There’s an animal menacing City Park, and it’s not an irate goose.
The giant swan boats, which are popular rentals for paddling around the 25-acre Ferril Lake, pose a threat to the otherwise peaceful Jazz in the Park series, jokes 30-year-old Lakewood resident Emerson Smith. They’re too big, scary-looking, and attention-hungry to ignore.
“Systems calibrated. Pool noodles firing at 800 m/s,” reads a July 10 post on Emerson’s Denver Jazz Flotilla Instagram page. “We’re ready to protect the citizens.”
“The whole flotilla thing is just my sense of humor,” admitted Emerson. “It’s fun to act tough while on a purple kayak listening to jazz. And let’s be real: not all jazz is created equal, and sometimes we need something else to entertain ourselves with.”
The concept is a goof, but the gatherings are real. Attendees of City Park Jazz, which takes place on Sunday afternoons over 10 weeks every summer, may have noticed kayaks floating behind the City Park Pavilion stage last summer, when Emerson first got the idea. He invited more friends to join him this year and secured their commitment to doing it as often as possible. Last week he had 10 people join him, he said.
Wheel Fun Rentals operates a flock of swan boats at City Park and Washington Park (seen here). (Eric Heiserman for Wheel Fun Rentals)
“Their enthusiasm made me want to see how big we could make it,” said Emerson, who picked up 50 followers on a Reddit post — most of whom he doesn’t know.
Emerson has not heard any concerns about his semi-organized gatherings from Denver Parks & Recreation, including limits on the number of watercraft on the lake. Hand-launched boats are allowed at nearly all Denver park lakes, no permits required, according to their website.
“A sound-producing device and at least one life jacket per person aboard is required to be on all vessels,” officials wrote.
“(The) only research I did was just to confirm personal kayaks and stuff are actually allowed on that lake,” Emerson said. “I asked ChatGPT and apparently we could fit about 11,000 12-foot kayaks comfortably on Ferril Lake. So that’s the goal.”
It’s not all a joke: on his Instagram bio, Emerson not only mentions defending people from giant swans but adds “Sometimes we pick up trash.” The next meet-up is on Aug. 4, and gloves, trash bags, and “two extra grabby thingys will be provided (first come first serve),” Emerson wrote online. Most of the trash is caught up in plants and is hard to reach while floating, so he plans on walking the shoreline a bit too.
Swan-boat and bike rentals are available at the park from California-based company Wheel Fun Rentals, which sits just a few dozen feet from the jazz bandstand. People can also rent kayaks from Wheel Fun to confront the company’s own swan-boat army, along with sporty and cruiser bikes, four-wheel Surrey cycles, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. They offer nighttime rentals with LED-decked swan boats that can circle the lake’s giant, lit-up fountain.
Emerson gathers his own fleet in the southeast corner of the 330-acre park starting at 5:30 p.m. on Sundays. He recommends people who want to join him to meet up behind the stage if the show has already started. There’s no boat ramp, but most of the shore is accessible. And despite the lake’s natural beauty, be sure not to get any water in your mouth, he said.
“Like in most bodies of water there are some potentially harmful organisms,” he said. “As far as I understand this presents a relatively low risk but it’s best to avoid contact with the water, especially with your eyes, nose, mouth, open wounds, et cetera, and practice good hygiene.”
The cheeky front will continue even as Emerson works to grow the gatherings. The giant, evil swans are just too big a menace to ignore.
“They threaten to collide with the birds nests under the stage and they scare the native swans,” he said. “In general, they’re just a bad vibe and aren’t happy unless they’re stealing the show with their synchronized dance moves.”
Performances of the free, nonprofit Jazz in the Park series, which began in June, continue through next month with Denver Jazz Orchestra (July 21), Nelson Rangell (July 28), and Jakarta (Aug. 4). See cityparkjazz.org for more.
Independence Day celebrations are back with a bang this year, so here’s a handy guide to metro Denver fireworks displays happening on or around July 4.
Note: Colorado laws prohibit all personal fireworks that explode or leave the ground. Some examples, according to the North Metro Fire District, include bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, cherry bombs and M-80s. Those who use illegal fireworks are subject to fines of more than $2,500 and possible jail time.
Typically, if fire restrictions are in place or a Red Flag Day is in effect, no fireworks of any kind are allowed. Updated, county-by-county restrictions can be viewed at coemergency.com/p/fire-bans-danger.html
All of the following events are free, all ages, open to the public and weather-permitting, unless otherwise noted. As a rule of thumb, be sure to leave your pets, booze, drones and weapons at home, and don’t forget to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Most fireworks displays start between 9 and 9:30 p.m.
Arvada
Independence Day fireworks return to Stenger Soccer Complex (entry at West 58th Avenue and Oak Street) on Tuesday, July 4, with food trucks but also propane grills allowed on site. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. and West 58th will shut down to traffic beginning at 8 p.m. Accessible parking is available in Stenger’s northeast lot. arvadaco.gov
Aurora
The Aurora Municipal Center hosts the city’s Fourth of July Spectacular display, which takes place around 9:30 p.m. on July 4. Food trucks and three hours of live music are planned. The fireworks display lasts 30 minutes at 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. Free on-site parking. auroragov.org
Valerie Mosley, Special to the Denver Post
Joe Hopkins of Denver sells toys and flags on July 3, 2020, in Berthoud. (Photo by Valerie Mosley/Special to the Denver Post)
Berthoud
Berthoud’s Third of July festival will take place from 5 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, at the Berthoud Recreation Center. Live music, inflatables, a beer garden, lawn games and more, with fireworks at 9 p.m. Waggener Farm Park, 1000 Berthoud Parkway. berthoud.org
Valerie Mosley, Special to the Denver Post
Fireworks explode over Waggener Farm Park on July 3, 2020, in Berthoud.
Brighton
The city of Brighton’s Fourth of July celebration takes over Carmichael Park, 650 E. Southern St., starting at 5 p.m. on July 4. The evening will feature live entertainment, with DJ Tidal Wave and Those Crazy Nights, as well as food, kid’s entertainment and more. The fireworks display will follow at the end of the live performances. brightonco.gov
Adams County’s sprawling Stars & Stripes event also returns the day before that, on July 3, from 4 to 10 p.m. at Riverdale Regional Park, 9755 Henderson Rd. in Brighton. Food and beer vendors will begin serving at 4 p.m., with live entertainment from Thomas Mac at 6 p.m. Parking is free. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. riverdaleregionalpark.org
Broomfield
Broomfield’s Great American Picnic kicks off at 5 p.m. on July 4 in Broomfield County Commons Park, 13200 Sheridan Blvd., and includes food, a beer garden, children’s carnival (with separate tickets) and the 17th annual all-ages bike parade. Kids are required to wear a helmet. Live music starting at 6 p.m. will lead into 9:15 p.m. fireworks. Limited parking on-site and additional parking available at Legacy High School, with shuttles available from 5 to 11 p.m. broomfield.org/611/July-4th
Commerce City
The Colorado Rapids’ popular 4thFest Celebration at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park returns with what organizers bill as the state’s largest display. The free event on July 4 opens before that day’s game against the Portland Timbers with an impressive array of family-friendly activities and entertainment. The soccer game at 7:30 p.m. costs money, but fireworks can be seen all around the stadium at 6000 Victory Way, with lots opening at 7 p.m.
Returning this year: the RapidsBlock Party Series, with a live DJ, drinks and more, as well as bike parking in the Burgundy Bike Lot, on the east side of the stadium between Gates B and C. Hours: 5-9 p.m. Parking lots are limited, and RTD bus and rail travel is encouraged. coloradorapids.com/4thfest
Andy Cross, The Denver Post
Independence Eve celebration at Civic Center Park in Denver on July 3, 2018.
Denver
Downtown residents and visitors won’t see fireworks this year at Civic Center’s free Indy Eve (formerly Independence Eve) on July 3, but they will see live music from Colorado Symphony Brass & Percussion ensemble, DJs, a light show on the City and Country Building, and a 300-strong drone show around 9:15. Gates open at 5 p.m. and entertainment starts at 5:30 p.m., with food trucks on-site and the new Night Market with a kids area and local vendors. 101 E. 14th Ave. civiccenterpark.org
John Leyba, The Denver Post
The Colorado Rockies treat fans to a fireworks spectacular July 4, 2017, in Denver.
Coors Field will launch fireworks on Thursday, July 4, and Friday, July 5, following the nighttime Colorado Rockies games against the Milwaukee Brewers and Kansas City Royals, respectively. The best views are inside the stadium, but hanging out around Lower Downtown or adjacent urban neighborhoods also offers good angles. 2001 Blake St. mlb.com/rockies/tickets/specials/fireworks
Paid visitors to Elitch Gardens theme park and nearby viewers will also get an up-front seat on Friday, July 5, as fireworks begin just before the park’s daily closing. 2000 Elitch Circle. elitchgardens.com/entertainment/fireworks
Englewood
Englewood’s family-friendly July 4 event, starting at 5 p.m., spans Belleview and Cornerstone parks in conjunction with the cities of Littleton and Sheridan, Arapahoe County and South Suburban Parks & Recreation. It will feature kids’ activities and food trucks along with dusk fireworks. englewoodco.gov
Erie
This year’s fireworks display takes place at Erie Community Park (450 Powers St.) on Wednesday, July 3, with the fireworks launched from the rooftop of the Erie Community Center at 9 p.m. Food trucks and vendors will be on site. Limited parking starts at 6 p.m. erieco.gov
Firestone
The 21st Fourth at Firestone is back on July 4 with a 10 a.m. parade and family-friendly activities at Miners Park — including booth vendors and food trucks — from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m. At 4 p.m., Miners adds live music, a beer garden, and more food trucks, followed by the 9:30 p.m. fireworks display. firestoneco.gov
Glendale
This early Independence Day celebration takes place on Tuesday, July 2 at Infinity Park, 4599 E. Tennessee Ave. Viewers can sit inside the stadium, in the stands, on the field, or on the turf to the south of the stadium to view fireworks around 9:40 p.m. glendale.co.us
Highlands Ranch
The fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. and run for a half-hour at Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 S. Quebec St. Organizers recommend walking, biking or ride-sharing, as there will be no on-site parking. Visit hrcaonline.org for food truck updates and more.
Lafayette
Lafayette’s rather early celebration on Saturday, June 29, will feature 4 to 10 p.m. festivities at Waneka Lake Park, 1600 Caria Drive, including food, adult drinks, kids’ activities like face painting and bounce houses, live music, and the fireworks at dusk. lafayettecolorado.com/special-events
Littleton
The Red, White & You show returns to Clement Park on Wednesday, July 3 this year with a 5-10 p.m. celebration that includes a kid’s zone, live music, food, beer and wine, and the 9:30 fireworks display south of the amphitheater. The rain or shine event will take place at 7306 W. Bowles Ave. ifoothills.org/events/red-white-and-you
Lone Tree
Lone Tree Elementary and Prairie Sky Park will host a full slate of activities on July 4, starting with the 9 a.m. Family Fun Ride and Stroll, followed by the Family Fun Park through 1 p.m. (free, but reservations are required on Eventbrite). At 6 p.m., Party in the Park at Prairie Sky kicks off with live music, followed by 9:30 p.m. fireworks. 9381 Crossington Way. cityoflonetree.com/cityevents/july4
Longmont
Longmont’s fireworks display can be viewed best at the downtown Street Party, which runs 5-10 p.m. on July 4, along 2nd Avenue between Kimbark and Collyer streets, and Emery Street between 1st and 3rd avenues. The free, 9:30 p.m. show can also be viewed from the green space area north of the Longmont Museum, and the City of Longmont Recreation Center, south of Left Hand Creek. longmontcolorado.gov
Louisville
Coal Creek Golf Course at 585 W. Dillon Road opens at 6 p.m. on July 4 with food trucks, adult beverages, bounce houses, face painting, and patriotic music. Fireworks start around 9:30 p.m., and free shuttles are available starting at 5:30 p.m. at Louisville Recreation Center, 900 Via Appia Way, and Coal Creek Ace Hardware, 1343 E. South Boulder Road. louisvilleco.gov
Loveland
Loveland’s July 4 Festival and Fireworks will take over North Lake Park, 2750 N. Taft Ave., starting at 4 p.m. on July 4. Look for kids’ games and entertainment, a 4 p.m. bike parade, vendors and food trucks, summer-game competitions (cornhole, etc.), a beer garden, and fireworks at 9:15 p.m. lovgov.org
Northglenn
Northglenn’s jam-packed July 4th Festival is back with the classic cars, duck derbies, live music, military recognition and picnics and kid’s activities. Food vendors and a beer garden, too. Noon-9:30 p.m. July 4 at E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, 11800 Community Center Drive. Fireworks will launch between 9 and 9:30 p.m. northglenn.org
Parker
Parker’s fireworks show at Salisbury Park returns July 4, minus any daytime festivities. But there will still be a 9:30 p.m. display that can be seen “throughout the community,” even if it’s remote-only (i.e. without up-front seating). parkeronline.org
Thornton
The party starts at noon at Carpenter Park Fields (11000 Colorado Blvd.) with food and drinks, live music, a presentation of colors and more. Paved and unpaved parking is available in the lots south of the Carpenter Park Fields and west of 108th Avenue. And don’t miss the annual tradition of the nighttime parachutists, who will herald the dusk “Red, White & Boom!” fireworks show. cityofthornton.net
Westminster
The Uncle Sam Splash Bash kicks things off from 1-3 p.m. at Countryside Outdoor Pool with water games, snow cones, cotton candy, and activities for the whole family. Westminster City Park (10455 N. Sheridan Blvd.) hosts this year’s main event, which begins at 4 p.m., followed by live music at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 9:15 p.m. There’s a free shuttle from various locations; see cityofwestminster.us for updates on shuttle schedules and routes.
The Beatles played Toronto three times (1964, 1965, and 1966), all at Maple Leaf Gardens. Demand for tickets was huge and the band was on a tight touring schedule. They needed to get in and get out while performing for as many people as possible. Adding a second night wasn’t in the cards so the only thing they could do is play two shows on the same day: the usual evening gig preceded by a matinee performance. In between, they grabbed a bite to eat and held a press conference.
Matinees (usually as part of a doubleheader) were common back then. All the early rock pioneers — Elvis, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, The Rolling Stones, The Who et al — did them. It was exhausting for the act but the effort made good business sense. Not only did the scheduling of a matinee double a fan’s chances of being able to see a show, but if you were too young to go out at night, there was a chance your parents would let you attend an afternoon show.
Matinee concerts continued for years. I recall in the 1990s when some bands insisted on playing an early all-ages show followed by a licensed event in the evening. Punk bands were especially good at serving their younger demo with early sets. It was a great way to satisfy both the adults (who could avail themselves of the bar) and the kids (and the venue didn’t have to worry about underage drinking because the bar was closed to alcohol sales).
But as the rock business matured, afternoon performances slowly disappeared. Today, they’re all but gone. Unless you’re at a festival, it’s extremely rare to find an artist who’s willing to play an afternoon slot.
This is unfortunate because these days, it’s not just underage kids who want shows at that time of the day but also a growing number of adults.
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Look, just because you’re on the lee side of 30 doesn’t mean you’ve given up on the live music experience. You’d love to see more shows but life always seems to get in the way. There are the kids, getting up for work the next morning, and the enormous scheduling conflicts.
And let’s be honest: After a certain age, you’re kinda tired of waiting until 10:30 pm on a Tuesday night for a band to hit the stage. Heck, I’m in bed most nights long before that.
By not catering to the demo that doesn’t want/can’t afford to be out late, artists and promoters are leaving a lot of money on the table. And let’s not forget that the older demos are the ones with more money to spend at shows.
There are two solutions. First, gigs could start earlier. Rather than heading home or killing time before a show, people could go straight from work. If the lights were to go down at, say, 7 pm, everything could be done by 9:30. Everyone who has to get up in the morning can get to bed at a reasonable hour while those who want to continue the night still have hours before them. I know I’d see a lot more club shows if they started and finished earlier.
The second solution is to re-introduce matinees. Obviously, this isn’t practical on weekdays, but what about weekends? Hey, theatre productions have offered matinee performances for decades. A big, big chunk of professional sports are held in the afternoon. Casinos offer matinee performances. So why not big-name concerts? I’d be more inclined to see acts like Bruce Springsteen. Does the Boss want to play a five-hour show? Fantastic! Just start at 3 p.m. so I can be home to wind down before bed.
Jamie Lee Curtis recently ranted about the lack of matinees. Appearing on NBC’s Today show recently, she vented “Why are there no matinees? For instance, I love Coldplay. I would love to go see Coldplay. The problem is, I’m not going to go see Coldplay if they start their show at nine o’clock and there’s an opening act. I want to hear Coldplay at 1 p.m. I think if we filled a stadium with people who want to see a matinee of Coldplay, I think we would start a trend.”
Love it. Instead of dinner and a show, it’s a show and dinner. Then it’s back home to dismiss the babysitter, play with the kids, deal with the dog, and get to bed at a reasonable hour. Not very rock’n’roll in a traditional sense, but I’m OK with that.
Sure, load-in/load-out procedures and touring schedules would have to be adjusted, but that’s not an insurmountable barrier. Where there’s money, there’s a way. And I’m sure many heritage acts — and there’s a growing number of them — would like to wrap up their day earlier, too.
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I repeat: This has nothing to do with being old, infirm, crotchety, and not loving live music. It has everything to do with being practical and inclusive. The population is aging and society needs to adjust.
Who’s with me?
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Alan Cross is a broadcaster with Q107 and 102.1 the Edge and a commentator for Global News.
