Try something old, something new in January
Welcome to Januarius. That’s what the ancient Romans dubbed this month named after Janus, the double-faced god who looked to both the past and future. Millennia later, we mortals often find ourselves experiencing the same “double vision” this time of year, reflecting on what to leave behind and what to carry forward. The simple answer, of course, is to keep the good and let go of the rest. So along with all those high-effort resolutions you may be making for 2017, be sure to treat yourself to rewarding activities, both old and new.Perhaps you’ll explore new-to-you culture at a Chinese New Year’s celebration or simply enjoy the old-school pleasure of coloring at the library near Stepping Stone. Either way, it’s all good.
Awkward Family Photos at the History Colorado Center–
Through Jan. 8, 10am-5pm
Who doesn’t love these moments of public humiliation? Hilariously seen on Facebook (and if we’re honest, in our own family photo albums), these awkward photos are now on display for our amusement at the History Colorado Center. Funny yet poignant in their appealing humanity, these images comprise an exhibition of more than 100 photos with funny backstories from actual families. Hurry though, the exhibit is in its final days. General admission tickets from $8-12; children under 5 are free. Learn more.
Coffee and Coloring-Jan. 12, 6:30-8:30pm
Adults, keep your 2017 resolution to make new friends and relax!! The Parker Library’s adults-only coloring club meets monthly for coffee, conversation, and the nirvana made possible by pencils and elaborate coloring books. Meet your fellow colorers at the Parker Library, Event Hall A. The library provides pictures to color, but you can also pick up your own at ColoringBookAddict.com or other websites and bookstores. Register here.
Passport to Culture: Chinese New Year-Jan. 15, 1:30pm
Celebrate the rich, vibrant culture of China at the “Year of the Rooster” event. Held at the Lone Tree Arts Center, this special gathering features dances that tell the story of the Chinese New Year festivities. “Passport to Culture” is specifically designed for children and families to experience arts and culture through imaginative performances that foster the visual and performing arts, science, and cultural understanding. Each child receives a “passport” at his or her first show and fills it with stickers from each performance. Eight stickers earn a free ticket to a Passport event. Tickets $5.
MLK African-American Rodeo of Champions-Jan. 16, 6pm
Denver can now take even more pride in its annual National Western Stock Show. This groundbreaking new rodeo honors the history and heritage of America’s black cowboy and cowgirl, who historically took a backseat to the Hollywood ideals of Western heroes. Fast-paced and thrilling, this rodeo will feature top black rodeo athletes in events such as a Pony Express relay and ladies’ steer un-decorating, as well as more traditional rodeo events like bareback riding, bull riding, barrel racing, and tie-down roping. Tickets are $20-40 and include National Western grounds admission for the day of the event. Learn more.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at PACE Center-Jan. 20-Feb. 12
Kids and adults alike are sure to be mesmerized by this Disney musical retelling of a classic fairytale. (Remember Belle, who must learn to love the Beast, who is actually a prince trapped by a wicked spell?) Performed near Stepping Stone at the PACE Center, this stage version of the Academy Award-winning movie includes all of the beloved songs, plus new ones by Alan Menken and Tim Rice. Matinee and evening shows, plus a sensory-friendly performance on Feb. 11. Tickets $22-27. Learn more.
