4th of July 2021 – Fireworks, Festivals and Parades: Updated Yet Again!

BOOM! BANG! CHEAP! Fourth of July festivities abound in the metro Denver/Boulder area. We’ve found most of the no-cost and low-cost festivals, feasts and parades to keep the family entertained. Events are listed alphabetically for easier review. We expect to add more events, as they’re announced closer to the holiday — so check back often.

In case of bad weather or other circumstances, such as fire restrictions, some fireworks shows may be cancelled. However, celebrations usually go on as planned. Check back here and on event websites for updated information.

Here’s what’s bursting July 2, 3 & 4:

The list below is confirmed for 2021. If there’s something we missed or got wrong, please email laura@milehighonthecheap.com.

If you are looking for things to do specifically on Sunday, July 4, check out this list of attractions that are open, special events at restaurants & bars and Independence Day deals.

Friday, July 2

Denver

Colorado Rockies Post-Game Fireworks — The Rockies play the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field at 6:10 p.m., followed by a huge fireworks display. Ticket prices vary based on seat location.

Cranmer Park Community Picnic — Starts at 6 p.m. and goes until the conclusion of the Glendale fireworks. Features a concert of patriotic and popular music performed by The Denver Municipal Band.

Four Mile Historic Park’s Independence Day Celebration – From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., delight in live music, prairie games and fun activities. Food trucks include include The Cravings Truck, Old Time Kettle Corn, Original by Greeks and Good Food Good Living. Watch the Glendale fireworks show at sunset. Tickets are $14/adults, $13 seniors/military with ID, $8/youth (7-17) free/6 and under. Discounts for FMHP members. Buy tickets here. No pets, outside food or beverages, smoking or flammables. 715 S. Forest St., Denver; 720-865-0800.

Glendale

Glendale Fireworks Show – One of the largest and oldest in Denver. Starts at dusk (about 9 p.m.) Prime viewing spots at 600 and 650 Cherry Street, along Exposition Dr. (between S. Cherry & Four Mile House), north of Virginia Avenue, south of Cherry Creek Drive and west of Colorado Blvd. Many people gather in and around the parking lots at Whole Foods Colo. Blvd. and CitySet to watch.

Saturday, July 3

Berthoud

Berthoud Fireworks Celebration — Festival at Bein Baseball Complex from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. includes food trucks and kids zone. Fireworks show starts at 9 p.m. and should be visible throughout the community.

Brighton

Stars & Stripes Independence Day Celebration — Starts with the Stars & Stripes 5K at 7:30 a.m. Cornhole tournament is at 10 a.m. (To participate in 5K or cornhole, please register in advance.) Food and beverage vendors open at 4 p.m. Live entertainment from Morgan Evans and The Tyler Walker Band starts at 5 p.m. Fireworks set to music at 9:30 p.m. Riverdale Regional Park (Adams County Fairgrounds), 9755 Henderson Rd.

Denver

Party on the Square — Larimer Square hosts festivities starting at noon. Get a portrait by a caricature artist, grab a bite and explore retailers all while enjoying free live music. Entertainment by Dotsero, The Hot Lunch Band, DJ Al Ur Pal.

Colorado Rockies Post-Game Fireworks — The Rockies play the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field at 7:10 p.m., followed by a huge fireworks display. Ticket prices vary based on seat location.

Englewood

Englewood 4th of July Festival — In partnership with Littleton and Sheridan. Starts at 5 p.m. at Belleview & Cornerstone Parks. Enjoy local business vendors and food trucks. Bring a picnic dinner and blankets. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Both parks — Belleview and Cornerstone — are located near the intersection of W. Belleview and S. Windermere.

Erie

Erie Fireworks Show — The 2021 celebration will be at the Erie Community Center (450 Powers St.). Limited public parking available at the Erie Community Center beginning at 7 p.m. Alternate modes of transportation encouraged, bike racks available for use. Fireworks display starts at about 9:30 p.m. Erie Community Center campus and parking lot and Erie Community Park tennis court close at 6 p.m. The skatepark will also be closed after dark.

Fort Morgan

I-76 Speedway Racing — Races start at 5 p.m. on the dirt, oval track. Post-race fireworks. Grandstand admission $12/adults, $4/youth (6 to 12). 16359 Road S..

Littleton

Littleton Fourth of July Fireworks — In partnership with Englewood and Sheridan. Starts at 5 p.m. in  Belleview and Cornerstone Parks. Enjoy local business vendors and food trucks. Bring a picnic dinner and blankets. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Both parks — Belleview and Cornerstone — are located near the intersection of W. Belleview and S. Windermere.

CANCELED for 2021. Littleton Red, White and You Celebration

Lakewood

Lakewood Big Boom Bash — Fireworks only display at dark, approximately 9:15 p.m. choreographed to music by MIX 100. Tune in to 100.3 FM to listen along. The launch site will be on the grounds of Jeffco Stadium (500 Kipling St.), but the stadium and parking lots will be closed to the public. The show will be visible from Lakewood parks, neighborhoods and residences within a 1.5 mile radius of the stadium.

If you can’t watch the show from your home or neighborhood, recommendations of the best viewing locations around town are available here. Parking will be extremely limited and there will be no event or event services at these locations. Rain date will be on Sunday, July 4.

Sunday, July 4

Arvada

Arvada Fireworks Display — Arvada’s Independence Day Celebration returns to its roots, focusing on the core of the holiday–fireworks! 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 St.

Aurora

Aurora 4th of July Spectacular — 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. You are encouraged to watch the 30-minute display from your home or nearby parks.

Boulder

July 4th Celebration with Boulder Symphony — Celebrate July 4th with Independence Day symphonic classics, from Copland to William Tell, and the 1812 Overture at the Boulder Bandshell. Also featured is the music from Star Wars by John Williams and Gregory T.S. Walker’s music for Rapper and Orchestra. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets $16/adults, $5/children. Buy tickets here. No post-concert fireworks.

CANCELED for 2021. Boulder: Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast

Breckenridge

Breckenridge Independence Day Celebration — Kicks off at 7 a.m. with Independence Day 10K. Firecracker 50 mountain bike race begins at 9:30 a.m. Parade from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. along Main St. Chalk art, artist market, live music and more along Washington St. from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Breckenridge Arts District also hosts free live music until 6 p.m. National Repertory Orchestra concert (cost: $25 to $35) at 6 p.m. at Riverwalk Center.

Brighton

Brighton Fourth of July — Carmichael Park is the site of festivities from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Live entertainment includes music from DJ Tidal Wave starting at 5 p.m., followed by a performance by headliner Anavrin’s Day, a 90’s alternative and grunge tribute band, starting at 7 p.m. Fireworks at end of concert. Food trucks on-site. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, bug spray, sunscreen and water. The Park is just behind City Hall at 500 S. 4th Ave.

Broomfield

Broomfield Great American Picnic — Beginning at 5 p.m. in Broomfield County Commons Park with children’s carnival ($10 unlimited play on inflatables), face painting and concessions. Beer Garden is back. Bring your ID (21+) and enjoy a brew for $5 (cash only). Bike parade (open to all ages) at 5:45 p.m. 17th Avenue Allstars perform at 6 p.m. At 7:15 p.m. concert by That Eighties Band. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Limited parking available at the Broomfield County Commons. Additional parking will be located at Legacy High School with shuttles provided from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Masks required to ride the shuttle. 13200 Sheridan Blvd.

Brush

Brush 4th of July — Parade starts at 11 a.m. This year’s theme is “Ag Appreciation.” The annual Brush Rodeo runs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. and is one of the best around. Held at the Brush Fairgrounds. Fireworks show held after dark.

Castle Rock

Fourth of July Fireworks — A 15-minute fireworks show will shoot off from the top of Santa Fe Quarry Mesa (from the butte located just south of The Meadows, above Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course) at sundown, about 9:30 p.m. There will be a three-shot salute five minutes before the show and then another three-shot salute one minute to the start. Fireworks should visible from most places in town and throughout the I-25 corridor.

If you are visiting (not local) here are some suggested viewing sites: Castle Rock Service Center (4175 N. Castleton Court), Castle Rock Recreation Center – lower lot (2301 Woodlands Blvd.), Red Hawk Ridge Golf Course (2156 Red Hawk Ridge Dr.), Butterfield Crossing Park – south side (3952 W. Butterfield Crossing Dr.), Bison Park (1390 Clear Sky Way), Castle North Park (801 Canyon Dr.), Deputy Zack S. Parrish III Memorial Park (2020 Fiddle Rd.), Festival Park (300 Second St.), Metzler Ranch Community Park, 4175 Trail Boss Dr.) and Pedestrian bridge over Wolfensberger Road.

Commerce City

Commerce City 4thFest — The annual 4thFest takes place at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Pre-match festival starts at 5 p.m. on Burgundy Boulevard is and FREE to all. Largest public fireworks show in Colorado after the game around 9:30 p.m. Colorado Rapids vs. Seattle Sounders at 7 p.m. Soccer match tickets available here. Parking lots open at 4 p.m. Limited parking so RTD bus and rail system is encouraged. Route 62 bus stop is at the stadium’s front door.

Denver

Central Park Pancake Breakfast & Parade — Start with a pancake breakfast at 9 a.m. Suggested donation of $5/adults, $3/children or family 4-pack for $12 (donations benefit the swim team) at the South Green (29th & Roslyn). This is followed by an old-fashioned parade with bikes, trikes, wagons and scooters beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Elitch Gardens — The amusement park lights up Denver skies with a fireworks extravaganza. Show starts at park closing time, about 10 p.m. Show is free with a day ticket or season pass.

Five Points 4th of July Car Show — See all sorts of amazing cars from 10 a.m. to noon. Any money raised goes to support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. 501 28th St., Denver.

Highland 4th of July Parade — Bike decorating party starts at 8 a.m. at 32nd & Clay. Parade includes any and all non-motorized decorated rides. It begins at 9:30 a.m. and travels down 32nd to Tejon St., ending at Hirshorn Park.

Park Hill 4th of July Parade — The northeast Denver tradition starts at 1:30 p.m. and runs on 23rd Ave. from Dexter St. to Krameria St. Includes 50+ floats, bicycles, costumed characters, classic cars, a marching band and more. The parade ends about 3 p.m. at the Kearney Street Fair on the 2200 block of Kearney with food, live music, kids’ activities and more.

Dillon

4th on the Lake — Colorado Symphony Orchestra performs at Dillon Amphitheater with the backdrop of Lake Dillon. The program features favorite contemporary scores including the Armed Forces Salute, Stars and Stripes Forever, the Overture of 1812, God Bless America, and a slew of hits from stage and screen. Doors open at 3 p.m. Show starts at 4 p.m. Tickets are FREE, but you must get them in advance. Go here for tickets.

Estes Park

Estes Park 4th of July Celebration — “Steam-to-Electric” Coolest Car Show includes 100+ vehicles on display at the Estes Park Events Complex. Estes Village Band gives a FREE concert at 7 p.m. at Performance Park Amphitheater. Fireworks over Lake Estes at 9:30 p.m. Estes Park FREE shuttles have extended evening hours this day to take you to all activities. In addition (to be confirmed): The Big Bang Concert (fee for admission) offers a view of the fireworks along with music, food, local craft beer and wine at the Estes Park Fairgrounds in the Grandstands.

Firestone

4th at Firestone — Parade with floats, decorated vehicle displays, marching bands, classic cars, motorcycles, and more runs from 10 a.m. to about noon. It starts at Thunder Valley K-8 and makes its way through Historic Firestone to Miners Park. Main event from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Miner’s Park (170 Grant Ave.). Includes Maker’s Market, classic car show, live entertainment and free activities — carnival rides, bungee trampolines, laser tag arena, face painting and games. Enjoy a full meal or a festival dessert in the Food Truck area and grab a beverage in the beer garden. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.

Fort Collins

Fort Collins July 4 Celebration — Hot air balloon launch at 6 a.m. Stars & Trucks Parade at 10 a.m. (Check website for route map.) Drive-in fireworks show at The Ranch Event Complex in Loveland. Gates open at 6 p.m. Fireworks around 9:15 p.m.

Fort Lupton

Fort Lupton Independence Day Celebration — Community Park is filled with fun activities from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. including a Ninja Warrior Course with cash prizes (register to compete in advance online), car & bike show, water slides, bounce houses, petting zoo, tractor people mover, pony rides, live DJ and more. Food trucks on site. Country music concert with Kimi Most at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks show at dark courtesy of the Fort Lupton Fire Protection District. 203 S. Harrison Ave. 

Golden

Golden 4th of July Festival — Annual festival in Lions Park from noon to 9:30 p.m. Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts play from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Something Underground performs from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.  Food and beer available for purchase. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. 1300 10th St.

Grand Lake

Independence Day Fireworks — Fireworks begin after it is fully dark outside, often closer to 10 p.m., so bring layers so you can be dressed accordingly. The fireworks are visible all over town. It takes an extended amount of time to exit Grand Lake after the fireworks. Many venues offer music and food after the show. Prepare to spend some time in town to wait out the traffic.

Green Valley Ranch

CANCELED for 2021. Green Valley Ranch Concert & Fireworks

Highlands Ranch

Highlands Ranch July 4th Fireworks — A spectacular display of fireworks at Highland Heritage Regional Park. The park will be CLOSED to the public (pedestrian and vehicle). This show will be visible from many viewing locations throughout Highlands Ranch. Please note that they will not have organized activities or live bands at the park. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.

Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs 4th of July — An afternoon complete with live music, beer garden and dancing in downtown at Citizens Park. Live Music and entertainment starts at 2 p.m. Fireworks Show at 9:15 p.m. over Charlie Tayler Waterwheel.

Lafayette

CANCELED for 2021. Lafayette 4th of July at Waneka Lake

Lone Tree

Independence Day Celebration — Party at Prairie Sky Park. Enjoy tunes from a DJ, roving entertainment and a live concert from Jakarta. Bring your blankets, camping chairs, coolers, outdoor games and mingle with your friends and neighbors. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. This year’s display will be launched from an open space on the corner of RidgeGate Parkway and Bellwether Lane.

Louisville

Louisville Fourth of July Celebration — Fireworks start around 9:45 p.m. No festivities this year. Coal Creek Golf Course will not be open for viewing the fireworks. A special display will reach a higher elevation and accommodate more city-wide viewing. Residents are encouraged to view 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). Designated viewing spots will open 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Loveland

Drive-in Fireworks Show at The Ranch — Entry to the fireworks viewing at the Ranch Events Complex is free and gates at the south entrance will open for vehicle entry at 6 p.m. Adjacent properties should be available as alternate viewing locations. Visit parking lots outside of the Ranch first, as wait times for entry and exit will be significantly less. Fireworks start around 9:15 p.m. and run about 20 minutes. Onsite snack trucks will be available and patriotic music will be played by Big Rob on local radio station 96.1 KISS-FM.

Niwot

Niwot’s July 4th Celebration — Pancake breakfast, 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Niwot Market ($5 for adults and $3 for kids) for pancakes, sausages, eggs, green chiles, orange juice and coffee. At 9 a.m. concert by Niwot Semi-Marching Free Grange Band. Bicycle decorating starts at 8:30 a.m. and parade beginning at 11 a.m. with vintage cars, color guard, pets, decorated bikes, line dancers and citizens young and old. Parade runs from Cottonwood Square, across Niwot Road, along 2nd Avenue to Murray Street. Firehouse Museum open for tours before and after the parade. Details TBA.

Northglenn

Northglenn 4th of July Celebration — Events will be spread across 4 parks for 2021. No fireworks this year. Here’s what is planned: July 4th Car Show at E.B. Rains Park from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Fox Run North from noon to 3 p.m. features kids activities and performers, live music by Tyler Stanfield Trio, food trucks and other activities. Wyco Park and Danahy Park from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Both locations will have food trucks, live music and activities. Mile Hi Groove performs at Wyco Park. Danahy Park will have live music by Blinker Fluid.

Parker

Parker July 4 Celebration – Fireworks on the Fourth — 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Salisbury Park. Shorter event than in past years. 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 p.m. 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. Salisbury Park, 12010 Motsenbocker Rd. Pricing and details TBA.

Superior

Superior 4th of July Celebration — Downhill Mile Race begins at 8 a.m. Community parade at 9:30 a.m. Parade will follow Rock Creek Parkway and end at Community Park. Party in Superior Community Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food trucks, games, kid’s zone, vendor booths and more. Funk and soul band, The Burroughs, perform live on stage. Also walk across the street to check out the new Community Center between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Grab-and-go food bites and music by Francis and the Wolf.

Thornton

4th of July in Thornton — Everything gets going at 4 p.m. at Carpenter Park Fields. Food vendors, beer garden and yes, parachutists floating down onto the field. Thornton Community Band at 5:15 p.m. Kory Brunson Band at 7:30 p.m. Fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. No RVs allowed. Carpooling strongly suggested. The park is at 11000 Colorado Blvd. (108th Ave., & Colorado Blvd.)

Westminster

Westminster 4th of July Celebration — Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. at Westminster City Park. No pre-show entertainment or vendors in 2021. Shuttles run every 20 minutes starting at 7 p.m. and will be available after the fireworks show to get back to the shuttle stop locations: Front Range Community College (3705 W. 112th Ave.) and The MAC (3295 W. 72nd Ave.). Courtesy golf carts will be available at the event for those with mobility needs.

If parking at the event, please use 105th Ave. from Sheridan, or the Christopher Fields entrance from 104th Ave. Handicap parking is located near the Fitness Center. Let parking attendants or traffic officers know if you require a closer spot.

Windsor

Windsor Fireworks — Bring picnics, lawn chairs and blankets to Boardwalk Park to view the fireworks show at 9:10 p.m.

Winter Park

4th of July Celebration — Pack a picnic, and pick your spot to enjoy the evening at the Rendezvous Event Center from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Join a cornhole tournament, throw a bocce ball, or jump in the free photo booth. Free concert by Buckstein. Finish the evening with a jumbotron fireworks display and sing-along with Buckstein.