Fourth of July in Steamboat Springs is my favorite holiday and time of the year. It feels more than a celebration of national pride (although that is important). It is also an opportunity to honor the Yampa Valley’s western heritage with fun events for all ages to enjoy.
About 10 years ago I was first introduced to Fourth of July in Steamboat when I worked to help put on the parade. My first time working at the parade made me realize that this parade, this town, and this community is very special beyond the patriotic celebration of Independence Day. It is a true community event that many visitors can also participate in (or enjoy from the crowd). Mainstreet closes down to trafic, and the parade takes over downtown. It starts with the National Anthem, then leaders from the Steamboat Springs Fire Department trucks, police and beautiful horseback start off the parade floats. Cool shivers go down my arms honoring those that have served our country. Then, 50 – 60 parade floats line the street with fun themes and creativity around the nonprofit groups and community businesses. Kids smiling & laughing, dogs walking, goofy costumes, and crowd dance parties. It is a time where the community comes together to celebrate this important holiday.
After the parade, the day is filled with many other options to participate in. There are events like the Pioneer Block party, Ski Jumping Extravaganza, the largest Pro Rodeo event of the summer, and then the grand finale of the fireworks display.
See the schedule below to enjoy a classic Fourth of July celebration in true western heritage.
Thursday, July 4:
-7:00 to 9:30 a.m.: Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast, Downtown Steamboat Springs on Lincoln Ave. and 8th Street
-9:15 a.m. Roller Ski Competition, Downtown Steamboat Springs on Lincoln Ave.
-10:00 a.m.: Fourth of July Parade, presented by Yampa Valley Bank, Downtown Steamboat springs on Lincoln Ave.
-11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.: Pioneer Day Block Party and Community Concert at the Tread of Pioneers Museum.
-Noon to 3:00 p.m.: Jumpin and Jammin Ski Jumping Competition, Howelsen Hill
-6:30 p.m. Pro Rodeo Series, Brent Romick Arena
-9:30 p.m.: Fireworks Show, Howelsen Hill
I hope you will enjoy celebrating Independence Day in Steamboat Springs as much as I do. It is my favorite time of the year and I love to share what this hometown and western heritage is made of.
