Celebrating the Fourth of July in Estes Park means more than spectacular light flashes and the sound of fireworks reverberating from the peaks surrounding this mountain village, although that culmination of events here is known throughout the state as one of the best fireworks displays anywhere.

Here there’s an air of tradition that starts with an annual community pancake breakfast with fixin’s for all. From mid-morning to mid-afternoon there’s a classic car show in the center of downtown. By late afternoon the musicians are tuned up and the crowds turn out for an annual patriotic concert at the Performance Park Amphitheater. Before long, the summer’s sun has dipped behind the peaks and at 9:30 pm, explosive charges are heading skyward from the banks of Lake Estes. Locals say the best viewing spots for the free light show are from any spot where there is a view corridor toward the lake.