The Fourth of July is synonymous with fireworks. But 1,400 raging fires throughout the state has resulted in the cancellation of fireworks shows, including the show planned for Saturday in Colfax.

Fortunately, Colfax Pride members have planned the Independence Day celebration around a day of family fun. With two parades, the doxie dasch, a hot dog eating contest and a wide variety of food and drink as well as live music throughout the day, this year’s event offers entertainment for all ages.

The festival will officially start at 10 a.m. with the local Cub Scouts troop leading the Pledge of Allegiance under the flag at Roy Toms Plaza.

Following scheduled street closures, the “Little Patriots” Parade will step off at 11 a.m. followed by the Lions Club “Mane” Parade at noon.

After 2 p.m. all streets, except for North and South Main, will reopen just in time for the Downhill Derby.

Non-motorized vehicles will compete on the hill on Church Street above Culver.

Next will be the Doxie Dasch, where dachshunds with the need for speed will compete to be top dog. The race will get underway at 3 p.m. in Roy Toms Plaza.

With Bob’s Dogs Hot Dog Eating Contest starting at 5 p.m., visitors will have all afternoon to check out Colfax High Choir’s dunk tank, get a massage, or a psychic reading in one of the booths set up along Main Street..

The Colfax Friends of the Library will also be offering used books in the parking lot next to the library on Church Street.

For those in the mood for music, bands will start playing at noon on the Gazebo and Beer Garden Stages, with music from the Park Stage coming online at 2 p.m. and at the Depot Lawn Stage after 6 p.m.

The Park Stage will try to maintain a family atmosphere, with softer music and a kid friendly performance by Penney the Clown.

The Gazebo Stage will feature mostly acoustic music, until it becomes the “Platform Stage” for louder bands after 5 p.m.

The Depot Lawn Stage will share the area with emergency services, including medics and the Placer County Sheriff’s deputies, so noise levels will be kept down by featuring acoustic only performances.

Music at The Beer Garden stage will target the over-21 crowd, featuring a harder sound and a higher decibel level.

The entire event should wrap up a little after dark, with a strong line up of live performers filling the entertainment void left by the canceled fireworks.