4th of July is without a doubt a fun time of year — between the cookouts, the fireworks, and the beautiful weather, it's a great day to celebrate with the people you love. Denver is always a fun place to be, but it's especially lively over the holiday. Below are some of our favorite ways to spend a Mile High 4th of July.
The Fireworks Show at Coors Field
The Colorado Rockies host games around the 4th of July every year, with postgame fireworks shows lighting up the stadium — typically over two nights, though exact dates shift year to year depending on the schedule, so check the Rockies' site for the current lineup. Tickets for these games tend to sell fast given the added draw of the fireworks, so it's worth booking early. Can't get tickets or they're sold out? Rooftop bars and open areas near the stadium also offer great views of the show. Get tickets here.
Cherry Creek Arts Festival
One of Denver's biggest 4th of July weekend traditions, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival fills the Cherry Creek North neighborhood with live music, food and drink, and hundreds of juried artists from around the world. The festival typically runs Friday through Sunday of the holiday weekend, with hours generally 10am-8pm on Friday and Saturday and 10am-6pm on Sunday. Best part? Admission is completely free, and the festival includes family-friendly activities, live music on the main stage, and a juried art auction. Learn more here.
Check Local Listings for Additional Events
Denver's 4th of July lineup can shift from year to year — some past staples (like the Civic Center Park Independence Eve celebration) aren't guaranteed to run every year due to construction, scheduling, or city planning changes. We'd recommend checking Denver's official event listings or local news coverage closer to the holiday for the full, current lineup of fireworks displays and celebrations happening around the metro area.
FAQ
Do I need tickets for the Coors Field fireworks shows?
Yes — the fireworks happen after Rockies games, so you'll need a game ticket to attend in-stadium. Nearby rooftop bars and open viewing areas are free alternatives if tickets sell out.
Is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival free?
Yes, admission has always been free — you're only paying if you choose to buy food, drinks, or artwork while there.
Are personal fireworks legal in Denver?
No — fireworks that leave the ground or explode are illegal in Colorado without a professional permit. Stick to city-sanctioned displays.
What if a past 4th of July event isn't happening this year?
Denver's holiday event lineup changes year to year. It's worth checking current listings closer to the date rather than assuming past traditions are still running.