4th of July Celebrations in Rim Country
The 4th of July is typically not an exciting holiday in the greater Phoenix area... it always seems like there's a serious lack of festivities going on around town - probably because there are usually scorching temps in July. What many don't realize is that every year (except last year due to Covid), there is a fantastic celebration that takes place in Payson, just 1.5 hours from the Valley! We are SO beyond grateful that this is still able to take place this year. Due to the Backbone Fire that had Strawberry and Pine evacuated, we are so thankful that our communities can be back home and that we can still make July 4th one to remember this year.
Green Valley Park in Payson covers nearly 30 sprawling acres, and features a lake, concert pavilion, huge playground, open grassy fields, 3.8 miles of walking paths, The Rim Country Museum, and the Zane Grey Cabin.
Year round, we love to come here and bring a picnic lunch. The kids run around and roll down hills, play on the playground, and feed the ducks. We can easily spend 2-3 hours here on a given day, and could probably stay longer!
Beyond just coming to relax and play, one of the top things that Green Valley Park is known for is its 4th of July Hometown Weekend Celebration. The fireworks display is by far the best in all of Arizona. The fire department sets it up so that the fireworks go off over the lake - It’s completely magical! The event is typically a two-day affair starting at 8am on July 3rd with a golf scramble and a live concert at 7pm. On July 4th, the celebration begins at 9am with food trucks, family games, pie eating contests, and more. Families get to the park early in the day to claim their spots and wait for the fireworks show to end the evening!
Another favorite event at the park is the summer concert series. Each Saturday night, locals and visitors gather near the concert pavilion to enjoy a variety of music styles. Bring a picnic blanket, your favorite snacks and drinks, and some chairs. Check the event website to confirm events!
The park is about 15-20 minutes south of the Inn, and about an hour and a half out of the Valley. So, it’s a perfect spot to visit if you’re staying with us, or even a quick day trip out of the heat. Click the map below to get directions!
This year on the 3rd of July, our neighbors over at Bandit's Bar are hosting a local parade full of locals and visitors! Any vehicles are welcome to join in the parade as it makes it's way from Bandit's down Fossil Creek Rd. This parade will pass right by our Lower and Upper Park where all of our tiny cottages are located, as well as our airstreams and the Bungalow and Bunkhouse. If you are staying in any of these properties, be sure to head outside to catch a glimpse of the action! If you'd like to be a part of the parade, meet at the Bandit's parking lot on July 3rd @ 10am. We will be taking part in our bright red vintage VW bus! To follow all of the excitement, there will be live music at Bandit's at 6pm on Saturday evening!
We can't wait for you to experience July 4th up in Rim Country....
See you there!
Carson + Amber