These small-town Fourth of July festivities seemingly buck tradition. But they bring communities together in a spirit of fun and patriotism. If you're looking for something different to do this July 4th, consider one of these distinctly Arizonan Independence Day celebrations.
Northern Arizona
Prescott Frontier Days and World's Oldest Rodeo, Prescott
Arizona's Independence Day celebrations conclude in Prescott this year, which puts on a grand show with the World's Oldest Rodeo, accompanied by a grand rodeo parade. This isn't the Old West — simply the West — and the cowboys here are as authentic as they come. Grab a seat and glimpse some of the best bull riders, ropers, barrel riders and bullfighters at this fabled event. When the competition ends, check out the arts and crafts, rodeo dances, performances and, of course, food.
Fourth Drone Show, Flagstaff
Experience Independence Day like never before in Flagstaff with a drone show. As twilight fades over the cool pines, get ready for a mesmerizing drone show that replaces traditional fireworks. This dazzling display of drones offers a safe and environmentally friendly celebration. Why drones? Drone shows have an advantage over fireworks for communities concerned with wildfires, and presenting significantly less risk.
Sidewalk Egg Frying Challenge, Oatman
Just off Route 66, Oatman, a town known more for its roaming donkeys, embraces the high summer temps with a side of humor. Each Fourth of July, teams compete to cook the fastest, "most edible" egg in under 15 minutes. The rules are fairly simple: Teams get two eggs, the sidewalk's surface and the freedom to use any utensil, pan or cooking mechanism. It's sure to egg-cite.
Central Arizona
Firecracker Express, Clarkdale
Just two hours north of Phoenix, in Clarkdale, a community-wide pancake breakfast kicks off an old-fashioned Fourth of July. Take part in a children's parade, complete with a chance to ride a vintage fire engine, and sing along to patriotic music performed by a local band down Main Street.
Southern Arizona
Bisbee Coaster Race, Bisbee
The world-famous Bisbee Coaster Races are an exciting blast from the past through the streets of Old Bisbee down historic Tombstone Canyon. Children and their families spend upwards of a year crafting their brightly painted and decorated makeshift boxcars for a chance at trophies and prizes. During the race, kids speed down the streets, sometimes exceeding speeds of 40 miles per hour while onlookers cheer. The day continues with more traditional activities including a parade and fireworks at dusk.
Pets & People Promenade, Sierra Vista
If social media has taught us anything, it's that people love putting costumes on their pets. At the annual Pets & People Promenade in Sierra Vista, felines, Fido and their owners don their patriotic finest and strut their stuff through Veterans Memorial Park where they're judged in various categories. Pictures and videos are welcome — social media-sharing encouraged.
Arizona Office of Tourism
These articles are brought to you by the staff of the Arizona Office of Tourism, and occasionally local tourism organizations around the state.
