Independence Day 2026 fun & festivities

The City of Castle Pines has no events planned for Independence Day, but several nearby communities do. Many of them have free admission, although some require registration, so check websites for details. Several Colorado venues now present drone or laser light shows, to avoid potential wildfire risks, but the events listed here that include shows are planning traditional fireworks.
Castle Rock
The Annual July 4th ROCK-IT Run starts at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 4 at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, 500 Fairgrounds Drive, with a half marathon (relay optional), followed by a 5K, a 1K Little Run for those 8 years and younger and a free post-race concert. The event’s mission is to increase awareness and raise funds to help veterans and first responders find mental wellness. For full details and race entry fees, visit runtochangelives.org/rock-it-run.
The town’s Fourth of July Celebration is 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Festival Park, 300 Second Street. The celebration includes live music, local food trucks, family-friendly activities, and the town’s Pie Bake-Off competition. The evening concludes with a fireworks display, weather permitting. For more information, visit crgov.com/calendar.aspx and search “fourth” in the calendar.
Highlands Ranch
On Thursday, July 2, the new Star-Spangled Birthday Bash celebrates Independence Day at Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 South Quebec Street. The festive evening of live music, family-friendly fun and patriotic spirit begins at 6 p.m.
On July 4, the 5K run/walk and parade return. The 5K is at 7:30 a.m., starting and finishing on Dorchester Street. Find and finish the 5K with the hidden patriotic kettlebell to win $100! Afterward, enjoy the Pet & Bike Parade at 8:45 a.m. and the main parade at 9:00 a.m. along Highlands Ranch Parkway between Hepburn Street and Ridgeline Boulevard. For full details for both events, visit hrcaonline.org/Events/4th-of-July-with-HRCA.
Lone Tree
Celebrate throughout the day on July 4 at Prairie Sky Park, 9381 Crossington Way, starting at 9 a.m. with the Family Fun Ride & Stroll from Lone Tree Elementary to the park. The Family Fun Park is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is free to attend but requires registration. Some items inside the park may have a fee. Beginning at 6 p.m. enjoy the Party in the Park, with live music and food trucks and a planned fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. The fireworks can also be viewed from other nearby locations. For more information, visit cityoflonetree.com/city-events/independence-day.
Parker
The town’s annual July 4 fireworks show starts at 9:30 p.m., weather dependent, at Salisbury Park, 11920 Motsenbocker Road. The park will be open to the public, with 300 paved parking spaces. No additional activities are planned. The display can also be enjoyed from other public areas around the community. For full details and suggested viewing locations, visit parkerco.gov/1102/July-4th-Fireworks-Show.
For a full list of events in and around Castle Pines community, visit castlepinesconnection.com/events.
By Susan Helton