Crested Butte Parade Uncle Sam Honor

Crested Butte Parade Uncle Sam Honor – Walking as Uncle Sam: Crested Butte Fourth of July Small Town Parade

The Crested Butte Rotary Club is always the first float in the Fourth of July parade promoting our annual Duck Race fundraiser, we follow right behind the color guard who lead the parade. 

I had the privilege once again this year to walk as Uncle Sam in the Crested Butte 4th of July parade. I’ve lost track—maybe my fourth or fifth time—but it never gets old. It’s always an honor.

Walking down Elk Avenue, waving the flag, dressed head to toe in stars and stripes… Thousands of folks lining the street—locals, visitors, families, kids – cheering, waving flags, and celebrating the freedoms we all enjoy.

As I made my way down Elk Avenue, I noticed the little things that stick with you… Parents nudging their kids, pointing and saying “Look! That’s Uncle Sam.” I saw many people placing their hands over their hearts, people getting up out of their chairs and taking off their hats in quiet respect. Many people taking video or photos to capture the moment. I pointed back at them with respect. I could feel the pride and gratitude in the air. It’s one of those moments that hits you deep… 

There’s something truly special about how we come together as a community here in our small mountain town. It’s personal. It’s genuine. And it reminds me every time how lucky we are, not just to live in this amazing place, but to live in this great country.

It’s a tradition I’ll always be grateful to be part of.

Until next year—Uncle Sam will be ready.

Crested Butte 4th of July is Special

The fireworks are great, but I really enjoy the July 4th Parade in Downtown Crested Butte. The parade captures the essence of small-town America with its friendly atmosphere and community spirit. Residents and visitors alike come together to celebrate, creating a warm and inviting environment. It is a special part of Crested Butte and another big party and celebration and an opportunity to dress up – be proud of our town, and our great country!

Throughout the day there will be live music or a DJ, and many delicious food and drink booths – my favorite is Gourmet Noodle – Mike Marchitelli serves Cajun food – soft shell crab, gator, shrimp… yum!  Elk Avenue is also lined with great restaurants with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while watching the parade! Crested Butte prides itself in being different from other mountain towns so during the parade you can expect much laughter, fun and spontaneity like nothing else!

You never quite know what you will see in the parade, there are horses, clowns, dancers, motorcycles, bikes, Rotary Ducks. The KBUT float is a fan favorite – it is a flat-bed trailer with loud soul train music and lots of people dancing in crazy costumes!

As the parade concludes, just below 2nd Street on Elk Avenue – the street transform into a playful battleground where the fire department truck and participants engage in a friendly water fight. People come armed with water guns, buckets, and other water-filled devices, ready to soak each other.

People often ask me “what makes Crested Butte special?”  

It is hard to put into words, but the 4th of July Parade is a big part of the charm of Crested Butte for families whether you are visitors, locals or second homeowners.  It is a community event and in many ways the character and attitude of Crested Butte is on full display.  In Crested Butte in July the wildflowers are in full bloom, the scenery is awesome, the recreational activities in the Gunnison Valley are endless, and the people are warm, friendly and real.