Frequently Asked Questions

If you are accepting donations, why would you also pursue sponsorship? If you raise enough in corporate sponsorship, will you still need donations?

We are instituting this new model of both sponsorship and donations to secure the event’s future. We believe sharing the load between private donations and corporate sponsorship will be the most successful and sustainable approach.

Will you pursue a Title Sponsor again?

No. The community at large has claimed ownership of the Family 4th, and voiced that they would like to share the responsibility of preserving this important civic event.

How does the new plan work?

Public donors and corporate sponsors will be able to contribute funds in any dollar amount, but there will also be set levels, with corresponding benefits, for both groups.

Where can a prospective donor or sponsor make a contribution, or get more information?

Please see a detailed list of donor benefits. Donations up to $5,000 can be made by credit card here at family4th.org. Donations larger than $1,000 are possible by submitting a pledge form, and a One Reel staff member will follow up with the individual or business to collect the pledged amount. A printable donation form can also be downloaded (or requested by calling 206.281.7788), and mailed to One Reel with a check.

Sponsorship inquiries can be emailed to sponsorship (at) onereel.org, or a Sponsorship Representative can be reached at 206.816.6452.

Is there a minimum to donate to the event?

There is no minimum contribution; however, the minimum amount to pay by credit card online is $10. For donations smaller than $10, a printable donation form may be mailed to One Reel with a check.

What will you do with funds that exceed the budget of the show?

In the event that donations and sponsorship exceed event costs, the funds will be applied to future years.

Why don’t you charge an entry fee to the park?

Since its inception, the Family 4th at Lake Union has been a free event, open to all—an important way to celebrate our Nation’s independence, together as a community. The community elected to support the event in 2010, and we hope they will continue to do so in the future so that we can preserve this tradition. Rather than charge an entry fee, we will be accepting donations year-round.

Why should the public and sponsors contribute to One Reel’s 4th of July production?

One Reel’s production of the Family 4th at Lake Union is not only the sole fireworks show in Seattle, but is also regularly recognized as a world-class production and is produced by a non-profit arts organization with deep roots in the community. One Reel is committed to bringing the very best celebrations to our community, and we take great pride and responsibility in the stewardship of an event that celebrates this special national holiday.

Will the donors and sponsors be able to make decisions about how the show is produced?

As the producer of some of Seattle’s longest running and most popular events, we routinely solicit and place a high value on feedback we receive from our sponsors, donors, and patrons. One Reel is committed to taking this feedback into consideration as we continue to steer the direction of the event as its original producer.