Fourth of July Fireworks in Boulder

The main Fourth of July event in Boulder is “Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast,” named after the University of Colorado’s buffalo mascot. Held at CU’s Folsom Field, the gates open at 8pm with live kids’ music, a community sing-along at 8:30, the Boulder Phil at 9pm, and fireworks around 9:30. The event is free but get there early to secure a seat. Parking on campus will not be easy, but the Hop bus offers free parking along its route and a free ride to the event. (View the Hop map and schedule here.)

The City of Broomfield—a 20 minute drive from Boulder—will also be hosting its “Great American Picnic” on July 4th.  The event starts at 5:30pm with inflatables and pony rides for the kids, and a bike/trike/wagon parade. Live music from the 17th Avenue All-Stars and Funkiphino plays until the fireworks begin, about 9:15pm. Bring your own picnic or sample the food vendors’ wares. This event is located at Broomfield County Commons Park, on 132nd between Lowell and Sheridan.

Estes Park also puts on a 4th of July Celebration and quite the fireworks display over Estes Lake. The beautiful hour-long drive is worth it, especially if you go up early and do some exploring in Rocky Mountain National Park. For the fireworks, grab front-row seats early on the lake shore and enjoy free music until they begin. Festivities earlier in the day include a pancake breakfast, a patriotic concert, and a classic car show.

Only half an hour from Boulder, Nederland also has an impressive July 4th event with a fireworks display over Barker Reservoir. This scenic mountain town celebrates a midsummer rite with a noon parade in downtown Nederland and live music in the evening.

[Photos courtesy of Thomas Hawk and ** Maurice **]