Involve
out the list of suggestions for
SCOTT TITTERINGTON
Kindness rocks
I was out for a run early one morning at Riverbend Ponds when I came across a painting wrapped in plastic sitting next to the shore of one of the lakes. It was a watercolor painted from that exact location, and it had this message attached to it:
This is abandoned art. Please take it if it brings you joy!
It’s an original watercolor painting depicting this beautiful Riverbend Ponds scene. The purpose of abandoned art is to bring joy to some unsuspecting finder…maybe YOU!
It did bring me joy, so I took it, and now it is framed and hanging in my living room. Whenever I look at it, I’m reminded both of the ponds and of the generosity of someone creating a beautiful piece of art and then abandoning it for some anonymous finder.
Just being on the receiving end of that kindness inspires me to be less attached and more giving. Katie Harris has an excellent story about fostering the giving spirit in our families. She takes a practical approach with ideas for different age groups of children. One idea she presents for younger kids is to paint rocks with uplifting messages and ideas for good deeds and then hide them around the community.
I’ve noticed that when someone does something nice for me, it puts me in a more positive frame of mind. I’ve also noted that when I do something for someone else, it puts me in an even more positive frame of mind. So kindness and generosity are truly the gifts that keep on giving.
It’s like a pebble tossed into a pond, maybe a Riverbend Pond say, and the ripples made by that pebble lap against distant shores. When you commit an act of kindness, you just don’t know what that might inspire in someone else.
The other day I was backing out from a parking spot downtown and another driver stopped so that I could continue. I thought, “I bet they’re going to be psyched to get this great parking spot.” And then they drove on by. They had actually committed a small kindness by allowing room for me to back out. And that in turn made me feel more patient and generous as I continued to drive. I’m rarely in such a hurry that I can’t be a kind driver. I just have to be reminded.
Anyway, it’s Thanksgiving month and I hope that you have as much to be thankful for as I do. I try to remember that it’s nice to do grand gestures of kindness, absolutely. It’s also important to carry a kind and generous mindset toward all people as much as we possibly can. It makes their lives and our lives more joyful.
Thank you for reading,
Scott
NOVEMBER 2025 • Volume 30, Issue 6
PUBLISHER
Scott Titterington, (970)221-9210
scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com
EDITOR
Kristin Titterington, (970)221-9210
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Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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Rocky Mountain Parent magazine is published monthly by Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this paper does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2025 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNER:
Curb the sugar during the holidays
THE HOLIDAYS ARE FULL OF sparkle, family, and (let’s admit it) lots of sweet treats. Sometimes the flood of cookies, candies, pies, and sugary drinks can derail healthy habits and leave you feeling sluggish or guilty by January. The good news: you don’t have to skip all the fun and some edible treats can be easily replaced with family time outside. With a few thoughtful swaps, mindful habits, and family-friendly adventures, you can still celebrate—and feel good. Below are three strategies you can adopt during the holidays to ease up on sugar, keep your body moving, and savor the togetherness that makes the season special.
Outdoor activities with guests
Reimagine dessert: flavor over sweetness
One of the easiest ways to cut sugar is to shift your focus from “how sweet?” to “how flavorful?” Registered dietitians from The Youth Clinic in Fort Collins encourage using spices, citrus zest, and extracts instead of sugar for punch. For example, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and orange peel can bring richness to cakes, muffins, and compotes, meaning you can reduce added sugar by 20–30 percent without losing appeal (https://youthclinic. com/healthy-baking-tips/).
Also, UCHealth’s Northern Colorado dietitian Kimberly Jordan suggests tweaking recipes and sampling smaller portions: “Enjoy the favorites without going overboard” (https://www.uchealth.org/today/healthy-changes-to-holidaymeals/). Jordan challenges readers to try desserts based on fruit (like baked apples with a dash of maple syrup) or dark chocolate (higher in flavor, lower in sugar) to satisfy your sweet tooth more efficiently.
When loved ones or old friends visit, invite them outdoors—Northern Colorado is full of surprises that make memorable hosting. In Windsor, take guests down to Windsor Lake (https:// recreationliveshere.com/206/WindsorLake/) to stroll the 2.25-mile loop path, rent non-motorized boats, or cast a line for fishing. The town also runs Trailhead Trunk programs in Eastman Park, letting visitors touch real wildlife artifacts (like a beaver pelt or snake skeleton) while walking Windsor’s open space trails (https://www.recreationliveshere. com/284/Outdoor-Activities/).
In Greeley, you can show guests the Poudre River Trail, 21 miles of scenic riverfront biking and walking with wildlife views. For a gentler pace, head to Island Grove Park for gardens, picnic spots, and easy walking paths or a visit to the Colorado Model Railroad Museum in Greeley to balance nature with local culture (https://www. visitgreeley.com/ blog/post/familyactivities/).
Fit in some rest and quiet time
The holiday season often feels like a joyful blur—full of parties, shopping, travel, and family gatherings—but all that hustle can quickly drain even the most energetic parents and caregivers. Fitting in rest and quiet time isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for maintaining balance and emotional health. According to mental health experts at Banner Health in Northern Colorado, periods of rest help regulate mood, lower stress hormones, and prevent burnout. Taking short, intentional breaks—even 10 minutes of
quiet coffee, a walk outside, or reading before bed—allows your brain to reset and your patience to recharge.
Mindfulness coach Lori Brown of Fort Collins suggests treating rest as a “non-negotiable appointment” on your calendar (https://www. drloribrowncounselling.ca/). Whether it’s a family “quiet hour,” a digital break, or a nap after a big meal, giving yourself permission to pause helps you show up more present, joyful, and connected throughout the season.
Family day at the museum
AS THE WEATHER TURNS COLDER, it takes a little more creativity and planning to design a day that keeps kids engaged and happily tired by bedtime. Luckily, Northern Colorado’s family-friendly museums make it easy. Packed with hands-on exhibits, imaginative play zones and opportunities to learn through exploration, these museums are perfect destinations for a fun-filled day indoors.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
2001 Colorado Blvd. Denver
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
408 Mason Ct. Fort Collins
From the music and sound lab, where budding musicians can experiment with a variety of instruments, join a jam session and discover the physics behind sound, to the Natural Areas Exhibit, which highlights the wildlife and landscapes of the region, there’s no shortage of interactive learning at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.
Parents of little ones will love the The Tot Spot, a play area designed especially for young explorers. Here, kids can crawl through a giant tree, build dams in the Water Zone and play for hours at the massive train table. The Schatz Family Exploration Zone is another hands-on favorite, encouraging children to build, experiment and take the lead in their own discoveries.
Be sure to grab tickets for a show in the museum’s 360-degree OtterBox Digital Dome. From One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure to Supervolcanoes, the dome’s immersive shows blend education and entertainment in spectacular fashion. Storytimes and movie nights are also held in the dome on select dates. Learn more at fcmod.org.
This month, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science invites families to explore The Secret World of Elephants, a special exhibit that reveals how elephants “hear” with their feet, communicate over long distances and shape their habitats. Featuring life-size models, fascinating facts and interactive displays, it’s an exhibit that captivates kids and adults alike.
The museum’s permanent galleries are equally engaging. The Discovery Zone offers hands-on activities for young scientists, from building in Construction Corner to exploring nature in the Big Backyard. In Prehistoric Journey, guests can walk among dinosaur replicas, while Gems and Minerals dazzles visitors with a sparkling collection of more than 1,000 formations.
Don’t miss the Infinity Theater, featuring both 2D and 3D films, and the Planetarium, where you can take a guided tour through the solar system and beyond. Visit dmns.org for more on current exhibits and schedules.
Wow! Children’s Museum
110 N. Harrison Ave. Lafayette
Designed specifically for kids ages 0 to 8, Wow! Children’s Museum is a wonderland of art, science, and play. Young visitors can test early math skills at the Bank Teller Station (where sending the tube through the chute is always a hit), see how high objects fly in the Wind Room, and make mesmerizing creations with a giant bubble machine.
Additional favorites include the Make It Go racetrack, where kids can design and race their own vehicles, and the Forest of Light, an immersive space that encourages creativity and sensory play. Every exhibit is designed to spark curiosity and delight across a range of interests. Visit wowchildrensmuseum.org for details.
Favorite Things
Involve the kids in holiday preparations
DIY Advent Calendar
Cost: $160
Buy from: Michaels, Pavilion Shopping Center 4330 S College Ave, Fort Collins
Many families who don’t acknowledge Advent have Advent calendars for some obvious reasons: fun, small gifts! Nowadays, Advent calendars are more of a countdown to Santa’s arrival than anything else. Incorporate your family’s individual interests, preferences, and shared hobbies into the gift choices. And, work together as a family to decorate the calendar itself and wrap the small gifts the last night in November. Additionally, reusing this higher quality item year after year adds to less paperboard and plastic in landfills. This new family activity will become a valued, family tradition—and the calendar itself a treasure—in no time.
Phamily
Philanthropy Jar
Cost: FREE
Buy from: Likely that you already own one
As a household, choose a cause, charity, or local nonprofit that best espouses your family values. What problems in the community would our family like to help solve? What are folks experiencing in our community that makes us sad or mad? If your family includes older kids with computer skills, let the kids research the impact of this issue and have a family discussion about it. Talk about family values and beliefs and the importance of community involvement. Discuss how small groups can make big differences. Then, choose a local charity or nonprofit that contributes to this issue. What is put into the jar can vary: adults and kids who earn money can contribute financially. Younger kids can earn a monetary contribution with good behavior, etc. Before the major winter holidays, go as a family to give the money raised and earned to the nonprofit…. Even better, commit to volunteering there over the next year.
Holiday Diversity Book Bundle Cost: Varies
Buy from: The Midnight Oil Bookstore, 827 10th St, Greeley; Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St, Fort Collins
Not all children will see their cultures represented in these classic tales. Only 30 percent of U.S. children’s books in 2020 were written by authors of color or about racially diverse characters or subjects. Maybe more relevant to Northern Colorado families is the desire for kids who don’t hold diverse identities to learn about customs, traditions, and holidays they don’t know about through their own family’s annual events. Learning about holiday traditions from around the world helps kids develop cultural awareness, empathy, and appreciation for diversity. “’Twas Nochubuena” explores Latino traditions at Christmas Eve, such as making tamales with the family and exchanging gifts and feasting at the stroke of midnight. “Tree of Cranes” intertwines Japanese and American cultures. It’s told from the perspective of a boy whose mother teaches him the Western tradition of Christmas trees and decorates them with cranes and candles.
Kick off the season in Breck
THINGS START HOPPING IN BRECKENRIDGE in November, when the ski resort opens on the 7th and winter kick-off events fill the calendar all month long. It’s the perfect time to gear up for the season while the weather’s still mild and the chance of I-70 closures remains low. Here’s how to make the most of your early-season getaway:
DAY 1
DAY 2
Kick off the morning at High Line Railroad Park, where a playground meets a bit of local history. Kids will love climbing aboard Engine No. 9 and checking out one of the last remaining narrow gauge rotary snowplows in the world (breckhistory.org/ museums/high-line-railroad-park/).
Next, follow the quarter-mile Trollstigen Trail to meet Isak Heartstone, one of Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s famous 15-foot wooden trolls (gobreck.com). Crafted entirely from reclaimed wood, Isak is part of a global series created to highlight the power of recycling and upcycling—an unforgettable sight for visitors of all ages. Just next door, lace up your skates at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena (breckenridgerecreation.com). With both indoor and outdoor rinks, daily public skating hours, skate rentals and concessions on site, it’s the perfect spot to glide into the winter spirit. Check the online calendar for current schedules and special events.
If you came for skiing or snowboarding, dive right in with a trip to one of Breckenridge’s five peaks. With nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and 187 trails that range from beginner-friendly to expert, there’s something for every level of adventurer. It’s the ideal place for the whole family to shake off the rust and get back into ski season mode (Breckenridge.com).
Not a downhill devotee? Try one of Breck’s Nordic centers instead. Opening in midNovember, both the Breckenridge Nordic Center and Gold Run Nordic Center offer alternative winter adventures such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, sleigh rides and snowcat excursions (breckenridgenordic.com and breckenridgerecreation.com). With trails suited to a variety of abilities, on-site rentals, and both reservations and walk-in availability, these centers make it easy to enjoy a full day of snow-filled fun.
No trip to a ski town is complete without a gondola ride, and the BreckConnect Gondola delivers—with free rides from downtown to two of Breck’s base areas and back (breckenridge.com).
Take in the sweeping alpine views and stop at one of the mountaintop restaurants for a cozy lunch while you watch skiers and snowboarders carve their way down the mountain. Back in town, spend your final afternoon browsing Breckenridge’s charming shops and art galleries (gobreck. com). Stroll along walkable Main Street where colorful storefronts and festive lights make for the perfect mountain-town experience. When the kids need a break, head to Blue River Plaza or nearby Prospector Park to let them run, climb and explore.
Be sure to check the daily activity calendar at gobreck.com for season kick-off events including live music, giveaways, extended happy hours and more.
The Spirit of Thanksgiving
Helping kids find joy in giving Katie Harris
AS THANKSGIVING APPROACHES, it’s a perfect time to slow down and refocus on what the season is truly about—gratitude and giving. It doesn’t take a grand gesture or a large donation to make an impact. Often, it’s the simple acts—a cheerful card, holding the door or helping around the house—that mean the most. When families find ways to give together, the effect multiplies. This Thanksgiving season, carve out some time to spread kindness as a family and inspire your kids to become lifelong givers.
Giving back with preschoolers
At Wee Love Preschool in Greeley, teaching kindness is just as important as teaching ABCs. Executive Director Rhonda Bentz and her team weave compassion, gratitude, and giving into their daily curriculum through storytelling, discussions and hands-on activities.
One of Bentz’s favorite projects is the preschool’s Kindness Rock Garden—a colorful collection of hand-painted rocks featuring uplifting messages and ideas for good deeds. The garden serves as both inspiration and a reminder that small actions can have a big impact. Families interested in recreating the activity can create their own rock gardens at home, or paint kindness rocks to hide around the community.
“Whether it’s helping a friend, sharing toys, or simply offering a smile, the kindness rocks serve as gentle reminders of the positive impact kids can make,” Bentz says.
At Loveland Preschool, kindness takes center stage during an annual community fundraiser. Families host food drives, bake for neighbors, pick up litter and find creative ways to give back together. Director Jen Kuzmich and her team also
teach their students to be “bucket fillers”—people who fill others’ buckets with kind words, hugs and high fives.
“By instilling these values early on, we’re not only shaping kind-hearted individuals,” says Bentz, “we’re nurturing a compassionate community.”
Kindness for elementary agers
Once kids are old enough to truly understand gratitude and generosity, let them take the lead. Give them ownership over how your family gives back this year, and you’ll be amazed at what they come up with. Here are a few fun, simple ways to get started:
• Host a toy drive: Ask friends, family, and neighbors to donate an unwrapped toy for a child in need. After Thanksgiving, deliver them to a national nonprofit such as Toys for Tots, Operation Santa, or The Salvation Army, or choose a local organization that resonates with your family.
• Send a card: Gather around the table to make homemade greeting cards. Younger siblings can draw pictures, while older kids write cheerful notes. Drop them off at a local nursing home, mail them to elderly relatives or neighbors, or send them to service members through organizations like Soldiers’ Angels.
• Make a thankful jar: The week of Thanksgiving, decorate a large jar and place it in a central spot at home with scraps of paper and pens. Encourage everyone to jot down something or someone they’re thankful for and add it to the jar. On Thanksgiving Day, take turns pulling out and reading the notes aloud—it’s a wonderful way to share gratitude together.
• Create a coupon book: Have each family member make a book of “service coupons” with ideas like “One hour of leaf raking” or “Kids cook dinner.” Exchange books and redeem them throughout the season.
• Be a guileful giver: Think Secret Santa—but with good deeds instead of gifts. Challenge everyone to do as many kind acts as possible without getting caught. Maybe fold someone’s laundry, empty the dishwasher, or clean out the car. Kids will love the sneaky fun of doing something nice and seeing the smiles that follow.
Volunteering with teens and pre-teens
Older kids are ready to take their giving beyond the home and into the community—and plenty of local organizations welcome volunteers in middle and high school.
According to Trevor Lewis, Volunteer Manager for Habitat for Humanity Fort Collins, volunteering is a powerful way for teens to engage with their community while learning new skills. At Habitat, youth as young as 14 can help at the ReStore, sorting donations, cleaning, and organizing. Teens 16 and up can assist on build sites, where they’ll learn hands-on construction skills while helping build homes for families in need.
When homes are still in the roughframing stage, families with younger children can contribute by painting encouraging messages and artwork on the wall studs—special touches that the future homeowners will treasure as they help build.
Lewis encourages families to find causes that align with their interests. Animal lovers can volunteer at NOCO Humane Society, while those passionate about supporting seniors might check out A Little Help. House of Neighborly Service offers volunteer opportunities for groups of all sizes, and local farm sanctuaries like Guided Hope and Broken Shovels often invite families to help with chores together.
“Families spending time together is always a great thing,” Lewis says. “When you find the right opportunity to volunteer in your community, it’s not only altruistic—it’s genuinely fun.”
Links to organizations referenced in story
• Toysfortots.org
• uspsoperationsanta.com
• salvationarmyusa.org
• soldiersangels.org
• habitat.org
• nocohumane.org
• alittlehelp.org
• honservice.org
• guidedhope.org
• brokenshovels.com
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School District News: Poudre
Mill Levy funding improving visual art equity
Larimer County approved more than just improvements to Poudre School District buildings when they passed the 2024 mill levy. They also made a direct contribution in classrooms. This includes art classrooms, where funds will create a stronger sense of equity for all students while providing the best equipment for artistic expression.
Funds from the mill levy are being used for visual arts, among other district programs, in a variety of ways at all levels of education. This ranges from paintbrushes to equipment such as kilns and drafting tables, ensuring that all PSD students have what they need to express their creativity.
“Mill levy funds are having an
immediate and positive impact on the visual arts in PSD by allowing us to standardize equipment and resources districtwide,” says Visual Art Curriculum Facilitator Allison Alter. “By providing items like new kilns, pottery wheels, cameras, and paintbrushes, we ensure all students, regardless of their school site, have equitable access to meaningful art-making experiences.”
This is just the start of the project. Additions and improvements will continue over the next several years to ensure access to high-quality art materials and equipment for all PSD students and to position PSD as a statewide leader in arts opportunities.
“Access to these kinds of opportunities is an invaluable chance for students to express themselves and grow as learners,” says Superintendent Brian Kingsley.
“Providing students with the tools they need to dive deeper into the arts will open up a world of possibilities for future creators, and I am so excited to see what our students are inspired to make.”
PSD thanks the voters of Larimer County for approving this mill levy in last year’s election. Your dedication to supporting your school district is already having a profound impact on PSD students today and will for years to come.
School District News: Thompson
Thompson School District Alumni Spotlight: Damon Nash
What have you been doing since graduation and what is your proudest accomplishment?
Since graduation, I’ve been working in the nonprofit sector. I spent two years as the Associate Director of Teen Services at the Boys & Girls Club of Weld County, and I’m currently a Development Officer at United Way of Larimer County. My proudest accomplishment has been creating a free AAU basketball program at the Boys & Girls Club, which gave kids who couldn’t afford the high costs of travel basketball the chance to play, grow, and compete at a higher level.
What is your best memory of school?
My best memories of school are tied to all the extracurriculars—football games, homecomings, and student council events.
What was your biggest challenge during school?
My biggest challenge during school was balancing a busy schedule. I worked most days after school, which made it difficult to manage homework, extracurriculars, and spending time with friends.
Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.
One person who changed my life for the better during school was my 3rd grade teacher, Delaine Holdeman. She is truly one-of-a-kind. She actually taught my uncle when he was in 3rd grade, and then 20 years later, she taught me. Through both of us, she showed what it looks like to care for someone unconditionally.
How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?
School prepared me for what I’m doing now by teaching me the importance of building relationships. Whether it was working with classmates on projects, being part of student council and sports, or just connecting with teachers and friends, I learned early on that strong relationships are the foundation for success. That lesson carries over directly into my work in the nonprofit world, where collaboration and connection are at the heart of everything I do.
What do you hope to accomplish in the future?
In the future, I hope to continue serving the community and making a positive impact through nonprofit work. My long-term goal is to eventually start and run my own nonprofit, creating opportunities and resources that can truly change lives.
School District News: Greeley-Evans D6
Stephen Paulson named 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year
Stephen Paulson, a social studies teacher at Greeley Central High School, was named the 2026 Colorado Teacher of the Year in a surprise assembly at the school. This is the first time that an educator in Greeley-Evans School District has been selected as the Colorado Teacher of the Year.
“I love this school. I love our colors. I love all of you,” Paulson told the packed gymnasium at Greeley Central. Students erupted into a chant of “We love Paulson,” to honor their teacher.
Colorado State Board of Education
Chair Rebecca McClellan (CD6), Vice Chair Yazmin Navarro (CD8), Colorado Education Commissioner Susana Córdova, Greeley-Evans School District 6, Superintendent Deirdre Pilch, and Boettcher Foundation Vice President of Grants and Awards Tiffany Anderson presented the award to Paulson in a ceremony that was attended by students, teachers and staff at Greeley Central.
Paulson is a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado and
has his master’s degree in educational leadership from Colorado State University. He has been teaching at Greeley-Evans for 15 years.
In September, representatives from CDE and the Boettcher Foundation visited Paulson’s classroom to announce that he was one of the state’s eight Teacher of the Year finalists. That surprise announcement included $1,500 from CDE and the Boettcher Foundation, and Greeley Central High School received $500 from the Boettcher Foundation.
As Colorado’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, Paulson will also receive:
• A gift of $5,000 from the Boettcher Foundation;
• Funding from CDE totaling $5,000 to support Teacher of the Year events and activities through 2026; and
• Continuing education credit and a student scholarship from Adams State University.
As Colorado’s 2026 Teacher of the Year, Paulson also becomes the state’s candidate for the Council of Chief State
School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year Award and will participate in a week of national program activities in Washington, D.C., and a trip to NASA’s Space Camp. His term as Colorado Teacher of the Year begins in January 2026.
In a letter submitted on Paulson’s behalf, student Rodrigo Garcia says: “He pushes us not because he has to, but because he believes and has even more faith in us than we have in ourselves. … Mr. Paulson isn’t only preparing us for the next grade level, but for life. We will forever be grateful for him.”
From a record 419 applicants representing 109 districts, 22 semifinalists were announced in June. From that group, eight finalists were selected this year—marking a 375 percent increase in applications from the previous year.
The Colorado Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by the Boettcher Foundation and supported by program partners the Colorado Education Association, Adams State University and Blue Bell Ice Cream.
Read 12 books in a year with Adults Read On and earn prizes! Ages (16+) can participate by picking up a paper log at any branch, by downloading the Beanstack Tracker App and following the instructions, or by visiting highplains.beanstack.org/reader365 . For more details, check out www.MyLibrary.us/aro
The Power of a Nightlight
I knew this darkness all to well - I grew up in a very abusive home, and at a very young age my sisters and I were taught to hide our bruises and lie about what happened behind closed doors. I would go to school hoping to fit in, but knowing I was different from the rest of the children, nobody saw that my smile was fake – and that my pain was real. And then with the simplest act of kindness ….my darkness brightened. Som saw me, someone cared and for the first time in my life I didn’t feel alone –and still today I cherish that moment of overwhelming light. I myself one day I would be that figure of HOPE for someone else. To keep that promise I am asking others to help children lost in the darkness of abuse and give them a NightLight. These NightLights of Love and Hope have changed my life.
Be the Light in a Child’s Darkness – Donate a NightLight Today.
Community Calendar
November events
FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
Veteran’s Day Breakfast
Celebrate those who have honorably served our country. Senior Center, FC. fcgov.com/recreation/special-events
ENTERTAINMENT
THROUGH NOVEMBER 9
Steel Magnolias
Enjoy this heartwarming comedy with moments of poignant emotion. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5
Beatles vs. Stones—A Musical Showdown
The Fab Four, represented by tribute band Abbey Road will engage in a barrage of hits against Rolling Stones tribute band Satisfaction. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.com
NOVEMBER 7 AND 8
Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra Presents Salute to Service 2025
Help celebrate those in US Armed Forces with this brass ensemble performance. First United Methodist Church, WS. ucstars.com
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
Warren Miller “Sno-ciety”
From big mountain lines and race gates to urban ski hills and more, celebrate snow and however you ride. Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialto-presents
NOVEMBER 14 and 15
The Wizard of Oz
Presented by Fort Collins Children’s Theatre. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com
NOVEMBER 14 THROUGH 16
NoCo Theatrix Presents The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition Hensel Phelps Theatre, GR. ucstars.com
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16
Doktor Kaboom: Under Pressure! Equal parts interactive science, comedy and personal empowerment messages. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Get ready to swing with this legendary high-energy show. Union Colony Civic Center, GR. ucstars.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22
The Sleeping Beauty
A timeless fairytale presented by International Ballet Stars. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.com
NOVEMBER 25 AND 26
Warren Miller “Sno-ciety”
From big mountain lines and race gates to urban ski hills and more, celebrate snow and however you ride. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29
Skygazing
Brief, family-friendly astronomy activity followed by skygazing with telescopes from Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Fossil Creek Natural Area, FC. fcgov.com/events
ACTIVE-ITIES
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Bell Ringer 2-Miler
Follows the old tradition of ringing
bells through town on Veteran’s Day to honor our nation’s veteran community. North Lake Park, LV. sweetheartcityracing.com
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
Glow Swim Party
Come swim in the pool where the lights are dim and the party is bright. Chilson Recreation Center, LV. LovGov.org/Chilson
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27
Fort Collins Thanksgiving Day Run
Family 4-mile run/walk event and kids fun run. College/Mountain Avenue intersection, FC. fctdayrun.com
Turkey Trot
Run or Walk this family friendly 5K. Pelican Lakes Golf Course, WS. gomilesbeyond.com
Huffin for Stuffin
Two-mile fun run with music/ vendors. Mehaffey Park, LV. sweetheartcityracing.com
NOVEMBER 7 THROUGH FEBRUARY 14
Fort Collins Downtown Holiday Lights
Experience thousands of LED lights this season. Lighting ceremony from 5:30–7pm on Nov. 7. Old Town Square, FC. downtownfortcollins.com
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis
Fifteen musicians play 20+ instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects. Blue Arena, LV. treventscomplex.com/events
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Tour de Turkey
Donate FROZEN turkeys to neighbors in need. Drake Center, FC and Orchards Shopping Center, LV. foodbanklarimer.org/tour-de-turkey
NOVEMBER 20 THROUGH JANUARY 11
Million Dollar Quartet Christmas Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley reunite for a festive celebration. Candlelight Dinner Theatre, Johnstown. coloradocandlelight.com
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Loveland Festival of Lights
Debut of holiday lighting plus live entertainment, holiday market, carriage rides, Santa and more. Along 4th Street and n The Foundry Plaza, Downtown LV. downtownloveland.org/ festivaloflights
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22
Estes Park Tree Lighting Ceremony Santa, carriage rides, crafts and music. Bond Park, EP. visitestespark. com/events-calendar/winter-events/ tree-lighting-ceremony
NOVEMBER 22 THROUGH DECEMBER 16
Timnath Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt Find the Elf at each of the participating establishments and be entered to win $100 gift card. Timnath. timnath.org/ holiday-magic-in-timnath
NOVEMBER 26 THROUGH JANUARY 25
Old Town Square Skate Rink Days/times vary. Old Town Square, FC. downtownfortcollins.com/winter
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27
Fort Collins Thanksgiving Day Run Family 4-mile run/walk event and kids fun run. College/Mountain Avenue intersection, FC. fctdayrun.co
FoCo Café Thanksgiving Lunch Service
Pay-What-You-Can Thanksgiving lunch served to all! FoCo Café, FC. fococafe.org
NOVEMBER 27 THROUGH DECEMBER 31
NoCo Winter Wonderland Drive-Thru Holiday Lights
Colorado Youth Outdoors, FC. coloradoyo.org/events
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Annual Estes Park Catch the Glow Parade & Celebration
Elkhorn Avenue, EP. visitestespark. com/events-calendar/winter-events/ holiday-parade
NOVEMBER 28 THROUGH DECEMBER 24
Santa’s Workshop Old Town Square Days/times vary. Old Town Square, FC. downtownfortcollins.com/winter
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28 & 29
Holiday Artisan Market Features 100+ artisans/crafters. Senior Center, FC. fcgov.com/recreation/ special-events
NOVEMBER 28 THROUGH DECEMBER 6
Festival of Trees
Holiday magic supporting the arts. Union Colony Civic Center, GR. greeleyfestivaloftrees.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29
Santa visits Fort Collins Nursery
Santa visits 10am-3pm. Fort Collins Nursery, FC. FortCollinsNursery.com
Greeley WinterFest: Holiday Open House
Fill out your shopping bingo card & you could win! Downtown Greeley. greeleydowntown.com/events/winterfest
Light Up Lincoln in Greeley
Lighting of holiday lights downtown and at Lincoln Park, GR. greeleydowntown. com/events/winterfest
DECEMBER 1 THROUGH 31
Realties for Children NightLights Help shine light into the darkness of child abuse. First Presbyterian Church, FC. giveanightlight.com
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3
Dave Beegle and Tom Ewing’s Christmas Party!
Inspiring evening of Christmas melodies! Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialto-presents
DECEMBER 3 AND 4
Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas Extravaganza
Intimate performance of music and dance. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theater, FC. lctix.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4
Holiday Blues Market
Live music, holiday shopping and a visit from Mrs. Claus! Fort Collins Nursery, FC. FortCollinsNursery.com
Jake Shimabukuro Holidays in Hawaii
Ukelele virtuoso shares signature favorites and holiday classics. Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter. org/rialto-presents
DECEMBER 4 THROUGH 7
The Nutcracker Canyon Concert Ballet presents with Fort Collins Symphony Orchestra. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
Holiday Harmonies
Northern Colorado’s premier a cappella ensemble performs a mix of tunes, seasonal and otherwise. Lincoln Center Magnolia Theater, FC. lctix.com
Poinsettia Pops
Favorite holiday classics featuring Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, Greeley Chorale, Greeley Children’s Chorale and a local middle school student. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. greeleyphil.org/season
Greeley WinterFest: Holiday Lane Festive displays, live performances and holiday gift market. 8th/9th Street Plazas, Downtown Greeley. greeleydowntown.com/events/winterfest
DECEMBER 6 AND 7
Homesteader’s Holiday
Historical house tours, holiday crafts, music. Centennial Village Museum, GR. cityofgreeley.trumba.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 13, 20
Visit Santa’s Reindeer Reserve tickets online. Bath Garden Center, FC. bathgardencenter.com/events
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
Timnath Holiday Festival
Old Town, Timnath. timnath.org/ holiday-magic-in-timnath
DECEMBER 10 THROUGH 31
Christmas Walk in the Woods Beautiful lights and photo opps at Santa’s House, Elf Work Shop, more. The Savage Woods, LV. christmaswalkinthewoods.com
DECEMBER 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21
The Stampede Troupe: It’s A Wonderful Life Heartwarming holiday classic reminds us all what truly matters. Hensel Phelps Theater, GR. ucstars.showare.com
DECEMBER 12 THROUGH 14
Loveland Choral Society: Christmas Confections
Rialto Theater Center, LV. www. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialto-presents
Colorado Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker Children under three years not permitted. Monfort Concert Hall, GR. ucstars.showare.com
DECEMBER 12 THROUGH 28
Garden of Lights
Whimsical light displays, Santa visits and live entertainment. Select days. Gardens on Spring Creek, FC. fcgov. com/gardens/garden-of-lights
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
Greeley WinterFest: Makers’ Workshops Create holiday cards, ornaments and more! Downtown Greeley. greeleydowntown.com/events/winterfest
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14Visit Santa in Old Town Timnath
Visit, take family photos, and enjoy treats. Timnath Presbyterian Church. timnath.org/holiday-magic-in-timnath
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16
Face Vocal Band: Rock the Halls
All-vocal rock. Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org/rialtopresents
RAIN–A Beatles Christmas Tribute Holiday favorites alongside the legendary sounds of the Beatles. Lincoln Center Performance Hall, FC. lctix.com
DECEMBER 18 THROUGH 20
Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra: Christmas Brass
Resounding trumpets and triumphant horns present holiday hymns and carols. Windsor, Loveland and Greeley. greeleyphil.org/season
DECEMBER 21 AND 22
The Nutcracker Sweets
Canyon Concert Ballet presents a special child and sensory friendly version of this annual classic set in The Land of Sweets. Rialto Theater Center, LV. rialtotheatercenter.org/ rialto-presents
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
All-new tour brings breathtaking cirque acts, stunning new costumes and fresh seasonal music. Blue Arena, LV. treventscomplex.com/events
Time out
KRIS KODRICH
Spending quality family time with kids in a brewery?
WHEN MY DAUGHTERS WERE LITTLE, I kept them entertained at festivals, playgrounds, amusement parks, the mall, beaches, sledding hills, and even occasionally at one of the burgeoning craft breweries in town. Breweries? Yes, why not? Friendly people. Open patios. Food trucks. Plenty of board games. Sometimes a happy (or sad) singer/guitarist. Craft breweries seem like a very normal family thing to do in Colorado.
Something about spacious familyfriendly locales appeals to parents tired of visiting only Chick-fil-A or Panda Express with their kids. One time, my older daughter was making a ruckus as a toddler in a fancy restaurant near Lyons and the management forced us to sit in a back room by ourselves. We never returned to that restaurant but I understand perfectly why they quarantined us.
Yes, kids can be noisy. Usually craft breweries are noisy places, too. But some adults don’t like kids in breweries. I recently read in the New York Times that some breweries across the country introduced adults-only policies, citing safety concerns. Kids crawling under fences, wandering parking lots, climbing trees—that sort of stuff, all without parental supervision. Dozens of breweries are reconsidering their policies on children. The Times mentioned two Colorado breweries that ban children, High Hops in Windsor and Odyssey Beerworks in Arvada. I’d been to High Hops a few times without my children but didn’t realize that was a policy. I confirmed it on its website—21+ only. Same with Odyssey —“No children allowed inside or outside.”
Most breweries still welcome kids. When I stopped at Stodgy in Fort Collins
recently, I noticed a sign, “Children must always be with their parents.” Likewise, at Intersect in Fort Collins, its website says, “Your children may not be disruptive to other guests in any way—this includes running, screaming, climbing (tables, pillars, fences, cornhole boards) and/or throwing objects.”
My daughters, Kalia and Bianka, were never the type to run around the tap room like crazy, but they always seemed to enjoy exploring and observing the strange scene filled with interesting characters and sociable, tail-wagging dogs.
Of course, we made sure one of us parental units was a designated driver. Or, we had alternative transportation. Walking was an option, too—especially when Intersect Brewing opened just a few blocks from our house.
At that point, the girls were in middle school and high school, so they had their own ideas of fun so it was harder to convince them to walk with me to the neighborhood brewery. I did bribe them
with a promise of a burger, I recall. Sometimes simply cash.
One thing to know about me is I grew up in Milwaukee, where our elementary school field trips were sometimes to the big Milwaukee breweries at the time— Schlitz, Pabst, and Miller. At the end of the tour, we would get chocolate milk. I’ve always liked breweries.
This September, I was sitting on the patio at the Lumpy Ridge Brewery in Estes Park with a friend visiting from Milwaukee. Shortly after a hundred or so elk strolled across the highway in front of us, a young father was pedaling his bicycle up the hill to the brewery with his school-aged daughter following. The father, panting from the steep climb, yelled to us, “This is a good stop for us.”
This mountain brewery, in fact, proudly proclaims on its website: “You’ll get a warm welcome whether you’re young or just young at heart.”
KRIS KODRICH TEACHES JOURNALISM AT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY.
OPENING NIGHT November 21st
HOURS
Monday - Thursday: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
*PLEASE NOTE*
Valid ID, Passport, or Government
Issued IDs are REQUIRED to rent skates (student IDs are not accepted)
17 & under skaters MUST have a parent or legal guardian sign liability waiver
ACCEPTING CARD ONLY (NO CASH)