America’s got a birthday party, and you’re invited.

Craig’s Fourth of July celebration takes place this weekend as the people of Northwest Colorado show their patriotism for the date acknowledging the independence of the United States.

The fun begins Saturday morning with the fifth annual parade organized by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4265, Ladies Auxiliary and American Legion Post 62.

Floats, cars and other marchers will line up beginning at 10 a.m. near the VFW headquarters, getting things going at 11 a.m. as they take off from the starting point by Veterans Memorial Park.

The cavalcade of red, white and blue heading down Victory Way is something Johnny Garcia has come to love as organizer, this year also taking on the title of the VFW’s new commander.

In his first year, the parade lasted only 40 minutes and looped from the VFW, down Victory Way, north on Yampa Avenue, east on Sixth Street and back.

“It’s so much longer now,” Garcia said happily.

This year, the local vets will be joined by representatives of the VFW’s state level, including the Colorado commander and quartermaster, as they aid the people of Craig in the festivities.

Immediately following the parade, which will award prizes to the top three floats, the community picnic keeps the spirit going back in the park with burgers, hot dogs and beverages provided. Residents are asked to contribute a dessert to share in the effort.

The picnic will be full of plenty of games for families and a money pit for kids.

And, the good times don’t end there, if you truly want to do it all.

Bears Ears Sportsman Club and Bears Ears Tea Party Patriots will host the Freedom Fun Shoot from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Bears Ears range on Moffat County Road 7 north of Craig.

Kids and adults alike are welcome to show their shooting skills. Prizes are available for winners, and concessions will be on sale throughout the afternoon, with part of the proceeds donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Make sure you make way up to Moffat County High School or somewhere with an equally good view of the sky as the sun goes down and up goes a dazzling fireworks show by Craig Fire/Rescue.

This year’s spectacular, which will last about 40 minutes or more, is one Mayor Ray Beck is looking forward to seeing.

“What a great way for us to celebrate our independence and be with family and friends,” Beck said, wishing all in the area a happy Fourth.

Likewise, Garcia said he hopes to see a great number of folks lined up along the street, at the park and just enjoying the day. Though there’s lots of good camping opportunities or out-of-town offerings, there’s just nothing like a hometown celebration, he said.

“It’s a great way for us to all be together,” Garcia said.