By: Joseph Rios
Firework shows throughout the region that were common occurrences before the COVID-19 pandemic are coming back this year.
The Fourth of July is less than one week away and there are plenty of places to take the family to celebrate and watch fireworks.
The risk of fires has caused some parts of the state to host drone shows and/or laser shows instead of fireworks. And throughout many parts of the Denver metro area — like Arvada, Broomfield, Commerce City and other cities — individuals are not allowed to possess or use fireworks. It’s a good idea to check out your local firework laws if you plan on hosting your own firework display.
The Fourth of July falls on a Monday this year and will be America’s 246th year of independence. Here are some places to go celebrate America’s birthday at.
Arvada
The city of Arvada will be hosting its annual Fourth of July fireworks show at Stenger Sports Complex at West 58th Ave. and Oak St.
The show will start at 9 p.m. with gates opening at 7 p.m. on July 4. Personal fireworks are not allowed and more information about the event can be found at https://arvada.org/explore/culture-and-community/fourt-of-july.
Westminster
The city of Westminster is hosting a Fourth of July celebration on July 4 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Westminster City Park at 10455 N. Sheridan Blvd.
Thornton
Thornton’s traditional Fourth of July event is back this year with food, a beer garden, live entertainment, parachutists and fireworks. The event starts at 4 p.m. at 108th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. Fireworks are set to begin at 9:30 p.m.
Denver
Civic Center Park will host the Colorado Symphony and other artists during an Independence Eve celebration on July 3.
Food trucks will be available with gates opening at 4 p.m. Music will begin at 6 p.m., and the fireworks display will start between 9:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Civic Center Park is located at 101 W. 14th Ave.
Aurora
The city of Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular begins at 6 p.m. on July 4 at the Aurora Municipal Center at 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.
The event will feature a variety of musical performances from Syndicate, Joe Smith and the Spicy Pickles and Brothers of the Son, and a fireworks show begins at 9:30 p.m.
Commerce City/Colorado Rapids
The Colorado Rapids are hosting Austin FC at 7 p.m. on July 4 in Commerce City. Following the game, a fireworks celebration will commence.
Tickets are available to purchase at coloradorapids.com. The fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.
Englewood
The cities of Englewood, Littleton and Sheridan, along with Arapahoe County and South Suburban Parks and Recreation will host a Fourth of July celebration at Cornerstone Park (5150 S. Windermere St.) and Belleview Park (5001 S. Inca Drive) on July 4 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The event offers food trucks, vendors, face painting, music and more. Due to the current drought conditions and other factors, the event will not feature fireworks.
