will be a dunk tank, with dunking donations supporting the Cordova Junior/Senior High school activities.
Musician Annie Carlson will perform the national anthem at 11:45 a.m.
The free community barbecue, sponsored by the Cordova Chamber of Commerce, with salmon donated by local processors, will feature Copper River and Prince William Sound salmon, hamburgers, hot dogs and all the fixings.
A community square dance led by the Rev. Belle Mickelson follows, plus a dessert social provided by Cordova’s churches and community organizations.
The chamber is accepting donations from local businesses and seeking volunteers.
Sign up to help set up the big tent at 5:30 p.m. July 3, set up tables and chairs at 9 a.m. July 4, or take down the tent after the festivities on the fourth, by contacting Jessicca Hoover at the chamber at 907-424-7260 or email programs@cordovachamber.com. Those willing to help serve food or make a side dish or salad, should contact Jalie Sebia at 757-749-8901. To contribute a dessert, contact Jackie Gonzalez Dyer at 423-847-5957.
The growing list of supporters and partner organizations is online at cordovachamber.com/flag.
Fourth of July Schedule at a glance
- 9:30 a.m. Kelp Box Racers inspection, First Street by Chamber building
- 10 a.m. Kelp Box Derby Race, top of First Street by the Masonic building
- 11 a.m. Kids’ Street Games, First Street by FNBA
- 11:45 a.m. National Anthem, First Street by Nichols
- Noon Salmon BBQ and Community Potluck, First Street
- 1 p.m. Pie Social, First Street by Wells Fargo
- 1:30 p.m. Community Square Dance, First Street by Nichols
- 2 p.m. Give a hand and help clean up!
