The Fourth of July is always one of the biggest weekends in the Mile High City, but this year, it carries a little extra significance.
With 2026 marking both America’s 250th birthday and Colorado’s 150th anniversary, this Independence Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate not only the country’s history but also everything that makes the Centennial State special.
Whether you’re looking to learn something new about our home, enjoy a drone show or simply spend time outdoors, here are five ways to celebrate America—and Colorado—this Fourth of July weekend.
1.) Visit one of Colorado’s Historic Landmarks
With Colorado celebrating its 150th anniversary, there’s no better time to brush up on the state’s history.
Take a stroll through Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest block, where the city’s earliest businesses helped transform a small settlement into Colorado’s capital. Tour the Molly Brown House Museum to learn about one of Denver’s most influential and important residents. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, head a few hours south to Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, where traders, trappers and travelers all crossed paths along the Santa Fe Trail in the 1840s.
Whether you’ve called Colorado home your entire life or just arrived, these landmarks tell the stories of the people, industries and defining moments that shaped the state we know today.
2.) Experience a Drone Show
Fireworks may be the more traditional way to celebrate the Fourth of July, but drone shows are quickly becoming a Colorado favorite.
Several Front Range communities have swapped explosive displays for programmed fleets of lit-up drones that paint images across the night sky. The shows are quieter for pets and wildlife, less affected by fire restrictions, especially now with the current statewide drought, and offer a fresh take on a beloved holiday tradition.
The city’s premier drone show will take place the evening of July 3rd at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, starting at 9:15 p.m. According to the city, there are ample places to get a great view of the show between the DCPA and the Colorado Convention Center.
Outside of Denver proper, there will be another drone show in Lakewood at the Big Belmar Bash, also at 9:15 p.m. on the night of July 3rd.
If you’ve never watched hundreds of drones perform a choreographed aerial display, this Fourth of July is the perfect opportunity.
3.) Experience the Cherry Creek Arts Festival
One of America’s greatest strengths has always been the diversity of the people and cultures that shape it. This Fourth of July weekend, celebrate that spirit by experiencing Denver’s vibrant arts scene.
The Cherry Creek Arts Festival returns July 3-5, bringing together hundreds of artists from across the country and showcasing everything from paintings and photography to sculpture and mixed media. Beyond the artwork, visitors can enjoy live performances, local food vendors and hands-on activities that highlight the creativity found in communities across the United States.
As America approaches its 250th birthday, it’s a reminder that the nation’s story isn’t told by history alone. It’s also reflected in the artists, musicians and creators whose diverse perspectives continue to shape American culture today.
4.) Celebrate with your Community
What makes our country and state so special is the people who inhabit it, so why not spend the day outside celebrating outside with your local community.
One of Denver’s longest-running Independence Day traditions returns with the annual Park Hill Fourth of July Parade. Beginning at 1:30 p.m., the parade features more than 50 participating groups, complete with marching bands, colorful floats and family-friendly festivities through one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
If live music is more your style, head to Red, White and Rock at Hudson Gardens & Event Center in Littleton. Starting at 5 p.m., the celebration features ’80s and ’90s tribute bands, local food trucks, themed cocktails and, weather and fire restrictions permitting, a fireworks finale. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for youth.
5.) Visit the Colorado State Capitol
As Colorado prepares to celebrate 150 years of statehood in August, there’s no better place to reflect on the state’s history and future than beneath the gold dome of the Colorado State Capitol.
Free tours of the Capitol offer a behind-the-scenes look at Colorado’s legislative process while highlighting the building’s rich history, architecture and artwork. If flying solo is more your style, they also provide self-guided tours online. Don’t forget to stop on the famous “One Mile Above Sea Level” step on the west side of the building—a quintessential Denver photo opportunity.
Plus, it’s just a few short steps away from the Denver Art Museum and History Colorado Center!
The Fourth of July is a celebration of the past, but it’s also an opportunity to look ahead. With America’s 250th birthday and Colorado’s 150th anniversary finally here, this holiday weekend offers the perfect chance to rediscover the places, people and traditions that make both worth celebrating.
Whether you spend the weekend exploring history, supporting local artists or gathering with your community under the summer sky, you’ll be taking part in traditions that continue to shape the next chapter of America’s and Colorado’s story.
Do you have a listicle in mind? Any ideas can be sent to ryland.c.scholes@gmail.com. And don’t forget to check out our events calendar on our website to see what else is happening in our area.
See you next Tuesday with another Bucket Listicle.
Ryland Scholes
Production Manager & Senior Reporter/ Bucket List Community News
Follow our daily news feeds on Facebook and Instagram
Contact us with your story ideas.
Listen to our Podcasts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
