Metro Denver 4th Of July Guide: Events, Closures, Weather

While Coloradans in Denver's metro area are getting ready to celebrate the 4th of July with outdoor excursions, grilling and fun, there are some important things to know to help the celebrations go smoothly.

Weather

There's a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon on Sunday across metro Denver, so be sure to pack rain gear if you're heading outside. Winds could gust up to 17 mph, so also make sure to secure your 4th of July outdoor decor! The good news: you can expect a mostly clear sky Sunday night, with a low around 63.

Grocery store hours

But it's almost inevitable that a supply of condiments, hot dogs, potato chips and other 4th of July classics will be forgotten on the day. Luckily for last-minute shoppers, the majority of grocery stores will still be open to help out:

• Costco: All Costco locations are closed on July 4.
• Dollar General: Dollar General is open on the 4th of July, but check with your local store for possible adjusted hours.
• King Soopers: Most stores will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., but check with your local store for possible adjusted hours.
• Safeway: Most stores are expected to be open — check with your neighborhood store for possible adjusted hours.
• Sam's Club: Sam's Club locations will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Plus members, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for club members.
• Target: Target locations are open. Store hours will depend on your neighborhood location.
• Trader Joe's: Stores will close early, at 5 p.m., on the 4th of July.
• Walmart: Walmart stores will be open during regular local hours on Independence Day.
• Whole Foods: Most Colorado stores will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., but check with your local store for possible adjusted hours.

Events

Denver's Independence Eve fireworks and the Elitch Gardens fireworks have been canceled, and many Colorado cities held their 4th of July fireworks shows on Saturday, but there are still some fun events to check out:

• What: Denver's 2021 Park Hill Parade
• Where: From Dexter Street to Krameria Street
• When: 1:30 p.m. July 4

The parade is expected to include dozens of floats, marching bands, classic cars and costumed dancers in one of Denver's most historic neighborhoods.

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• What: Arvada's Independence Day Fireworks
• Where: Stenger Soccer Complex, 11200 West 58th Ave.
• When: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. July 4; Fireworks will begin around 9 p.m.

The city has celebrated Independence Day with a fireworks show since 1979. No recreational vehicles, alcohol, pets or personal fireworks are allowed. West 58th Avenue will close to traffic beginning at 8 p.m.

• What: Aurora's Fourth of July Spectacular
• Where: Around Bicentennial Park
• When: Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. July 4

The Aurora Municipal Center's Great Lawn will open at 6:30 p.m. for those who want to gather to watch the fireworks; however, there will be no music, activities or food trucks, so make sure to bring snacks and water.

• What: Broomfield's Great American Picnic
• Where: Broomfield County Commons Park
• When: Fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m.

The park will open at 5 p.m. with inflatables, concessions, food vendors and a beer garden for those ages 21 and older.

• What: Westminster's July 4th Celebration
• Where: Westminster City Park, 10455 N. Sheridan Blvd.
• When: Fireworks will begin around 9:15 p.m.

There will be no pre-show entertainment or vendors; however, organizers partnered with the city of Northglenn, which is hosting celebrations in four local parks — event details can be found here.

Personal fireworks

Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal in Colorado, and metro Denver law enforcement agencies are planning to step up patrols, issue citations and confiscate fireworks.

Traffic

You'll want to give yourself plenty of time to get to destinations this weekend — Denver is one of the most popular 4th of July road trip travel destinations in the country, according to a new report by AAA.

Travelers should also plan for higher prices over the 4th of July holiday. Gas prices are at a seven-year high, and daily car rental rates have increased 86 percent compared with last Independence Day.