By Baron Sekiya | Hawaii 24/7

Independence Day festivities kicked-off early for runners in the Pahoa VFW Post 3830 “A Salute to Our Veterans” 2nd Annual Hilo Bay 5K Run/Walk. Runners and walkers gathered at Queen Liliuokalani Gardens for the 7 a.m. start.

It was a second day of competition for the Hilo Bay BBQ Cook-Off. Three-time California champion Harry Soo took the honors of Grand Champion with his solo team of Slap Yo’ Daddy from Los Angeles.

The Hawai‘i Classic Cruisers’ Car Show & Shine, music, a skateboard contest, hula performances and kids activities provided entertainment all day. And to cap off the celebration a fireworks show from Moku Ola (aka Coconut Island) blasted skyrockets over Hilo Bay.