DENVER, CO — July 4 events across the country will not look the same this year thanks to the coronavirus. Many cities and towns have been forced to cancel the annual Fourth of July events, including the popular annual fireworks show at Civic Center Park. Although Denver’s fireworks and parades have been canceled, there are some other fun ways to celebrate safely in Denver’s metro area:

Good old’ family barbecue: As long as gatherings are kept to under 10 people, and non-immediate family members wear masks and practice social distancing, it’s a great holiday to brush up on your barbecue skills.

Patriotic tour: City officials across Denver’s metro area are encouraging residents to decorate their homes and yards with flags and other patriotic decorations. A porch festival has been announced in Arvada, so it’s definitely worth taking a patriotic drive around to see all the decorations.

Farmers markets: Farmers markets have worked hard to follow public health guidelines and reopen for the summer. Why not add some fresh, local food to your 4th of July barbecue? One of your neighbors was kind enough to post an extensive list of local farmers’ markets.

Paris Street Market: Treasure hunters will be out in Littleton for the 4th of July — under strict safety guidelines — to search for unique vintage items at the 20th annual Paris Street Market at Aspen Grove. The “modified” market, at 7301 S. Santa Fe Drive, will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Head outdoors: Under the state’s new health guidelines, Coloradans are encouraged to head out into nature and get some fresh air. So why not pack a picnic and go for a hike, and take in all of our state’s beauty. Some lakes, such as Big Soda, have opened for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding and rafts.