As if having breathtaking mountains in our backyard weren’t enough, Colorado sure gives us terrific cultural and recreational opportunities, too. Stepping Stone serves as an excellent home base to enjoy them all, with a straight shot up I-25 to downtown Denver or down to Colorado Springs. A quick jump onto C-470 can take you to I-70 and the mountains. But, best of all, a lovely bike ride will whisk you to a full calendar of events planned by the very active community of Parker. Here’s a round-up of suggestions for August.
PACE Patio Party: Nevermind the 90s – Aug. 6, 6-8 p.m.
Summer finds many locals picnicking and enjoying gorgeous sunsets on the patio of PACE, Parker’s highly regarded performing arts center. This month’s Patio Party features Nevermind the 90s, a group that pays tribute to all the great music of that decade, with classic hits from bands like Pearl Jam, Third Eye Blind, Barenaked Ladies, and Matchbox 20, plus a mix of music from other decades to keep the party rocking all night long. Bring a picnic or purchase snacks and drinks. Free. Learn more.
Movies in the Park: Little Giants – Aug. 9, 7 p.m.
Here’s another way to enjoy a beautiful Colorado evening with the family. And it’s free, too. Part of a series hosted by the Parker Chamber of Commerce, this month’s showing is Little Giants, a classic sports comedy about two small-town brothers (Rick Moranis and Ed O’Neill) coaching rival Pee-Wee Football teams. The movie begins at dusk (around 8:30pm), but free games for the kids start at 7 p.m. Bring your picnic basket and a blanket. Held at O’Brien Park. Learn more.
Art & Ale at The Wildlife Experience – August 15, 6-10 p.m.
You can always count on The Wildlife Experience for a fun mix of events. And sometimes it all happens in one evening. The 11th Annual Art & Ale Brew Festival will feature some of the finest local craft beers and restaurant cuisine, a dazzling lineup of musical entertainment, and the chance to wander through all of the Wildlife Experience galleries and exhibits, including Globeology, an immersive and interactive trek through the world’s biomes. $25-45, ages 21 and up. Learn more.
Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed – Closing August 24
Like the Mayans, who mysteriously vanished around a millennium ago, the end times are coming to this fascinating exhibit at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. This is the largest exhibit about the ancient Maya ever to be displayed in the U.S., and includes never-before-seen artifacts, hands-on activities, and immersive walk-in environments. Tickets $5-22. Learn more.
USA Pro Challenge Bike Race – Aug. 18-24
Watch the world’s top cyclists as they zip through some of the most gorgeous terrain in our state. One of the largest U.S. cycling events, this seven-day race will spotlight the best of the best as they reach higher altitudes than many have ever had to endure. If you can’t swing a day trip to watch at mountain sites like Aspen or Breckenridge, stake out a spot at Garden of the Gods to catch the Colorado Springs circuit, or on Lookout Mountain for the Boulder-to-Denver leg. Learn more.
A Taste of Colorado – Aug. 29-Sept. 1
Belly up to this annual event—it’s worth every calorie. A Taste of Colorado features more than 50 of Colorado’s favorite eateries, serving up small portions and full meals, plus local and nationally renowned chef demonstrations. There are also five stages of entertainment from awesome bands to puppet shows, in addition to a carnival, arts and crafts marketplace, raptor shows, and an exploration of historical roots though Navajo weaving, blacksmithing, and more. Admission is free. Tickets required for food, beverages, and carnival rides. Learn more.
