10 Free Things to Do in Colorado This July

Big Boom Bash | July 4
Celebrate Independence Day in Lakewood at Big Boom Bash. The family-friendly event kicks off at 5:30 p.m. and will have food trucks, activities for kids, and the highlight: a 20-minute fireworks show choreographed to music from MIX 100. 5:30 to 10 p.m. Jeffco Stadium, 500 Kipling St., Lakewood

Breckenridge Independence Day Celebration | July 4–7
Skip the fireworks and head to the mountains for Breckenridge’s annual fireworks-free 4th of July celebration. With a 10K trail run, a mountain bike race called the Firecracker 50, a parade along Main Street, and live music, including a performance by the National Repertory Orchestra, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Don’t miss the concurrent Streets Art: Spangled event happening July 4 in the arts district. The 10K (which is not free) starts at 7 a.m., the same time a lot of people start claiming their parade-watching spots. The Breckenridge Tourism Office recommends parking at the Satellite Lot at Coyne Valley Road and Highway 9 and using the Breck Free Ride to get to Main Street.

Cherry Creek Arts Festival | July 5–7
Feast your eyes (and ears and, yes, stomach) at the 29th annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival. The outdoor fine art show features visual and culinary art, as well as live music from a variety of rock, R&B, country, and jazz groups. Try your hand at new printmaking, ceramics, fiber art, or mixed media in open-studio sessions at the Art Experience Tent, or purchase original artwork in the art auction (you can bid online or in person). July 5–6, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; July 7, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cherry Creek North, 2nd and 3rd avenues between Clayton and Steele.

Women’s World Cup Finals Watch Party | July 7
If you can’t get enough soccer (we get it; Mallory Pugh probably does too), grab your FIFA gear and head to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The viewing party is limited to the first 4,500 people, so get there early—and be ready to showcase your best footwork at the Fan Fest. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. The game starts at 9 a.m. 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City

Mozart Under Moonlight | July 10
Take a break from the city heat with a midweek outdoor concert at Dillon Amphitheater, sitting on the edge of Dillon Reservoir with views of the Rocky Mountains. The Colorado Symphony will be performing a mix of Mozart’s concerto, operatic, and symphonic works, with piano soloist Andrew Tyson on the ivories. No tickets or reservations necessary. Doors open at 5 p.m. Concert starts at 6 p.m. 201 W Lodgepole St., Dillon

Colorado Black Arts Festival | July 12–14
The Colorado Black Arts Festival was started in 1986 in response to a lack of opportunities for African American artists. Since then, it has grown to attract thousands of visitors for its celebration of African arts and culture in the Centennial State. This year, jazz and Gospel artists will perform live music on the main stage, while visual artists display their work and short films and documentaries produced and directed by African American filmmakers will be shown in a film pavilion. Friday, noon to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. City Park

Westminster Latino Festival | July 20
Skip driving and take the B Line to RTD’s Westminster Station—on arrival, you’ll find yourself in the middle of the action. The fourth annual Westminster Latino Festival is a collaboration of the City of Westminster and El Comercio de Colorado bilingual newspaper and highlights the community’s rich diversity through food, live music, and vendor booths. Noon to 8 p.m. 3200 Westminster Station Drive, Westminster

Fitness on the Plaza | July 20
Skip the crowds at Red Rocks and head to Union Station instead for your Saturday morning workout. Alchemy 365, a LoHi fitness studio that combines yoga, strength, and cardio, is hosting a free fitness class on the Union Station Plaza. Slap on some sunscreen, grab your water bottle, and get ready to move. 8 a.m. 1701 Wynkoop St.

How to Climb a 14er | July 23–24
It’s peak-bagging season. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain climber or a newbie just learning the ropes, check out REI’s free workshops to learn the basics—from weather considerations to what food and equipment to pack. Register for free online. July 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Finkel & Garf Brewing Company, 5455 Spine Rd., Boulder; July 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at REI’s Denver flagship store, 1416 Platte St.

Buffalo Bill Days | July 25–28
Flashback to the old West with Golden’s largest annual community festival. Cody’s Wild West brings mounted infantrymen and bagpipers and the Pikes Peak Rangerettes, among others, together for a show reminiscent of Buffalo Bill’s original traveling show. Kids ages 5 to 7 can participate in the Mutton Bustin’ contest, while everyone can enjoy the Saturday morning parade, daily live music, and other activities throughout the weekend. A golf tournament kicks off the event on Thursday, but most activities start the next day. Friday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find the detailed event schedule online. Downtown Golden