Celebrating the 4th of July in the San Luis Valley
Looking to spend the 4th of July in the San Luis Valley? We’ve compiled six great ways to make sure your Independence Day celebration is unforgettable!
1) Eat Pancakes and Watch the 4th of July Parade in Alamosa
The Alamosa Kiwanis Club will be holding its 44th Annual Pancake Breakfast on July 4 from 7 AM until 10 AM. It will be in the SLV Federal Bank Parking Lot (401 Edison Ave) and bring your appetite, because it’s all you can eat pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee and orange juice. After you have your fill, line up for Alamosa’s 4th of July Parade down Main Street at 10 AM.
2) Watch Mining Competitions and Live Theatre in Creede
Photo Courtesy of Creede & Mineral County Visitor Center & Chamber of Commerce
The town of Creede has hosted mining competitions for over 40 years, stemming back from the days when the mines in Creede were operational. Watch the Colorado State Mining Championships on July 4 and the “Days of ‘92” competition on July 5. There are a multitude of events, including Jack-Leg Drilling, Hand Steeling, Hand Mucking, Spike Driving, and Machine Mucking, and at the end, the coveted title of “Best Overall Miner of the Year” is awarded. Don’t miss the parade at 10 AM on July 4 and the ChuteOut Rodeo at the Creede Fairgrounds at 6:30 PM. While you’re in Creede, catch a show at the Creede Repertory Theatre. The Creede Repertory Theatre will be performing the Wizard of Oz at 1:30 PM and Boomtown at 6PM, both on July 4.
3) Run a 5K, then Enjoy Some Pie in Crestone
Photo by Ron Dessain
The town of Crestone has a full slate of activities planned for July 4. The morning starts with a “Run, Walk or Crawl” 5K, followed by a pie-tasting contest. Crestone’s parade begins at noon and even has a wet zone for water balloon fights (but it is bring your own water balloons). There is also a Soap Box Derby and live music and local food and art all day long in the park.
4) Ride the Cumbres and Toltec Railroad in Antonito
Travel to Antonito for an unforgettable ride on the Cumbres and Toltect Railroad. The Cumbres and Toltec will have their Daily Excursion Trains departing from Antonito on July 4. Spend your Independence Day zig-zagging across the Colorado/New Mexico border through gorgeous mountain scenery. This narrow-gauge steam train is a National Historic Landmark and is a USA Today Readers’ Choice Best Attraction.
5) Listen to Live Music and Watch the Rodeo in South Fork
South Fork’s Independence Day celebrations begin with the Holiday Farmers Market at 9 AM. Doors open at 10 AM for the Fish Fry at the Fire Department, and lunch is served from 11 AM until 2 PM. The 4th of July Parade begins at 3 PM. Catch the Summer Soiree, featuring live music from 4 PM to 6:30 PM, then watch the world famous Burris and Sons Rodeo at 6:30 PM.
6) Escape on a Camping Getaway
The 4th of July is the perfect time to get away and reconnect with nature. The camping opportunities in the San Luis Valley are plentiful. You can go to one of our many commercial campgrounds, or adventure to the San Luis State Wildlife Area, the Great Sand Dunes National Park or the Rio Grande National Forest. No matter where you chose in the San Luis Valley, you are sure to have beautiful views and plenty of options for outdoor recreation.
What would you add to this list? Let us know!
