KINGSTON — As the days get longer, the weather warmer and that special spring smell permeates the North End, it’s clear, summer will soon arrive in Kingston. And that can only mean one thing — it’s time to start organizing the Fourth of July, one of the biggest North End parties of the year.

Pete DeBoer, who has spearheaded the summer event for years, is back at it again and starting to rally the troops to organize the Independence Day celebration.

“This is one of the toughest years to do this because Fourth of July occurs on a Wednesday,” he said. “We’re still hoping to have a three-day Tiny Town and plenty of music and food.”

Kiwanis President Debbie Anderson will be heading up the Tiny Town effort this year, making sure the children’s themed area of the festival comes out with a bang. Last year, she and the other Tiny Town committee members decided a new paint job was in order, and the community response was positive. The committee has decided not to change anything this year as a result, though it is planning some extra surprises for the kids.

“We’re starting the buttons now,” Anderson said, speaking of one of the fund raisers to bring in money for Fourth activities. “We’re thinking about a family theme right now. We’ve got several slogans we’re working on.”

DeBoer is visiting with different Kingston groups and major businesses in the area, not only spreading the word that the organizing has begun, but also looking for sponsors for this year’s fireworks, the barge, music and other activities. He estimates it takes about $20,000 to run the show, and he’s seeking big name sponsors. Donation jars will also soon find their way into Kingston businesses for the general public to help with the cause.

Last year, the Fourth of July found itself in danger of not being able to afford the fireworks until the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe and the Point No Point Casino came through with $11,000 to light the fuse.

“I haven’t made any suggestions to them yet,” DeBoer said. “We did get a Christmas card from (Point No Point Casino marketing representative Dawn Purser) that said ‘We’re looking forward to working with you again.’ That was encouraging.”

“I would guess, we plan on helping out again,” said Tribal Chairman Ron Charles. “The tribe is usually pleased to help out with that kind of celebration. It’s a good possibility we will again.”

Other elements of the Fourth of July include the oldest running parade in the state, a special farmers market, food, music and people traveling from all over to join Kingston in the annual fun at festival.