More than 55 Colorado firework shows canceled: Denver guide
More than 55 professional firework show events across Colorado were canceled or postponed ahead of the July 4 weekend as wildfires and Stage 2 fire restrictions spread statewide, but 9News reports many displays are still planned in the Denver metro area. Check the outlet's updated guide before you go.
Key Takeaways
- 9News says more than 55 Colorado firework shows were canceled or postponed due to dry conditions.
- Douglas County entered Stage 2 restrictions, banning all fireworks, including professional displays in Castle Rock, Parker, Lone Tree and Highlands Ranch.
- The New York Times reports Colorado Springs canceled or postponed seven shows, while Silverton and Ouray also scrapped pyrotechnics.
- Some Western towns, including Aspen, have shifted to drone shows as a safer alternative during drought years.
- Denver metro residents should confirm plans through 9News, because restrictions can change quickly.
Why were more than 55 firework shows canceled in Colorado?
Wildfires, drought and tightening fire restrictions reshaped Independence Day plans across Colorado during America's 250th anniversary weekend. After a warm winter and severe drought, western landscapes are loaded with dry grass, brush and trees, and forecasters warned that extreme heat and heavy winds could help fires spread rapidly, according to The New York Times.
In Douglas County, officials implemented Stage 2 fire restrictions because of continued dry conditions, elevated wildfire danger, increased risk of human-caused fires and stretched firefighting resources statewide. Under those rules, open burning, campfires, patio fire pits and all fireworks — including professional firework show displays — are prohibited.
Which Denver-area communities lost their July 4 firework show?
Southern Denver suburbs took some of the hardest hits. Douglas County canceled the July 4 fireworks display scheduled for Highland Heritage Regional Park in Highlands Ranch, along with shows planned in Castle Rock, Lone Tree and Parker, according to Douglas County.
Commissioners had recently explored reinstating the Highlands Ranch show for America's 250th birthday, but Stage 2 restrictions made conditions too dangerous. Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle said public safety professionals ultimately advised against proceeding, and the county will not incur costs because its vendor contract was still being finalized.
Where can Denver residents still watch a firework show?
Despite the wave of cancellations, 9News reports that many professional displays remain on the calendar in the Denver metro area. Because fire restrictions and show statuses changed daily ahead of the holiday, the station kept an updated list of where viewers can still catch a show.
If your usual neighborhood firework show was canceled, check that guide before making plans. For broader holiday viewing options, see our Streaming & TV Alerts coverage for televised celebrations and last-minute schedule changes.
Are drone shows replacing fireworks across Colorado?
Some fire-prone communities moved away from pyrotechnics years ago. The New York Times notes that Aspen, Colo., now uses drone shows, and Salt Lake City has done the same since 2023. In San Juan County, spokeswoman DeAnne Gallegos said canceling Silverton's show was the most prudent decision while crews battled the Gold Mountain fire in nearby Ouray County and drought strained resources.
Ouray also canceled its fireworks, water fights and a tradition involving water sprayed from fire trucks. Mayor Michael Underwood said holding water fights on Main Street would have been disrespectful with wildfire smoke visible nearby. Gallegos added that there are many other ways to celebrate community beyond fireworks.