A Month of Thrills, Fall Flavors, and Community Spirit at HRCA
October is brewing with fun at Highlands Ranch Community Association. No tricks, just plenty of treats for every age and interest! From spooky thrills to pumpkin-filled family adventures, indoors or out, on the big screen, a bike seat, or from your own couch, there’s magic in the air all month long. Come celebrate the season with us…If you dare!
New to Highlands Ranch this year is the inaugural screening of Mountainfilm on Tour, an inspiring evening of short documentaries that celebrate adventure, resilience, and the human spirit. Straight from one of America’s longest-running film festivals, this debut event invites you to enjoy thoughtprovoking films, sip from the cash bar (21+ with ID), and enter to win a Yeti Backpack Cooler.
Cozy autumn vibes also meet bold flavors at Oaked and Smoked, presented in partnership with Davidson’s Beer, Wine & Spirits. Discover new favorites or savor familiar ones while enjoying unlimited 1 oz. whiskey samples in a souvenir tasting cup, paired perfectly with a hearty BBQ meal.
Are you an older adult who needs help with minor exterior home projects?
On Saturday, October 25, Douglas County’s semiannual community volunteer event, Dougnad, will focus on helping older adults with yardwork and other minor exterior projects.
If you are over 60 and need assistance with minor home exterior projects, we want to help!
As we close another memorable summer, I want to pause and celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together. Our swimming pools overflowed with energy, our recreation centers and programs were bustling, and our neighborhoods were alive with opportunities that brought friends, families, and neighbors closer. These shared experiences remind us of the true strength of Highlands Ranch, the connections we build and the memories we create together.
As we turn the page to autumn, our calendar remains every bit as vibrant as the season itself. HRCA is proud to offer something for everyone, whether you’re young or young at heart, seeking adventure in the Backcountry Wilderness Area, enjoying fitness and cultural programs in our recreation centers, or celebrating traditions and creativity from home. From arts and music to wellness and recreation, our offerings are designed to reach every corner of our community, ensuring that all residents feel welcome and included.
These experiences are possible thanks to the collective support that sustains HRCA. Homeowner assessments, valued partnerships, ticket sales, and the Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association (HRCAA) all play vital roles.
HRCAA provides the cultural heartbeat of our community, delivering educational, artistic, historical, and musical opportunities to more than 100,000 Highlands Ranch residents and our surrounding neighbors. As a nonprofit, HRCAA serves as a community resource—offering new, creative, and accessible programs that enrich daily life right here in Highlands Ranch. It is this strong foundation that enables HRCA to provide such a wide variety of meaningful programs year-round.
Together, we make Highlands Ranch a place where everyone can feel connected, inspired, and at home. This fall, we look forward to sharing programs and experiences that celebrate the spirit of our community—indoors, outdoors, and everywhere in between.
My best,
Mike Bailey CEO/General Manager
Highlands Ranch Community Association
HRCA
October Events
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Closer to home, unleash your creativity with the Halloween House Decorating Map. From eerie to enchanted, your spooky handiwork will light up the community for neighbors to enjoy.
Outdoors, Fall Fest at Backcountry Base Camp sets the scene for pumpkin picking, pony rides, face painting, crafts, and live animals. For extra thrills, brave the Haunted Forest or keep it lighter with Haunted Forest Jr. and Haunted Hayrides, complete with stories, games, and a petting zoo.
Finally, end the month with two unforgettable performances: Sounds to Die For, a familyfriendly concert by the Soundtrack Orchestra featuring classic rock, movie themes, and seasonal favorites like Harry Potter, Phantom of the Opera and Love Potion #9; and Haunted Cycle and Stretch, where our studio transforms into a haunted haven of chilling climbs and eerie sprints.
Costumes are encouraged at both and be sure to bring your courage for the ride.
Halloween House Decorating
Friday, October 3 - 31
Fall Fest
Saturday, October 4
Oaked and Smoked
Saturday, October 11
Therapeutic Recreation Spooktacular
Halloween Dance
Friday, October 24
Haunted Hayrides
Friday, October 24 - Saturday, October 25
Haunted Forest
Friday, October 24 - Saturday, October 25
Sounds to Die For
Tuesday, October 28
Hometown Highlights
Therapeutic Recreation Athletes Shine at Special Olympics
HRCA Therapeutic Recreation athletes Adam Scheuerman and Leann Luttkus each won gold medals in tennis at the Special Olympics State Summer Classic on Saturday, August 16, at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Both athletes qualified for the state-level event after competing in the Front Range Regional Tennis competition in Denver. To prepare, they trained weekly in June and July at the Northridge Tennis Pavilion, led by coach Frank Adams and supported by staff and volunteers.
“I’ve been participating in HRCA Therapeutic Recreation sports for more than nine years. It has kept me active and helped me both physically and emotionally,” Luttkus said. “Being part of the team has also allowed me to meet many friends. I have really enjoyed the coaches, volunteers and teammates I’ve met along the way.”
Scheuerman agreed, noting that tennis has brought both health benefits and enjoyment. “I am glad I play tennis with HRCA,” he said. “It keeps my arms loose, and I have a lot of fun. The volunteers make it all possible, and they are a great help.”
Their victories highlight not only their dedication but also the strong community of support behind HRCA’s Therapeutic Recreation program, which provides opportunities for athletes of all abilities to compete, grow and build lasting friendships. To learn more about out Therapeutic Recreation program, please visit HRCAonline.org/TR.
Want to submit a story for Hometown Highlights? Scan the QR code below to nominate a neighbor!
Last Chance to Submit Survey
We are asking HRCA members to complete a brief survey to help us grow, improve, and ensure our communications meet your needs. By taking just a few minutes to complete the survey, you are helping us better serve you and strengthen the connection we share as a community.
At the end of the survey, you’ll also have the option to enter our prize drawing for a $25 Visa gift card or a pair of tickets to one of our upcoming events!
Your input matters, and we are listening. Thank you for helping us shape the way we connect with you.
Flu Shot Clinic
Flu shots (free with most insurances) will be administered by Safeway pharmacy.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Wetterhorn Room), 8800 S Broadway
Details: Flu shot price without insurance is $45
Seasonal Lighting & Holiday Preparation
As cooler weather arrives and the holiday season approaches, many Highlands Ranch residents enjoy decorating their homes with festive lighting. The Community Improvement Services (CIS) team encourages this tradition and reminds residents of a few important guidelines that help balance creativity, safety, and community character.
HOLIDAY LIGHTING & DECORATIONS
The Residential Improvement Guidelines (RIGs) allow holiday lighting and decorations beginning on Wednesday, October 1. These may remain in place through Saturday, January 31, after which lighting must return to a standard presentation. Colored or patterned lights with running, chasing, or animated sequences (but not strobe, flash, or pulse effects) are only permitted during this holiday season window.
Temporary attachments used to support decorations, such as gutter clips or hooks, must be removed within 30 days after the holiday, weather permitting. This ensures homes return to their normal appearance while still allowing time for safe removal.
PERMANENT & DECORATIVE LIGHTING
Permanent lighting systems (such as trim-mounted LEDs) and café/bistro-style string lights require review and approval. These types of lighting are intended to complement the architectural character of a home and should not create glare, overillumination, or year-round holiday effects.
COURTESY & SAFETY
Holiday lighting must be turned off nightly by 11 p.m. to reduce impacts on neighbors and help preserve our night sky. Using timers is strongly encouraged. Please also be mindful of placement to avoid shining lights into adjacent homes.
As always, CIS staff and our volunteer Architectural Review Committee (ARC) are available to answer questions about what is allowed and what requires approval. Our education-first approach means we’re here to guide homeowners in celebrating the season while maintaining the beauty and standards of Highlands Ranch.
Covenants Enforcement Activity
The Community Improvement Services (CIS) team works daily to uphold HRCA’s Community Declarations and Residential Improvement Guidelines. Our role is to respond to resident concerns, investigate potential violations, and help homeowners bring their properties into compliance. Importantly, state law (HB 22-1124) limits our authority — our process begins with a notice and the opportunity to cure before any fines are imposed.
AUGUST 2025
• Courtesy Letters: 721 issued; 212 closed
• Notices of Violation: 119 issued; 8 closed
• Cases in Fines: 0; Referred to Association’s Attorney: 1
• Tribunal Hearings: 3
• Improvement Submittals: 412 received (407 residential, 5 commercial)
YEAR-TO-DATE (JAN–AUG 2025)
• Courtesy Letters: 4,771 issued; 3,670 closed
• Notices of Violation: 823 issued; 456 closed
• Cases in Fines: 135; Referred to Association’s Attorney: 14
• Tribunal Hearings: 18
• Improvement Submittals: 3,720 received (3,673 residential, 47 commercial; 140 to ARC, 5 to DRC)
Fall in Love With Swimming This October
As the weather cools, visit one of HRCA’s outstanding aquatics facilities where the air temperatures are consistently above 80 degrees! Cool off or warm up, Westridge’s new cold plunge pool and sauna open Friday, October 17. Relax in the hot tubs and saunas at Northridge. Hang out in the lazy river at Southridge or join an Aquafit class.
Swim Lessons
Group swim lessons are temporarily relocated to Southridge Rec Center this fall. Private lessons can be scheduled on an individual basis, so make sure to confirm your class location.
Seahawks Swim Team
The CARA Swim League competition returns with a home swim meet at Northridge Recreation Center on Sunday, October 19, and Sunday, November 16.
Scuba and Snorkel Classes
Register for an introduction to Scuba or Snorkel class on Sundays, October 19, November 16, or December 7. Space is limited.
Lap Swimming for Adults
HRCA offers a variety of lap swim workout groups for swimmers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The fall PEAKS challenge runs for six weeks beginning Monday, October 13. Weekly lap swim classes are for all levels. The Masters swim team is gearing up for a great season.
Open Lap Swimming
Lap swim lanes are available daily at each recreation facility for members. Visit our website for the latest schedules. Please be courteous and share the lanes. Circle swim when there are three or more swimmers in a lane.
Actor Portrayal
Creative Kids Fall Break Camps
Children will enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including indoor swimming, creative art projects, interactive free play, lively songs, and fun group games designed to encourage imagination, social interaction, and active participation throughout the day.
Date: Mondays, October 6 - October 27
Time: 6:45 - 7:45 p.m.
Location: Southridge ,4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.
Details: $74 member / $85 guest
Deck the Banners: Kids Art Contest
HRCA is excited to announce the Holiday Banner Decorating Contest, running October 1–24! We’re inviting children across the community to showcase their creativity by designing artwork that answers the question: What do the holidays in Highlands Ranch mean to you?
Young artists are encouraged to let their imaginations shine through colorful, festive, and original designs that capture the joy of the season. Submissions will be judged in three age categories: ages 3–6, 7–10, and 11–12. One winner will be selected from each group, and their artwork will be transformed into a holiday banner.
The winning banners will be proudly displayed throughout Town Center for the entire holiday season, spreading cheer and for all to enjoy.
Don’t miss this opportunity for your child’s art to light up Highlands Ranch in a truly special way! Scan the QR code below to download the art template.
Drawing 101
Learn how to draw by observation. This class is great for beginners and will address fundamental drawing methods. Discover how to copy and record an accurate drawing from sight. Explore shading and texture as you advance in technique. Bring a sketch book and pencils to class. Older teens are welcome with attending parent.
Date: Tuesday, October 14 - Thursday, October 16
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Southridge (Pool Party Room), 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.
Details: $84 member / $93 guest
Wildcat Regional Park Project
Wildcat Regional Park is a 202-acre parcel located in the northeast portion of the Backcountry Wilderness Area, originally designated for future recreational use. In 2024, after concerns about an earlier plan for intensive development, Douglas County and the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) partnered to create a new vision.
The updated proposal features a passive trail system designed to provide opportunities for hiking and exploration while preserving the land’s natural beauty. This approach protects important habitat for wildlife while still welcoming the community to enjoy the outdoors.
To keep residents informed, HRCA has launched a project webpage with maps, history, habitat details, and the proposed trail layout. The goal is to be transparent and to demonstrate how the project reflects the Backcountry values of conservation, recreation, and education.
We encourage you to visit the webpage and stay engaged through the Community Involvement Process (CIP) timeline. All meetings are open to members:
• Oct 13 – Board Working Session: Community Improvement Process (CIP) Board vote #1
• Nov 12 – Public Meeting: CIP Project Presentation (Southridge Recreation Center)
• Nov 18 – Delegate & Board Meeting: CIP Delagate and Board Final Vote
Join us at the Public Meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 12, to learn more and share your input!
Save the Date: Backcountry Wilderness Fundraiser
Celebrate and support the Backcountry Wilderness Area during our annual fall fundraiser! The two-week event kicks off with live animal presentations at Southridge Recreation Center (Saturday, November 1 and November 8), and wraps up with a celebration party at Living the Dream Brewing Co. (Thursday, November 13). Throughout the fundraiser, bid on our Silent Auction featuring incredible prizes like a foursome at Sanctuary Golf Course, Colorado Avalanche tickets, and more. Every dollar raised through donations and the auction goes directly to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund, helping us protect wildlife habitat and connect more kids with nature.
Fall Break Adventures at Camp Backcountry
Give your kids an unforgettable Fall Break with Camp Backcountry! At Nature Camp, campers spend the week exploring the 8,200-acre Backcountry Wilderness Area—hiking, spotting wildlife, building forts, and practicing outdoor skills while trading screen time for green time.
Horse lovers can saddle up at Horse Camp, where kids build confidence riding English and Western, while also learning horse care and anatomy. Riders should bring a water bottle, lunch, long pants, and closed-toed shoes.
Both camps are full-day, drop-off programs designed for youth—and packed with adventure.
Movie Magic (Ages 9-15)
Modern Cotillion
The Highlands Ranch Community Association and Platinum Protocol are proud to continue the legacy of Cotillion, a tradition in the Highlands Ranch Community for over 15 years. This social education program offers a modern spin on social skills, manners, and etiquette that will help prepare students to be successful in high school, college, and beyond.
Social dance is used in all classes to break down social barriers and allow students to build teamwork skills while learning a new skill.
Ages 9-11, 11-14
Sundays, November 2 - 23
Stepping Stones
Prepare your child for preschool through engaging lessons on colors, letters, and numbers. Children will build social skills, enjoy fun activities, and share a snack together.
Aspiring filmmakers collaborate through a project-based learning approach to create their own movie. Students gain hands-on experience in every aspect of a professional film set, beginning with screenwriting and moving through directing, acting, and technical production. Together, they write an original screenplay and bring it to life—lights, camera, action!
Date: Monday, October 13 - Friday, October 17
Time: 1 - 4 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Wetterhorn Room), 8800 S Broadway
Details: $265 members / $305 guest
Skit Kids Live (Ages 8-14)
Do you have a creative child who loves to perform? SKL is a STEAM-based program where students discover what it takes to produce their own Skit Kids Live. Participants become sketch writers, actors, musicians, and crew members as they collaborate to create a comedic episode featuring original sketches, shorts, commercials, and musical acts.
Each student will receive a professionally edited SKL episode a few weeks after the final class.
Date: Monday, October 13 - Friday, October 17
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Crestone Room), 8800 S Broadway
Details: $265 members / $305 guest
Tiny Wings Tea Party
Step into a storybook setting where imagination takes flight! Children are invited to wear their fairy wings or whimsical costumes for an enchanting afternoon of tea, sweet treats, and magical make-believe. Guests will meet fairies and enjoy a world of wonder and fun. A delightful event recommended for children ages 2–8 and their grown-ups!
NEW! Join us for an evening of short films at Mountainfilm on Tour. Started in 1979, Mountainfilm is one of America’s longestrunning film festivals, and is now making its way right here to Highlands Ranch! Documentary selections will celebrate indomitable spirits and adventurous individuals through thought-provoking stories that educate, inspire, and will leave you motivated to help create a better world. Suggested for ages 16+.
Meet your Douglas County Sheriff’s deputies, enjoy free Starbucks Coffee, and let the kids have fun with a Halloween-themed craft. It’s a great chance to chat with officers in a relaxed setting, have your questions answered, and let your little ones have some festive fun.
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 8 - 10 a.m.
Location: Westridge, 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.
Details: Free to attend
Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon
The Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon is back for its 17th year in Highlands Ranch! This 13.1-mile race takes you on a single loop of dirt, gravel, and singletrack trails through the Douglas County East/West Trail and the beautiful Backcountry Wilderness Area. You’ll enjoy wideopen mountain views, a chance to see wildlife, and a course that’s challenging enough for seasoned runners but still welcoming for anyone ready to take on the adventure.
Kickstart your wellness journey with a day dedicated to fitness, fun, and motivation at the HRCA’s Fourth Annual Fitness Expo! Try out exciting class demos led by expert instructors—whether it’s yoga, cycling, The Zone circuit, or more, there’s something for every fitness level.
Chat one-on-one with our nationally certified personal trainers, share your goals, and get personalized tips to take your fitness to the next level. Don’t miss your chance to receive a free body composition scan and gain valuable insights into your overall health. Browse an array of local health and wellness vendors showcasing the latest products and services designed to support your active lifestyle.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to push past a plateau, this is your chance to engage, learn, and connect with a vibrant community focused on well-being.
Registration includes:
• Up to four class demos
• Free body composition scan
• Complimentary snack
• And more!
Space is limited—register now and be part of this energizing day of fitness and community!
Date: Saturday, November 1
Time: 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Westridge, 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.
Details: $15 members / $20 guest
Free Group Fitness Day
Don’t miss our last Free Group Fitness Day of 2025! Enjoy a full day of classes—from aqua and yoga to cardio, strength, cycle, and more—at no cost. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today and experience all the variety our fitness program has to offer!
Date: Monday, October 6
Details: Free to attend. Registration required.
Ski Conditioning Clinic (Ages 13+)
Get ready for your best ski season yet with this 4-week clinic led by certified personal trainer, Erin MacFarland. Each week builds on key principles—body mechanics, glute and core activation, endurance, and recovery— to help you ski stronger, safer, and with more confidence. Through hands-on training and personalized feedback, you’ll learn how to prevent injury, boost stamina, and reduce fatigue both on and off the slopes. The series covers everything from rewiring movement patterns to enhancing mobility so you can move with greater power and control. Open to all levels, this clinic will leave you feeling prepared and energized for every run this winter. This workshop series is limited to 15 participants to ensure personalized feedback, so be sure to reserve your spot today.
Date: Wednesdays, October 8 - October 29
Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Fitness Studio), 8800 S Broadway
Details: Price: $120 members ($30 per session)/$140 guest ($35 per session)
Youth Boys Basketball League
The Boys Basketball League for 1st through 8th graders offers a fun and active way to build fundamentals, confidence, and sportsmanship on the court. Teams practice for one hour on a weekday evening, with games held on Saturdays. Register early before spots fill up. Practices begin the week of Monday, January 5.
Date: Saturdays, January 10 - March 14
Details: Price vary
Fall Break Sports Camps
Youth Fall Break Camps offer a fun and active way for kids to spend their time off, with exciting programs in basketball, fencing, and Taekwondo. Open to all skill levels, these camps are led by experienced coaches and include engaging drills, games, and hands-on instruction.
Fall Pickleball Leagues
As the summer season winds down, why not try something new? HRCA’s Friday Instructional and Sunday Indoor Leagues will give you the chance to learn or play competitively over six weeks. Scan the QR code below or call the Northridge Pavilion Sports Desk at 303.471.8996 to register.
Date: Friday, October 3 - Sunday, November 9 Time: 1-hour sessions
Location: Southridge, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.
Details: $95 members / $103 guests
Fall Tennis Offerings
HRCA offers Youth Tennis Lessons, including designated middle school, high school, and academy-level classes. Adult Tennis Lessons and Drill Sessions are also available for both new and experienced players. Scan the QR code below or call the Northridge Pavilion Sports Desk at 303.471.8996 to register.
Date: Saturday, October 11 - Saturday, November 8 Time: 1-hour sessions
Location: Northridge, 8800 S Broadway
Details: Prices vary
Therapeutic Recreation Fall Break Sports Camp (Age 8+)
Get fit and have fun while trying a trifecta of sports each day of the program. Supplement existing sports skills or build new ones as you learn the rules of the games and your friends’ names.
Date: Wednesday, October 15 and Friday, October 17
Practice your dribbling, shooting, and passing— then bring it all together in a fast-paced, friendly game! Connect with old friends and meet new ones while getting in shape, building endurance, and enjoying the game of basketball.
HRCA continuously strives to enhance property values and quality of life through recreation, community events and leadership. In line with our commitment to fostering stronger connections within our community, we would be delighted to partner with you in making your business successful.
If you are interested in learning more, please scan the QR code at the bottom of the page.
Events
Sundays through October 26: Highlands Ranch Farmers’ Market
Wednesday, October 1 - Friday, October 24: Holiday Banner Decorating Contest
Friday, October 3 - Friday, October 31: Halloween House Decorating
