With the 4th of July on a Friday this year, many are looking forward to a long weekend at the start of the month. Streamers and networks have lined up several specials from musical performances to the annual hot dog eating contest that have become staples in Independence Day programming.

Residents in the southeast Denver metro area can get the celebration started a little early this year at Glendale's "July 4th on the Second" Independence Day celebration.

The United States will mark 249 years of independence in 2025. This Fourth of July, people can explore a wide range of activities from fireworks and picnics to crafts and home projects.