In Steamboat Springs, the Fourth of July isn’t just another holiday, it’s the weekend that brings the whole town together. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just moved in last winter, you’ll quickly realize this is one of the most iconic and community-driven weekends of the year.
From ski jumping and pancake breakfasts to parades, rodeos, and a drone show that lights up the mountain, there’s a whole lineup of events that make the Fourth of July in Steamboat Springs truly unforgettable. Here’s your local-friendly guide to the full weekend, organized by date and time, because let’s be honest, you don’t want to miss a thing.
🗓️ July 1–4: Jumpin’ & Jammin’ Ski Jumping at Howelsen Hill
We kick things off the only way Steamboat knows how: ski jumping in July. The Jumpin’ & Jammin’ Ski Jumping Competition brings serious air time to historic Howelsen Hill.
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Training: July 1–2
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Main Event: July 3
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Elimination Jump: July 4 from 11:00 AM–2:30 PM
It’s free, family-friendly, and a uniquely Steamboat tradition that never gets old.
🎆 July 4
🥞 7:00–9:30 AM: Pancake Breakfast at Little Toots Park
Start your Independence Day with pancakes, coffee, and good company. The Lions Club Pancake Breakfast is a longtime favorite and a great way to fuel up before the day’s big events. Plus, it puts you right downtown to snag a prime parade-watching spot.
🎿 9:15 AM: Nordic & Roller Ski Racing at Howelsen
Even in July, our Olympic heritage shows up strong. Head to Howelsen Hill for some fast-paced action before the parade:
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9:15 AM – 1K Nordic Combined Run
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9:30 AM – 3K Roller Ski Race
Perfect for early risers and ski fans who want a taste of winter in the middle of summer.
🐾 10:00 AM: Steamboat Fourth of July Parade on Lincoln Ave!
At 10 sharp, Lincoln Ave transforms into a red, white, and furry celebration. This year’s theme is “A Salute to Dog Town USA” because we all know Steamboat loves its pups.
Local legends Elaine Hicks (Routt Humane Society) and Kathy Connell (Steamboat Digs Dogs) will serve as Grand Marshals. Bring the whole family (and maybe your best-behaved dog), and get ready for one of the most spirited Fourth of July parades in Colorado.
🤠 4:30 PM Gates Open| Pro Rodeo Series at Brent Romick Arena
No Steamboat Fourth of July is complete without the Steamboat Pro Rodeo. Happening July 3, 4 & 5, it’s a fun and festive way to spend the evening.
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Gates open at 4:30 PM (5:30 on the 3rd & 5th)
- Music and BBQ start at 5:30 (6:00 on the 3rd &5th)
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Rodeo starts at 7:30 PM
Expect all the good stuff: barrel racing, bull riding, steer wrestling, and BBQ. It’s family-friendly and full of that Western charm we all know and love.
🎶 Live Music at the Mountain Base | Starts at 5:30 PM
Head to the base of the ski resort for free live music to wind down the day:
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5:30 PM – Eric Delaney’s Taste Test
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7:00 PM – John Papa Gros (New Orleans funk vibes)
Bring a blanket, a camp chair, and your people, it’s the perfect way to kick back before the big finale.
✨ After Dark: Drone Light Show Over Steamboat Resort
No fireworks this year (fire danger is real), but Steamboat’s stepping it up with an epic drone light show instead. It’s a creative, eco-friendly twist on tradition, and trust us, it’s stunning.
Hundreds of drones will light up the sky with coordinated shapes and colors, choreographed to music and backdropped by Mt. Werner. You’ll want to stay for this one.
🚙 Before You Go: Parking & Closures
A few things to keep in mind:
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Downtown streets (5th–12th) are closed from 6 AM–2 PM on July 4.
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Parking is limited, instead try:
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Free city shuttles
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High School lot
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Rodeo Grounds
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Stockbridge Transit Center
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🇺🇸 It’s More Than a Holiday. It’s a Steamboat Tradition.
At Team Yazbeck, we love this town and everything it stands for. The Fourth of July in Steamboat Springs is a reminder of how strong, supportive, and downright fun our community is from early-morning pancakes to late-night drone shows.
We’ll be out there soaking it all in with you. Come say hi if you see us, and have an incredible holiday weekend in the Yampa Valley.
—Team Yazbeck
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