Independence Day marks one of the busiest weekends of the summer in Steamboat. From the classic Fourth of July parade to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club’s Jumpin’ and Jammin’ events, here’s what is happening in town for the Fourth.

No fireworks in Steamboat this year

The city ended the July 4 fireworks display last year, citing fire danger and the retirement of Tim Borden, a fireworks expert who ran the show for many years.

But fireworks lovers will still be able to get their fix elsewhere as the colorful explosions will fill the skies above the water at Steamboat Lake at 9 p.m., Saturday, July 2. There will also be a fireworks show in Yampa once the sun sets on July 4.

---

---

Fourth of July in Yampa

For those who want to head south for the weekend, Yampa is offering a lineup of festivities to celebrate Independence Day.

The historical society is hosting a barbecue at 4 p.m., Sunday, July 3 at Yackey Park, with a car show to follow from 5 to 7 p.m. at Montgomery’s General Store. At 8 p.m., there will be a town dance with live music from Constant Change.

---

---

On July 4, there will be a pancake breakfast at the Ladies Aid Hall, the Fourth of July parade at 1 p.m. and more in the afternoon. Fireworks will begin after dark. Learn more at TownOfYampa.com. 

Friday, July 1

Rock on with the Pro-Rodeo series 

In the mood for barbecue, music and bull riding to get you in the Independence Day spirit? Come to the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo series Friday, July 1, and Saturday, July 2, with additional Cowboy Roundup Days performances on July 3 and 4.

The gates open at 6 p.m. at the Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds, and attendees will be able to chow down on barbecue and listen to music before the show starts at 7:30 p.m. each night.

Tickets start at $25 for adults, and can be purchased at http://www.ProRodeoTix.com/SteamboatSprings. 

Patriotism, paintings and more at the First Friday Artwalk

The First Friday Artwalk takes place the first Friday of each month throughout the summer. The evening of July 1, walk through galleries and other venues throughout downtown to get a feel for local artists.

Get down with Diggin’ Dirt

Get funky with Diggin Dirt at the Snow Bowl Friday evening. This eclectic, California band ranges from funk and soul to reggae and rock, and is continuing Snow Bowl’s weekend concert series.

The show begins at 7 p.m., and tickets are $15. More info and tickets are available at SnowbowlSteamboat.com.

Jam out with 40 Oz. to Freedom 

Come hear Sublime tribute band 40 Oz. to Freedom at 10 p.m. Friday, July 1 at Schmiggity’s. Dance to Sublime covers, medleys and more. The show is 21+, and tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Schmiggitys.com. 

Saturday, July 2

Shop at the Main Street Farmer’s Market

Come down to Yampa Street to shop from over 130 vendors from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 2. You can find produce, packaged goods, artisan products or even some patriotic accessories to don throughout the weekend.

Get crafty with the Hahns Peak Area Historical Society

There will be an Arts & Crafts Fair with an ice cream social event starting at 1 p.m. and silent auction from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 2. Homemade ice cream entries for contest to be entered by noon to the schoolhouse. For more information contact Shelley at 970-846-2991.

Coca-Cola’s Movies on the Mountain

Watch summertime classic “The Parent Trap” at the Torian Plum Lawn at the base of Steamboat Resort on Saturday, July 2, around sunset. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks, and unwind for a bit.

Steamboat Lake fireworks

Have an itch for fireworks that needs to be scratched? Head to Steamboat Lake for a show full of bursts of bright colors at 9 p.m., Saturday, July 2. 

Bop and boogie with The Burroughs 

The Burroughs, a nine-piece band which touts a style of “sweaty soul music,” will be playing at 10 p.m., Saturday, July 2, at Schmiggity’s. The show is 21+ and tickets are available for purchase at Schmiggitys.com for $10.

Jumpin’ and Jammin’

Most Steamboat residents know that a lack of snow never stopped winter athletes, especially when it comes to ski jumping. Come see a ski jumping competition from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, July 3 at Howelsen Hill, run by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. 

Then on the Fourth, cap the weekend off with roller ski and running races prior to the parade, and an elimination ski jump competition at 11 a.m. following the parade. There will be food vendors and beverages available to spectators.

“Spectators are welcome both days, but Monday we really cater to the crowd that’s here in Steamboat looking to do something after the parade,” said Jon Nolting, associate executive director for SSWSC.

Athletes will range from young kids to national team athletes and Olympians, said Nolting.

“It’s a unique Steamboat event,” he added. “It’s a great chance for everybody to see our best Olympians alongside some kids that maybe we’ll see in the Olympics eight years from now.”

Compete and play at the Lawnathon

Cornhole, can jam and other yard games are staples for summer. Get a team together and compete at the Snow Bowl’s Lawnathon Summer Series 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, July 3. Register and learn more at SnowBowlSteamboat.com.  

Monday, July 4

Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast

Start off Independence Day right with a hearty pancake breakfast from the Lion’s Club from 7 to 10 a.m. at Little Toots Park. Breakfast is $15 for adults and $10 for veterans, seniors and kids younger than 12. 

Nordic Combined 1K run and 3K roller ski

As part of the Jumpin’ and Jammin’ event, there will be a Nordic combined run and roller ski race from 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. July 4 on Lincoln Ave, prior to the parade and ski jump competition later in the day.

“The kids that do the Nordic combined will run or roller ski before the parade,” said Nolting. “It’s fun to watch, because down there on the street, it’s fast. The crowd gets right up close.”

July Fourth Parade

Celebrate with the 119th Fourth of July parade, a long Steamboat tradition which recognizes Independence Day in true Western fashion.

The parade’s theme this year is “Red, White, and YOU,” with Sarah and John Floyd serving as the marshals for the parade.

There will be no handouts during the parade this year, and Fifth Street will be closed for the day.

Turn out for Throwdown

Finish out Fourth of July festivities with a performance from rock band Throwdown at Schmiggity’s. Jam out to classic rock and hits throughout the ages. Tickets are $5, and the event is 21+. Learn more and buy tickets at Schmiggitys.com.