A rare home. A rare opportunity.
Available for sale fall 2025
Just blocks from The Broadmoor Hotel, this distinctive new home blends modern design with timeless style. Every line has purpose, every detail feels intentional, and every finish is chosen with care.
At Comito Design Build, the belief that Every. Thing. Matters. guides every step — creating a home where lifestyle and design come together effortlessly.
Discover how a Comito home makes every detail count. Contact us to learn more. Call
Nate Banet & Lauren Comito-Perrault Managing Partners
Expertise, Experience, and Results— from a Local You Can Trust
As a Colorado Springs native with deep local expertise, Robin Chambon Kerr brings an insider’s perspective and a personal touch to every transaction. A top-producing agent licensed with Compass, Robin combines exceptional market knowledge with the powerful national reach of Compass’ industryleading tools to deliver outstanding results for buyers and sellers alike.
Ready to find your dream home or make your next move? Trust the local expertise and proven success of Robin Chambon Kerr. Let’s move Colorado Springs forward—together.
Join us for Japanese inspired food and drink specials all month long.
Where Epicurean Experiences Take Flight
Located just outside the north gates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, the all-new Hotel Polaris invites you to satisfy your cravings for the exceptional. Whether your culinary explorations lean toward the American regional cuisine of Pamela’s or one of the uniquely crafted daily sushi rolls at The Aviator, discover dining experiences perfectly paired for moments that soar beyond the expected.
Pamela’s
From Northeast chowders to West Coast cioppino, grilled steaks, and expertly prepared seafood, Pamela’s offers an upscale yet relaxed dining experience, serving all-day brunch and dinner.
Sunday - Saturday: 7am - 2pm | Sunday - Thursday: 5pm - 9pm Friday & Saturday: 4pm - 10pm
The Aviator
Expansive views of the Academy and Rocky Mountains are the only things that rival the shareable appetizers, sushi and exceptional craft cocktails.
Tuesday - Thursday: 4pm - 11pm Friday & Saturday: 4pm - 12am
JULIE KAY DESIGN STUDIO +
INSPIRED COLORADO SPRINGS DINING
Inspired by the fearless pioneers and trailblazers of yesteryear, we offer travelers and locals alike respite from the elements and a place to relax, rejuvenate, fuel up, connect and raise a glass. Come in for coffee at BLK MGK. Stay for Jazz Thursdays at Golden Hour, curated by Dizzy Charlie’s. Tuck into a meal at Oro. This is a place of good fortune. Get your fill.
Food + Drink
Food and drink today are more than just fuel. They are culture, lifestyle and social glue—a tasty snapshot of how we live.
Over the past century, fast food brought speed and consistency, while international cuisines opened the door to bold new flavors. At the same time, home cooking has made a comeback, with people exploring old family recipes or learning new techniques online.
Eating out is a big part of modern food culture, offering everything from casual bites to special-occasion dining. In the Pikes Peak region, the local food scene reflects the area’s character: creative, community-focused and proudly independent.
The October issue of Colorado Springs Lifestyle highlights local food and drink—everything from a Q&A with some of the region's great chefs to stories about coffee, wine, mobile bars/bartenders and a new(ish) piano bar to... salsa!
Seven local chefs offer a glimpse into their lives–cooking styles, favorite meals, favorite restaurants (besides their own) and where we’ll find them outside of the kitchen.
Read about a coffee shop offering an ever-evolving menu that incorporates coffee, matcha and bean-to-bar chocolate into fun mixed drinks and about an art café that is all about helping people slow down and create space for creativity and connection.
Learn about an award-winning winery in Black Forest, about an innovative bar that moves with the moment, about a piano bar where the audience is part of the act and about two local salsa makers.
And... we have a few non-food pieces, too!
Learn a bit about the science of aspen trees and about a talented local artist who is an expert at finding the space between dark and light.
Finally, read about a fabulous local massage chair company helping residents of the Pikes Peak region carve out time every single day for self-care.
Happy October and thanks for reading! ASHLEY
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Scott Barr | scott.barr@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Stephanie Barr | stephanie.barr@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Ashley Hamershock
ashley.hamershock@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jennifer Starbuck | jennifer.starbuck@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cara Bukacek | coloradosprings@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Hamershock, Rochelle Reeder, Lindsay Tallman, Cara Bukacek, Jacey Blue Renner, Jessi Scoletti, Kimberly Jungkind
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Carlos Erazo Photography, Emily Costa Blue Rose Photo, Zakkloet Photo, Isaac Johnson, Melanie McKnight, Latigo Winery, Don Jones, Adam Banzon, Hannah Moghbel, Latigo Winery, Jax Fishhouse, Hotel Polaris, Garden of Gods Resort, The Parlor, Pop-Up Art Gallery, Furniture for Life, Louie Louie's Piano Bar, Lynda Sue's Kitchen, Lojo's Salsa, Orlys Fine Art Gallery, Art Gallery of Rockies Fine Art, Michaela Hightower, Stellar Propeller Studio
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
TAKE A TURKEY TO WORK
Thanksgiving meals and turkeys for families in need
Join us for Take a Turkey to Work Day on November 21, 2025 from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.
The holiday season is a time to bring people together.
From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Care and Share team and volunteers will be collecting frozen turkey donations at participating King Soopers locations in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Alamosa. We believe food is the foundation for creating memories around the table with loved ones, experiencing joy, and building hope.
Donations will be matched up to $25,000 thanks to the generosity of an anonymous match partner.
business monthly
Wine Certification Course
The Blue Star Events is partnering with the Wine Education Institute to bring Wine & Spirit Education Trust classes to Colorado Springs! This interactive program includes: engaging lectures, wine and food pairing exercises, wine tastings and a 30-question multiple choice exam. Earn a WSET Level 1 Award in Wines. Perfect for restaurant or retail wine sector members and wine enthusiasts seeking a solid foundation and a hands-on learning experience. Library at Ivywild School. Oct. 11. www.thebluestar.net/the-blue-star-events
Food is Medicine! Culinary Medicine Cooking Demonstration with Strata Med
Join Dr. Sheila Bee, lifestyle medicine expert, and Bridget Nelson, registered dietitian nutritionist, for an interactive cooking demo that will teach you how to prepare nutrient-rich meals that support both your body and mind. Learn how to prepare a fall favorite dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. Tuesday, October 28 from 5-6 pm at The View at Garden of the Gods Resort & Club. Cost is $35. Email events@stratawell.com to secure your spot.
Scan to read more
Gunslinger Brewing Co. Open for Business
Gunslinger Brewing brings a bold new “saloon chic” vibe to downtown Colorado Springs. Veteran- and family-owned, this craft brewery blends Old West flair with a modern craft beer lineup. With rotating taps and standards like the “Old School Outlaw” IPA and "Lever-Action Lager," there are options for every palate. Housed in the former Brass Brewing space at 318 E. Colorado Ave., Gunslinger also serves up comfort food like paninis and soft pretzels. www.gunslingerbrewing.com
IV THERAPY AT STRATA MED
Rehydrate, recharge, and replenish with IV treatments tailored to your needs—administered safely by licensed medical professionals. Whether you’re boosting energy, enhancing performance, or strengthening immunity, Strata Med delivers results you can feel.
Learn more about our IV Therapy Packages and Memberships or book your appointment by calling 719-689-8493.
Urban Grocer Opening Downtown this Spring
The Warehouse Restaurant downtown has big news: It is opening a grocery store this spring! This new venture called The Warehouse Urban Grocer will be a chefowned urban grocer, offering chef-prepared meals, a butcher and deli, fresh bread, cheese, seafood and more. The goal? Teaching customers how to cook like a pro. 27 W Cimarron Street. https://www.urbangrocercos.com/
Sushi Crafted to Perfection
Sculpting Flavors
Cinchona: Turning Global Ingredients into Drinkable Art
Shepherd Combs got his start in the beverage industry as a barista when he was a teenager. Later, he went on to become a bartender and learned the art of crafting cocktails. Over the next several years, he honed his skills and leaned into the art and science of molecular gastronomy. He innovated his drink creations with flavored pearls, airs and foams, along with homemade syrups and artful garnishes.
Combs enjoyed bartending, but after several years he desired a change and wanted to return to his roots: coffee.
“I found myself wanting a slower paced job and the ability to rise in the morning with the sun,” he says. “With my background in bartending, I also began thinking of the ways I could elevate a coffee experience into more of a cocktail experience.”
CINCHONA
Cinchona is a plant in the coffee family and is also the most commonly used plant in bartending. Quinine is made from the bark of the cinchona tree and is used to flavor tonic water.
“When I was bartending, I read a book called The Drunken Botanist: Plants that Create the World’s Great Drinks by Amy Stewart,” he says. “I learned about the Cinchona tree and liked the synergy of a plant from the coffee family and that is also associated with cocktail culture. I decided it was a perfect name for my new business concept.”
ARTICLE BY CARA BUKACEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISAAC JOHNSON
NEW SPACE
Cinchona started as a mobile coffee cart. Combs and his business partner took their cart to pop-ups and local events for about a year before his partner left for another job opportunity. Combs bought him out and transferred to a brick-and-mortar location within Provision Bakery, where he started a collaboration with both the bakery and Third Wave Chocolate.
As luck would have it, a space next door to Provision Bakery opened up in the summer of 2025. Combs secured the space, highlighted the exposed brick walls with street art and procured livingroom-style seating for a warmer, more intimate setting.
BEVERAGE PROGRAM
Combs has created a beverage menu with an equal focus on coffee and matcha.
“I
found myself wanting a slower paced job and the ability to rise in the morning with the sun. With my background in bartending, I also began thinking of the ways I could elevate a coffee experience into more of a cocktail experience.”
“The coffee program is unusual for a couple of reasons. For one, we are one of very few (globally) cafes serving light-roast coffee on a spring-lever, single-boiler espresso machine. It’s an older brewing technology that actually makes really fantastic coffee, but it requires more training to use,” he says. “Another unusual aspect is a pour-over menu written a bit like a wine list. We keep individual servings of coffee vacuum-sealed and frozen. Not only can you order different regions of coffee, but also different vintages over time.”
The matcha program focuses on extremely high-quality matcha and rotates through different producers from around the globe.
To embrace the elevated cocktail-style experience, there is an ever-evolving menu that incorporates coffee, matcha and bean-to-bar chocolate into fun mixed drinks. The menu has included dark hot chocolate with goat cheese whipped cream, horchata matcha, espresso pearls in a fizz, smoked coffee, and many other inspired drinks developed while bartending.
Cinchona proudly partners with both foreign and domestic roasters such as Prodigal in Boulder, One Half in Kuala Lumpur, Leaves in Tokyo, Sweven in Bristol, and Standout in Stockholm. The chocolate is from local bean-to-bar chocolate maker Third Wave Chocolate.
MAIL-ORDER COFFEE
As an avid coffee connoisseur, Combs has been developing a program where he sources coffee beans from around the world with different pricing tiers. When you sign up, he will send you a bag every month to experience and enjoy at home.
A NOTE FROM THE ARTIST
“Cinchona has a different focus than other coffee shops,” he says. “I want to serve stuff that I am excited about, not necessarily for an existing market demand. Every time I make a decision, I ask myself, ‘Is this a decision for art or commerce?’
And I hope to make more decisions for the art of serving what I want rather than chasing market trends.”
Address + Phone: 2 S. Wahsatch, Suite 110 | 719-644-6168
Website: cinchonacoffee.com
Instagram: @CinchonaCoffee
Self-Care… Every. Single. Day.
FURNITURE FOR LIFE: LUXURY MASSAGE CHAIRS THAT SUPPORT BOTH BODY AND MIND
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK PHOTOGRAPHY BY FURNITURE FOR LIFE & CARLOS ERAZO PHOTOGRAPHY
Imagine enjoying a massage every day, or even multiple times every day. In the morning for a rejuvenating jumpstart. After work to de-stress. Following a workout to help muscles recover. Before bed to wind down.
No appointments. No waiting.
Immediate relief, recovery and relaxation.
Sounds like the stuff of science fiction, right? The future is here. Step inside Furniture for Life in the University Village shopping center.
You have never seen chairs like these.
EXTRAORDINARY MASSAGE CHAIRS
No mall-grade machines in this place. Instead, the serene showroom features a couple dozen highly sophisticated massage instruments that so closely simulate a visit to a skilled massage therapist, people regularly fall asleep here.
“It’s a hard battle to beat the massage chair and stay awake,” says Cliff Levin, who founded the Boulder-based company nearly two decades ago. “The chair just overcomes them in a very, very sweet way.”
That’s ok. The team is expecting it. This is an unhurried environment. Take your time. Ask questions. Sit in some chairs. Maybe even accidentally catch a nap.
“I would describe it as high-touch, low-pressure,” Levin says. “We want you to feel comfortable. It really isn’t a matter of trying all the chairs. … It’s no different from trying 10 bottles of wine. Good luck remembering what that first one tasted like.”
Wander around a bit. Talk with Pete and the other comfort consultants in the Colorado Springs store–they’re here to help sort out which chairs might be the best fit for you, based on your individual needs. Do you prefer a light touch or a deep knead? Are you looking to remedy a physical issue or for a 15-minute escape?
“We want to understand what they’re hunting for on this mindbody continuum,” Levin says.
While many massage chairs are marketed online through complicated tech specs, Levin believes that approach often leaves customers more confused than informed.
“Massage chairs are sold online in the sort of stew and soup of technical jargon, which is a pile of poo, honestly, as it relates to creating any kind of understanding of what it does for you,” he says.
“We want you to feel comfortable. It really isn’t a matter of trying all the chairs. … It’s no different from trying 10 bottles of wine. Good luck remembering what that first one tasted like.”
Every chair is a bit different. Among the options? Rollers, heat, air massage, zero-gravity recline, accent lighting, memory settings, easy access doors, adjustable shoulder settings, Bluetooth speakers, wireless phone charger— the list goes on. Some even scan the body at the beginning of a massage to measure the torso and tailor head-to-toe massage movements for users of varying heights.
In other words, there is something for everyone.
Furniture for Life also carries various recliners (power, lift, zero-gravity and heated), as well as office chairs from Varier, a Norwegian brand with a long legacy in design excellence.
The website offers a comparison tool, as well as a massage chair quiz to narrow down options. Or, better yet... just walk in, chat with a trusty comfort consultant, sit down and enjoy the relaxing ride.
“You’ve shown up. We have a bunch of different (chair) personalities,” Levin says. “Why don’t you have a seat? You’re shopping now with the most important tools in your tool chest—your body and your mind. … Our whole shopping experience is really geared on sensations and feelings. Chairs that are a good fit become immediately apparent.”
TOOLS FOR STRESS, RECOVERY, AND MAYBE EVEN BETTER SLEEP
Beyond comfort, high-quality massage chairs may reduce the need for frequent visits to professionals such as chiropractors, physical therapists and massage therapists. They may also support mental health and sleep hygiene.
“A massage chair that effectively clears your mind… is a far better solution than alcohol or pills,” he says, adding that for those who wake in the middle of
Address + Phone: 5134 North Nevada Ave., Suite 120 | 719-698-7574
Website: www.furnitureforlife.com/locations/ colorado-springs
Facebook: @FurnitureForLifeColoradoSprings
Instagram: @FurnitureForLifeMassageChairs
the night with racing thoughts, a massage chair can be “an incredibly powerful tool.”
It’s always there, day or night, allowing the owner to disconnect from the challenges and pressures of everyday life and find more moments of peace.
“If you get the right massage chair and commit to using it regularly, you’re going to be nicer to your kids,” Levin says. “You’re going to have a longer fuse.”
WHY FURNITURE FOR LIFE?
This company knows what it is doing.
Levin has been involved with massage chairs since 1996 and has over 25 years’ professional experience promoting health and wellness. In 2006, he moved to Boulder and a supplier reached out for some distribution help with a specific, high-end massage chair from Japan. That was the springboard that led to the founding of Furniture for Life.
The company has since evolved from distributor to creator.
“We went from really just being a purchaser … to our own design shops,” Levin says. “We brought our own sensibilities to it.”
Today, Furniture for Life has stores in nine states and around the world. And when you need help? The products here are covered by top-notch warranties.
“There is no store that specializes in massage chairs the way that we do, offering the breadth that we do,” Levin says.
So stop in, kick off your shoes and feel the magic for yourself.
A BLACK FOREST Gem
Latigo Winery: Changing Colorado’s Wine Reputation, One Glass at a Time
ARTICLE BY JACEY BLUE RENNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LATIGO WINERY & MELANIE MCKNIGHT
Nestled among the heart and treescape of Black Forest, you’ll find local star Latigo Winery. Their tasting room—pouring whites and reds and offering fresh-batch, fresh-fruit sangria and wine slushies—is open Wednesday to Sunday. Extending onto a quaint front porch for those sunny Colorado days, it fills quickly. At once organically rustic and polished, Latigo Winery is welcoming and community invested.
“It’s the perfect location,” says owner Lisa Nelson.
AWARD-WINNING WINES
Helmed by local founders Lisa and her husband, winemaker Ben Nelson, their mutual backgrounds in the food and hospitality industries laid the foundation for creating Latigo. Sprouting from an idea that began 10 years ago, with roots making small batch wines at home, Latigo has grown from a cloud dream to an award-winning concept over five years. The tasting room celebrated its firstyear anniversary August 9th, and production has doubled for next year.
Latigo’s most popular wine, Bella’s Blend, recently won gold at the 2025 Colorado Governor’s Cup Winemaking Competition, with Latigo’s chardonnay receiving a silver medal, and their riesling winning bronze.
“It’s a misnomer [that all Colorado wines are sweet],” Ben says.
His favorite: Latigo’s The Wrangler, a blend of Syrah, Chambourcin (Lisa’s favorite) and Primitivo, with notes of dark chocolate and espresso. Using three different growers in Palisade, Latigo uses only 100 percent Colorado-grown grapes.
“CHEERS” OF THE BLACK FOREST
Both kid-friendly and dog-friendly, Latigo works collaboratively with local food trucks that complement the varietals in their wine lineup. From local pizza maker Pizzarte food truck to 4th Avenue Crepes, Latigo is always working toward community impact and support.
“Our favorite thing is people,” Lisa says.
Their newly introduced wine club—Pikes Peak Crush Club—replete with personalized wine glasses hanging in the tasting room has grown to fifty members, with a waitlist to join.
“We want our guests to relax and be social and feel comfortable. We want our wines to be approachable. You can know as little or as much as you want. We want to be the Cheers of Black Forest,” Lisa says. “We’re changing the Colorado wine reputation one person at a time.”
Can’t make it to the tasting room? Find Latigo Winery at this year’s Peaks & Pours 2025 Festival, October 4th, from noon to 5 pm at the Rocky Mountain Vibes Stadium.
Website: www.latigowinery.com
Facebook + Instagram: @LatigoWinery
CHASING THE LIGHT
ARTICLE BY LINDSAY TALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH MOGHBEL, DON JONES, ADAM BANZON
Tucked into a quiet space on Cascade Avenue, The Look Up Gallery includes work from many local artists, including the working studio space of artist Hannah Moghbel. Moghbel’s work is on display in the gallery and she actively paints while she’s there so the public can come see her work as it’s created.
Moghbel’s oil paintings explore various subjects, and she chooses images based on the quality of light. She especially loves the contrast of dark and light— she’s drawn to details and texture that the light brings
out. She loves the translucency of things, so her images are often backlit to highlight translucent features. The effect is stunning and mesmerizing.
When asked about what inspires her work, Moghbel says, “I follow what I’m interested in and it seems like the common thread is the quality of light and texture in things.”
Despite not being surrounded by any professional artists as a child, Moghbel always dreamed of becoming an artist. Growing up in a small town in Pennsylvania,
Hannah Moghbel: Making Art that Explores the Contrast between Dark and Light
she didn’t know that being a full-time artist was an option, so she aspired to be an art teacher. After receiving training in massage therapy and a degree in art education, she ultimately realized that teaching would not leave her with enough time for her own painting. In order to pursue her love for painting, she currently works as a massage therapist and paints during her free time.
LATEST WORK
Moghbel’s most recent work focuses on prickly pear cactus flowers. Following a challenging time in her life, she chose the cactus flowers because she was trying to channel the resilience and endurance of the plant. The bloom of the cactus flowers became a symbol for her during the painting process. Moghbel noted that the cactus flowers don’t look like much in the winter, but the blooming season is worth the wait.
“It’s really just this beautiful, fleeting, transient phenomenon that happens,” she says. “I think it’s spectacular and I really wanted to capture that.”
“It’s really just this beautiful, fleeting, transient phenomenon that happens. I think it’s spectacular and I really wanted to capture that.”
FUTURE PLANS
In the future, Moghbel aspires to be a full-time artist and a part-time massage therapist.
Her artwork will be on display as part of the holiday group show at the Auric Gallery. Because she’s always chasing the quality of light and texture, the actual subject she paints is secondary. It makes her style unique and recognizable. Being a very tactile person, her artwork reflects that. Moghbel says she creates for herself and it makes her really happy that people want to take pieces home. She loves the idea of her paintings existing beyond her lifetime.
Address + Phone: 517 S. Cascade Avenue | 719-338-2494
Website: hannahmoghbel.com
Facebook: @TheLookUpGallery
Instagram: @HannahMoghbel | @TheLookUpGallery
Chefs of the PIKES PEAK REGION
Q&A WITH SOME OF COLORADO SPRINGS’ TOP CHEFS
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY HAMERSHOCK
A quiet culinary revolution is unfolding. Local chefs are redefining the area’s food identity—not with fanfare, but with authenticity, innovation, and a deep respect for the land.
These chefs are rooted in community and driven by local and global influences. In their hands, humble fare is elevated, reimagined and plated with precision. But it’s not just about the food. It’s about a philosophy that blends craft with conscience, artistry with approachability. These chefs are not chasing trends—they are shaping them, turning this corner of the Rockies into a culinary hub where tradition meets evolution.
In this Q&A, seven of the region’s top chefs offer a glimpse into their lives–their cooking styles, favorite meals, favorite restaurants (besides their own) and where we’ll find them outside of the kitchen.
SHEILA LUCERO
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
Fresh, seafood focused, sustainable, balanced.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
I love making pasta. Clams and linguine is one of our favorites
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT? TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT.
I love our peppercorn-crusted tuna dish. The black garlic vinaigrette that dresses the warm potatoes, grilled asparagus and frisee has depth and brightness that complement the tuna, the horseradish crema is a nice surprise at the bottom of the dish and sweet onion jam offers a little balance to the whole dish.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
I am really excited about our new neighbor, Oro. Super Italian food.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
I am outdoors as much as possible. I am an avid runner. The mountains and anything in the snow in the winter!
www.jaxfishhouse.com | @JaxFishHouse
KEN BUTLER
Executive
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
Seasonal, approachable, rooted in heritage.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
At home, I keep it simple. I love throwing a great cut of Colorado beef or lamb on the grill with whatever vegetables are in season. For me, cooking outside with my family nearby feels relaxed and genuine—it’s a reminder of where I started, cooking with my grandparents, and why I still love it today.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT?
TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT.
I really enjoy our Shareable Heritage Plates at Pamela’s. The whole roasted chicken with Brussels sprouts, fingerling potatoes, and pearl onions is one of those dishes that brings people together around the table—just the way I like to eat with my own family. Another favorite is our High Country Meatloaf, made with bison and venison and finished with lingonberry and bordelaise. Both dishes tie back to Colorado’s ingredients and my own family traditions. They’re familiar, approachable,
a little elevated and best enjoyed family-style, which is exactly the spirit of the restaurant.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
Josh & John’s has always been a favorite—we serve their ice cream at Hotel Polaris, but it’s also a place I’ll take my kids just for fun. When I’m in the mood for something different, Nana’s Dim Sum has quickly become a go-to. What I love about Colorado Springs, especially around the North Gate, is that there’s always something new opening alongside the classics that have been here for years.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
Most likely outside in Colorado’s mountains. I spend a lot of time hiking, biking, or just being outdoors with my wife and kids. We live in Castle Rock, and staying close to the outdoors is important to us. Colorado has a way of slowing you down and reminding you of what matters—family, community, and balance—and that’s where I draw most of my inspiration, both as a chef and as a leader.
www.thehotelpolaris.com | @hotelpolaris_co
Chef at Hotel Polaris
NICK RYDER
Chef de Cuisine at Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
Ingredient driven, technical simplicity.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
I enjoy browsing the market or groceries for ingredients to entice creativity in my home cooking. I recently adopted a 1/4-inch rolled steel offset smoker and have been diving into the world of BBQ from brisket to smoked vegetables.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT? TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT. My favorite steak cut would definitely be our ribeye. We source the ribeyes from Double R Ranch through Agri Beef, the parent company of Snake River Farms American Wagyu. The texture and flavor from the marbling and aging process is what makes our beef really special.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
The Tempura Tofu rice bowl at Chiba Bar is probably one of my favorite bites in town. Nightingale Bakery is a weekly stop for my family and me to pick up bread, sandwiches and pastries.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
I strive to get outside with my wife and two daughters whenever we can. We like to ride bikes, hit the local hiking trails and paddle board in the region. I help coach soccer for girls and like to take them ice skating or to the mountains when we can find the opportunities. We have been grateful to find community and friends through church, school, sports and work since moving here in 2016 and enjoy spending time with friends and family.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
I’d say my style is delicious, fun and clean.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
At home, I’m all about the barbecue. I love firing up the grill, being outside, and cooking something everyone can gather around and enjoy.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT? TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT. The roasted pork belly on our Rocks menu is hands down my favorite. It’s got that perfect crispy skin with tender meat inside. It’s the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for more.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
Sushi Spot is a go-to for me. The food is always spot-on, and the folks who work there are just the best—it makes the whole experience even better.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
When I’m not cooking, I’m usually out fishing or training for my next triathlon. Both give me a good reset and a little balance outside of the kitchen.
www.gardenofthegodsresort.com @GGResortAndClub
MIKE LEONARD
Executive Chef at Picnic Basket
Catering Collective
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
Upscale comfort.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
I love to cook anything that I can convince my daughter to at least try.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT? TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT.
Any wild game. Since Colorado has so many to choose from, there is always a new way to explore an old protein in a new way. Our Cravings menu is very client-driven and it allows me and my team to be very creative cultivating a menu for any of the clients’ desires. When it comes to signature dishes, I would say it’s more of how we grill as opposed to what we are cooking. The Buffalo Gals menu really centers around the grill. We use traditional Santa Maria grills and use the traditional red oak to give our grilled items a very unique flavor. We use our grills to cook anything from burgers and brats to prime rib and filets. Picnic Basket is our more casual concept, where we like to feature more of a laid-back fare. Anything from simple BBQ to more formal corporate lunch.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
The Warehouse. James and his team do an amazing job—food is always top-notch.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
You would find me on the offroad trail in one of my jeeps, getting away from the craziness of the kitchen.
MATT HOUGH
Chef at Till Neighborhood Bistro & Bar
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
Passionate, fun, flavorful, adaptable, fresh.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
I love to dabble in different cuisines when I’m home. As of recent, I’ve taken a liking to a more Latin-mix cuisine.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT? TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT. My favorite dish would be the short rib gnocchi. It’s braised short rib with the homemade potato gnocchi and made-from-scratch stroganoff sauce that pairs it well.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
There are many restaurants that I do enjoy and although I haven’t tried them all, I would have to say MacKenzie’s Chop House has great food.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
Outside of the kitchen, you will find me in the mountains with my wife and dogs.
tillsouth.com | @TillBistroAndBar
NOAH SIEBENALLER
Executive
Chef of Oro at The Mining Exchange
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COOKING STYLE IN FIVE WORDS OR LESS?
Rustic, elevated, scratch, comforting.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO COOK AT HOME?
My favorite thing to cook at home is anything over an open fire. I love the unique flavor the flames and smoke impart, and the challenge that comes with it. Every fire is different, which requires a deeper level of skill and attention to cook with properly.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM AT THE RESTAURANT?
TELL US A BIT ABOUT IT.
Right now, it’s our Rigatoni Bolognese. It’s a classic Italian dish, but we give it a distinct Colorado feel by using local bison from Rock River Ranches and beef from Centennial Cuts. This creates
a beautifully rich and meaty sauce that we finish with authentic Parmigiano Reggiano. It’s a very hearty and comforting dish.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN TOWN BESIDES YOUR OWN?
I’d have to say Ambli Global Cuisine. Chef Ricardo does a fantastic job, and their lobster shooters are a must-try. The flavors are always bold and creative.
WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN?
When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me exploring Colorado. I love visiting the small towns around our state and checking out their local dining scenes for inspiration.
www.orocoloradosprings.com | @OroColoradoSprings
Organized Kitchens, Happier Homes
LIFE’S MILESTONES Meet MEANINGFUL MOMENTS
Life unfolds through a series of milestones including birthdays, promotions, engagements, farewells and reunions. Some are planned, while others are unexpected. But the common thread is how these moments bring people together. It’s in those gatherings that life becomes shared, celebrated and remembered.
The Parlor is designed for exactly those moments, whether hosted for a class in their space or brought to yours.
SHARING A DRINK
Throughout human history, libations have showed up as social catalysts, transcending mere consumption to become essential elements in community building, ritual, and celebration. From ancient times to the modern era, sharing a drink has consistently served as a bridge for connection.
The Parlor doesn’t live in just one place. It’s a bar that moves with the moment, designed to show up where life happens: at backyard weddings, milestone birthdays, rooftop toasts and other special gatherings. From the first clink of glassware to the final pour, the experience is intentional—crafted not just to serve drinks, but to elevate the occasion. The Parlor brings this to life with their fleet of multiple personalities on wheels, each offering their own charm and purpose.
MOBILE BARS + BARTENDERS
Ruby is a beautifully restored tiny home that has been transformed into a cozy, intimate bar on wheels. She offers a uniquely inviting atmosphere wrapped in a vintage aesthetic, making her a natural centerpiece for events that crave character
and a touch of whimsy. Then there’s Claude, The Parlor’s sleek, nimble mobile cart, designed for versatility and style. Claude can pop up effortlessly in tighter spaces, delivering expertly crafted cocktails with precision and flair. More mobile bar options are in the works.
Already have a space and simply need a bartender? The Parlor offers bartenders for small intimate gatherings, large corporate events and everything in between.
These aren’t cookie-cutter bar packages, they’re thoughtfully designed and customized experiences, offering non-alcoholic options, as well, for each event. Led by Michaela Hightower and Casey Helm,
ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE PARLOR
The Parlor: Thoughtfully Designed and Customized Beverage Experiences… Anywhere
certified sommeliers and seasoned bartenders, the team works directly with clients to curate everything from signature cocktails to paired tastings, turning simple service into a memorable focal point.
“Casey is the mastermind by using what nature provides us,” Hightower says of their handmade mixers.
It’s this blend of deep knowledge and relaxed charm that makes The Parlor more than a mobile bar. It becomes a trusted partner in celebration—a quiet force that shapes the mood, keeps the flow, and helps make every toast feel earned.
In a region that’s growing in both taste and occasion, The Parlor offers Colorado Springs something refreshing: the opportunity to make any gathering feel personal and unforgettable, all through the simple power of a memorable drink, served with care, wherever it’s needed most.
Address + Phone: 1635 West Colorado Ave. | 719-351-7191
Website: pouringparlor.com
Facebook: @Pouring_Parlor
Aspen Tree Bliss
ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY JUNGKIND
A Brief Biology Lesson on One of Colorado’s Favorite Trees
Driving along the Pikes Peak region’s highways and roads this time of the year, viewers are dazzled by the distant aspen trees cascading down slopes and crossing into meadows. Up close or far away, aspen trees provide the perfect backdrop for wedding or group photos. As green in the summer gives way to an explosion of bright yellow, orange and red in the fall, these vivid leaves provide a brilliant contrast to adjacent evergreens.
The Science of Quaking
Aspens are unique in that their leaves catch the sun on both sides as they “quake.” The quaking, or fluttering, of the leaves makes a sound unique to the aspen tree (scientific name populus tremuloides). The sound comes from wind flow over the specific leaf shape. Meanwhile, photosynthesis occurs on both sides of the leaves as quaking occurs. The leaves and bark work together to convert light energy, water and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen to grow the plant. Bark creates the energy in the winter and leaves contribute in the summer, when light and temperatures are optimal.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ORLYS FINE ART GALLERY & ART GALLERY OF THE ROCKIES FINE ART
A Connected Organism Trees as Art
A group of aspen trees is often referred to as a stand or clonal colony. They are rarely seen alone. Why? Aspen trees spread through their root systems. Every tree in an aspen stand is genetically identical, essentially making them a connected organism. Through the interconnected root system, they can colonize vast areas and even survive disturbances like fires.
Aspens’ underground stems sprout new trunks and form a dense, interconnected community of trees. A stand expands under the right conditions, bringing a burst of color to Colorado’s beautiful forests, meadows and craggy mountainsides.
Grab your camera or paintbrush. The golden hue of autumn is approaching, when vibrant yellow leaves create a breathtaking display next to white bark and deep blue skies. As the days shorten, orange and red overtake the yellow, carving a stunning spectacle into the ever-present evergreens. A Colorado delight!
Website: kimberlyjungkindfineart.com/works
104 TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT
Let us, a Colorado Springs original help you create the home of your dreams. We’ve been helping generations of Colorado families create the look and comfort that best expresses their LIFESTYLE.
your
SALSA!
LOCAL SALSA MAKERS BOAST THE BEST COMFORT FOOD THIS FALL
ARTICLE BY JACEY BLUE RENNER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LYNDA SUE'S KITCHEN & LOJO'S SALSA
“WE WANT TO FEED THE COUNTRY. I LOVE GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY.”
LYNDA SUE’S KITCHEN
“We want to stay as local as possible,” says Lynda Brooks, half of the curative and creative mind behind Colorado Springs-made Lynda Sue’s Salsa, along with her husband, Shawn Brooks.
Using as many local farmer collabs as they can, this “Colorado proud” salsa power duo sources local jalapeños in season, as well as Pueblo chiles. Both products play a huge role in their salsa production and recipes, which focus on simple and fresh ingredients
Offering seven different varieties of local salsa from their popular Roasted
Pueblo Chile Salsa to their signature Hot Salsa and one Ghost Pepper Hot Sauce (it’s still edible, truly), Lynda Sue’s has a salsa for every Coloradoan’s palette.
“It’s all about the flavor,” Shawn says. “We’re 100 percent hands-on. It’s just us. We take pride in our salsa.”
Pro-Tip: Stop by the Lynda Sue’s Kitchen booths at local markets to sample the salsas before deciding on a favorite. Can’t make it to market? Look for them in other local shops like Hunt + Gather and Scheels.
Website: www.lyndasueskitchen.com Facebook + Instagram: @LyndaSuesKitchen
LOJO’S SALSA
Four years into changing lives one smallbatch of Colorado Springs-made salsa at a time, LoJo’s Salsa owners Loretta and Raymond Earp, of Fountain, have amassed a local and bi-coastal following.
“Everyone just loved it,” Loretta says of her salsa. “I didn’t realize how many others enjoyed it.”
Their fresh-made salsa boasts minimal preservatives, and maximum comfort–especially when paired with their specialty homemade tortilla chips. In addition to their regular, green, hot and x-hot varieties, new this year and full of fresh flavor, LoJo’s has introduced their Pickle-deGallo salsa (Raymond’s favorite).
During peak warm weather months, you’ll find Loretta and Raymond greeting regulars at the Acacia Park and Old Colorado City farmers markets. As the chill rolls in, visit their Facebook page to see where they will bring their natural goodness next.
“We want to feed the country,” Loretta says. “I love giving back to the community.”
Pro-Tip: Look for LoJo’s at many of the Colorado Springs’ upcoming holiday markets. Their fresh-batch salsa makes an amazing comfort food or host gift during the busy fall and winter season.
Website: @LojosSalsa
Pure, Unfiltered Fun
ARTICLE BY ROCHELLE REEDER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOUIE LOUIE'S PIANO BAR
LOUIE LOUIE’S PIANO BAR: WHERE THE CROWD IS PART OF THE ACT
“"When you get here, request anything; we are going to try our darndest to make it happen for you."
Colorado Springs’ Downtown Trolley District is singing a new song with the installation of Louie Louie’s Piano Bar From the outside, it might look like your typical nightlife spot—neon glow, people chatting in line, a few bursts of laughter from the sidewalk. But once you walk in, it’s clear: this place hums with the kind of energy that’s hard to fake.
The main stage is lit up, drawing your eyes to the twin pianos set face-to-face, about to engage in a musical duel. The bartender greets you like an old friend and you order your drink. A familiar chord rings out, followed by another, and suddenly, the room comes alive.
Song after song rolls in like waves: Queen, Garth Brooks, Journey, Snoop Dogg, The White Stripes. Every note is played with unbelievable skill and a side of pure, unfiltered fun. The musicians don’t just play— they perform, tossing jokes, taking requests and working the crowd like seasoned showmen. You try to play it cool at first, maybe just mouthing the lyrics under your breath. But halfway through the second set, it’s over—you’re singing like you’re part of the band.
“This is the thing you have to remember in talking to us: We’re just musicians. …The people you see tonight are not people who grew up as musicians. Most started as door guys, waitresses and bar staff,” says Ron Wilson, who co-owns the bar with Joey Hamende.
The musicians are part virtuosos, part stand-up comedians. One minute, they’re belting out a soulful rendition of Toto’s Africa , the next they’re roasting a guest in the front row with a custom tune to celebrate their birthday. There are two of them and then there are four. A pianist transitions seamlessly to the drums and then to the bass guitar. The drummer moves over to the piano and picks up a harmonica to play both in tandem while his bandmates sing. You are chatting with a friend and stop
mid-sentence because the guitarist just launched into a blistering solo.
The crowd is part of the act—song requests, clapping in rhythm, sometimes even hopping on stage to sing along. The vibe is electric but never overwhelming. Whether you’re in a little black dress or jeans and sneakers, you’re welcome.
By the end of the night, your voice is hoarse and your cheeks hurt from laughing. You’ve belted out the lyrics to 86% of what they played without even realizing it. And when the final note rings out and the crowd roars in approval, all you can think is: When are we doing this again?
MEET THE BAND BEHIND THE MAGIC
The performers at Louie Louie’s Piano Bar aren’t just musicians, they’re the heartbeat of the show. Each one brings something special, and together, they create the kind of night you’ll talk about long after last call.
Amanda Chapa came to Louie Louie’s on her 21st birthday as a guest, and never really left. She started as a server, but once the owners heard her sing, they invested in her future with piano lessons. Now, she’s a powerhouse on stage and a vital part of the Louie Louie’s experience.
“When you get here, request anything; we are going to try our darndest to make it happen for you,” Chapa says.
Flip is a piano prodigy who’s been playing since he was a kid. If you can name it, chances are he can play it—maybe even better than the original. Pay attention, he might just throw in something from the Star Wars soundtrack mid-song. His energy and versatility set the tone for the night.
Luke brings the edge with his guitar—seasoned, soulful and always ready to rip into a solo or back up a crowd favorite.
Brandon is the newest to the keys, having picked up piano just a few months ago, but you’d never know it. He’s learning fast, jumping into requests, and holding his own like he’s been at it for years.
This group lives for the crowd. Whether it’s a classic sing-along, a deep cut, or a wild request scribbled on a napkin, they’ll give it everything they’ve got. Their goal? To make sure Colorado Springs knows this isn’t just a bar with a show—it’s a full-blown show that happens to have a bar.
Louie Louie’s Piano Bar has struck a rare balance: impressive without being intimidating, a place that feels both exciting
and easy-going, upscale and unpretentious. It feels like a big night out, even if it’s just Saturday and you needed to blow off steam.
Whether it’s your first visit or your 50th, you will be made to feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
And that’s worth singing about.
Address + Phone: 522 S Tejon Street | 719-698-9672
Website: www.louielouiespianobar.com
Facebook: @LouieLouiesPianoBar
Instagram: @LouieLouiesSprings
THE
HUMAN Algorithm CONNECTION
Pop-Up Art Café: Phone-Free, Art-Centered Gatherings
ARTICLE BY JESSI SCOLETTI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY POP-UP ART CAFE
Are you craving connection and community here in the Springs? Pop-Up Art Café has everything you need to recharge and focus your attention on things that matter in life for a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Owned and operated by two sisters, Malori Plush and Haley Plush, Pop-Up Art Café is all about helping people slow down and create space for creativity and connection.
“In a fast-paced world where so much of our time is spent behind screens, we strive to be the antidote to the algorithm and provide a space where people can return to real-life connection,” Malori says.
With events specifically designed to help people put their phones down and connect with their neighbors, the Pop-Up Art Café is a space where anyone seeking community can drop in and find a smiling face.
FALL IS AROUND THE CORNER AND SO IS A NEW BEGINNING.
This fall, the Pop-Up Art Café is launching a fresh lineup of events like phone-free happy hours, art speed dating, and Sunday morning art & meditation.
“Each event has its own vibe, but they all share the same goal: creating a welcoming space for people to slow down and reconnect,” Malori says. “As the pendulum swings toward tech and AI, we’re here to bring back balance to the present moment and to community.”
SPECIAL EVENTS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.
In-person events are the primary focus, but in the future, the Café plans to release online guides like the Evening Art Ritual to help people stop the doom scrolling and instead create a habit of art and meditation before bed.
Sounds peaceful, right? There’s more.
LOOKING TO JOIN FORCES WITH THE POP-UP CAFÉ?
You are in luck! Malori and Haley are always looking for new venues to host pop-ups, whether it’s a cozy coffee shop, a restaurant with event space, or anywhere people gather. Hosting a Pop-Up Art Café is a simple way to activate your space and draw in new customers. All you need is a welcoming spot for a 2.5-hour gathering where locals can slow down, make art, read and connect. The Pop-Up Art Café will handle the promotion through social media, email, and word-ofmouth, so you get exposure to a new audience likely to grab a coffee, a bite and stick around.
“It’s a low-key, meaningful event that taps into Colorado Springs’ growing appetite for creativity, community, and real connection,” Malori says. “If you’d like to partner with us or learn more, we’d love to hear from you!”
Now is your chance. Whether you are a newbie Coloradan, a curious tourist, a native, or anyone in between, the Pop-Up Art Café knows how tough it is to find your people and their events are designed to make it easier for you.
“We know it can feel intimidating to show up alone, but we’ll welcome you with open arms,” Malori says. “Our phonefree, art-centered gatherings create an environment where people can let their guard down, be present and connect.”
Phone: 719-310-9438
Website: popupartcafe.podia.com
Facebook: @profile.php?id=61559511017380
Instagram: @PopUpArtCafe
OCTOBER 1ST
Haunted Manitou Springs: Historic Downtown Ghost Tour
Downtown Manitou Springs | 9:00 PM
Take a 75-minute haunted historic walking tour of Downtown Manitou Springs. Paranormal tours discuss the history and mysteries of this mountainside town. Wednesdays in October. hauntedmanitou.com
OCTOBER 2ND Cabaret
ENT Center for the Arts | 7:00 PM
Step into the decadent, crumbling world of 1920s Weimar Germany as Theatreworks transforms the Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theater into an intimate cabaret club. The Tony Award-winning musical Cabaret returns in a daring new production that blurs the line between audience and performance, reveling in the musical’s raw energy, haunting beauty and chilling relevance. Runs through Oct. 12. tickets.entcenterforthearts.org/5408/5447
OCTOBER 3RD
Buffalo Grass Music Festival
Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort | 3:00 PM
It's a three-day weekend music festival nestled between Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs. Enjoy a great lineup of local bands, vendors, yoga, group bike rides, bluegrass circles and more.. all weekend long. Tickets for a single day or the whole weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) are available. Walk or ride your bike in, if possible. bicycleresort.com/buffalograss
OCTOBER 4TH
History Stroll: Law & Disorder + Signature Cocktail Experience
The Mining Exchange + Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum | 2:00 PM
On this half-mile guided stroll through downtown Colorado Springs, explore how Colorado Springs officials fought to remain a “dry town” in “wet times” and more. The Mining Exchange Hotel and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum are partnering for select tours where guests will enjoy a complimentary signature cocktail at the hotel's Golden Hour Bar. Oct. 4, 18, 25. give.cspm.org/event/2025-history-stroll-law-and-disorder/e676870
OCTOBER 4TH
Witches & Ghouls Halloween Paddle
Quail Lake | 9:00 AM
Calling all witches and ghouls to Quail Lake for a Halloween paddle. This event is a free community event, open to all paddlers: SUPs, kayaks, boats, etc. Registration is not required. Simply show up at the boat launch on Quail Lake. All participants should have a USCG-approved, personal floatation device on their vessel and wear a leash. dragonflypaddleyoga.com
OCTOBER 4TH
Pumpkin Fest
Venetucci Farm | 9:30 AM
Venetucci Farm Pumpkin Patch is back with games, hayrides, pumpkins, flowers, farm animals, makers market and more! Runs Fridays through Sundays throughout October. Pumpkins are $10. Farm animals there on Saturdays and Sundays. Makers Market, Farm Store, concession stand and food trucks open Fridays-Sundays. Farm flowers available for purchase until the first frost of the year. gathermountainblooms.com/pumpkin-fest
OCTOBER 4TH
Oktoberfest
Pikes Peak Brewing Co, Monument | 9:00 AM
Oktoberfest returns to Pikes Peak Brewing Co. and it's going to be bigger than ever! Kicking off the morning with goat yoga in the beer garden at 10 am and noon. Music by Pourly Edukated from 1-4 pm. Food trucks from German PretzelKings from 11-6 pm and Ciao Down 3-10 pm. Go thirsty, stay festive! pikespeakbrewing.com/events-listing/pikes-peak-brewing-oktoberfest-2025
OCTOBER 10TH
Spinphony
Stargazers Theatre | 7:00 PM
Instrumental crossover string quartet “Spinphony” is breaking down barriers between classical, rock and pop music. Mixing and mashing catchy melodies into unique arrangements such as “Bach in Black” and “Don’t Stop Beethoven,” Spinphony's one-of-a-kind sound will leaves the audience with a whole new appreciation for instrumental music. stargazerstheatre.com/product/spinphony-oct-10
OCTOBER 12TH
An Evening with Celtic Thunder
Pikes Peak Center | 7:00 PM
An Intimate Evening with Celtic Thunder is a journey through the group’s incredible legacy. Featuring a carefully curated setlist of their greatest hits, this show will showcase the powerful harmonies, soaring ballads, and electrifying performances that have made Celtic Thunder famous. From classic Irish folk songs to contemporary favorites, audiences will hear the anthems that have defined Celtic Thunder. pikespeakcenter.com/events/detail/celticthunder25
OCTOBER 17TH
Rocky Mountain Women's Film Festival
Colorado College | 6:30 PM
The longest-running women’s film festival in North America honors films and filmmakers that present the world as women experience it. The Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival showcases documentary, narrative, shorts, and animated films that are thought-provoking, enriching, and encourage both global awareness and personal growth. Runs through Oct. 19. rmwfilm.org/festival/
OCTOBER 23RD
Wine Exploration 2: Red Wines with Sophie Yoneoka
The Library at Ivywild School | 5:00 PM
Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into The Blue Star’s wine-list-building process at Wine Exploration 2–Red Wines, guided by Sophie Yoneoka, certified sommelier and beverage director of the original Blue Star. This expert-led tasting will feature four hand-selected red wines, as well as curated cheese and charcuterie pairings, a small Blue Star takeaway, and exclusive early invitations to future events. thebluestar.net/the-blue-star-events
OCTOBER 24TH
Judy Collins
Phil Long Music Hall | 7:00 PM
Judy Collins has long inspired audiences. Five decades later, her presence shines brightly as new generations discover her iconic 55-album body of work. Recently, artists such as Rufus Wainwright, Shawn Colvin, Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, and Leonard Cohen honored her legacy with the album Born to the Breed: A Tribute to Judy Collins. phillongmusichall.com/event/judy-collins-102425
The Cayenne Turbo GT, for Colorado’s golden season.
The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT was built for Colorado roads that twist like alpine trails, for climbs where altitude demands more, and for descents that reward precision. When the air turns crisp and the mountains glow gold, the foothills of Colorado Springs and winding mountain passes that cross the Continental Divide, become a proving ground. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT is engineered for this moment: 650 horsepower tuned for altitude, chassis dynamics dialed for the climb and descent, and a presence that stands out even against the Rockies in full color. This fall, embrace every turn.
Colorado Springs