(Small) backyard barbecues, red, white and blue, plus a COVID-19 mask too. The coronavirus has altered Fourth of July plans and festivities—along with everything else—but there are still plenty of fireworks to see from home, along with a handful of reservation-based celebrations.
As Governor Jared Polis urged Coloradans last week, the key is celebrating safely in small or family groups. “As long as we continue to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines, we can avoid seeing cases climb like our neighboring states,” Polis said in his June 24 press briefing as he encouraged residents to keep July Fourth gatherings safe and small. “As we continue to reopen, more of the responsibility is placed on the individual to do the right thing.”
Here’s a rundown of events in Colorado Springs that will help keep the holiday festive.
July 3
Rocky Mountain Vibes Triple Play Holiday at UC Health Park
Celebrate early with the Rocky Mountain Vibes, a drive-in movie double feature and fireworks! Gates open at 4 p.m. for a 4:30 p.m. viewing of The Sandlot, then a 6:30 p.m. viewing of Independence Day. Top it all off with a firework show at 9 p.m. Tickets are required.
July 4
4th of July Symphony on Your Porch
The Colorado Springs Philharmonic will still play its annual patriotic concert this year, beginning at 9 p.m. The twist? The fireworks will launch from 10 locations around El Paso County as the Philharmonic’s performance plays over the radio. So you can watch from your porch! Get details for the 4th of July Symphony on Your Porch here.
Launch Locations:
- Banning Lewis Ranch
- The Broadmoor
- The Club at Flying Horse
- Wiedner Field
- The Country Club of Colorado at Cheyenne Mountain Resort
- Falcon Freedom Days at Meridian Ranch
- Fort Carson
- Garden of the Gods Resort
- James Irwin Charter Schools
- Patty Jewett Golf Course
Most launch locations will not be hosting on-site events because of crowd restrictions, but here are a few exceptions.
Switchbacks FC Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza
Gates open at 6 p.m. at Weidner Field for a Colorado Springs Switchbacks intrasquad match. Only season ticket holders and partners can reserve tickets, but anyone can drive to Weidner Field for a closeup view of the fireworks from the car.
Fort Carson
Department of Defense cardholders can view Fort Carson’s Symphony on Your Porch fireworks from their cars in the parking lots at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center or Iron Horse Park. Parking opens at 8 p.m.
Old Colorado City Red, White and Cruise
Decorate your car and join the socially distant parade through Old Colorado City between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. The casual event is perfect for families. Get some patriotic flair and cruise Colorado Avenue from I-25 to 31st Street. There is no organized route, so loop around a few times to show your spirit.
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