Castle Rock and Parker move cancelled July 4 fireworks to Veterans Day
Two Douglas County towns will launch displays on Wednesday evening to mark the 250th U.S. birthday and honor local veterans.
By Vikram Harrison ·
Approximately 22,500 veterans in Douglas County will see fireworks this Wednesday. The total combines the roughly 25,000 residents in the county with the specific population figure of 2,500 veterans living in Parker, as cited by local leaders during a briefing on the rescheduled events.
Castle Rock and Parker originally planned these displays for Independence Day. Fire bans forced both towns to cancel the summer shows. Officials now plan to hold the combined celebrations on Veterans Day. The date change coincides with the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 150th anniversary of Colorado.
Norris Croom, the fire chief for Castle Rock, stated that weather conditions have improved enough to permit the launch. He acknowledged the risk involved in the timing but affirmed the town's commitment to the new date. Croom noted that while some community members expressed concern about noise for veterans with PTSD, the town believes the tribute is appropriate.
In Parker, Brook Spain, the community event manager, said planning for the alternative date began early in the year. The town is also preparing to mark its 45th birthday. Spain described the shift to November as a deliberate effort to honor service members rather than simply replace a summer holiday.
Brian Gunther, a U.S. Army veteran and member of VFW Post 12230, deployed to Afghanistan as an infantry soldier. He called the rescheduling a wise decision. Gunther noted that his local VFW post, established in March 2024, is still building its presence in Castle Rock. He identified a future building called Heroes Hall as a necessary space for veteran camaraderie and support.
David Seal, a member of VFW Post 4266 in Parker, served during the Vietnam era. He entered the military in 1967. Seal supported the initial cancellation due to fire safety concerns. He recalled that the reception for his generation of veterans upon their return was difficult, often lacking the public recognition seen today.
BJ Reese, a member of American Legion Post 1187 in Castle Rock, followed his father into military service. He expressed delight at the rescheduled date, noting the support it provides to past, present, and future veterans. Reese admitted that fireworks can be physically challenging for him due to PTSD. He often leaves the show after the first few minutes but encourages the community to support the towns for hosting the event.
Parker’s fireworks will begin at 7 p.m. on Wednesday at Salisbury Regional Park. Castle Rock’s display will also start at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, launching from Miller’s Landing off Plum Creek Parkway.
