This is the month when what’s called the “dog days of summer” begin. They were first observed in ancient Roman and Greek astrology and were linked with mad dog attacks, thunderstorms, heat, and drought. Nowadays, “the dog days” refers to when the hottest days of summer begin. This is also the first month of the second half of the year.
July is normally Denver’s hottest month. But after last month’s record-setting heat wave hopefully celebrating the 4th of July and American independence will be a breeze.
To keep you patriotic, here are our Star Spangled Banner choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment to keep you dancing, having fun, and letting freedom ring:
3 The Four Mile Park Independence Fête & Glendale Fireworks are a huge part of the Valley’s 4th of July culture. Both return on July 2. Gala doings with live music at 5 p.m., fireworks at dusk. Information: 720-865-0800.
3 Keep the holiday spirit going by enjoying Central City Opera’s Carousel opening July 3 at Hudson Gardens, 7 p.m. Information: 303-296-6700.
3 If your girls have rugby skills urge them to join the Girls High School Rugby Camp (9th-12th grade) July 8-11. Information: 303-639-4713.
3 Glendale’s free movies At The Park are Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse July 12 & Raya & The Last Dragon on July 26th. Information: infinityparkglendale.com.
3 Start your summer days at Urban Egg in Cherry Creek’s ANB Bank Bldg. on 1st Ave. 7 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat./Sun. 2:30 p.m. Serving eggs benedict, French toast, sandwiches, soup, and salads. Information: 720-798-3447.
3 Valley’s summer sun can do a number on your roof and your cooling bills. A new energy efficient roof is a great way to start summer. Contact Forest Roofs, your Cherry Creek-Glendale roofers. Information: 303-591-5601.
3 Cool down at this year’s Summer Brew Fest July 24, noon-10 p.m. The Mile High Station event has two bands. Information: 720-946-7721.
3 The Colorado Symphony is at Red Rocks Amphitheater July 25, 7 p.m. Brett Mitchell directs with four vocal soloists. Information: 720-865-2494.
3 We all want to keep freedom’s bells ringing and on July 20 the Lowry Speaker Series brings Colorado’s Attorney General to Eisenhower Chapel, 7-8:30 p.m. Lowry resident Phil Weiser will discuss “Repairing Our Democratic Institutions.” Free (mask not required), also zoom linked or recording available next day. Information: 303-344-0481.
Glendale’s jaw-dropping fireworks that kick-off the 4th of July each summer stir up pride in the hearts of Valley families. It reminds us of Katy Perry’s song “Fireworks.” From her 2010 dance album she doesn’t mention the title until the end of the track, but the absence builds tension. Her meaning is clear and triggers our embrace of freedom.
The 4th of July is a time to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to enjoy barbecues, fireworks, time with our families, and be proud to be an American.
Between all the celebrations, however, reflect on the meaning of Independence Day: Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are why we celebrate. By the dawn’s early light we hope your July 4th holiday party is the most and never ends. Ever wonder why fire doesn’t get the 4th of July off? Because fire works! Happy birthday, America!
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com.
