Events-packed Fourth of July a hit in Durango

Despite having no fireworks to cap off Independence Day on Friday evening, Durango’s Four Days of the Fourth was a huge success, Ellen Babers, city community events manager, said.

An estimated 6,800 people posted up on downtown Main Avenue, many spruced up in red, white and blue-themed clothing and costumes, for the annual Fourth of July Parade.

The parade’s theme this year was Wet & Wild! and many floats did not disappoint. In particular, Durango Police Department stole the show and claimed first place and a $300 prize with its “SWAT and Wild” float.

DPD took the theme to heart when it rolled down Main Avenue in a procession of fire and EMS and police vehicles with a foam cannon atop a rescue vehicle. It pulled a trailer behind it where officers waited with stream machines at the ready.

The title of second best float was awarded to the Victorians and their float featuring a man enjoying a bubbly bath. The Victorians’ prize was $200.

The Gospel Church took third place and a $100 prize for its Christianity-themed float.

The prize money was awarded in Heart of Durango gift cards usable at 93 businesses downtown, Babers said.

July 3-6 2025 marked the city’s fourth Four Days of the Fourth Independence Day celebration. The city has aimed to make Durango an ideal July 4 holiday destination for the relatives of residents. Babers said it was successful.

She said her heart was warmed by how many people she saw downtown told her they invited their families to town for the holiday weekend.

“Downtown has been hopping since Wednesday,” she said.

The Fort Lewis Community Concert Hall at the Park show Thursday evening was “absolutely full” with about 1,500 to 1,600 people in attendance.

The Rotary Club of Durango and the Daybreak Rotary Club sold more breakfasts than they’ve ever done before Friday morning for their annual All-American Gourmet Breakfast.

Three hundred seventy-five runners participated in the Freedom 5K Run, Stroll & Walk on Friday morning with about 1,500 more people in attendance.

The children’s parade Friday afternoon was also a hit, and turnout surpassed expectations.

“It’s just so fun to see the littles all dressed up,” Babers said. “Some used the decorating station, but many families came dressed to the hilt. … It’s fun to have the kids be the stars.”

The Street Dance featuring High Country Hustle and Afrobeatniks at the Durango Transit Center on Friday evening was a great hit, although attendance was lower than last year when partygoers expected fireworks to fly.

cburney@durangoherald.com