Outdoor picnics, patriotic hymns and fireworks – there’s nothing more American the 4th of July and there are several Northern Colorado communities that do a wonderful job at keeping this tradition truly red, white and blue.
First up, what’s more American than NASCAR and fireworks? Every year, Colorado National Speedway in Dacono, puts on a two-day event that includes fast cars and fireworks. This year the Mid Season Championships and fireworks show takes place on July 2 and 3, 2011. Visit www.coloradospeedway.com for all the details and to purchase tickets.
Head into the mountains to see a large fireworks display over Lake Estes on July 4, starting at 9:30 p.m. Arrive in town early to catch the Estes Park Village Band performing marches and patriotic music in their annual tribute to America at the Performance Park Amphitheater on Elkhorn at 7 p.m. More at www.estesparkcvb.com.
The town of Firestone, Colorado knows how to throw an Independence Day party. The daylong festival starts at 10 a.m. on July 4, and includes a parade, vendors, a carnival, live non-stop live music and dance troupes. The day is capped off with a spectacular fireworks show at Saddleback Golf Club at 9:30 p.m. Get all the info at www.ci.firestone.co.us.
Fort Collins, Colorado celebrates Independence Day with a downtown party that spills out into other parts of the city. City Park at 1500 W. Mulberry is the epicenter of activity, starting in the morning with the FireKracker 5K. There’s a shotgun golf tourney at the City Park Nine, and the 30th Annual Old Timer’s Game at City Park’s North Ball Field.
Of course, Old Town Square will be alive with music, a beer garden and family fun from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy more baseball as the Fort Collins Foxes host Triple Crown at 1 p.m. at City Park South. Then, starting at 6 p.m., as a run up to the 9:30 p.m. fireworks show, enjoy the live music of Fierce Bad Rabbit as they open for the Fort Collins Symphony.
The Greeley Stampede is in full swing, and the 100 plus year old event wraps up with a huge fireworks display at 10 p.m. on July 4. Come early and enjoy the carnival and other offerings at the Greeley Stampede.
Wellington, Colorado hosts an annual car and truck show and Family Fun Fest at Library Park each 4th of July. This year’s activities start at 11 a.m. with fireworks across from Wellington Jr. High School at dusk.
Other fireworks displays:
Longmont, Colorado at Boulder Fairgrounds
Loveland, Colorado over Lake Loveland
Windsor, Colorado over Lake Windsor
For a comprehensive list of fireworks displays across the State of Colorado, go to The Denver Channel.