As Independence Day approaches, Denver is gearing up for one of its most exciting and patriotic weekends of 2025. With the city’s iconic skyline set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the Mile High City offers a one-of-a-kind setting to celebrate America’s birthday. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a night on the town with friends, or a quiet afternoon enjoying live music and sunshine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Fourth of July.
This year, the festivities are bigger and brighter than ever. From high-flying fireworks displays and lively neighborhood parades to outdoor festivals, food trucks, concerts, and cultural celebrations, the entire metro area comes alive in red, white, and blue. Events kick off in early July and continue throughout the weekend, giving you plenty of chances to celebrate wherever you are in the Denver metro area.
In this preview, we’ve rounded up the best fireworks shows, parades, concerts, and community events to help you plan your perfect Fourth of July in Denver. So grab your lawn chairs, break out the sparklers, and get ready to celebrate freedom in the heart of Colorado.
Where to Watch Fireworks in Denver
When the sun sets on the Fourth of July, Denver lights up with dazzling fireworks displays across the city and surrounding suburbs. Whether you’re looking for a big downtown show or a more low-key neighborhood celebration, there are plenty of spots to catch the sky sparkle with red, white, and blue. Grab a blanket and find a good viewing place for a spectacular night under the stars.
See Denver’s Biggest Drone Show at Indy Eve 2025 at Civic Center Park
Where? Civic Center Park – Entrance on Broadway between Colfax & 14th Ave
When? Thursday, July 3rd from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Kick off your Independence Day celebrations early at Indy Eve 2025, one of Denver’s signature summer events. Held annually on July 3rd at the beautiful Civic Center Park, this free, family-friendly celebration combines Civic Center’s Night Market, where there will be live music from Youth on Record and the Colorado Symphony Brass and Percussion Ensemble, food trucks, and community vendors, and a mesmerizing light and drone show in place of traditional fireworks.
With sustainability and safety in mind, the city has embraced a cutting-edge aerial drone performance that features over 300 synchronized drones lighting up the night sky with patriotic-themed animations and vibrant displays. Plan to sit on the Civic Center’s Great Lawn or South Lawn for the best vantage point.
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and settle in early – this is one of the most popular pre-Fourth events in the city. Whether you’re downtown for the whole evening or stopping by before heading elsewhere, Indy Eve offers a dazzling and memorable way to celebrate America’s birthday, Denver-style.
PRO Tip: Consider traveling by public transportation, ride-sharing, or carpooling, and arrive early to reserve a spot on the lawn.
Celebrate in Style at the Stars & Stripes Celebration in Brighton
Where? Riverdale Regional Park, 9755 Henderson Rd
When? Thursday, July 3rd from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Adams County’s Stars & Stripes Celebration is the perfect way to kick off your Independence Day festivities a day early, with an evening packed full of family-friendly fun, music, and one of the area’s most stunning fireworks displays. Held at scenic Riverdale Regional Park and presented by Ward Electric, this annual free event is a community favorite that draws crowds across the Denver metro area.
Starting at 4 p.m., guests can enjoy a variety of food and beer vendors. Live entertainment from country singer Tayler Holder begins at 7:30 p.m. As the sun sets, the excitement builds toward a breathtaking fireworks show set to music at 9:30 p.m. Whether you’re dancing to the music, grabbing a bite from a local food vendor, or spreading out a blanket with friends and family, the atmosphere is electric with celebration.
With its small-town charm and big-time fun, Adams County’s Stars & Stripes Celebration is a must-see for anyone looking to celebrate the Fourth of July in true Colorado style.
PRO Tip: Arrive early to snag the best free parking and viewing spot. Don’t forget to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and sunscreen.
Enjoy Classic Fun at the Great American Picnic in Broomfield
Where? Broomfield County Commons Park, 13200 Sheridan Blvd
When? Friday, July 4th, starting at 5 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day the old-fashioned way at Broomfield’s beloved Great American Picnic. This family-friendly tradition features a full evening of patriotic fun, including inflatables, face painting, NurfTerf, and balloon twisting for kids, a bike parade, live music, two beer gardens, concessions, and delicious food from local vendors.
The fun kicks off at 5 p.m. with games and entertainment for all ages. Spinphony takes the stage with live music starting at 6 p.m., creating the perfect backdrop for your picnic dinner on the lawn. That Eighties Band comes on stage next at 7:15 p.m. as one of the most popular 80s tribute bands in America, sure to rock your socks off. As the sun sets, the excitement builds for oparkne of the most anticipated fireworks shows in the area. At 9:15 p.m., the fireworks show will light up the sky in a dazzling display of red, white, and blue.
PRO Tip: Bring your bikes early for the annual children’s bike parade and decorate them in patriotic colors to win a prize! Don’t forget your chairs and blankets, and consider carpooling or using ride-share services, as parking fills up fast.
Light Up the Night at Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular
Where? Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E Alameda Pkwy
When? Friday, July 4th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular is one of the metro area’s most beloved traditions, drawing hundreds for an evening packed with live music, food trucks, family fun, and a truly breathtaking fireworks finale. The celebration happens on the expansive Great Lawn outside the Aurora Municipal Center, offering plenty of space to stretch out, relax, and enjoy the show.
The festivities begin at 6 p.m., with a wide selection of local food trucks and vendors offering everything from savory eats to sweet treats. From 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., live music from Ninety Percent 90s, a Denver-based 90s tribute band, will keep the energy high. From 7:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Starling circus acts take hold of the stage to bring about even more excitement and cheer. The fun on stage continues from 8 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. when Groove ‘n Motion performs, featuring everything from current hits to horn-driven classics. As night falls, the anticipation builds for the grand finale: a high-powered fireworks display that lights up the sky above the lawn at 9:30 p.m.
Whether you’re coming with kids, friends, or neighbors, Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular offers a fun, festive atmosphere where the whole community can celebrate freedom, community, and summer in Colorado.
PRO Tip: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a small cooler with drinks and snacks to stay comfortable throughout the evening. Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and glow sticks for the kids to enjoy while waiting for the fireworks to begin!
4th of July Festivals & Parades in Denver
Denver goes all out for Independence Day with a festive mix of music, food, games, and community spirit. Beyond the fireworks, the city’s Fourth of July festivals offer something for everyone – from live bands and food trucks to artisan markets and family activity zones.
Whether downtown or in a nearby neighborhood, these free and fun-filled celebrations are the perfect way to spend the holiday. This section will spotlight some of the best 4th of July festivals and parades around the Denver metro area.
Kick Off Independence Day with Central Park’s 4th of July Pancake Breakfast & Parade
Where? South Green, E 29th Ave & Roslyn St
When? Friday, July 4th, starting at 9 a.m.
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Denver’s Central Park neighborhood with a morning filled with community spirit and family-friendly fun. The festivities begin with a delightful pancake breakfast provided by local sponsors. While the breakfast is free, a suggested donation is encouraged, with all proceeds benefiting a local non-profit organization.
Children will enjoy additional entertainment, including a balloon artist and face painting. At 10:30 a.m., the neighborhood parade commences, inviting participants to showcase their decorated bicycles, tricycles, wagons, or scooters. Parade leaders will guide the procession through the course, making it a memorable experience for all ages.
This annual event embodies Central Park’s close-knit community vibe and offers a perfect start to your Independence Day celebrations.
PRO Tip: Arrive early to snag a good spot in the shade and beat the morning rush for pancakes and face painting. Don’t forget to bring a blanket, sunscreen, and festive decorations for your little one’s bike or scooter to join the parade in true patriotic style!
Experience One of Colorado’s Largest Firework Shows at Commerce City’s 4thFest
Where? Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, 6000 Victory Wy
When? Friday, July 4th, starting at 5 p.m.
Commerce City’s 4thFest, hosted in partnership with the Colorado Rapids, is one of the metro area’s most anticipated Independence Day celebrations. This annual event combines the thrill of Major League Soccer with a vibrant block party and an unforgettable fireworks display.
Festivities start at 5 p.m. with a free, family-friendly festival outside the stadium. Attendees can enjoy various activities, including trampolines, slides, pedal cars, a bounce house, a climbing wall, and a mechanical bull. A live DJ will keep the energy high, and food and drink vendors will be on-site to satisfy your cravings. For those without game tickets, a large LED screen will broadcast the Colorado Rapids’ match against Sporting Kansas City, which begins at 7:30 p.m.
The evening culminates in what organizers claim is “the largest public fireworks show in Colorado,” lighting up the sky above Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The fireworks can be enjoyed from both inside and outside the stadium, making it a spectacular end to a day filled with celebration.
PRO Tip: Arrive early to secure parking and a good spot for the festivities. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to relax during the pre-game activities and fireworks show. If you plan to attend the soccer match and live in Commerce City, consider purchasing these discounted resident tickets.
Crowd Around Denver’s Largest 4th of July March at the Park Hill Parade
Where? 23rd Ave, from Dexter St to Krameria St
When? Friday, July 4th, starting at 1:30 p.m.
The Park Hill 4th of July Parade is one of Denver’s most beloved and festive traditions, drawing hundreds of spectators to the tree-lined streets of this historic neighborhood. Known as the city’s largest Independence Day parade, this family-friendly event features colorful floats, classic cars, costumed characters, and local marching bands – all bringing high energy and patriotic pride.
The parade begins at 1:30 p.m., traveling along 23rd Avenue and creating a lively, celebratory atmosphere throughout the neighborhood. It’s a great spot to see the community come together in red, white, and blue, and a perfect midday outing before heading to evening fireworks.
PRO Tip: Bring folding chairs, sunscreen, and snacks – shade can be limited along the parade route – and arrive early to grab a good viewing spot.
Conclusion: Celebrate Freedom in the Mile High City
Whether gazing at fireworks bursting over the skyline, dancing in a city park, or cheering at a hometown parade, Denver offers countless ways to celebrate Independence Day with spirit and style. From the heart of downtown to the surrounding suburbs, every corner of the metro area lights up with patriotic pride. So pack your picnic gear, wear your red, white, and blue, and get ready for a spectacular Fourth of July weekend in the Mile High City.