As July approaches, many people have Fourth of July festivities on their mind. From parades and barbecues to live music and fireworks, Americans will go all out to celebrate independence.

To make sure you get a great view, where you can reflect on what you are seeing, we’ve compiled a list of the best bodies of water to watch fireworks this Fourth of July. Please note that although some shows have a designated start time, they are not precise and most will not begin until dark so bring layers and prepare for crowds.

1. Grand Lake

Located on the western edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, this “Western Gateway” to the park sets the stage for their 4th of July Extravaganza at the largest natural lake in Colorado. Accompanied by music, the show begins after dark and can be seen from boats or the shore. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from near-by restaurants and vendors. Visit herefor more information.

2. Lake Estes

Base camp to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park has three locations where the stunning fireworks display over Lake Estes can be seen best. Viewers can bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to the alcohol-free family zone of Stanley Park, find a spot along Lake Estes Trail or view the 9:30 p.m. show from the mountainside. Don’t want to deal with parking issues?The Estes Park Free Shuttles will run from the Visitors Center to designated stops. Visit here for more information.

3. Lake Dillon

Bordered by the towns of Frisco, Silverthorne and Dillon, the Dillon Reservoir, or Lake Dillon will begin their firework show at approximately 9:30 p.m. with the best viewing area being around the Frisco Bay Marina. Arrive early to see Count Tutu at the Frisco Bay Marina or wait for the show’s simulcast of patriotic music on Krystal 93 to fulfill your music needs. Parking will be limited so the town suggests parking close by and walking to your viewing area. Visit here for the full schedule of events and more information.

4. Palmer Lake

Palmer Lakes firework show last year.
Photo by Ralph Streifel

Monument will feature its July 4th festivities with live music from 6-9 p.m. Afterward, the town is supporting their small businesses by hiring the local Fireworks Extraordinaire to launch a spectacular fireworks display over Palmer Lake, one of three communities in the Tri-Lakes region between Denver and Colorado Springs. Off-street parking requires a cash donation. Be sure to check the Facebook page for specifics.

5. Windsor Lake

In the heart of Northern Colorado, the Boardwalk Park on Windsor Lake will start the fireworks at approximately 9:10 pm. The town allows a maximum alcohol content by weight of 3.2 percent in cans. Wine and hard alcohol is banned and officials advise you bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Visit here for more information.

6. Two Rivers Park

Located in Glenwood Springs, Two Rivers Park features the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork River. Previously unable to host a firework show due to fire constrictions, the town looks to present its second annual Fourth of July event. The night festivities will begin at 5 p.m. with live music from Mannequin the Band, assorted games, contests, and food from local vendors. In addition to a patriotic flag ceremony by the Glenwood Springs High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard and a live rendition of The National Anthem, The Symphony in the Valley, a local orchestra, will play leading into a low-altitude fireworks grand finale. The show will start around 8 p.m. and end at approximately 9:40 p.m. with free shuttles available fromGlenwood Springs High School to the parking lot on 7th Street. Visit here for more information.

7. Lake Loveland

At North Lake Park, located at the corner of Taft Avenue and 29th Street in Northwest Loveland, Lake Loveland will host its July 4th Celebration. The entertainment begins with the Loveland Concert Band and Pueblo Symphony’s performance at the Norma and Lynn Hammond Amphitheater. The concert starts at 8 p.m. and will lead into a 30-minute fireworks show by 9:17 p.m. With over 20,000 people attending, there are both free and paid parking options available. Visit here for more information.

8. Historic Arkansas River Walk of Pueblo (HARP)

HARP looks to host their 14th Annual Rollin on the Riverwalk: A 4th of July Celebration. The event starts at 5 p.m. and will feature a concert by the Pueblo Symphony followed by the largest fireworks display in Southern Colorado, according to their website. General admission is $3 and seating in a private bar setting on Alan Hamel Bridge is $30 per table of four. There will also be various food vendors and crafted cocktails, beer and wine from Oscar’s Liquor Store Bars. Visit here for more information.

- Compiled by Mary Anderson