When it comes to Fourth of July celebrations, there’s a cathartic feeling one gets when they take part in local barbeque, games and activities. However, others may want to explore what other towns or cities have to offer.
To help plan out an exciting and memorable day, there are numerous ways for families, teens and adults to celebrate Independence Day all day long across Douglas County.
Castle Rock
One of Castle Rock’s most exciting free summer events, First Fridays, just so happens to fall on the Fourth of July this year.
Starting at 3 p.m. at Festival Park, there will be a 5K for the entire family.
Once the workout is complete, reward yourself with some tasty food and beverages from various food trucks, then have some fun exploring activities and games.
And if you’re a fan of old-school country and rock n’ roll, then stick around, because at 6 p.m., Ryan Chrys & the Rough Cuts will be taking the stage.
Fireworks are set to start when night falls, between 9-9:30 p.m. Starting with a three-shot salute, the 15-minute show will shoot off from the former Acme Brick facility on Prairie Hawk Drive.
Other viewing areas include Metzler Ranch Community Park, Miller Activity Complex, areas of the Red Hawk neighborhood and Rock Park.
For weather updates, check facebook.com/crgov.
Highlands Ranch
One of the earliest celebrations in the county kicks off at 7:30 a.m. in Highlands Ranch with the annual Independence Day 5K.
It doesn’t matter if you are an elite runner or just like to take a casual jog, the 5K is for everyone – including children and furry friends.
Starting on Dorchester Street, the course takes participants north to Plaza Drive and back to Town Center South via Broadway and Highlands Ranch Parkway before coming back to Dorchester Street.
Along the way, if you spot a hidden red, white and blue kettlebell and bring it to the finish line, you are eligible to win $100. The lucky kettlebell locator won’t be the only winner – medals will be awarded for the top three participants in various age categories.
For those returning to the race or giving it a try for the first time, register at runsignup.com/Race/CO/Littleton/HRCAIndependenceDay5KCO.
Also happening in Town Center is the annual Fourth of July Parade along Highlands Ranch Parkway. Take your place between Hepburn Street and Ridgeline Boulevard early because starting at 8:45 a.m., the parade will begin with a pet and bike precession before the official parade begins.
Throughout the day, all four recreation facilities will remain open until 5 p.m. because starting at 6 p.m., Highland Heritage Park becomes a celebration hub.
Parking is limited, therefore, the Highlands Ranch Community Association and Metro District recommend people walk, bike or carpool to the park. Carpool lots will be located at Eastridge and Southridge recreation centers.
In addition to music, games and activities across the fields, residents can pack a picnic or purchase a dinner from a selection of food trucks. Grills and on-site cooking are not allowed in the park.
The fireworks show begins at 9 p.m.
Due to the firework production, visitors will not be allowed in the park from 9 p.m. July 3 until 8 a.m. July 4. Visitors will also not be allowed in the park on July 5.
Stay updated on the events at facebook.com/HighlandsRanchCommunityAssociation.
Lone Tree
Star in your own Fourth of July Parade in Lone Tree’s Family Fun Ride & Stroll. Families are invited to bring their bikes, scooters, wagons, strollers and even unicycles to Lone Tree Elementary at 9 a.m. to decorate their rides before taking a one-mile trek along Willow Creek Trail to Prairie Sky Park.
Families can decorate beforehand but decorating kits will be available. The city also asks that families with children under the age of 6 have an adult accompanying them.
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Prairie Sky Park will be closed for the Fun in the Park event.
But, get your blankets, camping chairs, coolers and outdoor games ready because the park will be back open to the public at 6 p.m. for the Party in the Park event, which will include a variety of live music and games.
From Kona Ice and Polar Bros Nitro Ice Cream to Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs and Philly on the Go, there will also be a wide range of food trucks available.
A Fleetwood Mac tribute band, Gypsy Dreams, will perform at 8 p.m., before the firework show begins at approximately 9:30 p.m.
Other firework viewing areas include Lone Tree Elementary, Lone Tree Arts Center, Promenade Park, Belvedere Park and Lincoln Commons Open Space.
Shuttle services will be provided by the Lone Tree Link from 6-10:30 p.m. Pick up locations will be at The Hub and the Lone Tree Arts Center. During this time, those using Link on Demand will not need to use the app as the shuttle will run continuously.
Stay up to date on weather cancellations at facebook.com/CityofLoneTreeCO.
Parker
The 18-minute fireworks show in Parker will launch at 9:30 p.m. north of Salisbury Park.
Limited parking is available at Salisbury Park. The larger grass lots, which have been used for parking in previous years, will not be available this year for parking. Additionally, parking will not be allowed along the side of major roadways such as Hess Road, Mainstreet or Parker Road.
Other viewing sites around Parker include Bar CCC Park, McCabe Meadows, Stroh Soccer Field, Tallman Meadow Park and the Cherry Creek Trail
Stay up to date about the show at facebook.com/TownofParkerCO.
Sterling Ranch
Over at Prospect Park in Sterling Ranch is the community’s annual Stars and Stripes Celebration.
The celebration starts with a bike parade at 6 p.m., followed by a two-hour performance by Brain Hornbuckle Band.
Guests will be able to pick from a variety of food trucks, including Philly on the Go, M&M Western Grill, Big Belly Bros and Capo’s Pizza.
But the most exciting part of the evening will be when the sun sets and a beautiful firework show will light up the Chatfield Basin.
For updates, sterlingranchcab.com.