Estes Park gives July 4 fireworks and traffic guidance

Estes Park's annual Independence Day fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4, over Lake Estes and will feature 1,800 shots in a choreographed 25-minute display.

Residents and visitors can sign up for real-time updates from the Emergency Communications Center by texting EPEVENTS to 888-777. The town said the show may be canceled or postponed at any time, including during the event, if fire danger, wind or weather conditions become unsafe. The town and the Estes Valley Fire Protection District are monitoring conditions leading up to and during the display.

Stage 2 fire restrictions are currently in effect, according to the release. Under those restrictions, charcoal and wood grills, campfires and other open flames are prohibited, smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles or buildings, and private fireworks are illegal. The town also said fireworks should be left to professionals and asked anyone who sees a spark, smoke or unattended fire to call 911 immediately.

The Estes Park Police Department asks drivers to watch for traffic-control signage, follow directions from public safety staff and obey all permanent and temporary no-parking zones. The town said those areas must stay open for law enforcement, fire personnel and EMS, and that no-parking restrictions will be strictly enforced.

For getting around, the town is promoting its free shuttle service, The Peak, as an alternative to driving and parking in busy areas. On July 4, routes will run later than usual, until about one hour after the fireworks end, according to the release. If people do drive, the town said free and paid parking are available on a first-come, first-served basis, including free all-day parking in the garage at 691 North Saint Vrain Ave. near the Estes Park Visitor Center.

The release also listed restrictions around Lake Estes and Stanley Park, including a dusk closure of the 9-hole golf course and limits on boat, bike and pedal-cart rentals at the marina. Parking and pedestrian traffic at Fisherman's Nook will be prohibited from dusk July 3 through July 4. Parking at Stanley Park is $15 until the lot fills, parking at Cherokee Draw is $30, and parking at the Estes Valley Community Center will be minimal because it closes at 5 p.m.