If you’ve been around Ouray for any period of time, you know well the sort of revelry in store this holiday weekend.

And if you’re new to the area or visiting for the first time, get ready for one heck of a party.

Thousands of people will descend on this community of only 900 or so residents for the Fourth of July. There’s actually plenty to do and see this weekend throughout Ouray County — check out the calendar on Pages 18 and 19. But the holiday itself is the star.

The day begins with th...