Spring Break in Denver 2020: Over 50 activities listed!

The countdown is on for Spring Break 2020! If you’re staying in Denver, no need to dismay as we have updated last year’s popular Spring Break guide. Whether you want to hunker down indoors, get outside or explore something new, we have you covered with these fabulous Spring Break offerings, categorized by geographic area.

Don’t miss:

30+ Spring Break Getaways in Colorado.

15 Affordable Family Spring Break Adventures in Colorado

20 Best Places to Go Sledding in Colorado

Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Skating in Colorado

CENTRAL DENVER

Denver Museum of Nature & Science— Delve into the world of living things that blink, glow, flash, and flicker, from tiny fireflies to strange creatures in the ocean depths. Don’t miss exhibitions the Science Behind Pixar and Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits.
Denver Zoo–The Denver Zoo is 80 acres of fun in City Park. Don’t miss their demonstrations in the Toyota Elephant Passage.
Mizel Museum

Botanic Gardens – These top-ranked U.S. botanical gardens offers spectacular garden displays, outdoor art exhibits, gardening classes, spring break camps and workshops at two great locations–Chatfield and Denver.
Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus. Discover the natural wonders of Colorado as you scale a towering three-story mountain to the summit for the premiere lookout over Denver and the Rockies. (Featured photo.)
The Denver Firefighters Museum (downtown) – The Museum offers not only outstanding exhibits on the history of fire fighting in Denver focusing on the Denver Fire Department but innovative and exciting hands-on activities that allow visitors to interact with the traditional exhibits
History Colorado Center–This $110 million experiential museum makes Colorado history fun and has exciting new workshops, exhibits, programs, and performances that spark curiosity and ignite the imagination.
United States Mint Tour (downtown) – Discover how our currency is made and take home a souvenir – FREE. Reservations are required for the 45-minute tours that are run every 90 minutes.
Molly Brown House Museum (downtown) – Learn about the life and times of “Unsinkable” Molly Brown in her restored Victorian home in Denver, Colorado. This is one of the most visited historic sites in the state of Colorado, and one of only a handful of sites nationally dedicated to the interpretation of a woman’s story. Admission to the Molly Brown House Museum is by guided tour only.
Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys. Where beloved childhood toys are elevated to art, and workshops are inexpensive.
Denver Art Museum (downtown) – Each spring break they have activities that allow the whole gang to make art in the galleries and work alongside artists. Check out the Paint Studio, Create-n-Takes and gallery games. Kids 18 and younger receive free general admission.
Downtown Aquarium. This features over 500 species of marine life and mammals in the million-gallon Aquarium Adventure Exhibit.
Mizel Museum. Rooted in Jewish values that have universal relevance, the Mizel Museum is a gem tucked away in a residential area in Denver’s Hilltop neighborhood. Kids will love their interactive road map as they journey along the 4,000 Year Road Trip: Gathering Sparks. They’ll learn about art, artifacts and digital media that narrates and illuminates Jewish history and culture.

NORTH

APEX Movement. Do you want to be the next American Ninja Warrior? Many of the TV’s program’s best athletes train at APEX Movement in Boulder. Classes, birthday parties and open gym are available so your kids can challenge themselves the Ninja Warrior way.

(Apex Movement)
Hammonds Candy Factory Tour (Denver) – Hammond’s complimentary candy factory tours are fun and educational for candy lovers of all ages. Hundreds of thousands of people from across the globe have seen how their famous, handcrafted candy canes, ribbon candy, and lollipops are pulled, twisted, and shaped by hand. No reservations are required for small groups.
WOW Children’s Museum (Lafeyette)–This interactive museum educates children in the areas of arts, sciences and life. At the new and improved Bank of WOW! Exhibit, children and families can practice money recognition, counting and basic math skills, and learn about saving and spending
Butterfly Pavilion (Westminster) – Home to over 5,000 animals including Rosie the tarantula and a tropical forest where 1,600 butterflies rule the sky. They offer a daily spring break camp.
Gateway Park Fun Center. Boulder’s only indoor and outdoor family fun center with batting cages, go-carts, mini golf, an arcade, driving range, inline hockey and more.
Go hiking. There are so many beautiful hikes in the Boulder area and my favorites are at Chautauqua Open Space Park. Be sure to stop in the Ranger’s Cottage for interactive fun or eat at the historic Dining Hall. For here for more Boulder hiking ideas.
Louisville Community Park is a park that has it all. There is a grassy area for the kids to run free in, spray grounds to cool off in the summer, a large sandbox, playground and even a dog park with swim beach to watch the pooches play.
Boondocks Fun Center (Northglenn)–This 8-acre indoor/outdoor amusement center offers everything from bumper boats to laser tag to a Kiddie Cove to batting cages.
Colorado Model Railroad Museum: The most scenic, one of a kind model railroad of its kind will leave you inspired. Walk through a real caboose, stroll along the mountain vistas and peek into a miniature world of wonder.
Adventure Golf and Raceway (Westminster). This is a great place for mini golf and go karts in the Denver area.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge (Commerce City)–Located 10 minutes from downtown Denver, this 17,000-acre refuge is one of the largest urban wildlife refuges in the United States. It consists of open lakes, wetlands, prairie grasslands, and woodlands and an excellent hands-on visitor’s center.
Celestial Seasonings. Visit the Celestial Seasonings headquarters in Boulder, Colorado and unlock the mysteries of tea with a free guided tea tour.

SOUTH

Hudson Gardens (Littleton) – The Hudson Gardens’ 30 acres non-profit botanical gardens are located along the bank of the South Platte River. Admission is free every day.
Westlands Park (Greenwood Village) – The Westlands playground includes three play areas sized for toddlers to teens. There are two large climbing structures which satisfy both the technical climber as well as the inexperienced child. In addition to the main play area, there are three multi-use playing fields, an in-line hockey rink, a natural water sculpture, a pond and a hike / bike trail.
Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park (Lakewood, Greenwood Village) – Wall-to-wall trampolines provide fun, indoor exercise and a perfect outlet for inclement weather days.
Carson Nature Center

Jungle Quest (Littleton). Exciting Indoor Ziplines, Huge Safari Swing, 20-foot High Rock Climbing Wall, Swinging Cargo Net, Burma Bridges, Treehouse and Slides and Jungle Caves –for Kids 5 and up.
Carson Nature Center (Littleton)–South Platte Park has over 880 acres of open space along the South Platte River with five lakes open to fishing, 2.5 miles of the South Platte River and the Mary Carter Greenway for walking and biking, nearly 4 miles of natural surface trails, and the Carson Nature Center and classroom.
Lollipop Park (Centennial)–This indoor children’s amusement park is located inside the Family Sports Center and offers a carousel, bounce castles, train ride, small Ferris wheel, teacup ride and more.
Great Play (Cherry Creek and Parker)–This unique gym for kids 6 months-10 years old makes it fun while developing motor skills, sport skills, fitness and coordination in their patented Interactive Arena.
Gameworks (Stapleton)–This 36,000-square-foot pubby amusement center and sports bar features hundreds of electronic games, a laser tag arena, big-screen TVs and comfort food.
Robert F. Clement Park (Littleton)–Clement Park is set on a 60-acre lake with a 1.4-mile walking path around it, tennis course, baseball fields, batting cages, multi-purpose fields, horseshoe pits and three separate playgrounds.
Littleton Museum. Located on 39 acres, this free museum consists of two living history farms (one from the 1860s and one from the 1890s), a small lake, a collections center, and a main exhibition and administration building.
iFLY Denver Indoor Sky Diving (Lone Tree). Fun, safe indoor skydiving adventure Safe for ages 3 and up.

EAST

Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum (Denver) –An extensive collection of aircraft and related aviation and military exhibits preserving the history of the service men and women who served at Lowry Airforce Base. There are more than three dozen aircrafts on display in this 44,000-square foot space.
Dart Warz (Centennial)–Want an ultra cool alternative to paintball or airsoft? Look no further than Dart Warz.
Centennial Center Park–This 11-acre city park has a killer playground, nature areas, amphitheater and a water area in the summer. Located on the north side of Arapahoe Rd., between S. Revere Pkwy. and S. Vaughn St., adjacent to the Centennial Civic Center.
Monkey Bizness (Centennial, Westminster, Parker) -You’ll find interactive inflatables, play structures, climbing walls, and games of all shapes and sizes. There is a separate section just for toddlers with their own play equipment.
Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch (Aurora). Star K Ranch “regulars” include mule deer, painted turtles, snapping turtles, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, western meadowlarks, great horned owls, and blue jays. Costumes, blocks, puppets, kids’ books, and live animal exhibits make Morrison Nature Center a great place for kids.
Plains Conservation Center (Aurora)–The Plains Conservation Center is an outdoor education facility and state-designated natural area that educates children about Colorado’s eco-history, and nurture conservation efforts.
Unser Cart Racing – Kids… go carts. Can’t lose right?

WEST

Dinosaur Ridge (Morrison) – Part of the Morrison Fossil Area National Natural Landmark, Dinosaur Ridge area is one of the world’s most famous dinosaur fossil localities. Enjoy exhibits, a shuttle tour, and real dinosaur tracks.
Majestic View Nature Center (Arvada)–Majestic View Nature Center and Community Park has more than majestic views–The 3,000- square foot Nature Center features hands-on nature and environmental displays, wildlife exhibits, a kid’s area, classrooms and meeting space.

Apex Center

Earth Treks Climbing Center (Golden)–Earth Treks Golden features more than 28,500 sq ft of climbing with walls up to 48 ft high, including tons of bouldering and roped climbing for all ages and abilities.
Majestic View Nature Center (Arvada)–Majestic View Nature Center and Community Park has more than majestic views–The 3,000- square foot Nature Center features hands-on nature and environmental displays, wildlife exhibits, a kid’s area, classrooms and meeting space.
Apex Center (Arvada)–Perfect for an inclement weather day, this recreation and entertainment center houses two ice rinks, an awesome indoor aquatic play area, climbing wall, gyms, indoor track, themed indoor playground and more.
Colorado Railroad Museum (Golden)–Lose track of time year-round at this 15-acre railyard featuring over 100 engines, cabooses and coaches, a garden railway, renowned library and roundhouse restoration facility with working turntable.
Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave (Golden) – The Buffalo Bill Museum’s exhibits include memorabilia from Buffalo Bill’s life and Wild West shows, Indian artifacts, antique firearms and more. The spectacular views overlooking Denver are a bonus!
Casa Bonita (Lakewood) – It’s about the atmosphere and entertainment, kids love it, menu is limited. Euphoric memories from your childhood? Visit again–it hasn’t changed.
Lookout Mountain Nature Center (Golden)–Lookout Mountain Nature Center invites kids to connect with the natural world through interactive exhibits about the flora and fauna of the foothills ecosystem. Kids enjoy a hands-on play room and observation room.
Hiking. The western slope is home to some of Denver’s best hiking trails. Our favorites including Red Rocks, Matthews/Winters, Evergreen, Deer Creek and much more. Go here for maps, directions and regulations: http://jeffco.us/parks/open-space/.

Family Vacation: Your Guide to Spring Break in Colorado 2020

Believe it or not, Spring is right around the corner! While springtime in the Rockies brings plenty of snow, temperatures across the state begin to warm, and unique experiences beckon travelers to break away from the ordinary. Don’t miss:

Spring break in Denver 2020: Over 50 activities listed!

30+ Spring Break Getaways in Colorado

15 Affordable Family Spring Break Adventures in Colorado

20 Best Places to Go Sledding in Colorado

Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Skating in Colorado

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Colorado.com has also compiled an awesome list of lodging packages, seasonal events and springtime experiences that families will love!

Spring Lodging Deals and Packages

Frozen Worlds Weekends at YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park: YMCA of the Rockies is offering specially-themed Frozen Worlds weekends from March 13 through April 2 with counselor-led activities for all ages including snow fort building, snowflake crafts, educational polar bear and deer talks, penguin egg races, winter science experiments and more. Frozen Worlds activities are free for overnight guests or day passes are available for $25 per person. Cabins ranging from 2-4 bedrooms start at $109 per night, and lodge rooms are available starting at $89 per night.

Double Down on Lodging at Winter Park: Guests visiting Winter Park who book a two-night stay receive 50 percent off the second night of the stay and 25 percent off additional nights when booking before March 2. This deal applies to stays before April 30. Additionally, guests can enjoy the Winter Park Triple Play deal and ski any three days from April 1 through the end of the season for less than $50 a day.

Glenwood Hot Springs Resort & Sunlight Mountain Resort Offer Soak & Slope Combos: Travelers to Glenwood Springs can hit the slopes at Sunlight Mountain Resort for the day and then soak tired muscles and stay overnight in a comfy bed at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort (GHSR) through the Ski Swim Stay Package. All adults registered at GHSR through Ski Swim Stay receive Sunlight Mountain Resort lift tickets and free transportation to and from the mountain. The package also includes a full hot breakfast poolside at the Grill and unlimited access to Glenwood Hot Springs Pool. Additionally, one child (age 12 and under) per paying adult receives a free lift ticket. This package is available through April 5, 2020. Contact GHSR for up-to-date rates.

Ski & CBD Spring Break Getaway at Vail Mountain Lodge: Located creekside in the heart of the Vail Village, this boutique luxury hotel is just a short walk from Vail’s Gondola One for easy access to the slopes as well as Vail’s famous Bridge Street for shopping and nightlife. The Vail Mountain Lodge Ski & CBD package includes ten percent off of three nights’ lodging, two 50-minute CBD massages including gratuity. For up-to-date rates, contact Vail Mountain Lodge.

Ski Extravaganza Package at The Windsor Hotel, Del Norte: The Windsor, located just 45 minutes from Wolf Creek Ski Area, is offering its Ski Extravaganza package now until the end of the ski season. Guests who show valid lift tickets for that day to Wolf Creek will receive a nightly room rate of $100 or if two nights are booked, they receive the 3rd night for free.

Spring Break at C Lazy U Ranch, Granby: This spring break, guests can enjoy western hospitality at C Lazy U Ranch. Packed with activities for the entire family, guests can indulge at the top-rated spa, embark on a horseback ride or take in the majestic views of the Rocky Mountain on a cross-country skiing adventure – all while the ranch’s chef prepares gourmet meals daily. Spring Break activities include horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, snow tubing and more. The Spring Break dates are March 2 through April 5, 2020. Rates (per person per night): adults double occupancy: $440; adults single occupancy: $490; and children: $250.

Spring Events

Ski Joring & Crystal Carnival, Leadville- March 6–8, 2020: A fearless skier navigates an obstacle course connected by towrope to a horse and rider galloping at top speed, and it all takes place in the middle of town, in addition to a winter carnival with other snowy activities.

Frozen Dead Guy Days, Nederland – March 13-15, 2020: Celebrating its 19th year in 2020, Frozen Dead Guy Days continues to be a world-renowned spectacle. This homegrown festival pays homage to Bredo Morstol (aka Grandpa), who is frozen in a state of suspended animation and housed in a Tuff Shed on dry ice high above Nederland. Highlights include coffin racing, costumed polar plunging, frozen t-shirt contests, icy turkey bowling, human foosball and more.

5th Annual Frisco BrewSk i – March 14, 2020: The fifth annual beer festival invites guests to dress up in their favorite costumes and ski between local Colorado brewery tents at the Frisco Nordic Center. The day concludes with an after-party with even more beer tastings, music and prizes awarded for best costume, best team costume and toughest costume to ski in. This event is also family-friendly, so the littles can dust off those Halloween costumes and sip on kid-friendly beverages along the trail.

Natural Forces: Winslow Homer and Frederic Remington, Denver Art Museum – March 15-June 7, 2020: Featuring 60 artworks, this exhibition will reveal connections between artistic themes and techniques used by the two acclaimed American artists. Born a generation apart, both artists succeeded in capturing the quintessential American spirit through works of art at the turn of the late-19th and early-20th centuries, an era of growing industrialization and notions of the closing of the American western frontier.

Snowcat Dining Excursion at Purgatory, Durango – March 21, 2020: Guests looking to enjoy an on-mountain dinner experience can book the snowcat dining excursion at Purgatory. The enclosed snowcat departs the base area around 5 p.m., and guests are taken to Powderhouse Restaurant to enjoy a uniquely-themed meal while enjoying incredible views of the Needles Mountains.

(Steamboat’s Springalicious)

Steamboat Springalicious Festival, Steamboat Springs – April 1-12, 2020: This annual festival celebrates springtime and the close of the ski season at Steamboat Springs. This two-week event includes live music, the 40th annual Cardboard Classic, pond skimming and more. (Featured image: sleigh rides at the Haymaker)

25th Annual Fruita Fat Tire Festival, Fruita – May 1-3, 2020: Celebrate hundreds of miles of world-class trails, test out the latest bikes at the demo at the 18 Road trailhead, try out new equipment at the product expo in downtown Fruita and more.

Great American Horsedrive, Northwestern Colorado – May 5-11, 2020: Guests can join the family and riders from around the world in this unique experience pushing one of the largest saddle horse herds in the nation. Covering approximately sixty miles of open range, highways and back-roads, this six-day adventure is an authentic Western experience that includes cowboy entertainment, a guest-favorite cookout, many hours in the saddle and memories to last a lifetime.

CSK PaddleFest, Buena Vista – May 22–25, 2020: Considered the kickoff to the always-anticipated Colorado rafting season, Buena Vista Paddlefest invites lovers of rapids to the banks of the Arkansas River, one of the nation’s most popular whitewater destinations. Festivalgoers can check out clinics, gear swaps, concerts and a disc-golf tournament. All of the activities center around the fest’s main event — the Buena Vista Whitewater Pro Rodeo. This freestyle competition among the world’s top playboat athletes will take place at the Buena Vista Whitewater Park.

Springtime Experiences

Explore a Colorado Creative District, Statewide: The Centennial State boasts 26 designated creative districts, communities brimming with galleries, artists in residence and special arts events. First Friday gallery art walks take place in several districts while others are known for outstanding performance art. New this year, the Colorado Symphony launched the Beethoven 2020 Statewide Celebration tour, which will stop in multiple creative districts, including Steamboat Springs, Salida, Crested Butte, Pueblo, Trinidad, Mancos and Grand Junction.

Follow the Colorado Gold Trail, Statewide: Colorado mines tell the stories of early explorers, fur trappers and prospectors who came to the state in search of treasure. The Colorado Gold Trail is a scenic tour of gold rush towns and mines that flourished in the boom of the late 1850s. Towns on the trail include Boulder, Black Hawk, Central City, Idaho Springs, Breckenridge, Fairplay, Alma, Como and Leadville. Many of these communities still host mine tours—some with live reenactments sure to entertain young history buffs.

Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver and Littleton: The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a range of programming in March and April. The Orangery’s spring theme is Scents of Spring and will feature well-known blooming plants of the season like sweet peas and primulas. Visitors can get ready for gardening season with gardening workshops on perennials, herbs and a new-gardener boot camp series. Family programming includes the Science Studio and Bumblebee Jamboree. At the Chatfield Farms location, adults can enjoy a guided forest bathing walk.

Take a Farm Tour, Statewide: What’s cuter than baby animals? Visit a Colorado farm this season and you may get the chance to see one. Springtime is the perfect time of year to take a farm tour and meet farmers preparing for planting season and learn about where the state’s food is grown. The Living Farm in Paonia hosts tours and offers meals at its onsite farm-to-table restaurant. The Art of Cheese in Longmont hosts weekly cheese-making classes for all levels and also includes farm tours in the price of the class. Mesa Winds Farm and Winery in Hotchkiss offers not only tours but wine tastings and is known for its peach wine.

Ski and Bike in One Day, Mountains and Mesas: Colorado’s wide range of elevations gives outdoor enthusiasts even more ways to catch thrills in the springtime—even several in one day. Pack two helmets and experience Powderhorn Ski Resort in the morning, located alongside Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flattop mountain. Then, in the afternoon, put on a bike helmet and take a road bike ride at Colorado National Monument, one of the region’s most breathtaking cycling spots or head to nearby Fruita for some of the state’s best mountain biking. If cycling isn’t your speed, check out one of the many scenic golf courses near Grand Junction.

Spot Migratory Birds on the Eastern Plains: Springtime brings delight to birdwatchers as winged migrators make their way north for the season. The eastern part of the state is home to a variety of favored habitats including plains, semidesert shrubland, riparian, pinyon juniper woodland and canyons. Migratory birds that can be spotted as they pass through include snow geese, sandhill cranes, hummingbirds, plovers, meadowlarks and more.

Fun Leap Year Facts and Activities for 2020

Centuries ago, the Romans figured out that it takes roughly 365¼ days for Earth to orbit the sun and devised a calendar that adds an extra day every four years to keep everything in sync.

We are technically under the Gregorian calendar, which continues with leap days every four years except on years ending in 00 that are not divisible by 400. For example, 1900 had no Feb. 29, and neither will 2100.

Four years ago, our family made a time capsule that we will open on February 29, 2020. So much has changed in those four years, including a big move and two elementary-school-aged kids who are now teenagers. Fast-forward another four years? Our daughter will be in college and our son will be enjoying his senior year of high school.

Mind blown!

Here are some fun ideas for celebrating Leap Year with your kids this year.

1. Share Fun Facts About Leap Year

What makes this year so special? Why do we have a leap year every four years? Exploring these questions and sharing other fun facts about leap year is essential in helping children understand why there’s an extra day in February. The History channel has some great insights into the background.

2. Have a Leap Day Celebration

Throw a party to help celebrate Leap Day! You can also choose a Leap Day theme to celebrate (i.e. Leap into Reading or Leap into Spring).

3. Learn About Animals That Leap

Frogs are typically the animal most associated with leap year, but there are plenty of other animals that leap and jump! Lemurs, kangaroos, and grasshoppers are just a few of the leaping creatures you and your students can learn about on Leap Day. Watch a video or read a book about the animal(s) your class chooses to learn about, or have students do individual research on a chosen animal.

4. Play a Fun Game of Leapfrog

Snow or sunshine, take children outside to play a fun game of leapfrog. You can also play other games that require leaping or jumping.

5. See Who Can Leap the Farthest

Have several contests to see who can leap or jump the farthest. This is a great way to incorporate physical activity into your lesson plans while also celebrating Leap Day! Another idea is to document how far everyone jumps by recording it in a table. You can then kids students make different graphs and charts to represent that data visually.

6. Make Predictions about the Year 2024

Reflect on the last four years…and then look to the future. Have everyone make predictions about where they’ll be and what they’ll be doing in 2024 (the next leap year). Will they be starting middle school or high school? What sports and/or activities will they be participating in? What do kids think the world will be like in 2024?

We can only hope it will be grand!

Contest: Friends Don’t Let Friends Do Boring at Infuzed Soda Bar & Sweets

Scrumptious cookies and flavorfully fun fizzy drinks have teamed up to be your ultimate sweet treat. Infuzed Soda Bar & Sweets is a brand-new, locally owned hot spot to fuel your dreams of dessert.

Infuzed owner and hands-on manager, Aaron Kusch, has incorporated his own family’s cookie recipes, showcasing them in inventive ways. One of the standout offerings are the Cookie Fries. Perfectly baked sugar cookie bars are served with choice of one of six delightful cookie dips. No ketchup or ranch needed with these fries! Dip them in fluffy Lemon Berry Zest, Salted Caramel, Cookies and Cream, Nutella, and more. He loves to be inventive with both the dips and the cookies.

Of course, you will find all-time classics, like chocolate chip, sugar with frosting (and all-important sprinkles!), snickerdoodles, and seasonal offerings that reflect fun holidays and beloved flavors. Check often to see what is new or coming soon! With each cookie purchase, you get to try one of the cookie dips as well! The flavor combinations are up to you!

The focus of Infuzed Soda Bar & Sweets is playing with flavor, and that extends to their extensive offering of soft drinks and smoothies. Their motto is “Friends Don’t Let Friends Do Boring” and they really mean it! You can invent your own combination of syrups and soda (including sparkling water) or you can enjoy one of their concoctions. My son loved a mix called The Drink That Shall Not Be Named, which is a funny ode to a certain beverage in a certain book about a certain young wizard. They love to have fun with everything. Other drinks you must try are Killin’ Me Smalls, Skittles Sandwich, A-Aron, and Panda at the Disco.

When you visit, you can enjoy your treats in the shop, have them delivered via the usual food delivery apps, or order them in advance for a party or event. They also partner with schools for fundraising nights.

Check out locally-owned Infuzed Soda Bar & Sweets to see their menu, location, hours, and online ordering. 13762 Colorado Blvd, Suite 124, Thornton, CO.

Infuzed Soda Bar & Sweets hosted my family to try their cookies and drinks. All opinions are our own.

CONTEST

Mile High Mamas is giving away an Infuzed Soda Bar & Sweets party pack that’s a dozen cookies and 4 24oz drinks. You may enter as many as five times below.

Mountaineering legend coming to YMCA of the Rockies Mountaineering Weekend!

(Tommy Caldwell)

YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park is proud to announce Tommy Caldwell will be a special guest at the 4th Annual Mountaineering Weekend, February 14-17, 2020. The professional rock climber, star of “The Dawn Wall” movie, and author of The Push, will discuss the importance of embracing fear in an inspiring keynote presentation on Saturday night.

Mountaineering Weekend features three days of inspiration and fun for all ages over President’s Day weekend. Located on 860 acres bordering Rocky Mountain National Park, YMCA of the Rockies is an easy, unplugged mountain getaway for families. Mountaineering Weekend activities include guided snowshoe hikes through Rocky Mountain National Park, dog sled presentations, ice climbing demonstrations, glow-in-the-dark rock climbing, sledding, and more. Details and the full schedule are below, including a second motivational keynote by incredible adaptive alpine climber, Quinn Brett, on Sunday evening.

All activities are free for guests staying in lodge rooms (starting at $89/night) or pet-friendly cabins(starting at $109/night). Three meals a day are served buffet-style in a dining hall (no meal planning for mom & dad!) and regularly-scheduled programming will be available throughout the long weekend, such as ice skating on a natural pond, archery, and making tie-dyes or mosaics in the craft & design center.

Registration is available at https://ymcarockies.org/mountaineeringweekend/ or by calling 888-613-9622. Day passes are also available for $25/person ages 13 and up. and $10/person ages 6-12.

MOUNTAINEERING WEEKEND SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

*All activities are optional and included in lodging fees*

Friday, February 14
5:45 PM Cosmic Climbing – Glow-in-the-dark climbing! Participants must be at least 5 years old. No previous climbing experience required!
6:00 PM Munchies & Mountains – Kick off the weekend with s’mores and the movie, “Mountains” (showing at 7 PM) featuring breathtaking imagery and thought-provoking narration that takes viewers to the summits of some of the world’s most amazing mountains.
7:00 PM Cosmic Climbing

Saturday, February 15
8:00 AM Yoga – Get a relaxing start to your day by joining instructor Laura Collins for a morning flow class great for beginners but adaptable for all skill levels.
9:30 AM Snow Caves – Learn how to build, set, and maintain your very own snow cave!
11:00 AM Broomball & Ice Skating
1:00 PM Dog Sledding Presentation – Learn the history of dog sledding and how it has evolved to the sport it is today
3:30 PM Glacier Creek Hike – The perfect hike for families! Hikemasters will lead a 2-mile hike on YMCA property along the beautiful Glacier Creek
7:00 PM   Keynote Speaker, Tommy Caldwell, professional rock climber, star of “The Dawn Wall,” and author of “The Push,” will discuss the importance of embracing fear and doubt, as he shares insight from his worldwide climbing adventures.

Sunday, February 16
8:00 AM Yoga
9:30 AM Ice Anchors – A hands-on learning session about ice climbing, building ice anchors, and the equipment ice climbers use
11:00 AM Sledding
1:00 PM Magnificent Mountain Women – Jan Robertson, author of Magnificent Mountain Women, will discuss the evolution of females in the Colorado mountains
3:30 PM Winter Navigation – Learn how to use a map and compass, then practice your skills on a special orienteering challenge course!
7:00 PM   Keynote Speaker, Quinn Brett, adaptive alpine climber Quinn Brett will discuss her experiences as a climbing ranger in Rocky Mountain National Park, technical rescuer, and first responder.

Monday, February 17
8:00 AM Emerald Lake Hike – Hikemasters will lead an enjoyable, introductory 3.5-mile snowshoe hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park (past the beautiful Nymph and Dream Lakes)

For more information: https://ymcarockies.org/mountaineeringweekend/.

14 fun and easy Valentine’s Day card ideas!

Sure, you could buy the uninspired Valentine’s Day cards from your local grocery store…or you could spend a few extra minutes creating these darling Valentines! Here are 14 of our favorites.

1. Pencil-Heart Valentine

Because, really, can your students ever have enough pencils?

SOURCE: Bits of Everything

2. Crayon Box Treat

Ahh! The beloved smell of a fresh box of crayons.

SOURCE: Crazy Little Projects

3. Silly Straws

These will make your students cheer!

SOURCE: Kinzie’s Kreations

4. Glow-Stick Magic

Because our students light up our lives!

SOURCE: The Teacher Wife

5. Love Bugs

Love the mason jar template these little bugs come in.

SOURCE: Dandee

6. Pencil Arrows

Play Cupid and aim for your students’ hearts.

SOURCE: Remarkably Created

7. Cuties

A sweet message to go with a healthy treat.

SOURCE: The Cards We Drew

Remember, you can save a little money on your cuties by using the code TEACHERS when you choose Walmart’s Online Grocery Pickup.

8. Slinky

Tip: Buy mini-Slinky toys in bulk at the dollar store.

SOURCE: Two Thirty Five Designs

9. Crayon Hearts

This is a great project for using up all those crayon odds and ends.

SOURCE: A Sprinkle of This

10. You Rule!

Let them know: In your eyes, they measure up.

SOURCE: Relocated Living

11. Tic-Tac-Toe Fun

If you’re still trying to stay away from candy, you could use jewel stones or beads instead of M&M’s. (Just make sure you change the message!)

SOURCE: Creations by Kara

12. Foxy Pretzels

Your kids will love this foxy little valentine.

SOURCE: Pink Peppermint Design

13. Scrabble Valentine

Use Scrabble Cheez-Its (who knew?) and this template to play Valentine Words with Friends with your students.

SOURCE: Positively Splendid

14. Dinosaurs

Pick up an assorted bag of plastic dinos and some cute washi tape, and you’re good to go!

SOURCE: Kitchen Fun With My Three Sons

50 ways to spend a Colorado snow day

Another day, another snowstorm.

Don’t miss: 20 Best Places to Go Sledding in Colorado and the Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Skating in Utah.

If you want to stay closer to home, here are 50 ways to spend a snow day:

Make an abominable snowman. It’s like a regular snowman, but less friendly to passers-by.

Practice multiplication and script with your kids. That’ll put them in a REALLY good mood. For older kids, break out the practice tests.

Delete all of the expletive-laden “music” from your teenager’s Spotify playlist on the family computer, while she’s not looking.

Make snow ice cream, slushies or ‘tinis. Harvest icicles for the latter.

Fill squirt bottles with water and food coloring and make art on the snow. Let your dog help out.

Trudge around town for a store that hasn’t sold out on sleds.

Wash the floors by hand. Or use a toothbrush.

Do that mending and ironing you’ve been putting off since 2004.

Groom the dog. Then suck all the fur off your couch.

Make freeze-ahead dinners. The ones you wish you had right now.

Go rooftop luging.

Get kids the Lil’ Capt. Robert Scott Antarctic Expedition playset.

Shovel through piles of climate change theories.

Shred your pile of old documents. Better yet, multitask. Use them to light up the fireplace.

Change the batteries in the smoke detectors, since you forgot during Fall Back.

Find all the lids to the Tupperware.

Play Monopoly with the rules that make the game go slower.

Go through your junk drawer. Do not be afraid.

Clean your silverware and jewelry. Alternatively, pine for silverware and jewelry worth cleaning.

Sort mementos into keep and toss piles. Spend time poring over the keepers—after all, that’s why you’re keeping them.

Make a master calendar for gift-giving dates. Shop ahead online. Or for yourself. Pretend there are sales.

Invite over neighbors and children you rarely see for a potluck dinner.

Make a list of all the things you love about your significant other for a card or scrapbook. Make stuff up if you have to.

Actually use those cross-country skis, or skates or showshoes you were always planning to try out after a big snow. C’mon, you can do it!

Put on your fanciest evening dress and jewelry, grab your cocktail and pretend you’re in an old movie. That sounds a lot better than, “Sit around your house and get wasted.”

Scan old photos and make a photo book. Then force the kids to look at pictures of their parents when they were little.

Do your taxes! April 15 only feels far off.

Chug a shot and break open your financial portfolio.

Order seeds and plants for your spring garden. Yes, spring will come eventually.

Update your resume. Hey, it’s better than doing it at work and leaving it in the copying machine.

Go through clothes (for you and your children) in drawers and closet. Try on and toss.

Upload your CDs, finally. Now, this may be difficult: Toss the CDs and the CD player.

Take out all the beach chairs, umbrellas and boogie boards and make a beach day in the snow.

Google yourself.

Collect all the pennies from the corners of the house, coat pockets, sofa cushions, jeans in the laundry. Maybe you’ll have enough for a cup of coffee at Starbucks. Then again, maybe not.

Write a letter. You know the kind, with pen and paper.

Make snowflakes out of paper. Tape them to your windows to block out the white piles outside.

Teach haiku—five, seven, five—and make a book of illustrated snow haiku.

Create airfare alerts for deals to your dream destinations.

Play this fun game with your kids: Let’s Clean the Bathroom!

You know that neighbor who won’t stop blasting music? That’s where your shoveled snow goes.

Play family-friendly spin the bottle with your chore list. Hope it doesn’t point to you when it’s time to clean toilets.

Mani-pedi, scrub or mask, deep condition. You choose the body parts.

Bubble bath. Turn down the lights, light a candle and pretend you’re in a spa. Doesn’t do it for you? It’s not completely impossible that a real one is open.

Experiment all day on devising the ultimate chocolate chip cookie. Tasting mandatory.

Begin your memoirs.

Take pictures of all your belongings to inventory for insurance. Now do a written inventory.

Sleep. Glorious sleep.

Send hate mail to your friends and relatives in warm-weather places. Or block them on Facebook.6

Look at Florida real estate online, so you never have to read this again.

-Leanne Italie

Deals: Valentine’s Day workshop, Stock Show, free museum days and more!

I was lucky enough to be in Hong Kong several years ago for Chinese New Year. It is such a fun and festive time. This festivity is a time for family reunion and is considered the most important part of the Chinese New Year celebration. People often visit relatives and friends, do some shopping, watch traditional Chinese New Year events, launch fireworks, and plan for the coming year. The celebration is sometimes accentuated with a religious ceremony given in honor of heaven, earth, the family’s ancestors and other gods. Kung Hei Fat Choi! (How you say Happy New Year).

National Western Stock Show. The National Western Stock show lets you get up close with the animals and be entertained with the rodeo through January 26. There are several ticket deals you can score discounted tickets from Groupon or Travelzoo. Plus, no matter what grounds admission is free with the purchase of a rodeo ticket. It is a full day’s entertainment at the price of a movie.

Free Museum Day for Merrill Lynch and Bank of America Customers. On February 1 & 2, Merrill Lynch and Bank of America customers can visit over 225 cultural institutions (in Colorado the Art Museum, Clyfford Still Museum and Denver Botanic Gardens). They get free admission when they show their ID and their card. While this sounds like a great deal – keep in mind that ANYONE (with our without a certain credit card) can go to the Colorado Art Museum for free on the first Saturday of the month.

Free Days. Saturday, February 1, Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab and Denver Art Museum general admission is free. On Sunday, February 2, the Denver Zoo is free to Colorado Residents. For other free day listings be sure to check out our list!

Krispy Kreme. Get a Krispy Kreme donut free every Monday in January from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Also when you join mySweetRewards get a free dozen original glazed donuts with any dozen purchase.

Wendy’s Frosty Key Tags. Looking for a way to support a good cause AND get a great deal all year long? Consider buying a Frosty Key Tag at Wendy’s for just $2.

DGMG Jewelry, Gem & Mineral Show. Kids will learn and have fun with activities like crystal digging, Mineral Magic Show, Mineral identification activities, Bat Cave (with rocks that glow in the dark), demonstrations, wire wrapping, geode cracking, and awesome displays of minerals from across the state and around the world. Jump start your collection with 10 minerals plus a chance to win special prizes – in the $1 Grab Bag. Free parking and Free admission at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, Golden Colorado, February 28 – March 1, 2020

AAA Travel Show. I still have a handful of states that I need to see if I’m going to see all 50. But I love the planning almost more than the actual traveling, that is why I love the AAA Travel Show. January 31 and February 1 at Empower Field at Mile High. The event features speakers, presentations and exhibitors.

Outlets at Castle Rock. Will celebrate Chinese New Year (Year of the Rat) with an awesome red envelope giveaway – traditional Chinese red envelopes stuffed with gift cards and shopping coupons. And children 12 years old and under can collect lantern crafts at Customer Service, then return with their decorated lantern to receive an envelope with a special surprise inside, Jan. 25 – Feb. 8!

Chick Fil A Free. Get a free 8-count Nuggets or Kale Crunch Salad when you download the Chick-Fil-A app and go to the rewards section of the app.

Home Depot Kids Workshop. I want to be a kid again! At Home Depot’s Free workshop February 1, Kids will make a free Heart String Art.

Ski for Free. 5th Graders can ski for free and 6^th Graders ski for really cheap with the Passport from Colorado Ski Country. The passport allows Fifth-graders to try (and fall in love) with the sport. You get three times of skiing at the member resorts, a first timer’s lesson and rentals on the day of that lesson. As a Sixth Grader you get four times (and the lesson and rental if you didn’t take a first-timer one already). The deadline to apply is coming up on January 31!

Ski and Snowboard Month. Did you know that January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month? The ski areas take safety and the responsibility code (things like you need to be in control etc) very seriously. So seriously, that they have an entire month dedicated to teaching safety in a fun way (We’ve gathered all the fun info for you)!

7 Places to Share Colorado’s Rich Cultural Heritage With Your Kids

You don’t have to travel far to experience many different cultures in Colorado. Below is a sampling of experiences that showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Black American West Museum & Heritage Center, Denver: Located in the historically black neighborhood of Five Points, the Black American West Museum features exhibits, events, a gift shop and rental space. The museum was originally founded to share stories of black cowboys, but now includes the tales of black settlers and homesteaders who helped shape the West.

Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, Dolores: Covering 176,000 acres, the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is a rugged and breathtaking landscape containing the highest known density of archaeological sites in the United States. 6,000 ancient sites, some visible to the eye, dot the landscape, including cliff dwellings, villages and rock art. Plus, the monument is just 10 miles from the heart of Cortez. The outdoor site contains miles of trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking and by horseback.

(Comal Heritage Food Incubator)

Comal Heritage Food Incubator, Denver: Comal is a lunch spot with the goal of training low-income women, many of whom are immigrants and refugees from Mexico, El Salvador, Syria, Ethiopia and Iraq, in restaurant and business skills.

Indigenous Roots LLC, Weston: Indigenous Roots offers an authentic living history immersion experience that includes educational offerings on history, human geography, sustainability and cultural anthropology from a Native American perspective. Participants live in a tipi village near the historic Santa Fe Trail for a four-day, three-night program learning through firsthand experience and deepening understanding of traditional Native American culture.

Latino Outdoors Colorado Chapter, Statewide: Latino Outdoors works to inspire, connect and engage Latino communities in the outdoors and has an active Colorado chapter. The group organizes outdoor recreation experiences, promotes conservation and recreation across the state, and gives community members the chance to connect and enjoy the natural wonder of the state.

Mango House, Aurora: Mango House is a refugee resource center with several non-profits operating inside, along with a food hall with international offerings, including Burmese, Sudanese, Syrian and Somali cuisine.

Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area, Mystic San Luis Valley Region: The Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area is located in south central Colorado and was designated a heritage area in 2009. Originally settled more than 11,000 years ago, the region has been home to Pueblo, Ute, Latino and Anglo people, all who have created a distinct cultural region.

-Colorado.com

24 family events in Denver this week

Don’t miss the National Western Stock Show & Show, free day at the Denver Zoo, Carnival of the Animals and Peter & the Wolf, Martin Luther King Marade and more. See our event calendar for additional information.

National Western Stock Show & Rodeo at National Western Complex
Jan 11 – 26
Bulls and broncs, cowboys and cowgirls – rodeo’s biggest superstars perform amazing feats of athleticism during each performance of this professional rodeo. Showcasing the elegance and athleticism of the world’s top reining horses, the hard-hitting competition of Denver Professional Bull Riders Chute-Out and the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza, this event has something for everyone. Don’t miss our Guide to the National Western Stock Show.

Free Day at Plains Conservation Center
Jan 16, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
This Aurora-based center helps students and adults grow their knowledge and appreciation of the prairie ecosystem and the cultural history of Colorado through a variety of educational programs managed by Denver Botanic Gardens. In cooperation with the City of Aurora.

Colorado Avalanche vs. San Jose Sharks at Pepsi Center
Jan 16, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Colorado Avalanche vs. San Jose Sharks live at the Pepsi Center!

Matilda at Parker Arts Center
Jan 17 – 19
This award-winning musical tells the story of an extraordinary young girl who, armed with astonishing wit, intelligence, an extraordinary imagination, and psychokinetic powers, takes a stand. Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda The Musical is a joyous girl-power romp. Children and adults alike will be delighted.

Free Day at Denver Zoo
Jan 18, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission to Denver Zoo free.

Superheroes Unite at Southridge Recreation Center
Jan 18, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Your little superhero will enjoy a morning of food, fun, and SUPERHEROES! Join us for an awesome morning with Spiderman as he puts your little superhero through superhero training. Guests will enjoy superhero snacks, beverages, and a small token to take home. Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and each participant must purchase a ticket (children and adults). Dressing up in your favorite superhero costume is encouraged.

Colorado Avalanche vs. St. Louis Blues at Pepsi Center
Jan 18, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Colorado Avalanche vs. St. Louis Blues live at the Pepsi Center!

Hansel and Gretel – Family Day at Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Jan 18, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Starring Opera Colorado’s Artists in Residence, Family Day provides you and your children the opportunity to see the company’s touring production sung in English. Explore the wonders of opera and the Ellie Caulkins Opera House—on stage!

Carnival of the Animals and Peter & the Wolf at Vance Brand Civic Auditorium
Jan 18, 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Elliot Moore, conductor, Amber Salaz, narrator. SAINT-SAËNS Selections from Carnival of the Animals with poetry by Jack Prelutsky. PROKOFIEV Peter and the Wolf.

Denver Nuggets vs. Indiana Pacers at Pepsi Center
Jan 19, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Indiana Pacers vs Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Family Night w/ Purchase of Promotional Offer.

Sensory-friendly Diorama Halls for Families at Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS)
Jan 19, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Enjoy some low-sensory time in our famous diorama halls with reduced sound, increased lighting, and a supportive environment for families with sensory integration issues.

Free Day at Denver Botanic Gardens York Street
Jan 20, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free Days occur throughout the year, thanks to funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). No tickets are needed for admission to Free Days. Free Days are for regular Gardens hours only and do not include ticketed events.

Colorado Avalanche vs. Detroit Red Rings at Pepsi Center
Jan 20, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Colorado Avalanche vs. Detroit Red Wings live at the Pepsi Center!

Martin Luther King Marade March and Parade at City Park

Jan 20, 9:30 am – 10:30 am

Celebrate the largest Martin Luther King Jr. march and rally in the United States. Participants gather at City Park and march to Civic Center Park, where a large rally commemorates the life of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Winter Break at the DAM at Denver Art Museum
Jan 21 – Feb 5
Join us for Winter Break at the DAM (Dec. 21-Jan. 5, closed Dec. 25) with Create-n-Takes and the First Light Family Space available daily. Watch for performances of Art Emergency: Monet Edition weekdays during the break, except for Dec. 24 and 25 and Jan. 1. Stop in whenever the museum is open for hands-on creativity in the Paint Studio with artist demonstrations from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. All break week activities are included in general admission, which is free for kids 18 and younger.

ONGOING EVENTS

Night Light Denver at the Daniels & Fisher Tower
Nov. 7 – Jan. 31, 2020
The Denver Theatre District’s ongoing, year-round projection mapping installation will be projected on the Arapahoe Street side of the Daniels & Fisher Tower every Thursday through Saturday evening. Night Lights Denver will include rotating content, designed by artists and the community, featuring a wide range of art. nightlightsdenver.com

Mile High Tree
Nov. 30 – Jan. 31
Denver’s holiday season just got bigger and brighter with the spectacular new Mile High Tree! Experience the Mile High Tree by stepping inside this brilliantly lit, 110-foot tall immersive holiday tree, opening November 30 in Sculpture Park at Denver Performing Arts Complex – free every evening for the whole family! Amazing lights and music shows take place every 30 minutes along with holiday treats, drinks and photo ops. www.denver.org/milehighholidays/tree

Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park
Nov. 26, 2019 – Feb 16, 2020
The Downtown Denver Partnership proudly invites you and your family to join us at the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park – Downtown’s destination for fun this winter. Winter of 2019 celebrates one decade of the Downtown Denver Rink which offers free ice skating seven days a week from November to February. Entry is free! Skate rentals are $7 for kids 12 & under and $9 for adults 13 & older. Purchase your season pass at the Rink for $35 for kids 12 and under and $50 for adults. Skaters are welcome to bring their own skates.

Goodnight Moon at the DPAC/The Randy Weeks Conservatory Theatre
October 4, 2019 – February 16, 2020
A musical twist on the beloved bedtime story. For the past 72 years, families around the world have made Goodnight Moon a part of their bedtime ritual. Now, the beloved children’s book comes to life on stage for a musical adventure! As the clock strikes seven o’clock, it’s time for Bunny to go to sleep. Say goodnight with magical moments filled with songs, kittens and mittens, bears and chairs, a red balloon, a quiet old lady, and – of course – the moon in this delightful tale. denvercenter.org

Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits at Denver Museum of Nature and Science

September 13, 2019 – April 12, 2020

“Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits” takes guests inside the minds and bodies of extreme athletes to explore the psychology, physiology and physicality of some of the most extreme activities in the world. In this high-energy exhibition, guests experience the thrill of extreme sports in exciting, interactive exhibits and immersive environments. Meet passionate athletes, hear their incredible stories and take in the artistry, motivation and thoughtfulness that goes into everything they do. dmns.org

Goodnight Moon at the DPAC/The Randy Weeks Conservatory Theatre

Oct. 4 – Feb. 15, 2020

A musical twist on the beloved bedtime story. For the past 72 years, families around the world have made Goodnight Moon a part of their bedtime ritual. Now, the beloved children’s book comes to life on stage for a musical adventure! As the clock strikes seven o’clock, it’s time for Bunny to go to sleep. Say goodnight with magical moments filled with songs, kittens and mittens, bears and chairs, a red balloon, a quiet old lady, and – of course – the moon in this delightful tale. denvercenter.org

The Science Behind Pixar at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Oct. 11 – April 5, 2020
Enjoy a unique look into the Pixar process, and explore the science and technology behind some of the most beloved animated films and their characters with The Science Behind Pixar. This interactive exhibition showcases the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts used by the artists and computer scientists who help bring Pixar’s award-winning films to the big screen. dmns.org

VR Arcade
Oct. 26 – March 8, 2020
Come on in, jump on board, and have some fun in VR Arcade. The pop-up experience uses virtual reality technology that lets you explore wherever your curiosity leads. VR Arcade features a four-person Virtual Reality Transporter ride, an individual Birdly flight, and six bays for individual VR opportunities.

Jeff & Paige Winter Concert Series at Gunbarrel Brewing Co.
Jan. 4 – March 7, 2020
A live, indoor science/nature-kids’ concert at this spacious, family-owned brewery. Ample seating, food truck, arcade, games and great beers. https://www.eventbrite.com

The Velveteen Rabbit at the Arvada Center for the Arts & Humanities
Jan. 30 – May 20, 2020
When a rocking horse tells an old-fashioned velveteen rabbit that toys become real when they are truly loved, the stuffed animal jumps at the opportunity to be the favorite playmate of a young boy. But when the boy gets sick, their friendship is tested and both learn a lesson in loyalty and what being “real” truly means. This musical adaptation of Margery Williams’ 1922 classic The Velveteen Rabbit presents an updated version of one of the most celebrated children’s tales of our time. Filled with longing and the companionship that fulfills it, the story presents an appreciation for childhood that is sincere and filled with fun and magic. This timeless tale shows the transformative power of love, and will touch anyone who has ever had a beloved childhood toy.