Photos by Patrick Shea

SAGUACHE COUNTY — People across Saguache County seem to agree it takes more than one day to celebrate Independence in the United States, judging by celebrations from Friday through Monday.

In Villa Grove, dozens of American flags now line Highway 285 to Center. Residents raised Old Glory in Saguache, La Garita, Center, and Crestone.

Running revelers started the day with the Poker Run in Center and a 5K run/walk in Crestone. Parades in both towns highlighted water, followed by more water fights, duck races, and other excuses to cool off.

Live entertainers drew audiences to the stage, vendors manned booths, and children had plenty of games to play. The Taiko drummers from the Shumei International Institute performed in Center on Saturday and Crestone on Monday.

In Center, people packed Casa Blanca Memorial Park following the water parade. In addition to more squirt-gun battles, children moved between multiple bouncy castles and an inflatable ring for nerf-saber competitions. Performers included DJ Sexy, Taiko drummers, Danny Duran, and Los Mitotitos.

Performers in Crestone provided variety from the stage. The Frank Meyer band, Blue Rooster, Taiko drummers, the Andy and Lara duo, and Ponder the Albatross filled the park with music between the duck race, soapbox derby qualifications, and final soapbox race.