Happy Independence Day! Don’t miss our comprehensive guide to celebrating the 4th of July in Denver–from parades to fireworks to outdoor activities to festivals and so much more.
4th of July Fireworks Displays, Parade and Festivals in Denver
ARVADA
Arvada Fireworks Display — Since 1979, the City of Arvada has celebrated Independence Day on July 4th with a spectacular fireworks display at the Stenger Sports Complex. Gates at the Stengler Sports Complex open to vehicles at 7 p.m. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. No personal fireworks, alcohol, drones or pets allowed. The park is at 58th and Oak Street. arvadafestivals.com/independence-day
AURORA
Aurora 4th of July Spectacular — ON July 4th, the 4th of July Spectacular will, indeed, be spectacular! The Fireworks display kicks off at 9:30 p.m. around Bicentennial Park (at Alameda & Potomac). Note: The Aurora Municipal Center will be closed to spectators and there is no program or festival this year. All are encouraged to watch the 30-minute display from their homes or nearby parks. auroragov.org
BERTHOD
Berthoud Fireworks Celebration — On July 3rd, the fireworks display will take place at Richardsons and will be viewable at 9 p.m. from your front porch. Free admission into Bein Baseball Complex and the kid’s zone which includes Inflatable Slides, Noco Mobile Gaming, Face Painting, Balloon Artist, and Laser Tag. 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. includes food trucks and kids zone. berthoud.org/departments/recreation/july-3rd-fireworks-event
BRIGHTON
Stars & Stripes Independence Day Celebration — On July 3rd, the sixth annual Stars & Stripes event will be on Saturday, July 3, at Riverdale Regional Park, 9755 Henderson Rd., Brighton. This free celebration includes a Stars & Stripes 5K, cornhole tournament, live entertainment from Morgan Evans and The Tyler Walker Band, food and beverage options, and musical fireworks. adamscountyfair.com/starsandstripes
Brighton Fourth of July — On July 4th, Carmichael Park comes to life from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be activities for the whole family, music and food vendors. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, bug spray, sunscreen and water. The Park is just behind City Hall at 500 S. 4th Ave. https://www.brightonco.gov/131/Brighton-Events
DENVER
Central Park Pancake Breakfast & Parade — On July 4th, the Annual Pancake Breakfast begins at 9 am at the South Green (29th & Roslyn). Stick around until 10:30 a.m. for the old-fashioned parade with decorated wagons, bikes, trikes and scooters. mca80238.com/programs/signature-events/4th-of-july-pancake-breakfast-parade
Colorado Rockies Post-Game Fireworks — On July 2nd and 3rd, the Rockies play the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field at 6:10 p.m. and 7:10 p.m. respectively, followed by a huge fireworks display. Ticket prices vary based on seat location. mlb.com/rockies/tickets/promotions
Cranmer Park Community Picnic — On July 2nd at 6 p.m., the 4th Annual Community Picnic at Cranmer Park will feature a concert of patriotic and popular music performed byThe Denver Municipal Band. denverhilltop.com/events/4th-annual-community-picnic-at-cranmer-park
Elitch Gardens — On July 4th, don’t miss as Elitch lights up the Downtown Denver skyline with their annual fireworks extravaganza! Shows start at park closing time. Show is free with a daily ticket or season pass. facebook.com/events/682225178894202
Four Mile Historic Park’s Independence Day Celebration – July 2nd from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., bring your family and experience the holiday in the spirit of the West with live music, fun activities and prairie games. Watch the fireworks show at sunset. Purchase tickets on the website. 715 S. Forest St., Denver; 720-865-0800. fourmilepark.org/independence-celebration
Park Hill 4th of July Parade —The Park Hill Parade is on for 2021! Please join this community in northeast Denver at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 4 for a celebration of community and equality with 50+ floats, costumes, classic cars and marching bands. The parade ends about 3 p.m. at the Kearney Street Fair on the 2200 block of Kearney with live music,, tasty food kids’ activities and more. parkhillparade.org/
ENGLEWOOD
Englewood 4th of July Festival — On July 3rd, celebrate our National Holiday with friends and family at Belleview Park and Cornerstone Park starting at 5 p.m. Enjoy local business vendors and food trucks. Bring a picnic dinner and blankets to watch the fireworks! The fireworks will start at 9:15 p.m. englewoodco.gov/our-city/events/upcoming/4th-of-july-fireworks
ERIE
Erie Fireworks Show — New this year, Erie is excited to host the 2021 celebration at the Erie Community Park (450 Powers Street) Saturday, July 3 with the fireworks launched at 9:30 p.m. from the rooftop of the Erie Community Center. erieco.gov/1560/Fireworks-Show
ESTES PARK
Estes Park 4th of July Celebration — On July 4th, spend the afternoon enjoying hiking, bike riding, paddle boating, miniature golf or check out the Coolest Car Show. More than 100 vehicles, from “Steam-to-Electric” will be displayed at the Estes Park Events Complex, located at the Fairgrounds at Stanley Park. At 7 p.m., the Estes Village Band tunes up for its annual patriotic concert and a view of the fireworks along with music, food, local craft beer and wine at the Estes Park Fairgrounds in the Grandstands. visitestespark.com/events-calendar/summer-events/4th-of-july/
EVERGREEN
On July 4th, head up to Evergreen for the family-friendly Evergreen Music Festival from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. They are also offering a discounted combined ticket with the Mt. Evans Freedom Run. evergreenmusicfestival.org/4th-of-july-festival
FIRESTONE
4th at Firestone — On July 4th, start the day with a slice of Americana at Firestone’s parade with classic cars and marching bands, which weaves its way through Historic Firestone. Come back to Miners Park (170 Grant Ave.) from 5:30-10 p.m. for their evening event which will include a Maker’s Mart area, featuring handcrafted goods from local artisans. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. firestoneco.gov/133/4th-at-Firestone
FORT COLLINS
Fort Collins July 4 Celebration — On July 4th, Fort Collins is going all out with a full day of festivities. Start at 6 a.m. with a hot air balloon launch, at 10 a.m. check out the driving Motorcade Parade, followed by a drive-in fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. Entry to the fireworks viewing at The Ranch is free and gates at the south entrance will open for vehicle entry at 6 p.m. https://www.fcgov.com/july4th/
FORT LUPTON
Fort Lupton Independence Day Celebration — Food, fireworks, and fun…for real! Celebrating our freedom is pretty awesome in Fort Lupton on July 4th with the regions only Ninja Warrior Course (cash prizes offered!); water slides, bounce house obstacle course, bouncy boxing arena, tractor people mover, face painting, food trucks, humongous shaved ice cones, and a live concert to top off the night. Stay for the brilliant fireworks show courtesy of the Fort Lupton Fire Protection District at dark. 203 S. Harrison Ave. fortlupton.org/independenceday
GLENDALE
Glendale Fireworks Show – On Friday, July 2nd, the Glenwood Fireworks Show is one of the largest and oldest in Denver. The event starts at Creekside Park at dusk (about 9 p.m.) glendale.co.us/
GOLDEN
Golden 4th of July Festival — Join the Golden Lions Club for the 4th of July community celebration in Lions Park on 10th Street. The annual festival will take place from noon-9:30 p.m. with food and beer concessions. Fireworks will be at 9:30 p.m. 1300 10th Street. visitgolden.com
GRAND LAKE
Independence Day Fireworks — Join the Town of Grand Lake for their famous 4th of July Celebration! There is a multitude of activities around town, like live music throughout the restaurants, and the day culminates with a dazzling fireworks display around 10 p.m. over Colorado’s largest natural lake. gograndlake.com/4th-of-july-fireworks/
HIGHLANDS RANCH
Highlands Ranch July 4th Fireworks — On July 4th between 9-10 a.m., join the Family Pet & Bike Parade (.2 miles) followed by the 1.02 mile Community Parade. That evening around 9:30 p.m., a spectacular display of fireworks will be at Highland Heritage Regional Park. Note: The park will be CLOSED to the public (pedestrian and vehicle) and the fireworks show will be vieable from locations throughout the city. hrcaonline.org
IDAHO SPRINGS
Idaho Springs 4th of July — On July 4th, stroll through unique shops, art galleries, pan for gold and then enjoy an afternoon of live music and dancing in downtown Citizens Park with a delicious barbecue, followed by fireworks around 9:15 p.m. over the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel. visitclearcreek.com/
LAKEWOOD
Lakewood Big Boom Bash —The 3rd Annual Big Boom Bash fireworks celebration of our nation’s independence will be a fireworks-only display on Saturday, July 3 at dark, approximately 9:15 p.m., and choreographed to music by MIX 100. Tune in to 100.3 FM to listen along. lakewood.org
LITTLETON
Littleton Fourth of July Fireworks — On July 3rd, celebrate our National Holiday with friends and family at Belleview Park and Cornerstone Park starting at 5 p.m. Enjoy local business vendors and food trucks. Bring a picnic dinner and blankets to watch the fireworks! The fireworks will start at 9:15 p.m. Both parks — Belleview and Cornerstone — are located near the intersection of W. Belleview and S. Windermere. ssprd.org/
LOUISVILLE
Louisville Fourth of July Celebration — While the fireworks will be happening on July 4th, the event will look a little different than past celebrations. Coal Creek Golf Course will not be open for viewing the fireworks and the pre-fireworks activities will not take place this year. Fireworks start around 9:45 p.m. Watch from home or one of the Designated Firework Viewing Sites: Police Department/Court Parking Lot (992 W. Via Appia Way) or Louisville Recreation & Senior Center (900 Via Appia Way). louisvilleco.gov
LOVELAND
Drive-in Fireworks Show at The Ranch — On July 4th, the cities of Loveland and Fort Collins have teamed up with Larimer County for the second year to produce a drive-in July Fourth Fireworks show at the Ranch Events Complex in Loveland. The cost is free and gates at hte south entrance open at 6 p.m.; fireworks start around 9:15 p.m. There will be patriotic music and onsite snack trucks. lovgov.org/services/communications-and-engagement/july4
NIWOT
Niwot’s July 4th Celebration — On July 4th, enjoy the Fun & Festive Fourth of July Parade & Pancake Breakfast. The breakfast will be from 7:30-10:30 a.m. in front of Niwot Market, followed by a parade through Old Town. Bicycle decorating starts at 8:30 a.m.; the parade starts at 11 a.m. with vintage cars, line dancers, marching bands and more. The parade runs from Cottonwood Square, across Niwot Road, along 2nd Avenue to Murray Street. niwot.com
NORTHGLENN
Northglenn 4th of July Celebration —July 4th will be celebrated in smaller events in 4 parks throughout the day and will include fireworks. From 8-11 a.m., enjoy the July 4th Car Show at E.B. Rains Park. The Family Fun Lunch will be from Noon – 3 p.m. at Fox Run North. Cool Community Dinners will be from 4-7 p.m. at Wyco Park and Danahy Park with food and live music.
northglenn.org
PARKER
Parker July 4 Celebration – Fireworks on the Fourth — July 4th will be shorter, but the night will be relaxing and fun! Attendees will have three options to choose from for their fireworks viewing experience: Drive-in only in the north Salisbury parking lot, tailgating in the main polo field parking lot, or viewing from the multi-purpose field. Gates open between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m., depending on the experience you choose, and the fireworks show begins at 9:30 p.m. Entry prices will vary based on the lot chosen. http://www.parkeronline.org/82/Community-Events
SUPERIOR
Superior 4th of July Celebration — Race * Parade * Festival. On Sunday, July 4th, the city of Superior will celebrate from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Downhill Mile Race starts at 8 a.m., followed by a community parade at 9:30 p.m. There will be a fun party at the Superior Community Park from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. with vendor booths, a kid’s zone, games, food trucks and more. superiorcolorado.gov
THORNTON
4th of July in Thornton — This party gets started on July 4th at 4 p.m. at Carpenter Park Fields with food vendors, parachutists, a beer garden and more. The Thornton Community Band will start at 5:15 p.m. and the Kory Brunson Band at 7:30 p.m. Fireworks show will be at 9:30 p.m. 11000 Colorado Blvd. (108th Ave., & Colorado Blvd.) thorntonco.gov/festivals-events/Pages/july-fourth.aspx
WESTMINSTER
Westminster 4th of July Celebration — Due to uncertain regulations during the planning phase, there will be no pre-show entertainment or vendors this year. Fireworks will begin on July 4th at approximately 9:15 p.m. at Westminster City Park. cityofwestminster.us/specialevents
WINTER PARK
CANCELED for 2021
Boulder: Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast
Green Valley Ranch Concert & Fireworks
Lafayette 4th of July at Waneka Lake
Littleton Red, White and You Celebration
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ELITCH GARDENS THEME & WATER PARK
Head to the only downtown theme and water park in the country for roller coasters, water slides, family entertainment and much more! It’s opening on May 1 for the 2021 season.
WATER WORLD
Beat the heat, relax in the park’s beautifully landscaped 64 acres — and ride some serious waterslides. Water World opens on May 29 for the 2021 season!
RED ROCKS PARK & AMPHITHEATRE
Carved from towering red rock monuments, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre in Morrison is one of the world’s most renowned concert venues. The surrounding park has hiking trails that weave in, around and over the colorful red rocks.
FARMERS’ MARKETS
The Mile High City’s more than 20 farmers’ markets aren’t just about locally grown produce, delicious baked goods and prepared foods — though you’ll find those in abundance! Each market is a festive, weekly street fair, many with live entertainment and family-friendly activities.
DENVER ZOO
With over 3,500 animals on 84 gorgeous acres, Denver Zoo is an amazing experience year-round. Your donation helps to provide world-class care for the lions, giraffes and elephants, as well as other wild animals and wild places, from the Rockies to Mongolia. Don’t miss the new sloth exhibit.
DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS
One of the top five botanic gardens in the nation, Denver Botanic Gardens is an oasis in the city, offering year-round events, a children’s garden, lifelong-learning opportunities and research to preserve Colorado’s precious natural resources. Meanwhile, Chatfield Farms, located in nearby Littleton, takes pride in its exemplary nature preserve and gardens. Located on 750 acres, this picturesque site includes display gardens and a historical farm with a rustic barn.
CITY PARKS
No matter where you find yourself in The Mile High City, you’re likely only a few steps away from a lush and relaxing green space. Explore Denver’s more than 5,000 acres of traditional parks and parkways, as well as an additional 14,000 acres of spectacular mountain parks in neighboring counties that are maintained by the City and County of Denver.
LESSER-KNOWN, HIDDEN-GEM PARKS
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to have a picnic, take in great views or experience a different side of the city, check out these lesser-known Denver parks.
HOW TO EXPLORE THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER BY BIKE
Take a two-wheeled tour through the heart of the city along this beautiful river. You’ll cruise by some of the city’s biggest attractions.
DENVER’S BEST URBAN HIKES
Denver is a city with boundless outdoor fun and has an ideal location next to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. While The Mile High City is conveniently close to major peaks for hiking, there’s actually no need to head into the mountains when Denver’s regional trail system encompasses hundreds of miles for all ages and abilities to explore.
HOW TO EXPLORE THE COLORADO TRAIL IN WATERTON CANYON
Many people think that Denver’s prettiest, closest and most accessible bit of mountain scenery is Waterton Canyon. This is the start of the famous Colorado Trail, one of the great long-distance hikes (or mountain bike rides) of the Rocky Mountains.
PET-FRIENDLY DENVER
Denver is home to dozens of pet-friendly activities and destinations, including dog-friendly hotels and dog parks. Find the best on-leash and off-leash fun for your best friend.
URBAN ADVENTURE
STREET ART
Denver street artists have been busy brightening (and enlightening) the urban landscape for decades by making canvases of the city’s alleyways, building exteriors, warehouses, garage doors and storefronts. Grab your camera and take a stroll past some of the city’s favorite murals.
OUTDOOR AND PATIO DINING
There’s no better way to soak up summer than on one of The Mile High City’s splendid patios. From skyward rooftop terraces to lushly landscaped gardens, these are the ultimate spots to eat and drink alfresco in Denver.
DENVER BEER TRAIL
Denver is a mecca for craft beer. But with 100 brewpubs, breweries and tap rooms in the metro area, where do you begin? Let the Denver Beer Trail be your guide with this sampling and interactive map.
MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS
FRIDAY NIGHT BAZAAR
WHEN: July 2, 2021
WHERE: Friday Night BAZAAR
Enjoy an evening of shopping, sipping and mingling in the RiNo Art District! The Friday Night BAZAAR features more than 40 local vendors, food trucks, craft beer and cocktails and live music. Entry is free and everyone is welcome!
ZEDS DEAD
WHEN: July 2–3, 2021
WHERE: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Two of the hardest workers in electronic music, Zeds Dead have established themselves as a dominant force in EDM circles. Spend the Fourth of July weekend with them at the iconic Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre.
MEET IN THE STREET
WHEN: July 3-5, 2021, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
WHERE: 16th Street Mall
The Downtown Denver Partnership and City and County of Denver present Meet in the Street: a vibrant summer festival taking over the 16th Street Mall. Experience live music, extended restaurant patios, games, activities and more as we safely reengage and reconnect this summer.
JOSH BLUE
WHEN: July 3, 2021
WHERE: Comedy Works South at The Landmark, Greenwood Village
Following his groundbreaking win on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” in 2006, Josh Blue has risen through the ranks to a well-established and sought-after headliner. See him live or stream the performance online.
ZEDS DEAD
WHEN: July 4, 2021
WHERE: Historic Denver Coliseum
Spend the afternoon with Zeds Dead at the Deadbeats Backyard Jamboree.
ZEDS DEAD
WHEN: July 4, 2021
WHERE: AEG Presents – The Mission Ballroom
Dance the night away with EDM darlings Zeds Dead this Independence Day.
SERIESFEST SEASON 7
WHEN: June 24–July 11, 2021
WHERE: Denver and Online
SeriesFest: Season 7 will be a “hybrid” festival, with a combination of physical and virtual screenings, panels, professional development workshops and socially distanced in-person events in Denver.
‘CAROUSEL’
WHEN: July 3, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 23, 25, 27, 29 and Aug. 1, 2021
WHERE: Hudson Gardens & Events Center, Littleton
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Carousel” follows the ups, downs, rounds and rounds of life and love.
COLORADO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: ‘A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’
WHEN: June 18–Aug. 15, 2021
WHERE: Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, Boulder
Since 1958, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival has delighted audiences with professional theater on the University of Colorado at Boulder campus. Complete your Colorado summer with Shakespeare under the stars in the historic Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre during this glam run of Shakespeare’s electric comedy.
COLORADO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
WHEN: July 3–Aug. 22, 2021; Saturdays and Sundays
WHERE: Colorado Renaissance Festival, Larkspur
Flashback to the 16th century and journey through a medieval city. Enjoy full-armor jousting, giant turkey legs, traditional music and a marketplace featuring more than 200 artisans.
DISTORTIONS MONSTER WORLD
WHEN: Thru Dec. 31, 2021
WHERE: Denver Pavilions
Ready to get up close and personal with the things that go bump in the night? Come to Distortions Monster World (if you dare), where surprises will greet you around every corner on an out-of-this-world interactive adventure. This series of cinematic environments featuring immersive installations and infamous creatures and characters will truly transport you to another place!