This Fourth of July, we got to spend lots of time at Friday Harbor Labs, including touring research spaces, looking at different types of algae with Dr. Gunther, and learning about what sea urchin research projects are currently in progress. We got to take part in an amazing Fourth of July parade and experience quite a bit of what holidays are like here in Friday Harbor. The parade was attended by what we think was the entirety of Friday Harbor, and visitors looking for a great experience. Lots of candy, many dogs, great floats, stickers galore and smiling faces were enjoyed by everybody.

After the parade, we went to the Pig War Picnic, which had wonderful food, music, and people to be around. Others explored town while some stayed back to enjoy the festivities.

As the fun in the sun continued, we went back to Friday Harbor labs to tour all the different research facilities, including sea urchin and sea star research, ichthyology, and the library, which stored a world of information at the touch of our fingers. After the tour we met with Dr. Gunther to explore seaweed and the micro-ecosystems on the docks’ tires. While we explored we also collected seaweed samples that we will later press to make beautiful art pieces.

We ended the day with dinner and a fireworks show that we attended at the Friday Harbor Marina.

Signing off, Finlee, Leo and James