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AUGUST 2026

Celebrating Colorado’s Birthday in Style

In July, Highlands Ranch celebrated America’s 250th anniversary with Star-Spangled Birthday Bash activities throughout the Fourth of July weekend. Now, on August 1, the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) will host an outdoor festival to celebrate another huge birthday for local residents: Colorado’s 150th.

Colorado became the nation’s 38th state in 1876, exactly 100 years after the birth of the United States. It is for this reason that it earned the nickname “The Centennial State.”

Continued on page 4.

HRCA CEO/GM, Mike Bailey receives the inaugural Nico March Hero of Community Management Award on Thursday, June 4, at the Diplomat Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Nico March Award

The prestigious national and international award recognizes exceptional leaders in community association management who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, service, innovation and measurable impact within the communities they serve. This honor celebrates the dedication, vision and service that continue to make HRCA a model for community associations nationwide.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

303.471.8958

President: Monica Wasden

Vice President: Todd Landgrave

Vice President: Daniel Brown

Treasurer: Leo Stegman

Secretary: Jim Allen

EASTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

303.471.8858

9568 University Blvd.

7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES

303.471.8958

NORTHRIDGE

8800

SOUTHRIDGE RECREATION CENTER

4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Together, We Made It an Extraordinary Summer

Dear HRCA Community,

It’s hard to believe how much we’ve packed into just a few short months. Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of what our staff, volunteers, partners, sponsors, vendors and residents accomplished together. From record-setting community events to a historic conservation milestone, this has been one of the busiest— and most memorable—summers in HRCA’s history.

One of the season’s defining moments was our inaugural Star-Spangled Birthday Bash. When circumstances required us to rethink our traditional Fourth of July celebration, our team embraced the challenge with creativity, flexibility and a commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for our community.

The result was an unforgettable evening that welcomed more than 9,000 residents to Highland Heritage Regional Park—making it one of the largest concerts in HRCA history. From live music to a spectacular drone show, thousands of neighbors came together for a celebration that exceeded all of our expectations.

The excitement continued throughout the holiday weekend. We celebrated our largest Independence Day 5K to date, bringing our community together for a healthy and active start to the Fourth of July. Later that morning, our annual Community Parade once again filled the streets with smiling faces, creative entries, local organizations and neighbors proudly celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary.

Of course, the Fourth of July festivities were just one part of an incredibly active summer. Our recreation centers welcomed thousands of members each day, children made lifelong memories at summer camps, families enjoyed our pools and parks, and residents of all ages

participated in hundreds of fitness classes, sports leagues, swim lessons, tennis and pickleball programs, and special events. Every week brought new opportunities to connect, stay active and enjoy everything Highlands Ranch has to offer.

This summer also marked a historic conservation milestone with the return of bison to the Backcountry Wilderness Area for the first time in more than a century and a half. Through our partnership with Denver Mountain Parks and Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, this initiative supports habitat restoration, conservation education and the long-term stewardship of one of our community’s greatest natural treasures.

What stands out most isn’t any single event— it’s the teamwork behind it all. This summer challenged us to adapt, collaborate and embrace new ideas, and I couldn’t be prouder of how everyone responded. Whether you attended an event, volunteered your time, sponsored a program, partnered with HRCA, or simply cheered from the sidelines, you helped create meaningful experiences for our community.

Thank you for making this such a remarkable summer. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and look forward to seeing you this fall as we continue creating exceptional experiences for everyone who calls Highlands Ranch home.

best, Mike Bailey CEO/General Manager

Highlands

Ranch

Community Association

Celebrating Colorado’s Birthday in Style

Continued from page 1.

“Our community had an amazing time observing Independence Day in July, gathering together despite weather restrictions at events both time-honored and brand new,” said HRCA CEO/GM Mike Bailey. “We can’t wait to experience a similar atmosphere in August at this special 150th anniversary celebration that recognizes our great state, its history and its citizens.”

The Colorado 150 Celebration will kick off with a performance by Latin funk band Latin Sol. Additional bands are slated throughout the day, including Denver’s Five Points-inspired JoFoKe & Same Cloth, Colorado bluegrass favorite High Lonesome, and free-spirited jam band Tumbledown Shack. Finally, the Petty Nicks Experience will close the night with a setlist paying homage to the iconic sounds of Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks.

But music won’t be the only activity on the cards for attendees. A variety of food trucks will be on-site delivering local fare, including Colorado favorites like green chile, wild game, BBQ, wood-fired pizza, freshbaked sourdough, tacos and more.And no celebration of Colorado culture would be complete without craft beverages from some of the state’s favorite breweries, including everything from Colorado’s oldest brewing traditions and classic craft favorites to local wines, ciders and hometown beers brewed right here in Highlands Ranch.

Finally, the festival will showcase booths from HRCA Community Partner businesses and non-profit organizations featuring tchotchkes and games, as well as local vendors that will be offering Colorado-themed crafts and artwork for sale.

Additional activities associated with Colorado’s birthday can be found at AM250CO150.org. But with live music, local flavor and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages right in your backyard, the party at Town Center is not to be missed.

Date: Saturday, August 1

Time: 1 - 9 p.m.

Location: Highlands Ranch Town Center, 9352 Dorchester St.

Details: Free to attend

Clear the Clutter Recap

HRCA and Waste Connections teamed up once again to help Highlands Ranch residents clear out unwanted items during this year’s first Clear the Clutter event. Thanks to the community’s participation, an impressive 83.5 tons of waste was collected and responsibly removed, helping residents declutter their homes while keeping unnecessary waste out of the community. Events like Clear the Clutter provide a convenient way for residents to dispose of large household items that aren’t accepted through regular trash service, while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable Highlands Ranch. Thank you to everyone who participated and to our partners at Waste Connections for helping make another successful community cleanup possible.

Missed this event? You’ll have another opportunity to participate in Clear the Clutter on Saturday, September 19. Start setting aside those unwanted items now, and join us this fall for another chance to and help keep Highlands Ranch looking its best.

What is a Water Budget?

Highlands Ranch Water uses water budgets to calculate a customer’s water bill. Think of your water budget as your household’s water allowance for each two-month billing cycle. It tells you how much water you can use before higher water rates apply.

Water budgets help ensure every customer has enough water for everyday needs while encouraging efficient outdoor watering based on the size of each property.

Water budgets provide an indoor and outdoor component.

1. Indoor component - Every household has an indoor water budget of 12,000 gallons of water every two-month billing period. This is for everyday indoor needs such as showers, laundry and cooking.

2. Outdoor component – During the irrigation season, additional water is added based on the size of your property. Larger properties receive a larger outdoor budget than smaller properties.

Your water budget changes during the irrigation season. Because landscapes need more water during the hottest months, your outdoor water budget increases through the spring and summer before decreasing again in the fall.

How does my water budget impact my water bill?

If you stay within your water budget, you’ll pay the standard water rate. If you exceed your budget, the water you use above your budget is billed at a higher rate.

How does this translate to drought pricing?

Drought pricing was enacted as part of Stage 1 drought restrictions. Many customers think drought pricing affects everyone. It doesn’t. Drought pricing only applies to water used above your water budget. If you stay within your budget, you’ll continue paying the standard water rate even during Stage 1 drought restrictions.

Key takeaway

Don’t use more water than what is allocated in your water budget; if you do, you will pay more for the water you use. Scan the QR code to learn more about water budgets.

How do I find out what my water budget is?

To find out what your water budget is, simply look at your water bill. You can find out what your water budget is for the current billing cycle and an estimate of your water budget for the next billing cycle in the section titled Water Tier on the right side of your bill.

Bison Return to Historic Prairie Habitat in Highlands Ranch

For the first time in more than 150 years, bison are once again grazing the native prairie of Highlands Ranch—a landmark conservation milestone that reconnects the region with an important piece of Colorado’s natural history.

The Highlands Ranch Community Association Backcountry Wilderness Area partnered with Denver Mountain Parks, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, and Sanctuary Golf Course to bring a portion of the historic Daniels Park bison herd to the Backcountry Wilderness Area. The managed grazing initiative allows the herd to seasonally roam a protected native prairie pasture, where they will help restore ecological processes that once shaped Colorado’s grasslands.

Bison are considered a keystone species because their natural grazing patterns promote, diverse plant communities, improve soil health, support wildlife habitat and increase the resilience of native grasslands. The Daniels Park herd also carries remarkable conservation significance, tracing its lineage to one of Colorado’s earliest wildlife restoration efforts and some of the last remaining wild bison in North America.

Spanning more than 7,000 acres, the Backcountry Wilderness Area provides an ideal setting to balance habitat conservation, scientific stewardship, environmental education and carefully managed recreation. In addition to its ecological benefits, the project offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the historic relationship between bison, the Great Plains and Indigenous cultures while witnessing one of North America’s most iconic animals in its native landscape.

The return of bison represents far more than the reintroduction of a species—it symbolizes restoration, resilience and the power of regional collaboration to protect Colorado’s natural heritage for generations to come.

To learn more about the project, visit HRCABackcountryBlog.org or scan the QR code below.

We’re Hiring for Fall

We’re hiring for school year lifeguards, swim lesson instructors, and swim coaches. HRCA Aquatics offers fun jobs with flexible hours and competitive pay. Apply today!

Register Now for Fall 2026!

The HRCA Aquatics department thanks all of our wonderful swimmers who joined a program this summer! Over 600 swimmers participated in Seahawks Swim Team, adult coached programs and youth swim lessons.

The fun and learning continues through the school year. Space is limited. Scan the QR code and register today!

The Princess Bride by KidStage Stars Program (Ages 6-12)

Fencing! Fighting! True Love! The Princess Bride is packed with adventure, laughter and unforgettable characters. Join Westley, Buttercup and a cast of quirky heroes and villains on a magical journey that proves true love (and a great story) can conquer anything.

Scan the QR code below to join any of our Arts programs.

Date: Tuesdays, August 18 - October 6

Thursdays, August 20 - October 8

Time: 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Location: Southridge (Backcountry Room), 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: $260 member/$299 guest (each eight week session)

Explore the fun of singing in a group and prepare for a lifetime of singing in choirs. Your child will develop their music skills in an active and playful class that incorporates folk songs, rhymes, singing games, stories, puppets, movement, listening and music literacy.

Young Voices Cooking Classes for Kids

Our extraordinary chefs are always cooking up something amazing in the kitchen! Join us for a wide variety of cooking classes for any age. All general cooking classes are taught by a professional chef with an extensive culinary background.

Piano Pals, Guitar Gang, Fiddle Friends

Build musical skills in a fun, social setting! Piano Pals Intermediate, Guitar Gang, and Fiddle Friends help students gain confidence through engaging instruction, games, practice materials and performances. Ideal for continuing or beginning young musicians.

Three Backcountry Wilderness Area Programs to Try This Month

Homeschool Programs in the Backcountry Wilderness Area

Explore, discover and learn through Nature and Horse Homeschool programs. Eight-week sessions combine outdoor adventures, handson activities and horsemanship, fostering curiosity while connecting students with the Backcountry Wilderness Area.

Scout Horseback Riding Program

Scouts learn horse safety, care, grooming and riding through hands-on instruction. Lessons support BSA Horsemanship Merit Badge and Girl Scout Horseback Riding Badge requirements. Registration is limited.

Sunshine and Storytime

Enjoy a seasonal nature story followed by childled outdoor play in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Adult participation is required. Free with registration; donations to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund are appreciated.

Perseid Meteor Viewing

Experience the Perseid Meteor Shower under ideal dark skies! Watch up to 100 meteors per hour from Base Camp or hike for scenic viewing. Bring a blanket or chair.

Date: Saturday, August 13

Time: 4 - 6 p.m.

Location: Backcountry Base Camp

Details: $8 per person

Fall Volunteer Hours for High School Students

High school students can earn 30+ volunteer hours assisting with nature programs, events and the Haunted Forest. Gain experience, spend time outdoors and connect with peers. Learn more online or email haley.whitley@HRCAonline.org.

Final 2026 Summer Outdoor Movie Nights

The final movies of the 2026 Summer Outdoor Movie Series are on the horizon! Bring your picnic dinner, popcorn, camp chairs and cozy blankets for a magical night at the movies. You’ll park your car and set up in front of a 33-foot outdoor screen — a perfect summer tradition in the making!

Saturday, August 8: School of Rock

Saturday, August 22: How To Train Your Dragon (Live Action)

Saturday, August 29: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

Saturday, September 5: The Sandlot (make up showing)

Doors open at 8 p.m. Movies begin at sunset.

Want to show up early? Get a combo ticket to Nature Night Out for early access starting at 5:30 p.m.

Active Athletics Ninja

Mini Ninja

Minis will run, swing, jump and climb through an obstacle course that will challenge one’s strength, balance and confidence. Learn to climb and dismount safely, while working alongside peers. Morning/mid-day times encouraged for 3 year olds.

Junior Ninja

Learn ninja and gymnastics skills by taking on a variety of obstacle courses challenging one’s strength, balance and endurance. Participants will learn more difficult flips and learn to overcome taller obstacles.

Parkour

Learn a variety of Parkour skills and how to style one’s own movement on any obstacle while finding the fastest way from point A to point B. Participants will have the option to participate in Parkour competitions.

ACT/SAT Preparation Class

This College Prep Class will focus mostly on strategies common to both the SAT and ACT, and will include bonus strategies for students who take multiple-choice tests. Students receive an official SAT preparation guide and an additional strategies manual.

Date: Sunday, August 30 - September 27

Time: 2 - 5 p.m.

Location: Westridge (Great Horned Owl Room), 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Details: $349 member/$375 guest

APE Basic Class/ Child Escape

This class teaches ways to get out of danger if a child is grabbed, picked up, put in a car, etc. Because of the physical nature of this class, it is only given to both kids and parents together.

Date: Sunday, September 13

Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Location: Northridge (Martial Arts Studio), 8800 Broadway

Details: $35 member/$40 guest

Summer Sunset Concert

Experience the nostalgia of the ‘90s and early 2000s with Ninety2K at the annual Summer Sunset Concert, hosted in partnership with the Highlands Ranch Metro District. Denver’s premier rock cover band will keep the energy high with an unforgettable setlist. After the concert, don’t miss the high-flying, limitededition Colorado 150 Drone Show!

Date: Saturday, August 22

Time: 7 - 8:30 pm

Location: Civic Green Park, 9370 Ridgeline Blvd.

Details: Free to attend

Fall Craft Fair

Celebrate the season at our Fall Craft Fair! Browse a charming selection of handmade goods from local artisans, including seasonal décor, unique gifts, jewelry, candles and more. Enjoy the cozy autumn atmosphere, support small businesses and find one-of-a-kind treasures perfect for fall.

Date: Saturday, September 12

Time: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Location: Eastridge, 9568 University Blvd.

Details: Free to attend

Blood Drive

Give back in a meaningful way at the Blood Drive in partnership with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Blood donations are at a 20-year low, and every donation can help save lives. Join us for this convenient opportunity to make a difference in your community.

Date: Wednesday, September 16

Time: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Location: Southridge, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details: Free to attend, registration is required.

Oktoberfest 5K

Put on your lederhosen and hit the pavement at the Highlands Ranch Oktoberfest 5K! This family-friendly race is open to all ages and abilities, including walkers, runners, kids, strollers and dogs. Plus, keep an eye out for a hidden blue kettlebell on the course for a chance to win $100!

Date: Saturday, September 26

Time: 9 a.m.

Location: Highlands Ranch Town Center, 9352 Dorchester St.

Details: Prices vary

Wildcat Mountain Trail Races

Explore the scenic trails of the HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area at the Wildcat Mountain Trail Races! Choose from a 10-mile, 10K, or untimed kids’ race. Starting at the East/West Trailhead, each course features winding singletrack, rolling hills, and beautiful Front Range views. Whether you’re racing or running for fun, there’s a distance for everyone!

Date: Saturday, October 3

Time: 8 a.m.

Location: Rocky Heights Middle School, 11033 Monarch Blvd.

Details: Prices vary

Total TRX Series (Ages 13+)

Challenge your entire body in this 45-minute five-week TRX series designed to build strength, improve balance and increase endurance. Using suspension training, this class combines functional movements, glute activation, core training and total-body conditioning for an efficient and energizing workout suitable for all fitness levels.

Date: Tuesdays, September 1 - 29

Time: 6 – 6:45 p.m.

Location: Westridge, 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Price: $100 member/$125 guest

Free Yoga In the Park (Ages 13+)

Join us for a free Yoga in the Park series in partnership with Highlands Ranch Metro District. Classes are led by certified HRCA Fitness instructors.

No registration required. Save time by signing the online waiver in advance. Bring a mat or towel, water, and sun protection.

Date: Saturdays, August 1 - 29

Time: 8 – 9 a.m.

Location: Civic Green Park, 9370 Ridgeline Blvd.

Price: Free to attend

Now Accepting New Clients

Ready to elevate your fitness? Certified Personal Trainers Matt, Javier, Rose, and Neil are accepting new clients. With expert guidance, personalized plans and diverse specialties, they’ll help you build strength, improve endurance, stay accountable and reach your goals at HRCA. Scan the QR code below to request a trainer.

Glow Cardio Muscle

Get ready to light up the room in this special Glow Party edition of Cardio Muscle! Enjoy the same dynamic fusion of high-intensity cardio and targeted strength training in a fun blacklight atmosphere designed to keep your energy high and your body challenged. This ever-changing format helps maximize calorie burn, build strength and boost overall fitness with a mix of cardio intervals and resistance work. Wear your brightest neon colors and join the party!

Date: Thursday, September 10

Time: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Location: Northridge, 8800 Broadway Blvd. (Fitness Studio)

Details: $12 member/$14 guest

Fall Outdoor Pickleball Leagues

Grab a partner, invite a friend, and join HRCA’s Fall Pickleball Leagues! Enjoy eight weeks of outdoor league play, culminating in a week nine tournament. With divisions from beginner to advanced, there’s a place for every skill level to play, improve, and have fun.

Matches are played at the Westridge Pickleball Courts, where you’ll experience Colorado’s beautiful autumn weather and friendly competition. Register as a team, follow season standings through Team Sideline, and compete for league prizes. Visit our website for divisions, schedules and registration details.

Registration: One member of the team registers

Location: Westridge, (Pickleball court) 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd. Details: $130 member/$140 guest

Fall Adult Classic Tennis Tournament

Kick off the fall season with a weekend of great competition! Whether you’re chasing a title or simply looking for a fun opportunity to compete and connect with fellow players, this tournament offers exciting matches in Mixed Doubles, Men’s Doubles, and Women’s Doubles for NTRP 2.5–4.5 divisions. Scan the QR code below to register.

Registration Closes: Sunday, September 2 Tournament: Friday, September 11Sunday, September 13

Location: Northridge, 8800 S. Broadway and Southridge, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd. (Tennis courts)

Details: $39

Pee Wee Soccer (Ages 4-7)

Kick off the fun with HRCA Pee Wee Soccer League! Young players will learn the fundamentals of soccer, teamwork and sportsmanship through one weekly practice and exciting Saturday games in a fun, supportive environment.

Location: Westridge, 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd. Details: $115 members/$133 program guests

Adult Basketball Leagues

Hit the court in HRCA’s Adult Basketball Leagues at Eastridge Recreation Center! Leagues are offered on Sunday afternoons and Monday and Wednesday evenings, providing a fun and competitive environment for players of all skill levels. Gather your team and enjoy a wellorganized season featuring weekly games, standings and playoffs. Whether you’re looking to stay active, compete, or simply enjoy the game, our leagues are a great way to play year-round.

Fall Youth Girls Basketball League (Ages 5-14)

The HRCA Fall Youth Girls Basketball League is designed for players of all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, in first through eighth grade. This league offers a seven-game season, weekly one-hour practices and a season-ending playoff game. Volunteer coaches are needed! Practices and games are held at one of the four HRCA recreation centers.

Date: Saturday, October 10 - December 12

Therapeutic Recreation Pickleball (Ages 8+)

Therapeutic Recreation Pickleball is a very popular program where participants practice skills and drills as well as play fun games with old and new friends. This program fills quickly, so don’t wait to register.

Date: Wednesdays

Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Location: Southridge (Gym), 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details:

• August 5 - August 26

$60 member/$72 guest

• November 4 - November 18

$45 member/$54 guest

• December 2 - December 23

$60 member/$72 guest

Therapeutic Recreation Special Olympics Bowling (Ages 8+)

Join us for an exciting season of strikes, spares and unforgettable moments! Special Olympics Bowling with Therapeutic Recreation is all about fun, friendship and competition. Whether you’re aiming for your first pin or a perfect game, there’s a place for you on our lanes. Come join us for practice for 10 weeks and compete in optional competitions.

Date: Saturdays, September 12 - November 14

Time: 11:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Location: AMF Bowlero, 2530 E. County Line Rd.

Details: $170 members/$204 guest

Therapeutic Recreation Basketball (Ages 8+)

Join the fun! Athletes gain skills including dribbling, shooting and passing. Get in the game, get in shape and improve endurance while learning the rules of the game and practicing good sportsmanship and teamwork.

Date: Wednesdays

Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Location: Southridge (Gym), 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.

Details:

• September 2 - September 30

$130 member/$156 guest

• October 7 - October 29

$104 member/$125 guest