We Americans love variety. True to form, Denver’s got nine July 4th celebrations for you to choose from, come Monday.
Old-Fashioned Fourth: Step back to a simpler time and spend the day at Four-Mile’s Old-Fashioned July 4th Festival. Let horse-drawn wagon rides, craft stations, kettle corn and a float shoppe take you back to the Independence Days of yore.Mon., July 4, 10am - 4pm; free admissionFour-Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest St.; 720-865-0800
Aurora Fourth of July Spectacular: Listen to a simulcast of patriotic music accompanying this Aurora show -- which claims to be largest fireworks display in Denver-metro -- on 1430, KEZW AM radio.Mon., July 4, fireworks start at 9:30pm; freeAurora Municipal Center, 15151 Alameda Pkwy.
Cheesman Kids’ Parade: For the kids, by the kids, this annual tradition – led by a fire truck – includes bicycles, wagons and any child who would like to join (with parental supervision). Materials will be available for bike-decorating at 9am.Mon., July 4, parade begins at 9am; freeCheesman Park, 1177 Race St.
Blues Traveler at Red Rocks: Spend the Fourth with a Red Rocks tradition as Blues Traveler returns once again for an Independence Day show. Toad the Wet Sprocket and Matisyahu also perform.Mon., July 4 at 6pm (doors open at 5pm); $36.50 - $42.50Red Rocks, 18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison; 720-865-2494
Liberty Run & Firecracker Fun Run: Work off holiday indulgences with the Liberty four-mile run/walk; then wear out the kids with the Firecracker Kids Fun Run. Don your most patriotic gear – best-dressed patriots win prizes. Mon., July 4 at 8:30am; $25 - $100Wash Park, 1000 S. Downing St.
Park Hill Parade: Skip naptime and take the family to see hundreds of floats, bands, classic autos and other participants make their way down 23rd Avenue in northeast Denver. Mon., July 4 at 2:30PM; freeAlong 23rd Ave. between Dexter St. & Kearney St.; 303-918-6517
Let Freedom Sing: Blending its 30th birthday bash with Independence Day, Parker will commemorate the event with an array of free kids’ activities, food (bring your own or buy onsite), games and balloon artists. The evening also includes live dance music as well as a 35-piece brass band. Fireworks begin at 9:30pm.Mon., July 4, 6pm - 10pm; free admission, $5 parkingSalisbury Park, 11920 Motsenbocker Road, Parker; 303-841-0353
Olde Town Arvada Spirit of America Celebration: Fill your day with live music, family entertainment, food and much more at this annual Olde Town Arvada festival. Later in the evening, the nearly half-hour fireworks show will be simulcast to oldies on local station KOOL105. Mon., July 4 at 3pm; free admissionStenger/Lutz Complex, W. 58th Ave. & Oak St.
Highlands Ranch 4th of July: Highlands Ranch is also celebrating its 30th by going all out on the Fourth. Watch a parade in the morning, run a 5K, chow your way through a hot dog eating contest at the Town Center festival and listen to Cruisin’ Cats’ live concert. Finish the day with a spectacular fireworks display a little after 9pm. Mon., July 4, 8:30am - 10pm; free admissionHighlands Ranch Town Center & Civic Green Park; 303-791-2500