This week in Friday Magazine, we’ve listed all of the places you can watch fireworks in Boulder County and some of the ancillary events. For example, I plan on attending Boulder’s “Sesquicentennial Stroll,” a celebration of the city’s 150th birthday in conjunction with a celebration of all that is red, white and blue.
But last night I found what I am absolutely sure is the best 3rd and 5th of July location in Colorado, and may well be the best 4th spot, too:
Red Rocks.
RC and I went last night to see Wilco — a belated birthday gift for her. As Okkervil River played its opening set, we could see the jaw-dropping backdrop that you expect at Red Rocks: the light green landscape of Denver, the cluster of upward-thrust buildings downtown and other community centers dotting the view.
But as night fell and Wilco came on, Denver area revelers began celebrating the Fourth the best way they know how: by blowing things up. Occasionally in sync with stage movements, fireworks displays across the metro area were easily visible behind the performance. First, something apparantly due east, then something to the south, and several more between. Eventually, they were joined by fireworks downtown, presumably from Coors Field.
To top it off, farther up in the sky, we were treated to a long cloud-to-cloud lightning storm.
That’s three light shows and two alt-country/rock sets.
The A/V guys at Red Rocks really have things figured out.
I challenge you to find a better 4th spot in Colorado. Tonight at Red Rocks, Blues Traveler performs, which I can do without, but the opening set is Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears.
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I won’t try to top Red Rocks for 4th of July, but Platte River Park and the nearby “Spire” bridge near Union Station in downtown Denver is also an amazing location.
It’s perfectly located to enjoy both the show at Invesco field, as well as the one at Coors field after the Rockies game.