WEEK OF JUNE 26, 2025
VOLUME 130 | ISSUE 17
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Celebrations of Fourth set across Douglas County BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
When it comes to Fourth of July celebrations, there’s a cathartic feeling one gets when they take part in local barbecue, games and activities. However, others may want to explore what other towns or cities have to offer. To help plan out an exciting and memorable day, there are numerous ways for families, teens and adults to celebrate Independence Day all day long across Douglas County. Castle Rock
One of Castle Rock’s most exciting free summer events, First Fridays, just so happens to fall on the Fourth of July this year. Starting at 3 p.m. at Festival Park, there will be a 5K for the entire family. Once the workout is complete, reward yourself with some tasty food and beverages from various food trucks, then have some fun exploring activities and games. And if you’re a fan of old-school country and rock n’ roll, then stick around, because at 6 p.m., Ryan Chrys & the Rough Cuts will be taking the stage. Fireworks are set to start when night falls, between 9-9:30 p.m. Starting with a three-shot salute, the 15-minute show will shoot off from the former Acme Brick facility on Prairie Hawk Drive. Other viewing areas include Metzler Ranch Community Park, Miller Activity Complex, areas of the Red Hawk neighborhood and Rock Park. For weather updates, check facebook. com/crgov. Highlands Ranch
The free event included local vendors, live music, and plenty for little ones to do, including lawn games and grabbing a free balloon animal. Local food trucks Smokey Trail BBQ, The Thirst Trap, OG Burgers and Mother Clucker’s
One of the earliest celebrations in the county kicks off at 7:30 a.m. in Highlands Ranch with the annual Independence Day 5K. It doesn’t matter if you are an elite runner or just like to take a casual jog, the 5K is for everyone — including children and furry friends. Starting on Dorchester Street, the course takes participants north to Plaza Drive and back to Town Center South via Broadway and Highlands Ranch Parkway before coming back to Dorchester Street. Along the way, if you spot a hidden red, white and blue kettlebell and bring it to the finish line, you are eligible to win $100. The lucky kettlebell locator won’t be the only winner — medals will be awarded for the top three partici-
SEE SUMMERFEST, P12
SEE FIREWORKS, P6
Staff welcomed people to the Independence Summerfest with freebies like beach balls, stickers and coupons for free ice cream. Kristin Cross, IndePHOTO BY NICKY QUINBY pendence Community Manager, stands on the right.
Independence Summerfest kicks off season Free event featured vendors, music, games, food, raffle BY NICKY QUINBY SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
The Independence Homestead Park, at the entrance to the Independence subdivision near Elizabeth, was home to the first ever Summerfest on June 14. Residents took advantage of the pool as the temperature soared close to 90 degrees, and neighborhood families strolled down to enjoy the festivities.
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