Our classic Boulder fireworks show, and the shows of our neighbors have evolved over the years. What was once the province of explosives, rockets, and colorful loud displays of pyrotechnics has morphed. While the “classics” are still extant, these classic fireworks shows have been influenced by safety, fire prevention, and common sense. Does that mean “no show?” NO it does not!

Imagine a clear night sky, free from the smoke and noise of traditional fireworks, illuminated instead by a breathtaking drone display for the 4th of July. Hundreds of drones, equipped with vibrant LED lights, ascend into the air, forming intricate patterns and shapes against the dark backdrop. The show begins with a gentle ascent, as the drones rise in unison, their lights twinkling like stars.

As the display progresses, the drones synchronize to create a stunning American flag, the red, white, and blue lights shimmering with perfect precision. The flag waves in the virtual wind, eliciting gasps from the audience below. Next, the drones transition seamlessly into a series of patriotic symbols, including the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell, and an eagle soaring majestically.

The highlight of the show is an awe-inspiring sequence where the drones spell out “Happy 4th of July” in a dazzling array of colors, followed by a heartwarming tribute to the troops, with formations of soldiers saluting and a dynamic display of military jets in a flyover formation.

Throughout the display, the drones move with impeccable timing, their lights changing colors and intensity to the rhythm of a carefully chosen soundtrack. The grand finale features a spectacular cascade of shooting stars, creating the illusion of a meteor shower, as the drones descend gracefully to the ground, leaving the sky once again in serene darkness.

This modern take on fireworks not only captivates the audience with its precision and creativity but also offers a safer and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pyrotechnics. The drone display is a testament to innovation and a glimpse into the future of celebrations.

Where do we find these displays of ancient arts and modern mega-shows? Easy! Here’s a list of suggestions.

Denver:
– Civic Center Park: Drone show on July 3rd as part of the Independence Eve celebration.
– Elitch Gardens: Fireworks on July 5th at park closing.

BASEBALL FIREWORKS! This year, once again, the Rockies have two nights of fireworks games. Colorado Rockies will have fireworks shows this year on July 4th and 5th. The fireworks displays will take place after the games at Coors Field. You will need a ticket to enter the ballpark, but the fireworks can also be viewed from areas around the stadium

Englewood:
– Belleview Park and Cornerstone Park: Fireworks on July 4th from 5-10 p.m.

Highlands Ranch:
– Highland Heritage Regional Park: Fireworks on July 4th at 9:30 p.m.

Arvada:
– Stenger Sports Complex: Fireworks on July 4th, gates open at 7 p.m.

Boulder:
– Folsom Field: Night sky drone show on July 4th at 9:35 p.m.

Westminster:
– Westminster City Park: Fireworks on July 4th at 9:15 p.m.

Louisville:
– Coal Creek Golf Course: Fireworks on July 4th at 9:30 p.m.

Longmont:
– Dickens’ Farm Nature Area: Drone show at 9:15 p.m. and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. on July 4th.

Firestone:
– Miners Park: Fireworks on July 4th at 9:30 p.m.

Fort Collins:
– Sheldon Lake at City Park: Fireworks on July 4th at 9:35 p.m.

Loveland:
– North Lake Park: Fireworks on July 4th at 9:17 p.m.

These events offer a mix of traditional fireworks and modern drone shows, providing various options for celebrating the holiday. For more detailed information, you can check local city websites or event pages.

As a caution (I hear my Mother calling) DIY fireworks pose a list of threats. In short, cautions should include fire prevention in our especially dry days. Remember how hard it is to light a sparkler? That is  because they burn HOT!!! Sparklers can burn at temperatures ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit (980 to 1,650 degrees Celsius). This high temperature is hot enough to melt some metals and cause serious burns, so handling them with care is essential. Despite their festive appearance, sparklers pose significant safety risks, especially for children, and should always be used under adult supervision.

For comparison, an ordinary kitchen match burns at a temperature of approximately 600 to 800 degrees Fahrenheit (315 to 425 degrees Celsius). Yes, you read that right. A sparkler burns at about three times the temperature of a kitchen match! They burn a THOUSAND DEGREES HOTTER than a match! That’s impressive.

Lenny Lensworth Frieling

Shared Knowledge Is Power!

Leonard Frieling Pen Of Justice Legal Blogger

• Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
• Former Judge
• Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
• First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
• Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
• Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
• NORML Distinguished Counsel Circle
• Life Member, NORML Legal Committee
• Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
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• Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
• Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
• Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
• LEAP Speaker, multi-published author, University lectures Univ. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels.
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