The 4th of July falls on a Thursday this year so if you haven't already, it's time to take Friday, July 5th off to enjoy a long weekend. Grab your sunscreen as we check out which communities are planning fireworks for the 4th (weather permitting) in Western Colorado.

Read More: Colorado's Fort Uncompahgre: 10 Facts You May Not Have Known

The Western Slope is getting ready for the Western Sky Balloon Festival, the Cherry Days celebration, and several chances to see fireworks on the 3rd and 4th of July.

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Fireworks in Grand Junction

4th of July fun is on the way for Fruita and Grand Junction, with back-to-back nights featuring fireworks and Independence Day festivities. Fruita will go first with fireworks on the 3rd of July that are visible from almost anywhere in town, while Grand Junction's fireworks will take place on the 4th from Lincoln Park. Find more info for both communities in the gallery below.

Fireworks in Montrose

Montrose will enjoy a performance from the Air Force Academy Band on July 3rd, and free concerts at the Montrose Rotary Amphitheater, and fireworks from Cerise Park on the 4th.

Read More: 7 Places You Can Standup Paddle Board Around Montrose Colorado

Delta's Western Sky Balloon Festival

The city of Delta will hold the second annual Western Sky Balloon Festival, from July 4th through 7th. They plan on hosting 20 hot air balloons this year with ascension days planned on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (weather permitting). With evening glow events planned for Friday and Saturday nights as long as the weather cooperates.

Read More: 4th of July Fun: Balloon Festival Returns to Delta Colorado

Find 4th of July fun around the Western Slope in the gallery below.

9 Places to Celebrate Independence Day in Western Colorado

We are making plans to celebrate the 4th of July in Western Colorado by taking a closer look at events happening in nine communities in the slides below.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

LET'S EAT: 20 Colorado Restaurants Customers Say Are Worth An Hours Drive

We're talking restaurants with great meals that are worth the drive. Tell us about one of your favorite restaurants that serves such great food, that you are willing to drive an hour from Grand Junction to enjoy it.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

HEADS UP: The Colorado State Patrol Cracking Is Down on These 10 Violations

The Colorado State Patrol has announced its plans to crack down on ten violations as the summer driving season gets underway in the Centennial State. See what the ten most common traffic violations are in the photo gallery below.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

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