Douglas County towns swap July 4 fireworks for Veterans Day displays

Residents in Castle Rock and Parker will watch fireworks on Wednesday, November 11, instead of July 4. The two towns moved the summer celebration to Veterans Day after fire bans forced them to cancel their original Fourth of July schedules. The change turns a standard holiday display into a specific tribute to military service members living in Douglas County.

Castle Rock Fire Chief Norris Croom said better weather made the late-year show possible. He noted the town is taking a calculated risk on the conditions. "We're rolling the dice a little bit, and we're saying that we believe this is going to be a good opportunity to do this," Croom said. He added that the timing aligns with the United States turning 250 and Colorado turning 150 this year.

Parker event manager Brook Spain confirmed that planning for the new date started early in the year. The town is also preparing for its 45th anniversary. Spain described the shift as a way to honor veterans directly rather than just celebrating the date. "We really thought what a great way to honor our veterans by doing the fireworks on Veterans Day instead of Fourth of July," Spain said.

Local veterans expressed support for the rescheduled events, though some acknowledged the noise can be difficult. Brian Gunther, an Army veteran and member of VFW Post 12230, said he is excited to see the shows proceed. He noted that his local post, which opened in March 2024, is still building its presence in the community. Gunther pointed to the upcoming construction of Heroes Hall as a needed space for veteran organizations to gather.

David Seal, a Vietnam-era veteran in Parker, supported the initial cancellation due to fire bans. He said his generation received little recognition upon returning home. "The reception home was pretty nasty," Seal said. He noted that approximately 2,500 veterans live in Parker and more than 20,000 reside in the wider Douglas County area.

BJ Reese, a member of American Legion Post 1187 in Castle Rock, followed his father into military service. He said he learned to live with the stress of fireworks but appreciates the town's effort to support veterans. Reese hopes the under-construction Heroes Hall will soon provide a dedicated space for support and camaraderie. "They are supporting us, veterans and celebrating us. So support," Reese said.

The Parker fireworks are scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday at Salisbury Regional Park. Castle Rock will launch its display from Miller’s Landing off Plum Creek Parkway at the same time.