Issaquah is a city known for preserving and honoring its colorful history. And nowhere is this more evident than during its annual Down Home Fourth of July and Heritage Day celebrations.

Now entering its ninth year, the event is hosted by the city, the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce, and the Issaquah History Museums, and aims to let residents and visitors – especially children – get their hands on local history.

There will be an opportunity to learn more about the history of Issaquah while splitting a cedar shingle, using homemade soap to scrub clothes, dressing in historic garb, or whipping cream into butter. Other activities include operating a historic pump car and trying out a historic stump puller.

The centerpiece of the event is the Kids Pets ‘n’ Pride Parade, which starts at 11 a.m. at the intersection of Rainier Boulevard N, Front Street and NW Dogwood Street. To get involved in the parade, pre-register at the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce Festivals Office at 155 NW Gilman Blvd., or register at 10 a.m. on the day of the parade.

Heritage Day activities will take place in and around the Issaquah Depot, at 50 Rainier Boulevard N, next to the “Field of Fun.” The event will run from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., and is free and open to the public.

The Issaquah History Museums are also seeking volunteers to help with these activities. Contact the museums for more information at 425-392-3500, or info@issaquahhistory.org.