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Editor’sNote
As fall approaches, with it comes cooler mornings, golden leaves and the unmistakable feeling of fresh beginnings. Personally, it’s my favorite season, and I look forward to sharing with you the return of cozy, colorful days across Colorado.
Don’t make the mistake of letting this quick season pass by without capturing all the quintessential autumn experiences. Whether you’re searching for a memorable pumpkin patch, crisp hay ride or a new maze for the kiddos, our ultimate fall list has you covered. We’ve even provided a snapshot of peak foliage throughout Colorado and the US to plan your fall vacay.
Satisfy your seasonal cravings with our local roundup of teahouses steeped in flavor and other go-to spots for morsels of apple or pumpkin delight! Over at the market, it’s chile season — don’t miss our recommendation for the best, fresh green chiles.
Looking inward, if you’re ready for a reset, turn a new leaf with Sandi’s latest wellness feature. Try This offers a few creative hobby ideas as we prepare for cooler temps. Also, check out the local nonprofit we’ve featured that uses dance to uplift communities year-round and has several upcoming events! You can find more fundraisers, fall fests and entertainment on tap in our calendar.
Wherever September finds you — on a hike, at a harvest market or curled up with a good book — may it bring you warmth, renewal and inspiration.
Stay golden, Jody Carlile, Editor
Publisher
Jill Stravolemos, jill@greeleytribune.com
Editor Jody Carlile
Graphic Designer
Layne Petersen
Contributing Writers
Brittany Anas, Darien Armer, Emily Kemme, Sandi Squicquero, Lisa Truesdale, Matthew Van Deventer, Shelley Widhalm
Advertising Coordinator
Jeanine Fritz
Advertising Sales
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MYNOCO MAGAZINE
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SEPTEMBER 2025
COVER STORY
The ultimate list of fall fun: from wandering through rustling corn mazes to choosing that perfect pumpkin for the porch, these local farms and patches offer the quintessential fall experience.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
Beyond an excellent date night, square dancing is about social interactions. “Our club motto is: ‘Learn to square dance and make a whole new circle of friends.’ It’s all about the fun.”
AT THE MARKET
Green chiles are a cornerstone of Colorado’s culinary personality. The versatile fruit jazzes up eggs and even spikes craft beer.
TRY THIS
This time of year most area art studios and craft retail stores begin a new schedule of classes and workshops, so fall is the perfect time to get creative and try something new.
TREAT YOURSELF TO WELLNESS
Loss is a part of everyone’s life, yet why is it so difficult for us? People react to loss differently; even minor losses can throw some of us off balance.
FALL BREWS
As more teahouses and cafés open along the front range, maybe it’s time to support your neighbor and try somewhere new to kick off the cozy season.
SAVOR THE SEASON
Local bakeries, donut shops and ice cream stops are whipping up special recipes to offer autumn flavors to kick off fall’s shorter days.
PEAK FOLIAGE
We give a few tips as to where and when the best leaves can be viewed across our state and the country this autumn.
NOCO BLOOM
A special section from Gardens on Spring Creek on fall gardens, flowers, butterflies and more.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Plan ahead for these autumn events happening across northern Colorado this time of year, from art sales to Oktoberfest celebrations. 8 12 10 14 16 18 20 26 27 40
Spooky’s Pumpkin Patch owner Jess Aragon’s granddaughter is overjoyed to visit the pumpkin patch to choose her fall jack-o-lantern.
Courtesy/Spooky’s Pumpkin Patch
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The Ultimate List of Northern Colorado Fall
FUN
( PUMPKINS, MAZES + RIDES )
BY MATTHEW VAN DEVENTER
Autumn in northern Colorado is a brief but magical season, when golden leaves crunch underfoot and the scent of hay and cider hangs in the air. It’s a time for cultivating traditions and gathering with loved ones to make memories and photo-ops that last long after the last pumpkin is picked. From wandering through rustling corn mazes to choosing that perfect pumpkin for the porch, these local farms and patches offer the quintessential fall experience.
SPOOKY’S PUMPKIN PATCH
2601 College Avenue, Fort Collins (970) 388-7625
spookyspumpkinpatch.com
Open October 1-31, Daily
11 a.m.-7 p.m.
“Where fall begins, and tradition grows.”
Spooky’s offers a wide variety of pumpkins including warty pumpkins, blue pumpkins and minis. They carry a special variety that is meant for carving because it stands up better and lasts longer than store varieties. This year they hope to include in the festivities a pumpkin jump house for kids, weekend petting zoo and food trucks.
“Since opening in 1998, I’ve poured heart, heritage and hustle into every pumpkin patch display, dry creek bed and fragrant fir tree,”
said Spooky’s owner, Jess Aragon, who also owns and operates Timberrock Landscape Center and Treeland Christmas Trees. Aragon said Spooky’s is more than a fall retail destination, it’s a place for families to make memories.
OSBORN FARM
1230 South Boise Avenue, Loveland (970) 541-1212 | osbornfarm.com
Opens September 27, 7 days a week 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Osborn Farms prides itself on their colorful heirloom pumpkins that are beautiful to look at and full of flavor. This historic farm has food trucks on the weekend and offers a tractor hay ride along the river or, for the little ones, a barrel train ride. A local 4-H club runs the petting zoo, proceeds of which go to the club.
The pumpkin patch at Fritzler Farm Park. Courtesy/Fritzler Farm Park
Pam Osborn said, “We try and keep it affordable, simple entertainment for families. We’re fortunate to have great family and friends to help us and make you feel welcome.”
THE BARTELS PUMPKIN PATCH
3424 East Douglas Road, Fort Collins | (970) 493-3853
thebartelspumpkinpatch.com
7 days a week 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Visitors can enjoy $2 hay rides and pick from a variety of vegetables including pumpkins and gourds as well as bundles of Indian corn, straw bales and cornstalks. Farm fresh honey and honeycomb are also available for sale. $5 entry fee.
SOMETHING FROM THE FARM
8020 South Timberline Road, Fort Collins | (970) 282-1135
Fire a corn cannon, launch a pumpkin with the trebuchet (a type of catapult), or enjoy the view at Something From the Farm — a certified organic pumpkin patch operated by four generations of Dorys. Farm cats and a flock of hens roam the lands too. The country store slings cider, snacks, home grown popcorn, jams and winter squashes. There’s no entrance fee, but a purchased wristband will get you access to hayrides and the hay bale maze.
TIGGES FARM
12404 County Road 64½, Greeley (970) 686-7225
tiggesfarmllc.com
Open mid-August through mid-October, Thursday-Sunday 10 p.m.-6 p.m.
“Its’s the place to be in the fall!” They have 15 acres of pick-your-own pumpkin patches which officially open October 2. Head to the website before you go to download a fun scavenger hunt to take with you.
JACK LANTERN’S CORN MAZE
2318 S. Co. Rd. 5, Fort Collins (970) 308-5843
nococornmaze.com
October 5-27, Friday-Sunday Daytime activities include
Open September 14-October 26, Hours vary Friday-Sunday They are known for their haunted attraction, Scream Acres, and they have some thrilling updates still to come. Upcoming events include Oktoberfest on September 27 featuring a costume contest, German food and beer, whiskey tasting (first 300 guests 21+), a stein hoisting competition and more.
PUMPKIN
PICKIN’ PARADISE
Corner of Hwy 257 and Road 52, Milliken
pumpkinpickinparadise.com
Open the last week of September through Halloween | Monday-Friday 1 p.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Hundreds of pumpkins of all different sizes and variety are brought up from the field for visitors to sift through. Try their famous, homemade pickles and cotton candy. All ages can enjoy their Haunted Shack, as well as a haunted indoor maze and an outdoor maze. $5 gets visitors an admission token that goes towards their overall produce purchase. Kids two and under are free.
ANDERSON FARM
6728 County Road 3¼, Erie (303) 828-5210
andersonfarms.com
Open September 24-November 1
a corn maze with a scavenger hunt, pumpkin patch, noise houses, game animals to pet, pedal cars, and a picnic area. At night the corn maze turns haunted!
This 250-acre, family-owned and -operated farm boasts the state’s largest corn maze at 25 acres and the state’s top rated haunt for the last five years, Terror in the Corn. This year they will introduce a Teddy Bear Factory trailer and a “farmstyle” Skee-Ball they’ve named Beetball. It will involve a 1940s sugar beet truck. They will also host a Konk-a-Crow tennis ball game. Tractor-drawn wagon rides take visitors to the pumpkin patch for more than 100 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds.
A young participant braves the corn maze at Anderson Farm. Courtesy/Anderson Farm
A jack-o-lantern scarecrow at Osborn Farm. Courtesy/Osborn Farm
A young patron chooses his pumpkin at Spooky’s Pumpkin Patch. Courtesy/Spooky’s Pumpkin Patch
D A N E C Into The Season
By Darian Armer
he Mountain Plains Square Dance Council will celebrate its 69th anniversary in November. The council consists of twelve square dance clubs across northern Colorado, Wyoming and Nebraska.
Linda Goble is president of the Foot and Fiddle Square Dance Club, member of the council and, along with her husband Ralph, the General Chairmen of the 2026 State Festival. Goble says the council’s goal is to advance square dancing in local communities and support the clubs that are a part of it, because “line dancing is for everyone.”
“One of the things
I tell my own kids, who are adults with their own children, is that it’s a really good way to get a date night that’s affordable. You can’t even go to a movie for as little as you can go to a square dance. And the
square dance includes food! We always have a lot of refreshments,” she says.
Beyond an excellent date night, Goble also says square dancing is about social interactions. “Our club motto is:
Linda and Ralph Gobel, President and General Chairman of the 2026 State Festival. Courtesy/Foot and Fiddle Dance Club
According to Foot and Fiddle Dance Club President Linda Goble, square dancing is “a good way to get a date night that’s affordable.” Adobe Stock
Foot and Fiddle Dance Club. Courtesy/Foot and Fiddle Dance Club
‘Learn to square dance and make a whole new circle of friends.’ Square dancing is friendship set to music. It’s all about the fun.”
She says square dancing is good for couples, solo dancers and single men and women. “You never have to have a partner to learn to square dance. Ages eight and above are usually old enough to learn. It’s great for families.”
On Monday, September 8, at 6 p.m. the club will host a free chili dinner and Introduction to Square Dance at the Johnstown Senior Center. “Our caller puts on a party dance where he will teach enough calls to those interested in trying it so that by the end of the evening, they are square dancing. It gives them an idea of what it’s like,” she says. September 10 also marks the beginning of mainstream classes every Monday and Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. Every four years the council
hosts the state festival, which Goble says usually sees between 500-600 dancers. This coming June it’s The Mountain Plains Square Dance Council’s turn to host, and they will do so in Greeley.
For a calendar of all events and more information, visit coloradosquaredance.com /area-councils-sites/mountainsand-plains-mapsdc/footand-fiddle, or email footandfiddle0@gmail.com.
“YOU NEVER HAVE TO HAVE A PARTNER
The state festival usually sees 500-600 dancers. Adobe Stock
Green chiles are a cornerstone of Colorado’s culinary personality. The versatile fruit, ranging from sweet to scorching hot, jazzes up eggs and adds a subtle burn to burgers, sandwiches, salsas, stews and roasts. Chiles even spike craft beer.
Kathy Rickart, owner of Tigges Farm Roasted Chiles, Pumpkin Patch and Fresh Produce in Greeley, said roasted chiles have boosted the fruit’s popularity. Her brother, co-manager Ken
WITH FRESH ROASTED GREEN CHILES
BY EMILY KEMME
Tigges, began growing chiles in the 1990s on the farm their grandparents, Phillip and Lucy Tigges, established after moving from Iowa in 1934. But Ken didn’t roast the chiles until an encouraging neighbor built their farm stand a roaster.
The benefits are many: hotter chiles have tougher skin that roasting makes easier to remove. That’s why milder chiles — bell peppers, jalapeños and poblanos — aren’t always roasted. Roasting changes
plant starch into sugar without losing the nutritional value, which includes antioxidants and three times the vitamin C of an orange, Rickart said. Roasting improves texture, too.
Tigges grows nearly 15 chile varieties, from the mildest sweet peppers to the Lumbre (Spanish for “fire”), a hot chile that hits 10,000 units on the Scoville Heat Unit scale. The SHU measures capsaicin, a chemical compound located in a chile’s interior veins that produces a burning sensation. The scale ranges from zero (bell peppers) to 2,500,000+ (the mouth-melting Carolina Reaper).
A chile’s shape or growing season can even determine if it is mild or hot. “The milder ones are bigger with rounded ends... like a miniature bell pepper,” Rickart said. “Hotter chiles are smaller, more slender and pointed on the end.” Sunny, dry growing seasons make chiles hotter, she said. Wet weather reduces soil oxygen, reducing chile heat.
Tigges Farm’s signature
chile is the Sahuaro. “A lot of chiles bite you when you bite into them,” Rickart said. “The Sahuaro doesn’t, until you feel some heat in your stomach. We call it a ‘slow-heater’ chile.”
Even so, the northern Colorado trend is for hotter chiles, she said. “Our Hispanic culture likes the Fresno chile. It’s small, about 3-4 inches long with distinct flavor. The Greeley Chubby is another favorite for salsas.” Don’t like it hot? Tigges also grows jalapeños, including the “Tricked You,” a chile with no heat. Rickart said it’s meaty, chunky and adds texture to a dish.
Whatever your chile style, Rickart believes the best part is watching the Tigges staff roast your fresh chile order while you wait. “The popping, crackling noises that let you know when the chile is done, and the delectable smell, we don’t charge for that,” she said. “And it’s a taste you can’t beat.”
Visit: 12404 C.R. 64 1/2, Greeley, CO 80631 | August 14-October 31 | Thursday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Flame roasting chiles helps remove the chile’s tough skin and emphasizes the fruits’ sugars without depleting its nutritional benefits. Courtesy/freshchileco.com
The Tigges Farm stand sells fresh chiles, pumpkins and more from mid-August through the end of October.
Courtesy/Tigges Farm
IN SEASON IN
september
FRUITS
Apples
Cantaloupe (last of the season)
Honeydew
Peaches (last of the season)
Pears
Plums (last of the season)
Raspberries
Strawberries (last of the season)
Watermelon (last of the season)
VEGETABLES
Arugula
Collards
Kale
Lettuce Mustard
Turnips
Beets
Bell Peppers
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Cabbage
Carrots
Celery
Chard
Chile Peppers
Eggplant
Green Beans (last of the season)
Onions
Pumpkins
Spinach
Summer Squash (last of the season)
Sweet Corn
Winter Squash
Source: ag.colorado.gov
Speedy Chile Relleno Casserole
from Tigges Farm & Pumpkin Patch | Serves 4-6
INGREDIENTS
l Fresh (or frozen and thawed) whole roasted chiles, split and seeds removed (or 2-7 ounce cans whole chiles)
l 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
l 3 eggs
l 2/3 cup milk
l 1 1/2 tablespoon flour
l 1/4 teaspoon salt
l Dash of black pepper (optional)
l 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
STEPS
Note: Wear rubber gloves when handling chiles.
If using fresh chiles, slit each pepper lengthwise (on one side) from stem to within 1/2 inch of tip. At stem end, cut crosswise forming a “T”. Rinse in cold water. Remove seeds and veins with knife tip. If using canned chiles, cut
lengthwise on one side. Remove seeds and drain.
Line an un-greased 8-inch square casserole dish with half the chiles. Sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese. Top with remaining chiles. Mix eggs, milk, flour and salt. Pour over chiles. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.
TryThis
BY LISA TRUESDALE
Discover a New Creative Outlet
Fall is the perfect time to get creative and try something new. This time of year most area art studios and craft retail stores begin a new schedule of classes and workshops in September. If you get started now, you’ll have plenty of time to create your own décor pieces to refresh your home for the season, or make handmade holiday gifts to share with others.
Fine Arts
Amanda Gress, of Loveland’s Gress Art Studio, has been teaching drawing and painting to all ages for nearly 20 years, and she believes her main goal as an art educator is to “enrich the lives of students through the joy and freedom of being creative.” Gress keeps her classes small so she can offer individualized instruction. Other area options for learning to draw or paint include the Thompson Valley Art League at the Lincoln Gallery in Loveland, Showcase Art Center in Greeley, and Studio H in Fort Collins. At Studio H, artist and owner Craig McKee hosts en plein air (outdoor) painting workshops.
Pottery
“Clay has a way of grounding people. You can’t rush it. It teaches patience, focus and confidence,” says Tanner Gerstberger of Dr. T Pottery in Fort Collins. “There’s something incredibly rewarding about turning a lump of clay into a finished piece you can hold.” He teaches pottery classes to all levels and is adding holiday-themed classes this fall and winter. The Clay Center of Northern Colorado in Greeley and the nonprofit NoCo Potters’ Guild in Fort Collins also offer classes for all levels. If you don’t want to start from scratch, paint-your-own pottery studios like Artisan You in Loveland supply ready-made, unfinished bisque pieces that they’ll glaze and fire for you after you’re done decorating them.
Fiber Arts
Knit yourself a new scarf for winter, or learn the ancient craft of weaving. Lambspun in Fort Collins offers one-day workshops and three-week classes
for all skill levels, including crochet, knitting, weaving, spinning and needle felting. One of the most popular classes is “Absolutely for Beginners Crochet,” where participants get all the basic help they need to learn. The store stocks all the necessities, like hand-dyed fine yarns and a comprehensive library of instruction books and patterns. The Loopy Ewe in Loveland, another fiber-focused store, also offers classes, plus regular “knitalongs” that foster a vibrant fiber arts community.
A Little Bit of Everything
Not sure what you want to learn to make? Blue Moose Art Gallery in Fort Collins offers a dizzying array of creative classes, from painting, pottery, and stained glass to felting, book-binding and jewelry-making. Makers Mercantile &
Studio in Greeley is a collective of curated arts and crafts vendors who often hold classes in fine arts, fiber arts, henna, paper crafts and more. The Loveland CreatorSpace has all the fancy equipment and tools artists and “tinkerers” need to complete their projects, and they also offer regular classes like Woodturning and Welding. A monthly fee allows members 24/7 access to the space, because you never know when the creative bug will hit.
Photos of artists working on their projects Courtesy/3 Square Art
Craig McKee putting touches on a painting Courtesy/Studio H
Upcoming Art Class Calendar
Please visit these websites for a more up to date and complete list of classes and events.
FORT COLLINS
Blue Moose Art Gallery, 4032 S. College Ave., bluemooseartgallery.com
l Sept. 4: Creative Space, 1 p.m.
l Sept. 6: Beginner Watercolor –Colorado Landscape Art Class, 1 p.m.
l Sept. 8: Nuno Scarf Art Class for Never Evers the “Striations Scarf,” 10 a.m.
l Sept. 11: Spinner Rings - Metalsmithing Art Class, 5 p.m.
l Sept. 13: Bezel Set JewelryMetalsmithing 102 Art Class, 2 p.m.
l Sept. 14: 102 Watercolor Class - Skies & Water (with a Blue Heron), 1 p.m.
l Sept. 15: Blooming Acrylics Art Class, 1:30 p.m.
l Sept. 17: Mandalas for Meditation Art Class, 1:30 p.m.
l Sept. 18: Gelli Printing Basics Art Class, 1 p.m.
l Sept. 21: Beaded & Wire Chain Bracelet Art Class, 2:30 p.m.
l Sept. 24: Inside-Out: Felting a Reversible Cowl Art Class, 10 a.m.
l Sept. 25: Private Honeycomb Stained Glass Art Class, 12:30 p.m.
l Sept. 27: Needle-felted Autumn Leaves Class, 10 a.m.
l Sept. 27: Rings, Rings, RingsMetalsmithing Art Class, 1 p.m.
l Sept. 28: Textured Glass Blossom Art Class, 1 p.m.
l Oct. 5-19: Three Part Art Class: Pine Needle Weaving, Beginning to End, 2 p.m.
Dr. T Pottery, 278 Sierra Vista Dr., drtpottery.com
l At any time you can book your custom private class or pottery class for 2 or more people online.
Lambspun, 1101 E. Lincoln Ave., lambspun.com
l Visit their website for a current list of classes and events.
l The current session of classes begins as early as August 26 and ends as late as October 16. Plan to visit their website at a later date to see the following class session details.
Studio H, 105 Coronado Ct., B-101, studioh.art
l Visit their website for a current list of classes and events.
GREELEY
Clay Center of Northern Colorado, 1024 6th Ave., claycenternc.com
l While their class schedule is currently sold out, please email them at theclaycenter@ gmail.com to join the waitlist or visit their website for more information.
Makers Mercantile, 824 9th St., A, makersmercantilestudio.com
l Sept. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 27: Splatter Spot by Makers
l Sept. 6: UV Resin Seascape, 10:30 a.m.
l Sept. 6: Welcome Fall Pick Your Project Workshop, 10:30 a.m.
l Sept. 6: Hey Boo-Happy Halloween, 10:30 a.m.
Showcase Art Center, 1335 8th Ave., showcaseartcenter.com
l Every Tuesday: Watercolor Step-by-Step, 1:30-4 p.m.
l Every Tuesday: Painting, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Every Wednesday: Acrylic/Oil, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Every Wednesday: Painting Step-by-Step, 1:30-4 p.m.
LOVELAND
Artisan You, 405 E. 7th St., loveartisanyou.com
l Visit their website for a current list of classes & events.
Gress Art Studio, 777 N. Jefferson Ave., gressartstudio.com
l Tuesdays: Youth Art Class, 4-5:30 p.m.
l Tuesdays: Adult Drawing & Painting, 6-8 p.m.
l Wednesdays: Adult Drawing & Painting, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Wednesdays: Youth Art Class, 4-5:30 p.m.
l Thursdays: Adult Drawing & Painting, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Thursdays: Teen Drawing & Painting Class, 5-7 p.m.
l Fridays: Adult Drawing, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Saturdays: Adult BEG/INT Watercolor Class, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
l Saturdays: Youth Class 9:30-11 a.m.
Loveland CreatorSpace, 320 N. Railroad Ave., lovelandcreatorspace.com
l Sept. 6 & Oct. 4: Monthly CAD Help for LCS Members, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Oct. 6, 13, 20: Introduction to Woodworking, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
The Loopy Ewe, 1605 N. Lincoln Ave., theloopyewe.com
l Sept. 6 & 20: My First Crochet Sweater “Granny Pop
Pullover-Crew or V-neck,” 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
l Sept. 13, 20, 27 & Oct. 1, 15, 29: Socks to Fit You!
l Sept. 24 & Oct. 8, 22: First Sweater, 6-8 p.m.
l Sept. 19 & Oct. 25: Fixing Mistakes in Knit, 3-5 p.m.
l Oct. 4, 11, 18 & Nov. 1, 8: Learn to Brioche Cowl, 3-5 p.m.
l Oct. 4, 11, 24, 31 & Nov. 8, 15: Learn to Knit
l Oct. 3, 10, 18, 25: Learn to Knit 2.0, Hat
Thompson Valley Art League (Lincoln Gallery), 429 N. Lincoln Ave., lincolngallery.com
l Sept. 9-11: Rule Breaking Watercolors
l Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29: Colorado Landscapes and Florals in Oil
l Sept. 21, 28: Back to Basics
l Oct. 5: The Butterfly Effect
l Oct. 26, 27: Watercolor Wax Batik
l Nov. 2: Winter is ComingFused Glass
l Nov. 23: Let’s DecorateFused Glass
FBy Sandi Squicquero
Turn a New Leaf: With Loss Comes Renewal
all is certainly a season of change, marked by a transformation of nature and a shift in human activities. Very soon we will be feeling an early chill in the air, hearing about snow in the mountains and even in the lower elevations of Colorado. We’re in the midst of losing the vibrant summer colors, while slowly putting away our luscious flower pots. However, in order to see flowers bud again in the spring, we must go through the dying process of fall. Is this not much
like the seasons of life? Loss is a part of everyone’s life, yet why is it so difficult for us? People react to loss differently; even minor losses can throw some of us off balance. Major losses are a different experience altogether. How we respond to loss is influenced by many factors: our individual personalities, coping styles, life experiences and our support systems. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross defined the five stages of grief and loss as denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression
All photos: Shutterstock
and acceptance. These stages do not happen concurrently. People move back and forth between them.
Similarly, loss is interrelated with survival. Types of survival include physical, socio-economic and spiritual, which I feel is the most important because it involves the issue of love. When love is taken away from us we feel a spiritual, deathlike feeling. But we’ve all heard the phrase “the calm after the storm.” A storm produces clouds, dark threatening skies, lightning and thunder. Then, out of nowhere, a rainbow appears with every array of color — a new beginning.
A door must close before another can open. For instance, when I say goodbye to my children after a visit I hear “Mom you have to leave so you can come back.” Pretty wise, don’t you think? It makes me feel better, somewhat.
When coping with loss,
realize that loss comes in all shapes and sizes. There is no timetable or marker for loss and grief. Some people feel a sense of peace and hope after a few weeks or months, while for others it may take years to feel such relief. Here are a few coping strategies:
l Talk about your loss and express your feelings. Allow for grief.
l Take care of yourself
physically and eat well.
l Maintain contact and stay connected to friends and family.
l Ask for and seek help.
l Exercise your body and mind. Keep a journal of your feelings.
l Have fun, read books or listen to uplifting music.
l Remember and appreciate the good times. Cherish the memories.
l Accept the reality of your loss.
l Focus and embrace the future to cultivate hope.
l Connect with your faith.
l Practice gratitude.
Renewal after a loss involves rebuilding, rediscovering yourself and who you are. Incorporate your loss into your life’s narrative by finding ways to honor the past by establishing new meaning and purpose in moving forward. As you find your new normal you will also find new ways to experience joy and connection.
As I look out the window at my petunias, I still see the red flower in bloom. A cardinal is sitting on the eve of our roof with a spiritual message just for me. The sky is gray, but in my mind’s eye I see the sun peeking out bright and yellow over the mountains. Already, I am looking towards spring and summer next year, yet knowing that fall soon has a joy all of its own — a time to nest.
FallBrews
Autumn Leaves & Steamy Steeps E
By Shelley Widhalm
very year countless people line up at their nearest Starbucks for the release of the beloved Pumpkin Spiced Latte. However, as more teahouses and cafés open along the Front Range, maybe it’s time to support your neighbor and try somewhere new to kick off the cozy season. Here are a few local tea spots to check out for their seasonal flavors, different offerings, fun events and all of the fall love.
Happy Lucky’s Tea
To start, Happy Lucky’s Tea House, 236 Walnut St., in Fort Collins, is offering a few fall teas. Don’t miss their longtime favorite, Harvest Moon, a cranberry-based tea with apples and hibiscus, or the Autumn Orchard, a pear and white apples tea with cinnamon.
Since October is also Chai Month, Happy Lucky’s will feature several of its chais, such as Mahatma Masala Chai, a black tea with cinnamon, clove, cardamom and ginger (pumpkin pie spices). There also will be a special boba tea in October called Adelaide’s Autumn Elixir.
“We don’t use flavor shots, which is different from other boba places. We make a concentrate of our teas and add boba to it,” said George Grossman, owner and chief leafster. Happy Lucky’s serves pure leaf teas and custom tea blends using plants, instead of processing to get its flavors.
Leafsters, or staff, can make recommendations based on flavor, aroma and well-being preferences. There’s no shortage of tea offerings on their Great Wall of Tea which includes nearly 200 looseleaf teas.
Boba Café
Another fun and relaxing at-
Celebrating the joyful truth that music is a universal language—one that connects hearts, cultures, and communities across the globe…rich flavors of song from many nations and traditions.
Friday, October 3rd - 7:30pm Saturday, October 4th - 3:00pm Rialto Theater, 228 E 4th St, Loveland, CO
A fall table at Avery’s Modern Teahouse Courtesy/Avery’s Modern Teahouse
The Great Wall of Tea. Courtesy/Happy Lucky’s Tea House
mosphere to enjoy the benefits of tea is at the Boba Café, 1421 E. Eisenhower Blvd., in Loveland, which specializes in boba tea and an assortment of other beverages.
“Our mission is to create a cozy atmosphere where friends and family can gather,” as stated on their website, bobacafeloveland.com.
Boba Café’s menu is extensive with 58 different drinks, all with high-quality ingredients and unique flavors. Offerings include milk tea, green tea, power juices and slushes with flavors like matcha, mango, passion fruit, avocado, chocolate and cappuccino. There also is a food menu with musubi, ramen and udon, among others.
Roots & Leaves Kava Bar
Roots & Leaves Kava Bar, which has five locations in Colorado and two in New Mexico, is another relaxing teashop focused on community. While their tagline is “Join the Sober Shift — Kava,
Teas and Togetherness,” the vibe is that of a speakeasy and there’s a full-sized bar serving kava.
For those unfamiliar with kava, it’s a type of tea made from the root of a kava plant. Their bar also features ethnobotanical teas, specialty teas, shots and handcrafted mocktails. The menu remains the same year-round, but during the fall, gourmet tea blends like apple cinnamon and banana nut are popular, as well as the apple cinnamon ethnobotanical tea.
“Tea is comfort in a cup,” said Nicole Carbone, vice-president of marketing for Roots & Leaves Kavas & Teas. “We’re more than a teahouse… we’re a bar-like setting, and we have a lounge area. Ours is about a fun vibe, everybody coming together as a community and forging relationships.” For entertainment, Kava Bar guests
are invited to monthly events, such as theme nights on Fridays, open mics and trivia nights.
Avery’s Modern Teahouse
Avery’s Modern Teahouse, 5685 McWhinney Blvd., in Loveland, also has a long list of teas and coffees but with a strong mission. According to their website, they are “a nonprofit coffee and tea house dedicated to serving exceptional beverages while fostering an inclusive community. Our vision is to provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.”
Served in a relaxing atmosphere in the private, semi-private and community areas, their tea offer-
ings include herbal detox, matcha latte, turmeric ginger and sunshine peach, while the coffee list has traditional lattes, cappuccinos, espressos and cold brews. They also have light bites and at-home teas sold in tins. Other drink options feature fall flavors like caramel apple cider and caramel apple chai. Here you’ll warm a bit of your tastebuds and heart!
J-Town Nutrition
Lastly, J-Town Nutrition, 21 S. Parish Ave., in Johnstown is described as a fun, friendly and healthy place that offers a juice bar, smoothies, coffee and tea. Visitors can stop by for breakfast or lunch to order a meal replacement shake or an energy tea. The shake flavors are fun like peanut butter and grape jelly or peppermint mocha café latte.
Whichever your preference, local teashops offer great menus, entertainment and fall flavors to add to the enjoyment of getting your favorite beverage.
A bustling front counter. Courtesy/Roots & Leaves Kava Bar
Avery’s front counter. Courtesy/Avery’s Modern Teahouse
SavorTheSeason
Lynn Bassett
A legacy of enriching lives through dance
Celeste Ewert A legacy of empowerment
Pam Hungenberg A legacy of the heart
Carlene Devries Irion A legacy of care
Madeline Milian A legacy of teaching
Terri Pappas A legacy of service to children
7 NOCO SPOTS SERVING UP Fall’s Sweetest Flavors
BY SHELLEY WIDHALM
Autumn is a brief season of delectable joy featuring flavors like pumpkin spice, apple crumble, pecan pie and all sorts of maple variations. Local bakeries, donut shops and ice cream stops are whipping up special recipes to offer these type flavors and kick off fall’s shorter days. Here’s our go-to list for a few favorite seasonal cravings.
Cinnamon Rolls — Cinnamon’s Bakery
Brian Goddard, co-owner of Cinnamon’s Bakery with his wife, Sarah. “Apples are something that are available in the fall when they’re in season. People look forward to it as it starts to cool down.”
Cinnamon’s is also bringing back its pumpkin spice cinnamon roll, offered the past two years at the Estes Park location. This year, you can grab the popular roll at the Loveland location too, which opened last December and offers breakfast strombolis.
Cinnamon’s Bakery, which has two locations in Loveland and Estes Park, specializes in cinnamon rolls and muffins. However, this year it’s rolling out an apple caramel cinnamon roll. Baker Raye Good developed the recipe at the Estes Park location, 920 W. Elkhorn Ave., for that and the Loveland Yards, 5673A McWhinney Blvd., location. Both
“The pumpkin works really well with the cinnamon roll filling and then a little pumpkin spice in the icing,” Goddard said. “We come in every day and start fresh, making sure we’re putting out the best product possible.”
locations also have a full espresso and coffee menu.
“It incorporates shaved apples, as well as a cinnamon roll filling, and we do a caramel icing,” said
Cruffins & Cookies — Gone Astray Goods
Fall flavors can also come in the form of the pumpkin cinnamon roll and pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies at Gone Astray Goods, 3838 Boxelder Drive, in Loveland. This bakery is a self-serve farm stand that offers artisan loaves and baked goods like cinnamon rolls, cruffins and cookies.
“There’s actual pumpkin in the dough, and it comes with cream cheese frosting,” said Stephanie Courville, owner of Gone Astray
S’mores donuts at Brown Butter Bakeshop. Courtesy/Brown Butter Bakeshop
Courtesy/Cinnamon’s Bakery
Goods, about the cinnamon rolls. “My cinnamon rolls aren’t too bready. I want them soft and gooey. I want more of the good stuff than the bread part.”
The pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies, which have powdered pumpkin and brown butter, also are soft and chewy, Courville said. “I change it weekly, so I use my creativity,” Courville said, adding that she may bring back the pumpkin streusel muffin and muffin cream cheese crumbles she offered last year. “Everyone is trying to get their hands on their favorites.”
S’mores & Cake — Brown Butter Bakeshop
Another fall treat comes in the form of s’mores and spices at the Brown Butter Bakeshop, 2936 Fractus St., in Timnath. This shop is a small-batch bakery specializing in custom cakes and fromscratch pastries that also has a coffee truck for events and private bookings.
“For fall, we’re focusing on incorporating nostalgic flavors and highlighting seasonal ingredients,” said Tina Peters, owner of Brown Butter Bakeshop. “Our signature S’mores Brioche Bun really shines, along with our Apple Caramel Bliss cake that celebrates Colorado’s amazing fall apples.”
New this year is the Chinese Five Spice Caramel Pecan Oat Bars, a blend of star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper and fennel seeds that together offer up sweet, spicy and warm notes. “The appeal lies in that balance of familiarity and surprise,” Peters said. “Our fall offerings tap into those comfort food memories we cherish, but with layers of complexity that make it interesting.”
Pie —
Buttermilk Bakery & Pie Shop
Pies are another fall favorite, like the apple, pumpkin and pecan pies offered at the Buttermilk Bakery & Pie Shop, 4212 S. College Ave., No. 101, in Fort Collins. The small bakery focuses on custom cakes, pies and baked goods using family recipes, local flours and fruits, and farmfresh eggs.
Apples & Candy —
Old Town Ice Cream & Treats
Another go-to fall favorite is caramel apples at places like Old Town Ice Cream & Treats, LLC, 114 S. College Ave., in Fort Collins — an ice cream, fine chocolate, fudge and candy shop.
SQUARE DANCING CLASSES & CLUBS Squar e Up in September!
JOHNSTOWN (2)
Bar n Owls
Bar nOwlsPlus@gmail.com
Foot and Fiddle
Footandfiddle0@gmail.com
GREELEY
Mer r y Mixers
Harr iet Simpson
D0sid0@msn.com
CHEYENNE
Prair ie Promenaders
Leo or Diana
307-635-7312
FORT COLLINS (2)
Ponderosa Promenaders
Dolores 970-223-3799
SquareDusters
Greg/Michele 970-217-3173
LARAMIE Quadra Dangle Quadradangle@gmail.com
The Bliss is an apple-spiced cake filled with salted caramel with a touch of coffee in the buttercream, and the bun is a buttery-soft brioche filled with dark chocolate pastry cream and topped with housemade vanilla marshmallow, chocolate glaze and a graham cracker crumb dusting.
“We offer a variety of flavors and toppings on our beautifully decorated fall caramel apples,” said Holli McElwee, owner of Old Town Ice Cream & Treats. “We make caramel multiple times a week and hand dip and handcraft each individual apple in our kitchen in Fort Collins, using the finest green Granny Smith apples.” The flavors for the apples include perfect caramel, pecan turtle, peanut turtle, apple pie caramel and s’mores.
Courtesy/Brown Butter Bakeshop
Courtesy/Old Town Ice Cream & Treats
Courtesy/Buttermilk Bakery & Pie Shop
Courtesy/Gone Astray Goods
Mountain and Plains Square Dance Council (303) 550-8570 | 220 Bobcat Drive, Milliken coloradosquaredance.com
• Mustang adoptions
• Training suppor t
• Adopter-par ticipating training program Help us change the story of American Mustangs in the West. A 501(c)3 in Wellington, CO info@wildrosemagic.org www.WildRoseMagic.org
• Youth trainer summer program
September is National Square Dancing Month! Learn to square dance, join one of the local clubs or visit one while traveling, compliments of the Mountains and Plains Square Dance Council. Established in 1960, the council supports dance clubs in northern Colorado, Southern Wyoming and Western Nebraska. Information on each club can be found on the above website address.
Local sales agent with local Medicare Advantage plans
Arte Pizzeria
(970) 669-9000 | 1467 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland artepizzeria.com
For two decades, Arte Pizzeria has been a favorite in Loveland, earning the title of “Best Pizza” year after year. This fast-casual pizzeria offers classic pies, by-the-slice lunch combos, pepperoni rolls, salads and desserts. But the heart of its menu lies in its gourmet, seasonal pizzas. Each specialty pie is crafted from scratch, using the freshest possible ingredients — often locally sourced. “We shred our own cheese, grind our own sauce, and our vegan dough goes through a long leavening process to make it easier to digest,” a representative said.
One standout favorite features an autumn blend of organic mushrooms from Hazel Dell Mushrooms, baby spinach, and imported crispy pancetta, all on a base of garlic cream sauce. “Umami Mia,” indeed.
Arte Pizzeria’s focus on freshness and creativity keeps longtime customers coming back, and the chefs have fun pushing culinary boundaries through their rotating seasonal selections.
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., this beloved pizza shop continues to offer something delicious for every taste—whether you’re craving a classic cheese slice or looking to explore a bold new seasonal creation.
2025 Topics & Speakers:
Session 1 - 9:30 am
• Social Security Updates – Kathr yn Hall
• Stay at Home with Rehab – Alissa Gould
• Getting Around Nor thern Colorado with RideNoCo – Tanya Trujillo-Mar tinez, Aaron Hull, Lisa Deaton
Session 2 - 10:30 am
• Top 10 Ways to Avoid Fraud
– Mark Fetterhof f
• Veteran & Spouse Benefits, Ser vices & Resources – Kevin Schlegel
• Panel: Aging in Place & Beyond: Navigating the Continuum of Care
– Tracy Mossman, Kate Spruiell, Lyndsey Burmeister, Ricky Anderson, & Haley Harrison
Keynote - 12:30 pm
Last Wills & Testaments, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney – Charles Connell
National
Elevations Above 9,500 Feet
Best Mid-September to Early October
- Guanella Pass
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Pikes Peak
Elevations From 7,000 to 9,000 Feet
Best Late September to mID-oCTOBER
- Georgetown + Silver Plume
- Lake Dillon, Frisco + Silverthorne
Elevations From 6,000 to 8,000 Feet
Best for Most of oCTOBER
- Central City + Idaho Springs
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park
- Evergreen
Elevations at 5,280 Feet
Best Early October to Mid-November
- Cherry Creek + Denver
Source: denver.org
Photos Courtesy/Shutterstock
THE ARTFUL GARDEN
Dr. Dawn Thilmany
Interim HLA Department Head Colorado State University
Dr. Alison O’Connor
Extension Professor of Horticulture in Larimer County
Kim Manajek
Executive Director The Gardens on Spring Creek
Madeline Bechtel
Graphic Designer City of Fort Collins
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY
Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
301 University Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80523-1173 Nutrien Building, Second Floor 970-491-7019 | hortla.agsci.colostate.edu
CSU EXTENSION IN LARIMER COUNTY
1525 Blue Spruce Dr., Fort Collins, CO 80524-2004 970-498-6000 | larimer.gov/extension
THE GARDENS ON SPRING CREEK CITY OF FORT COLLINS
2145 Centre Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80526 970-416-2486 | fcgov.com/gardens
PLEASE NOTE: If you are a gardener living in Weld County and needing help, visit www.WeldMasterGardeners.org or email the Weld Garden Help Desk directly at weldmastergardeners@outlook.com
As we close out our 2025 NoCo Bloom series, we’re ending on a note of serenity and creativity. In previous issues, we explored how gardening supports both physical and mental well-being—but its benefits don’t stop there. Your garden can also be a canvas for artistic expression. From mowing patterns and flowers ideal for drying to using natural elements for garden-inspired art, this issue invites you to tap into the transformative and imaginative
potential of your outdoor space. Thank you for following along with us this year. We hope you’ve gained knowledge and found inspiration in the pages of each issue.
Gardening is a source of connection, rejuvenation, beauty—and yes, sometimes frustration—but the journey is always worth it.
Preserving Your HARVEST
by Amber Webb, Family Consumer Sciences Extension Agent of Larimer County
Whether you are a beginning or experienced gardener, shopping the farmer’s market or visiting the region’s local farms stands, the seasonal bounty is upon us! With an abundance of fresh produce available, why not try preserving the harvest?
Learning how to preserve food can be a great skill to have to avoid food waste and to be able to utilize plenty. There are many delicious ways to preserve food, like freezing, dehydrating, pickling, fermenting and canning. And many types of fresh produce can be preserved in more than one way. For example, hot peppers can be great for canning or pickling, then used as a condiment. They can be dehydrated and ground, then used as chile flakes. Or, frozen roasted or blanched peppers make a delicious addition to chilis and soups. Having these ingredients in your freezer and pantry can spice up any meal and bring back the tastes of summer even in mid-winter.
The best way to determine which method is right for what you’ll be preserving is to have a safe, tested recipe and to know what equipment you’ll need to get started. A great place to find this information is through a website called Preserve Smart Colorado State University Extension. It was created to provide a trusted way to find and use tested food preservation recipes and instructions.
Just find the type of produce you want to preserve and safe detailed instructions are immediately available at your fingertips. It includes important considerations when choosing a preservation method and the steps you’ll need to take for a successful final product. For example:
events ‘n classes
COMMUNITY-WIDE RESOURCES
Grow and Give Program-Grow Food & Share The Harvest Colorado State University Extension, growgive.extension. (includes vegetable growing tips)
City of Loveland Farmers' Market Master Gardener Q&A Sept. 14, 700 S. Railroad Ave.., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Free, lovgov.org/services/parks-recreation/events/farmers-
Larimer County Colorado Master Gardener Q&A Booth at the Extension Office Every Tuesday and Thursday to Oct. 16, larimermg@gmail.com or 970-498-6000, 1525 Blue Spruce Drive, Fort Collins, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Free, LarimerExtension.org
Larimer County Colorado Master Gardener Q&A Booth at the Larimer County Farmers' Market Every Saturday to Oct. 25, 200 W. Oak Street, Fort Collins, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Free, LarimerCountyFM.org
Master Gardener Q&A Booth at Greeley Farmers' Market Every Saturday to Oct. 25, Union Pacific Depot, 902 7th Ave., Greeley, 8 a.m.–noon, Free, greeleygov.com/activities/fm
Town of Berthoud Farmers' Market Master Gardener Q&A Booth Sept. 20, 200 N. 7th St., 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Free, berthoud.org/1430/The-Berthoud-Market
Weld County Master Gardeners Help Desk Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday until Oct. 31, Walk-ins
events n' classes
Nov. 12 » Basics of Tree Pruning: Keeping Your Urban Trees Healthy! Presented by Rachel Durkan from CSU Extension, noon–1 p.m., Free, registration required, planttalk.colostate.edu/webinars
Dec. 10 » Mindfulness in Nature: A Garden and Nature-Based Pilot Project Presented by Jennifer Cook from Gilpin County Extension, noon–1 p.m., Free, registration required, planttalk.colostate.edu/webinars
FORT COLLINS
Larimer County Farmers' Market
Every Saturday to Oct. 25, 200 W. Oak Street, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Free admission, larimercountyfm.org
Sept. 8 » Garden to Fork Rich and Robust Roots
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 5:30–8 p.m., $80, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 9 » Garden to Fork Rich and Robust Roots
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 5:30–8 p.m., $80, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 10 » Xeriscape Bike Tour South Fort Collins, Meet at Twin Silos Park, 5–7 p.m., Free, sign up on website required, fcgov.com/utilities/water-conservation-events
Sept. 10 » Garden to Fork Rich and Robust Roots
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 5:30–8 p.m., $80, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 11 » Daniel Rodriguez Concert (Benefit for The Matthews House) Fort Collins Nursery, 2121 E. Mulberry St., 6:30–8:30 p.m., $25ADV/$30 Door/ Kids 12 & Under Free, fortcollinsnursery.com
Sept. 15 » Garden to Fork Brassicas: Brilliant and Bright
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 5:30–8 p.m., $80, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 16 » Garden to Fork Brassicas: Brilliant and Bright
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 5:30–8 p.m., $80, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 17 » Garden to Fork Brassicas: Brilliant and Bright
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 5:30–8 p.m., $80, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 20 » Tai Chi The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 8–9 a.m., $15, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 27 » Tai Chi The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 8–9 a.m., $15, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 27 » Yoga in the Gardens: Hatha Yoga
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:15–10 a.m., $15, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 27 » Exploring the Seasons with Meditation & Breathwork: Fall Equinox Workshop The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30–11 a.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 5)
LAWN AND ORDER: The Art of Turfgrass Lines
In loving memory of Dr. Tony Koski, CSU Turfgrass Specialist. In turf we trust.
Have you ever been enjoying a ball game at Coors Field and wondered, “How do the groundskeepers get the lines in the grass? How are they so straight? Why are they different colors?” Those lines, stripes, or lasers as some industry folk might call them, have fascinated spectators through the years, and they hold a fascinating amount of science and artistry behind them.
Turfgrass striping relies primarily on the species used and pressure applied while mowing or rolling. Stripes are created in the turf because of contrast between the upper and lower leaf surface. This contrast may be based on color, texture, or sheen differences that are unique to the turf species and conditions like drought or sun exposure.
All species possess some striping potential, so worry less about burning in the most brilliant stripes and more on the right species for your climate and available resources—primarily water, temperature, and sunlight.
The other component of stripes is the addition of pressure. This is commonly delivered through rollers attached to the rear of mowers.
These rollers bend the grass blades over in the direction of travel thus creating a stripe the width of the roller. Commercial mowers generally come with rollers attached, but traditional homeowner mowers can be easily modified with aftermarket striping kits.
Mowing a straight line is a critical skill for creating patterns in the lawn. Athletic fields have the advantage of being level, but good technique will go a long way over any terrain. Start by aligning yourself and the mower on the path of your first stripe. Find a fixed point at eye level in the distance that aligns perfectly with the center of your stripe. Let your eyes guide your body and focus on your point through the entire stripe. Rinse and repeat through the lawn, being sure to properly overlap and you’ll have beautiful, laser-straight stripes in no time.
Although the premier species for striping may be disputed, it is very difficult to top the cool season perennial ryegrass. The underside of the perennial ryegrass leaf is extraordinarily glossy and reflects large amounts of sunlight when laid down.
by Tony Koski, Extension Turfgrass Specialist, CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
by Max Nikkari, Graduate Student in the CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
Colorado’s Native Butterflies: LOCAL STARS OF THE BUTTERFLY HOUSE
When visiting The Gardens on Spring Creek Butterfly House, you’re stepping into a vibrant display of Colorado’s native pollinators, many of which are struggling to survive in the wild. While tropical butterflies often steal the spotlight, our local species are equally dazzling—and critically important to our ecosystems.
We’re shining a spotlight on just a few of Colorado’s native butterflies that also call our Butterfly House home. These butterflies are more than just beautiful—they're vital pollinators, indicators of ecosystem health, and a reminder of the natural treasures found right in our own backyards.
Native Butterflies in the House
MONARCH (Danaus plexippus)
Famous for their epic migration, monarchs rely on milkweed not just for nectar, but as the sole host plant for their caterpillars. Without milkweed, there are no monarchs.
PAINTED LADY (Vanessa cardui)
With soft orange and black patterns, the painted lady is a frequent visitor to thistles, red clover, and other so-called "weeds" that are vital nectar sources. A generalist feeder, it’s adaptable, yet still affected by habitat loss.
COMMON BUCKEYE (Junonia coenia)
Known for its striking eyespots, the buckeye prefers open, sunny areas with access to native host plants like plantain and snapdragons. You might spot them basking in the Butterfly House, soaking in the warmth.
MOURNING CLOAK (Nymphalis antiopa)
These early-season fliers overwinter as adults and are often seen before spring flowers even bloom. Their caterpillars feed on native trees like willow and elm— reminding us that butterflies don’t just rely on flowers, but on entire plant communities.
While many associate butterflies with nectar, not all flowers are created equal. Native butterflies have evolved to prefer specific, native nectar sources—like asters, thistles, and milkweed.
These plants are often labeled as “weeds,” but they’re some of the most beneficial nectar providers around.
In fact, butterflies also rely on non-nectar sources: tree sap, rotting fruit, and even moist soil or mud for minerals. Creating a successful butterfly garden means thinking beyond the bloom—offering shelter, moisture, and host plants for every stage of their life cycle.
Urbanization & Habitat Loss
Urbanization is one of the greatest threats to local butterfly populations. As more native habitat disappears under pavement and lawns, butterflies lose the plants they need to survive. That’s why it’s so important to recreate native ecosystems in our own gardens, parks, and community spaces.
events ‘n classes
Sept. 27 » Embodied Climate Action Workshops
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 1:30–3:30 p.m., $10, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Sept. 27 » Forest Bathing The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 1:30–3:30 p.m., $30, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Oct. 11 » Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and Fall Jamboree
Fort Collins Nursery, 2121 E. Mulberry St., 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Free Event, fortcollinsnursery.com
Gnocchi Making Workshop
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 4–7 p.m., $60, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
» Garden Design Class
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30–11:30 a.m., $35, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
CSU Extension: Pressure Canning Larimer County Extension Office, 1525 Blue Spruce Dr., 12:30–3:30 p.m., $25, registration available on website, larimer.gov/ foodpreservation
Watercolor Journali,ng: Fall Gardens
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., $70, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Oct. 18 » Mindfulness: An Approach to Life
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 1–3 p.m., $25, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Oct. 18 » Dia de Muertos Family Memory Workshop
By planting host plants, you can support specific butterfly species right at home. Want Monarchs? Plant milkweed. Love Swallowtails? Try plants in the carrot family, like golden alexanders, or related kitchen herbs like parsley or fennel. Every native plant you add brings us one step closer to reversing habitat loss.
Learn & See More
These are just a few of the native butterflies you can find in Colorado and right here in The Gardens on Spring Creek Butterfly House. To explore more about conserving our local species, the Colorado Butterfly Monitoring Network (CBMN) is a great way for butterfly lovers, citizen scientists, and conservationists alike to become more involved in learning about and monitoring butterflies in Colorado.
by Kyla Flatley and Brionna McCumber
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 1:30–3:30 p.m., fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Oct. 24 » CSU Extension: Sauerkraut & Fermented
Vegetables Larimer County Extension Office, 1525 Blue Spruce Dr., 12:30–3:30 p.m., $25, registration available on website, larimer.gov/foodpreservation
Nov. 8, A Bee Bit of Sweetness Honey Tasting
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9 a.m.–noon, $40, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Nov. 8 » Find Your Balance Insight + Sound Workshop
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30 a.m.–noon, $55, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Nov. 8 » Fresh New Garden Myths-The Science Behind Why
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 1:30–3:30 p.m., $23, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Nov. 8 » Garden to Glass Mocktails
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 2–3 p.m., $35, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., $70, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Nov. 15 » Holiday Plants: Winter's Bright Spot
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 12:30–2 p.m., $10, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 8)
• Mortar
• Sifter
• Small
• Water
• Paint
SAFETY: When foraging mindful of areas that If using protect clean
Natural Pigments: Making Your Own Paint
The color spectrum found in nature is rich and diverse. A forest is not all one color and every rose on a single bush has a slightly different hue. When we think about color we might consider using paints, pencils, or oils; all these mediums rely on pigments.
Anything that produces a color can be called a pigment and may be used in paint, ink, fabric, food, and other materials. Most pigments are ground into a fine powder then added to a binder like glue, milk, egg, or gum Arabic. Natural pigments, which have been used throughout history, come from a variety of sources, including berries, bugs, plants and minerals. Note: Natural pigments are sometimes not light-fast, and often not as permanent as man-made pigments.
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
• Mortar and pestle
• Sifter or small screen
• Small bowls
• Water
• Paint brushes
SAFETY:
When foraging for earth pigments, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid areas that may have chemicals or prohibit harvesting.
If using materials that could stain, wear gloves and protect your workspace. clean it thoroughly, especially if it's also used for food preparation.
by Ashley Kreuger, Education and Community Engagement Coordinator, Education Lead Specialist at The Gardens on Spring Creek
events ‘n classes
Nov. 15 » Embodied Climate Action Workshops
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 1:30–3:30 p.m., $10, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Nov. 16 » NoCo Native Seed Swap
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Free event, Seed donations encouraged, vhub.at/noconative
Nov. 22 » Tree Pruning
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30–11:30 a.m., $23, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Nov. 22 » Bioactive Terrarium Workshop
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., noon–1:30 p.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 4 » Private Wreath Making Classes
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30–11:30 a.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 4 » Private Wreath Making Classes
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 12:30–2:30 p.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 5, Private Wreath Making Classes
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30–11:30 a.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 5 » Private Wreath Making Classes
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 12:30–2:30 pm, $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 6 » Holiday Wreath Making
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9–11 a.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 6 » Holiday Wreath Making
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., noon–2 p.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 7 » Family Holiday Wreath Making
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 9:30–11:30 a.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes
Dec. 7 » Family Holiday Wreath Making
The Gardens on Spring Creek, 2145 Centre Ave., 12:30–2:30 p.m., $50, fcgov.com/gardens/adult-classes GREELY
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 180+ species of native plants available, Order online, pickup in person, suburbitat.org
Sept. 12–14 » Wild Wonderful Weekend Festival Centerra, Celebrate sustainability and nature! Anniversary of NWF Wildlife Habitat Certification, All-day, centerra.com/wild-wonderful-weekend
(CONTINUED ON PAGE 9)
8 | NoCo Bloom
FROM
Fresh to Forever:
TIPS & TRICKS FOR DRYING FLOWERS
“We live in the perfect climate for dried flowers,” Christa said as we entered her studio, where a rainbow of flowers lined the walls. Christa Bletcher is a flower farmer at Native Hill Farm and owns Blue Llama Designs, an outlet for all things creative for her and her husband Billy. Six years ago, she started at Native Hill as a working member, and soon after took on managing the flower team that is supported by twenty working members. “Being a working member is a great way that people can connect with their community, get themselves outside and get in the dirt. Working members help with harvesting, making bouquets, and making dried flower wreaths in exchange for credit in the farm store,” she says.
Christa and I sat down to talk about her favorite flowers for drying and to get some tips on how to harvest, dry and use the flowers. There are so many ways to get creative with dried flowers and it’s a great way to enjoy your garden through the winter. You can make garlands, wreaths, bouquets and even hair combs. Christa offers flower design workshops throughout the year at Native Hill.
The optimal time to dry a flower is the same time that it looks best when fresh. If you wait till it’s past its prime the petals or seedheads may shed. Some flowers, like strawflower, will continue to open as they dry. Once flowers are ready, harvest them early in the morning when they are hydrated. Flowers can be tied in bunches and hung upside down to dry
in a space that is warm, dry, dark, and has good ventilation. If flowers are exposed to too much light while drying, the flowers can fade.
Some flowers like peonies and zinnias will have a more open bloom when dried right side up. You can prop flowers upright by poking the stem through a piece of cardboard. If you are interested in learning how to design with flowers at one of Christa’s community workshops, keep an eye on events at Native Hill Farm (nativehillfarm. com) and Blue Llama Design (instagram. com/bluellamadesigns).
WHEN IT COMES TO GROWING FLOWERS TO DRY, HERE ARE SOME OF CHRISTA’S RECOMMENDATIONS:
Flowers add color, form and texture to dried flower arrangements.
Peonies (Paeonia sp.) are a big focal flower, and they make a statement. Peonies are low water, grow well in part shade and are perennials. They are a commitment though, as you should wait 2-3 years before harvesting flowers. You can pick your own peonies locally at Garden Sweet each spring.
Strawflowers (Xerochrysum bracteatum) are a no-brainer. They are easy to dry and bright, with a variety of colors to choose from. If you want larger blooms look for the ‘King Size Red’ and ‘Swiss Giant’ varieties.
Marigolds (Tagetes sp.): There are 100 reasons to love them! They are extremely versatile. Fresh strung on a garland, they have a magnificent scent. They can be used to dye textiles, their fragrance repels pests in the garden, and they are edible.
events ‘n classes
Sept. 12 » (Wild Wonderful Weekend) Nature Art Show
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., All-day, suburbitat.org/events
Sept. 12 » (Wild Wonderful Weekend) Garden Party for Lakes at Centerra Residents High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 6 p.m., suburbitat.org/events
Sept. 13 » (Wild Wonderful Weekend) Wild Zone Promenade Shops @Centerra, Family fun, sustainability, education, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., centerra.com/wild-wonderful-weekend
Sept. 13 » Chapungu Garden Tour Chapungu Sculpture Park, 6105 Sky Pond Dr., 10 a.m.–noon, Donation, suburbitat.org
Sept. 13 » Gardening for Wildlife Class
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 2 p.m., Donation, suburbitat.org/events
Zinnias (Zinnia elegans) are another great focal flower for wreaths, bouquets, and hair clips. They come in every color imaginable including lime green.
Yarrow (Achillea sp.) is native, easy to grow, low water and productive. There are a lot of colors, it smells great, and it adds bulk to arrangements.
Flax ‘Bubble Grass’ (Linum usitatissimum) makes a great textural addition to bouquets.
Showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) seed pods add a unique shape to wreaths. These plants are also larval hosts for monarchs and require little water once established.
Lilacs (Syringa sp.) add a rich purple color, and the elongated linear bloom looks great in wreaths. It’s a perennial, low water, and easy to find.
Grasses can add texture, movement and an airy dynamic to floral arrangements. You can utilize the seedheads from bunch grasses found in your home landscape.
Silvergrass (Miscanthus sp.) has a feathery plume that adds texture.
Frosted explosion grass (Panicum elegans) is very productive and a great filler flower.
Blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) has delicate, eyelash-like seedheads and is a native, low water grass.
Feathertop (Pennisetum villosum) has large, fluffy plumes that sway elegantly.
Northern sea oats (Chasmanthium latifolium) display dangling seed heads that add movement to bouquets. And it grows well in shade!
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 11 a.m., suburbitat.org/events
Sept. 27 » Guided Birding Walk Chapungu Sculpture Park, 6105 Sky Pond Dr., 9–11 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org
Oct. 4, Bird Banding & Bird Walk
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 9 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org/events
Oct. 5 » Wellness Retreat with Dr. Rochelle Calvert
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., Somatic healing, nature therapy, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., drrochellecalvert.com
Oct. 18 » Native American Powwow with the Iron Family
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 11 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org/events
Nov. 1 » Bird Banding & Bird Walk
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 9 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org/events
Nov. 8 » Guided Interpretive Walk with Restoration Ecologists High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 10 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org
Nov. 13 » Guided Interpretive Walk with Restoration Ecologists High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 10 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org
Nov. 22 » Guided Birding Walk Chapungu Sculpture Park 6105 Sky Pond Dr., 9 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org
Dec. 6 » Bird Banding & Bird Walk
High Plains Environmental Center, 2698 Bluestem Willow Dr., 9 a.m., Donation, suburbitat.org/events
Compiled by Kathleen Atkins, CSU Extension Master Gardener
Event information is welcome at nocobloomevents@gmail.com
by Alison O’Connor, horticulture specialist, CSU Extension in Larimer County
REPOTTING HOUSEPLANTS:
THE BASICS OF REPOTTING ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Gather your supplies. You’ll need potting media, gloves, a pair of pruners or scissors, and the plant’s new pot (A).
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Do you have houseplants that need to be watered more often than others? Have you owned houseplants for years, but they are still in the original pot? If you answered yes to either of these questions, repotting can be beneficial.
I’ve repotted many houseplants over the years, but none made me more nervous than a rope hoya (Hoya carnosa) that was my grandma’s. I had owned it for about 20 years, and she had it for decades prior. It was in a tiny clay pot and so unhappy that repotting was the only solution. Fortunately, the repotting effort went well and the hoya has put on new growth and leaves. [Sigh of relief.]
SHOULD YOU FERTILIZE? You can add a slow-release fertilizer at potting. But wait to fertilize with your watering regime until you start seeing new growth. As we go into winter, plant growth will decrease, so consider using a half-rate of fertilizer.
10 | NoCo Bloom
If possible, gently pull the plant out of its existing pot and look for circling or matted roots. Now, some plants like to be rootbound, like spider plants, so do some research before proceeding.
Aim to increase the original pot size by only one or two sizes. Too big of a pot can result in overwatering, and it will take awhile for the plant to grow into the excess space. Your new pot must have drainage holes. If it doesn’t, then consider inserting a pot with drainage into the outer pot (B,C).
Moisten your potting media if it’s dry or dusty. Dusty media can be hard to water once it’s around the plant and may create dry pockets. The potting media should stick together slightly when squeezed.
Gently pull the plant out of its original pot. If it’s in a clay pot, you might need to break it and pull the pieces away from the root ball. Using your pruning shears or scissors, cut through the circling roots on the root ball and gently pry the roots apart. Go slowly and be deliberate with this step, as you don’t want to break apart the roots too much (D).
Place some of the moistened potting media in the bottom of the new pot and then press the plant on top and fill in the sides with potting media. Gently push down on the media and the root ball to secure the plant. Repot the plant at the same height it was in the previous pot.
Add more media, but don’t fill it all the way to the top of the pot. When you water, you might wash out the potting media (E).
Water to settle the potting media. You might need to do this a couple of times (F).
Take the opportunity to wipe down the dusty leaves!
Place your plant back where it was growing. It might take a few weeks for the plant to flourish in its new pot. Be sure to monitor how much water you’re giving it.
A C D E F B
WAIT
Save your fall cleanup for spring. Leave spent plant material like flower stalks and dried ornamental grasses to provide food for birds and shelter
PREP
Aerate to improve lawn health and reduce maintenance by helping air and water reach the root system. Mulch fallen leaves into the lawn for to
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SEPTEMBER 6
upcoming noco events
3rd Annual Fiesta in the Plaza Weld County is celebrating 125 years of Mexican American Heritage with snacks, release of the new MAHPG book, live entertainment, and activities and demonstrations like tortilla making, shared stories and blacksmithing. | 3-6 p.m. | greeleyco.gov | Centennial Village Museum, 1475 A St., Greeley
SEPTEMBER 7
Honey Festival
This will be absolutely dripping with honey vendors, mead tastings, opportunities to observe beehives, live music, and plenty of beeswax and bee-themed products. Kids can look forward to a mini climbing wall, yard games, a Busy Bee Kids Zone, and a Honey Bee Hustle. Who will run the fastest or as many one-mile loops in 1.5 hours? Winners will be awarded! | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | lovgov.org | Fairgrounds Park, 700 S. Railroad Ave., Loveland
SEPTEMBER 12-NOVEMBER 1
9th Annual Square Foot Art Sale & Fundraiser
Artists and art lovers are invited to help support future exhibitions and artist development yearround for the largest nonprofit studio artist community in NoCo,
the Artworks Center for Contemporary Art. All artwork for sale and proceeds at this event will be donated toward this fundraiser. | artworksloveland.org | Artworks Center for Contemporary Art, 310 N. Railroad Ave., Loveland
SEPTEMBER 12-14
Wild Wonderful Weekend at Centerra
Get down with your wild self amongst Colorado’s first Certified Community Wildlife Habitat. Activities will include food, fun, and the opportunity to explore the parks, trails, and gardens of Centerra with the community. Cheers to mother nature! centerra.com | Promenade Shops at Centerra, 5971 Sky Pond Drive, Loveland
SEPTEMBER 13
Loveland Chocolate & Cheese Fest
Sample your heart out and shop from the best local, regional and national chocolatiers and cheesemakers at this one of a kind event! VIP tickets will get you additional Taste Tickets, exclusive treats, a take-home bag for leftovers, front row seating, and the opportunity to bypass the long lines. | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | cochocolatefests.com | The Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland
SEPTEMBER 13
15th Annual Pastels on 5th St. Internationally renowned artists gather here with their chalk in tow to highlight Loveland’s distinguished art community. Watch the pathways come alive amongst live music, food, artisan booths and a children’s art area. Pastels was founded to benefit the Alternatives to Violence cause, which provides shelter, advocacy, education and resources for people impacted by violence, assault and trafficking. | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | pastelson5th.org | Downtown Loveland, 5th St.-Lincoln & Cleveland Ave.
SEPTEMBER 20-21
The Great Colorado Air Show
Ooh and ahh as the United States Air Force Thunderbirds perform acrobatic wonders throughout the sky. Other high-speed acts will include the West Coast Rhino Demo Team, Red Thunder Airshows, Vertigo Airshows, Wings of Blue, Free Man Airshows and a Mini Jet Airshow. With great teamwork, this lineup is sure to provide a memorable day of aviation for all. | 5 p.m. | greatcoloradoairshow.com | Northern Colorado Regional Airport, 4900 Earhart Rd., Loveland
SEPTEMBER 20
Rope for Hope
Come alongside those in crisis by helping raise funds for those at the House of Neighborly Service and the programs they develop. Contribute by signing up to rappel down the parking garage of The Foundry, become a sponsor or play in the cornhole tournament. Your rope of hope gives others the tools to come through circumstance with dignity and better resources. | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | honservice.org | The Foundry Downtown Loveland, 270 N. Cleveland Ave., Loveland
SEPTEMBER 24
Spotlight Speaker Series
What a lineup for this week’s four change-making thought leaders at this inaugural event. You’ll leave feeling inspired after hearing from NYT bestselling author and leading TED Talk-er Amy Cuddy, NYT bestselling author and former U.S. Navy SEAL Leif Babin, former NFL player Rhodes Scholar, Harvard neurosurgeon Dr. Myron Rolle, and hero pilot Ambassador ’Sully’ Sullenberger. | 7-8:30 p.m. | spotlightspeakerseries.com | Aims Community College, Miller Auditorium, 4901 W. 20th St., Greeley
SEPTEMBER 24-28
Gotta Get to Greeley Weekend
All weekend long Greeley will be packed with big events and there’s truly something for everyone! To start, there’s the Aims Spotlight Speaker Series, previously mentioned in this calendar. Next is the 2025 World Long Drive Championship at Bigfoot Turf Farms and the Downtown Greeley Oktobrewfest. On Saturday, you can join in The Great Aardvark Embark, the Greeley Farmers’ Market, and the UNC Homecoming Game. Lastly, the Union Pacific 4014 Big Boy may even make a whistle stop. | visitgreeley.com | Greeley
SEPTEMBER 25
End of Summer Cajun Fish Fry Little Latitudes Cajun Street Food will be providing a feast of crispy but tender delight, complete with all the fixings, potato salad and cornbread. Space is limited, so be sure to purchase your ticket! Tickets are $39.99 | 6-9 p.m. | deskchairworkspace.com | desk chair workspace
OCTOBER 2
Weld Senior
This informative event is focused
on helping seniors and those related in navigating legal issues and providing area resources. Topics discussed will include social security updates, rehab at home, getting around northern Colorado with RideNoCo, 10 ways to avoid fraud, veteran and spouse benefits, navigating the continuum of care, and wills, trusts, etc. | 9:30 a.m. | weldseniorsymposium.org | Island Grove, 425 N. 15th Ave., Greeley
OCTOBER 3-4
A World of Song
The Loveland Choral Society used their gift of song to create a performance to unite the world. Through global melodies, cultural rhythms and harmonies from varying nations, each piece celebrates our universal music treasures. Have the opportunity to hear the beauty of connected communities. | lovelandchoralsociety.org | Rialto Theater Center, 228 E. 4th St., Loveland
OCTOBER 10-12 & 18-19
17th Annual Art Studio Tour
Support Loveland artists by attending this non-profit event. This is a great opportunity to stroll through the open galleries, peruse talent, check out workspaces, learn about artists and even purchase pieces for your home. You’ll get to see everyone from potters to multi-media artists performing demos. Maps of the complete exhibition will be available at the Loveland Museum. | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | lovelandcreates.org | Loveland Creative District
OCTOBER 11-12
4th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival
As we head into the cooler months, explore nearly 100 booths here including fine artists, handmade gifts, home decor, food, clothing, and more. Admission is $7 but kids, parking and veterans are FREE. Starts 9:30 a.m. | applewoodfestivals.com | The Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland
September Fall NoCo Festivals
SEPTEMBER 13
Johnstown Fall Fest
Celebrate the start of the season with the rest of the Johnstown community by enjoying food trucks, a live DJ, decorating pumpkins, a beer garden, participating in a cornhole tournament, and more fall family fun! | 1-5 p.m. | visitdowntownjohnstown. com | Downtown Johnstown
SEPTEMBER 13
Timnath Fall Festival
Help raise money for the Children’s Speech & Reading Center by joining in on this day of fall fun including an artisan market, live music, local beer, food trucks and much more! | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | timnath.org | Timnath
SEPTEMBER 20
Downtown Loveland Oktoberfest
Raise a pint and shake off the lederhosen for this event featuring live music, games, vendors, food and of course, an overflow of craft beer. Prost! | 12-8 p.m. | lovelandaleworks.com | Loveland Aleworks, 118 W. 4th St., Loveland
SEPTEMBER 26-27
Downtown Greeley Oktobrewfest
Kick off your Friday night with eight breweries, a stein-hoisting competition, dancing to live music, and brats, pretzels and BBQ. Bring the kids Saturday for face painting, balloons and pumpkin decorating. | greeleydowntown. com | Lincoln Park, between 8th and 9th Street, Greeley
