Fourth of July at Franklin E. Miles Park
This page provides event information and frequently asked questions for the City of Santa Fe’s 2026 Independence Day celebration. Click each section below to view details.
The City of Santa Fe will host the municipal fireworks and drone show at Franklin E. Miles Park to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
This location was chosen after an extensive and deliberate search for a suitable venue. Thirteen locations were examined, including the former site at the Santa Fe Place Mall. Safety issues like emergency vehicle access and cellphone service were explored as well as suitable parking locations. Mayor Michael Garcia then made the decision after reviewing all findings and consulting with city leadership.
The community event will feature a fireworks display and drone light show honoring America’s semiquincentennial, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate the nation’s history, culture and enduring spirit.
The Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe coordinates the annual celebration.
Event FAQ
The previous launch site at Santa Fe Place Mall is no longer available due to new developments under construction, making it unsafe for fireworks.
After losing the mall site, the Kiwanis Club and City officials evaluated 12 other possible locations across Santa Fe.
Most sites were ruled out due to safety concerns, limited parking, poor access, FAA flight restrictions, or high costs.
Franklin E. Miles Park offers:
- Nearly 29 acres of space
- Six acres of open grassy viewing areas
- Family-friendly amenities like a playground, sports courts, restrooms, and picnic shelters
- Multiple access roads for safer traffic flow and emergency response
- Strong cell service for reliable 911 access
It’s designed to be more comfortable and accessible than past venues.
Minimal impact is expected.
- The park is surrounded mostly by schools, offices, and shopping areas that are closed on July 4.
- Nearby residents will receive advance notice and special access passes if needed.
There will be significantly more parking spaces than in previous years, including:
- Nearly 2,000+ spaces within walking distance
- Up to ~4,000 spaces if nearby businesses participate
- Additional parking at the former mall area
Yes. Free shuttle service will run from:
- Santa Fe High School
- Milagro Middle School
- Santa Fe Midtown Campus
Shuttles will drop off near the park with safe, escorted pedestrian access.
The park has multiple access routes (Camino Carlos Rey, Siringo Road, Alamosa Drive, and Cerrillos Road connections), which improves:
- Traffic flow
- Entry and exit times
- Emergency evacuation capability
Yes. Fireworks remain the centerpiece of the celebration.
Community surveys showed:
- Over 72% of residents support continuing fireworks
- Support is even higher among attendees and younger residents
A drone light show will debut alongside fireworks:
- 400 drones synchronized to music
- Custom-designed aerial display
- No additional cost to the event
The drone show will launch from the Nava Elementary School basketball courts, just north of the park.
A community meeting will be held:
- Date: Wednesday, April 22
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Nava Elementary School
Residents can learn about traffic plans, ask questions, and provide input.
Yes. The Kiwanis Club and City officials will hold a post-event meeting to review what worked and identify improvements for future years.
The event is organized by Kiwanis Club volunteers in partnership with:
- City of Santa Fe departments
- Santa Fe Public Schools
- Public safety agencies
The park honors Major General Franklin E. Miles, a decorated World War II veteran, former Adjutant General of the New Mexico National Guard, and longtime Santa Fe community leader.
July 4, 2026
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