Governor Polis Encourages Coloradans and Visitors To Recreate Responsibly Ahead of the Fourth of July Holiday

DENVER - This week, Governor Polis encourages all Coloradans and visitors to enjoy Colorado's outdoors and recreate responsibly for the Fourth of July. Colorado hosts many festive activities for all Coloradans and visitors to enjoy that celebrate the holiday, without increasing risk of new fires.

"Colorado is the best state to live, work, and play. Join me in supporting our firefighters and emergency responders by not starting new fires this fourth of July weekend. Save the fireworks for another day, and do something fun indoors or out with your family. Here are a few ideas: a Red, White, and Blue Iron Chef, Glow-in-the-dark bike parade, or a family and friends talent show. There are so many special fun opportunities and community events available to Coloradans and visitors alike for our nation's 250th birthday. I encourage all Coloradans to connect and celebrate responsibly," said Governor Polis.

Colorado is home to 43 amazing state parks that offer recreational opportunities. Fire conditions are currently impacting Horsethief State Wildlife Area and Loma Boat Launch State Wildlife Area. All other state parks are open and welcoming to visitors for the holiday weekend. Many areas of our state are open for business but Coloradans and visitors are reminded to understand which areas are impacted by fires and what restrictions are in place, and recreate safely.

This year, Colorado is also celebrating 250 years of American independence and 150 years of Colorado statehood. The America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission has launched new ways to explore our state, including the Colorado Passport Program, which incentivizes exploring Colorado's attractions, businesses and hidden gems, and Stories in the Sky, a drone show series that brings nearly 150 awe-inspiring drone shows to communities across the state.

During the summer months, Colorado draws visitors from around the world to explore the Rocky Mountains, alpine lakes and stunning vistas. In 2024, 95.4 million travelers visited Colorado, contributing $28.5 billion to Colorado's economy and supporting over 457,000 jobs. The Colorado Tourism Office sponsors and hosts a wide variety of events offered throughout the course of the Fourth of July Holiday Weekend.

Some events happening across Colorado include:

• Denver: Free Independence Day Concert with Denver Municipal Band
  • July 4th - 7:00-8:00 PM MT
• Durango: Historic Fashion Show and Old Time Poker Game
  • July 3rd - all day
• Winter Park: 4th of July Celebration
  • July 4th - 6:00-10:00 PM MT
• Pagosa Springs: 2026 Park 2 Park Artisan and Food Market
  • July 2nd - July 5th - all day

Other ideas of fun, creative events for Coloradans to take part in include:

Red, White & Blue Iron Chef
Teams must use one red ingredient, one white ingredient, one blue/purple ingredient, and one Colorado Proud ingredient like Olathe Sweet Corn, Palisade Peaches, Colorado Beef, or Pueblo Green Chile.

Glow-in-the-Dark Field Day or bike parade
After sunset: glow bracelets, LED frisbees, glow capture the flag, glow bocce, glow ring toss. Kids get the spectacle without sparks.

Neighborhood Parade
Decorate bikes, scooters, wagons, strollers, wheelchairs, or golf carts. Categories: most patriotic, best Colorado theme, best use of streamers.

America: The Talent Show
Each person or team gets 3 minutes. Songs, magic tricks, dramatic readings, pet tricks, dad jokes, any fun talent.

World Cup Watch Parties

Bring together friends and family to watch one of two games played on the 4th of July between Canada and Morocco and Paraguay and France.

4th of July Chalk Art Competition

Use chalk to create sidewalk art to celebrate America's 250th, and Colorado's 150th birthdays.

Make Red White & Blue Slime

All you need is some glue, liquid starch, and food coloring to make some star spangled slime.

Additional family friendly and fire-free activities could include:

• Host a Neighborhood Obstacle Course or Scavenger Hunt
• Play Capture the Flag
• Visit Golden, Colorado's Original State Capitol
• Ride the Mighty Argo Cable Car
• Attend the famous Greeley Stampede

For more information on safe recreation, travel and preventing wildfires visit the Colorado Tourism Office page.

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