The 4th of July falls on a Saturday this year, so there will plenty to see, do, and enjoy. Something for the art lover, the music fanatic, the foodie, and most places will let you enjoy the fun with a drink in your hand. Just don’t forget to raise a toast to this fine country and those who fought for independence. Cheers!

Independence Eve
Start the fun a day early in Civic Center Park downtown with an Independence Eve celebration. Families are encouraged to bring a blanket, some lawn chairs, and a picnic for an evening of music with a light show. The music includes Funkiphino and the 101st Army Concert Band from Buckley Air Force Base. Park rules apply; you may bring adult beverages, but no glass containers and no BBQ grills allowed. Food and drink vendors will also be on hand. Check the Civic Center Conservancy website for parking info. (E Broadway & Colfax Ave.)

Zac Brown Band at Coors Field
Also on Friday night, July 3, the Zac Brown Band will take over Coors Field for the stadium’s first ever major concert show. Colorado’s own Big Head Todd & the Monsters will open. The Rooftop will be open and the 52 taps will be flowing. (Coors Field, 2001 Blake St.)

Cherry Creek Arts Festival
In Cherry Creek North, take a stroll through the outdoor art gallery that is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival. The festival runs the entire weekend, July 3–5, opening at 10 AM each day. As the day gets sunny and temperatures climb, cool off at the Blue Moon Beer Garden on Fillmore Street or enjoy wine and cocktails at various drink tents throughout the festival. Stay late Friday, July 3, for the Woody Creek Distillers Festival Night featuring live music and “spirited” beverages at 8 PM. The event is free, but food, beverages, and any artwork you take home are PAYG. Parking is available at the Cherry Creek Mall. (Cherry Creek North, 2nd and 3rd Aves. between Monroe St. and University Blvd.)

The Big Wonderful
If you haven’t been yet, head to The Big Wonderful in RiNo for a farmer’s market/concert/beer garden/craft bazaar/food truck heaven turned block party. Held in Curtis Park every Saturday from noon to 7:30 PM, The Big Wonderful will have music from Naïve Melodies, a Talking Heads tribute band, on July 4. Dogs welcome. (2500 Lawrence St.)

Blues Traveler at Red Rocks
Once again, Denver faves Blues Traveler will celebrate the holiday at beautiful Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison. Opening will be Guster and Hanson. This is the band’s 21st year playing at Red Rocks. Tailgating is permitted, and plenty of Colorado craft will be available inside. Doors open at 5 PM. (18300 W Alameda Pkwy.; 888-929-7849 for tickets)

Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
Taking the kids to Elitch Gardens for the 4th? Stay the day because the park is having a fireworks show at sundown. Admission to the park includes the fireworks show. While the kids ride the rides, mom and dad can watch the show from the Blue Moon Beer Garden (2000 Elitch Cir.; 303-595-4386)

Super Diamond - The Neil Diamond Tribute
The band is back for another 4th of July! Super Diamond, singing the greatest hits of Neil Diamond, will perform at Hudson Gardens in Littleton. After belting out some Sweet Caroline, this outdoor concert will culminate with a fireworks show after sundown. Tickets are $26 for adults and $10 for kids 5-12 (kids 4 and under are free). Gates open at 5 PM, and the music starts at 7 PM. While bringing a picnic meal is welcome, guests cannot bring alcohol, but can purchase beer and wine from tents on site. (6115 S Sante Fe Dr.; 303-797-8565)

Photo via Flickr user Hryck