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STERLING RANCH LIVING Joy Resides Here Wild West: The Fall Cattle Drive

Home for the Holidays: Residents’ Traditions

FALL/HOLIDAY 2026

Larry Vickerman: 20 Years at Chatfield Farms

Important Contact Information

Info Center Staff here can help potential home buyers, builders and homeowners with the design review process, landscape installations, exterior home modifications and general questions related to the Sterling Ranch community. Monday - Friday: 8 am – 5 pm (Info Center open weekends 10 am - 5 pm) 8155 Piney River Ave., Suite 110 | 720-661-9694 residentservices@sterlingranchcab.com Overlook Clubhouse Staff can assist with clubhouse and event questions, memberships and Colorado State Park resident passes. Snacks and drinks from Agora Market are available here during the summer as well. Monday – Friday: 5 am - 9 pm | Saturday: 7 am – 9 pm | Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm 7853 Piney River Ave. | 720-728-7257 recreation@sterlingranchcab.com Emergencies If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please dial 911. For community-related emergencies (i.e. irrigation leak or community space safety hazards), please call our office at 720-661-9694 and press 2 for after-hours emergency services. Non-Emergency Service Requests or Issues: Please use the Sterling Ranch 311 app. Sterling Ranch 311 Use our 311 app (download via Apple or Google Play) to submit service requests via mobile devices, or use the 311 request form online: Go to www.https://sterlingranchcab.com and click on 311. 311 is for non-emergency service requests, issues, comments, and concerns only. Editorial Questions and Suggestions Kat Valentine King, Communications Manager and Editor, Sterling Ranch Living kat.king@sterlingranchcab.com

720-661-9694 www.sterlingranchcab.com info@sterlingranchcab.com

Table of Contents 04

Letter from the General Manager

News and Moos from Milkshake

School and Library Construction

Outcrop Park

Homestead Hints: Holiday Lighting

Around the Ranch

Roxborough’s Moonrise Hike

Spotlight: Larry Vickerman

Chatfield Farms Fall and Holiday Events

Home for the Holidays

Ranch Life: All the Events

Welcome letter from Gary Debus

Our community mascot shares her “moooosings” about life on the Ranch

Progress continues on these welcome additions to Sterling Ranch

Parkvale, the latest village in Sterling Ranch, unveils an exciting new park

How to keep lights festive yet friendly here in Sterling Ranch

Castle Rock’s Starlighting tradition; Lost Canyon Open Space

Take a guided evening stroll and see what lurks in the dark

The director of Chatfield Farms is retiring after 20+ years

Corn Maze, Pumpkin Festival, and buy-one-get-one tickets to Trail of Lights

Our Community Navigator volunteers share their favorite seasonal traditions

Fall calendar is packed with upcoming ways to celebrate the season

From the General Manager Welcome to fall in beautiful Sterling Ranch. As we look toward the holidays and the end of the year, the fun isn’t over, yet. A lot of fall and holiday activities are on the books and in the works. Those CAB events truly make Sterling Ranch a great place to live. Sterling Ranch sits in the Chatfield Basin and is the center of our local universe as you’ll read on some of the following pages. We are close to so much from state parks, Chatfield Farms, and Castle Rock. After refreshing Ranch Social earlier this year, we have activated that space with new, pop-up types of events. Atlas, Salta, and Living the Dream continue to be great vendors there. With the construction of the Douglas County School District Elementary #51 and the under-construction Douglas County Library in Sterling Ranch, this area will be a happening place. Not to be left behind, a new amenity center in Prospect Park will open later in the 2027 year (no date to be announced yet). The resort-style pool and restaurant spaces will be under construction from now until that opening is announced. Stay tuned. Construction does take some time. If you need something to do this weekend, you may want to take a little time and tour the new model homes going up in Parkvale. I have to admit, they are pretty cool. Enjoy Colorado’s beautiful fall weather, and we wish you the very best heading toward the end of 2026.

Gary Debus General Manager Sterling Ranch Community Authority Board

News and Moos from Milkshake Milkshake, pictured above with the M and S ear tags, is our official community mascot. She represents the spirit of the West and helps us honor the history of this land.

Can you feel that? Shorter days, cooler nights and crisp mornings. Yep, it is fall. Here are a few things that happen to us bovine this time of year. Mother nature tells our bodies that it is time to have that winter haircoat start to grow quickly. That growth started on the summer solstice in July but speeds up as the daylight hours become shorter. This “shoulder season” is a little hard on all of us. Hot during the day, cool at night, and our bodies have to adjust. You’ll see that we are starting to look “fluffy”. So is my little boy. Well, that’s what I call him even though he weighs 600 pounds already. He was born on March 18 and weighed about 70 pounds. He eats like a teenage boy now! Rocky Road is gaining over two pounds every day right now. Soon he will be weaned and go off to another ranch to continue growing. Weaning always makes me sad for two or three days, and then I realize he has to grow up and I need to get ready for round three next March. I can’t believe I’ve raised two little calves already. Cows grow until we hit our fourth year. So, I’m full size now, and while I might fill out a little more, I’m at full height and length. I weigh 1,200 pounds now. When I was young, the older cows could push me around and get the best feed and the first drink when we were watered. Not so much anymore, but because I’m the Sterling Ranch Celebricow, I try to use my best manners and be kind. You know we have an image to uphold. Soon we will begin moving to winter pastures. Don’t forget the Big Old Sterling Ranch Cattle Drive. October 24. All of us Moos hope to see you there! Sincerely, Your Sterling Ranch celebricow,

Milkshake

Elementary School Update Topping Out: An Old Tradition Reaches New Heights Construction on the Douglas County School District elementary school in Sterling Ranch recently reached an exciting milestone with a topping out ceremony, marking the placement of the building's highest structural beam. The tradition of placing an evergreen tree atop a newly completed structure dates back centuries to Scandinavia, where builders used the ceremony to celebrate the completion of the timber frame and wish the building—and those who would one day occupy it—good fortune. Today, the tradition continues on construction sites around the world. For this special milestone, team members signed the final structural beam before it was lifted into place, accompanied by an evergreen tree and an American flag. The moment marked a significant step forward in construction and offered an opportunity to pause and celebrate the progress made so far. With the highest beam now in place, the project is quite literally reaching new heights—and we're excited to watch it continue to take shape.

Above and left: The new Douglas County School District elementary school, currently known simply as Elementary 51, is under construction and scheduled to open in fall of 2027. The district recently had a naming poll, and will announce the new school’s official name and mascot soon!

Library Groundbreaking A Symbolic but Significant Day The official groundbreaking of the newest Douglas County Library took place in August. Representatives from Sterling Ranch, Douglas County Libraries, the Douglas County Library Foundation, and community members gathered to celebrate this symbolic moment.

Located at 8285 Piney River Ave., the library will serve area residents for years to come. The new 18,000-square-foot building will offer the full spectrum of library services, spaces, events and activities, along with dedicated on-site parking and a drive-through book return. The library is expected to open sometime in 2027.

Outcrop Park: A New Place to Play New things are “cropping up” in Parkvale Parkvale, the newest village at Sterling Ranch, is taking shape — and there’s a new place to play! With several new home models now open, the village is quickly becoming a destination of its own, and the newest neighborhood park is ready to welcome residents.

Left: an artistic rendering of the park design. Below: Photos of the actual park show the vision come to life.

Located south of the pickleball courts, Outcrop Park brings a little something for everyone. The park features a pavilion designed for music and community events, a wide-open grassy turf area perfect for running, playing or simply stretching out, and a unique climbing wall designed to look like natural rock. With multiple levels, stairs on either side and a playful bear-shaped feature, the climbing area adds a little adventure to the mix.

Whether you’re looking for a place to let the kids burn off some energy, meet up with neighbors or enjoy a sunny afternoon outdoors, Outcrop Park is another fun addition to the Sterling Ranch park lineup. Grab some friends and come check it out!

Outcrop Park

Right: The climbing wall is made to look like actual rock, but the bearshaped object is all about fun.

Left: A view to the southwest from the top of the climbing wall. Stairs flank the climbing wall on both sides, and a pavilion will host concerts and other events.

Right: A view to the north shows new homes and ongoing construction in Parkvale. Outcrop Park includes multiple levels of tiered landscape to beautify the area.

Left: The colorful surface area is made of impact-absorbing materials to create a softer landing for those inevitable tumbles off the climbing structures, minimizing potential bumps and bruises.

Homestead Hints from the CSC Let it Glow: Celebrating the Holidays in Sterling Ranch Written by the Community Standards Committee There’s something a little magical about Sterling Ranch during the holidays. As the sun sets earlier and winter settles in, our neighborhood begins to glow. Porch railings are wrapped in lights, wreaths appear on front doors, trees sparkle through windows and, occasionally, an inflatable character or two takes up residence on the front lawn. For a few weeks each year, an evening walk through the neighborhood becomes its own holiday activity. We love seeing the personality, creativity and traditions residents bring to their homes. So, bring on the lights! Whether your decorating philosophy is “a tasteful strand around the porch” or “visible from the North Pole,” there’s plenty of room for holiday spirit in Sterling Ranch. A few friendly reminders can help keep the season merry for everyone. CAB guidelines allow holiday decorations, including lighting and decorative displays, from October 1 through January 25. As you create your masterpiece, remember that decorating is also a neighborly affair. Be thoughtful about extremely bright or excessive lighting, rooftop displays, noise, and large inflatables, and position lights to minimize spillover onto neighboring properties. And at 10 pm, even Santa calls it a night. Holiday lights and sound-producing decorations, including music, generators, and inflatable systems, should be turned off between 10 pm and 8 am. A simple timer or smart plug can make that one easy. Most importantly, take some time to enjoy what your neighbors create. Bundle up, pour some hot cocoa, grab the family or leash up the dog and take an evening stroll. Explore a part of the neighborhood you don’t normally visit. Pick your favorite displays. Appreciate the homes that went all-out and the ones that found a way to make something simple look beautiful. These are the little traditions that help turn a collection of houses into a community. The holidays are about celebration, connection and creating memories. With a little consideration for the people around us, Sterling Ranch can be merry and bright, and a wonderful place to call home year-round! From your neighbors on the Community Standards Committee, happy holidays!

BUT WAIT… WHAT ABOUT DARK SKY? Yep, we thought about that too! Being a Dark Sky-friendly community doesn’t mean skipping the holiday sparkle. It means being thoughtful about outdoor light, especially glare, skyglow and light spilling beyond your property. So enjoy those holiday lights! Just aim for festive, not floodlit, be considerate of your neighbors, and remember to switch everything off at 10 pm. Bright holidays and dark skies? We can have both!

Free Recycling Coming Soon Residential Recycling Available To All Before the end of 2026, Sterling Ranch residents will say goodbye to extra charges for recycling. The change is part of Colorado's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper products. While the legislation establishing the program was passed in 2022, the program took major steps toward becoming reality in 2025, when Colorado's Producer Responsibility Organization, Circular Action Alliance (CAA), developed and submitted the plan for how the new system would work. Colorado's program began moving into implementation in 2026, and is being rolled out in phases as communities and recycling service providers join the program.

What does this mean for you? No more recycling collection charge Starting soon (Q4 of 2026), your residential recycling service charge will be eliminated. The change is not retroactive Recycling charges residents have already paid will not be refunded. The $0 cost applies going forward. Producers are helping pay the bill Under the new system, companies that produce covered packaging and paper products pay into the program. Those funds help cover the costs of collecting, sorting and processing recyclable materials. More Coloradans will have access to recycling The statewide program is designed to expand convenient recycling access to as many as 700,000 additional households, including communities that previously had limited or no residential recycling options. Recycling rules are becoming more consistent Colorado is also moving toward a standardized statewide list of recyclable materials. The goal is to make recycling easier to understand and reduce confusion about what belongs in the recycling bin. The transition to the statewide lists is being phased in. Why the change? For years, the cost of residential recycling has largely been paid by residents and local governments. Colorado's EPR program changes that model by shifting the financial responsibility toward the companies that put covered packaging and paper products into the marketplace. In other words, the companies producing the packaging will help pay for what happens to it after you use it.

For Sterling Ranch residents, the takeaway is simple: Free recycling!

Around the Ranch: Starlighting A Guide to Nearby Sights, Tastes, and Events A Beacon of Hope: The Story Behind Castle Rock’s Starlighting Tradition Every November, thousands of residents from across Douglas County gather in downtown Castle Rock to witness a single switch flip. At that moment, a massive 45-foot electric star atop the town's namesake bluff blazes to life, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display. It is a cherished, Norman Rockwell-esque kickoff to the holiday season. But for Sterling Ranch residents making the short drive down Santa Fe, the star is more than just a beautiful light fixture; it is a living symbol of Colorado resilience. The tradition dates back to 1936, a bleak year when the region was reeling from the twin economic crises of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. Seeking a way to boost local morale and encourage travelers to pull off the highway, town leaders and volunteer firemen pooled their resources. Firefighters from the Castle Rock Hose Company No. 1 physically hauled the 40-foot steel rods in pieces up the steep, 300-foot face of the Rock—long before any access roads or trails existed. They welded it together using donated gas, secondhand wiring, and exactly 100 light bulbs. Aside from a brief dark period during World War II electricity shortages, the star has shone every winter since. It has even been lit outside the holiday season to unite the community during modern trials, such as the 2020 pandemic. This year's Castle Rock Starlighting takes place on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 2 pm to 6 pm. Historic downtown Castle Rock along Wilcox Street and Festival Park will fill with strolling carolers, food trucks, and a hot chili supper at the firehouse. The official ceremony kicks off at 5 pm with the star lighting at 5:30, followed by fireworks. Because parking fills early, residents can utilize the free public shuttle services running from the Douglas County Fairgrounds and local high schools. Visit castlerock.org/castle-rock-starlighting for further details.

Around the Ranch: Lost Canyon A Guide to Nearby Sights, Tastes, and Events A New Place to Explore: Lost Canyon Ranch Open Space Looking for a new trail to wander? A spectacular new piece of Douglas County is now open just a short drive from Sterling Ranch. Lost Canyon Ranch Open Space invites visitors to explore a dramatic landscape of rolling grasslands, mature coniferous forests, hoodoo rock formations and canyon cliffs carved by Willow Creek. One of the best things about living in Sterling Ranch is that the great outdoors is never far away. Trails, parks and open space are woven into the community itself, giving residents plenty of opportunities to get outside, explore and enjoy Colorado’s landscape. So when a spectacular new open space debuts nearby, we’re paying attention! At 681 acres, Lost Canyon Ranch became the Town of Castle Rock’s largest one-time open space acquisition in 2024, thanks to a unique partnership with Douglas County, Great Outdoors Colorado, Douglas Land Conservancy and The Conservation Fund. The area is protected by a permanent conservation easement and officially opened to the public this summer, offering 10 miles of hiking trails winding through it all. The trail system also connects to nearby Castlewood Canyon State Park, creating even more room to explore. There’s a natural connection between Lost Canyon and the way we think about life at Sterling Ranch. Our community was planned with trails, parks and open space as essential pieces of the neighborhood, not simply extras added along the way. That emphasis on access to nature is a big part of what draws people to the Ranch, and it’s exciting to see that same commitment to preserving and enjoying the outdoors happening throughout Douglas County. So when you’re ready to go exploring, grab your water bottle, lace up your hiking shoes and head out to discover this beautiful new addition to our backyard. With more trails still being completed, Lost Canyon Ranch is a place you’ll want to revisit as it continues to take shape. The Details: Lost Canyon open space is located at 6581 Lost Canyon Ranch Road and is open daily year-round. Due to the property’s conservation easement, biking is permitted on roadways only and is not allowed on hiking trails, and pets, including dogs and horses, are not permitted anywhere on the property. Find more information, including trail maps, parking details and seasonal hours at CRgov.com/LostCanyonRanch.

Roxborough’s Moonrise Hike Chasing Shadows on an Autumn Evening Most Sterling Ranch residents know Roxborough State Park for its brilliant daytime contrast— where jagged, 300-million-year-old red sandstone slabs pierce bright blue Colorado skies. It is a local staple for morning trail runs and family hikes. However, as the autumn calendar flips to late October, a rare sensory shift takes place just down the road from our community, transforming a familiar landscape into an entirely new world. On Friday, October 23, 2026, the Friends of Roxborough State Park will host their final Moonrise Hike of the year. This popular, guided evening trek offers residents a front-row seat to the park’s nocturnal transition. Beginning at the Visitor Center at 5 pm, hikers venture along the wide, easy paths of the Fountain Valley Loop just as the sun dips below the hogbacks. As twilight fades, the true magic begins. The massive sandstone formations, known as the "sleeping giants," cast long, dramatic silhouettes across the valley floor under the silver illumination of the Hunter’s Moon. Without the daytime heat, the crisp autumn night air wakes up a completely different side of the local ecosystem. Hikers frequently report hearing the distant calls of owls, tracking the rustle of mule deer navigating the oak brush, or catching a rare glimpse of red foxes on the move.

Moonrise Hike

Led by expert volunteer naturalists, the two-hour experience strips away the distractions of modern technology and replaces them with pure foothills serenity. Because Roxborough is a protected nature preserve, pets are strictly prohibited, ensuring the local wildlife remains undisturbed. Space for the final hike is highly limited and requires a small $8 donation to support park preservation. Residents looking to secure a spot for this unforgettable autumn tradition can register by calling the Roxborough Visitor Center directly at 303-973-3959. Can’t make the Moonrise Hike this year? The park hosts events year-round. A few more options this October include: October 17: Archaeology Day featuring patio programs from 9:30 am - 1 pm and a Walk and Talk tour at 10 am October 24: Boo 2026 and trick-or-treating 12 - 4 pm October 24 & 25: Homestead Hikes (times vary; registration required) Visit https://cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/roxboroughstate-park for more info and a full calendar of events.

Save the Date: Cattle Drive October 24 One of our most cherished and unique traditions will arrive a little earlier this year. The annual Sterling Ranch Cattle Drive is coming up on Saturday, October 24. This fun event invites residents to enjoy a celebration of our ranching heritage and to show off the cattle that still rotate around the yet-to-bedeveloped pastures around our villages.

Sterling Ranch was settled by the Sterling family in the mid1800s, and has been an active cattle ranch since then. Keeping cattle on open prairie helps keep the grasses -- and fire fuel load -- under control, improves the quality of the soil, and adds to the Western flavor of our community.

The event draws huge crowds each year to watch local cowboys and cowgirls move the cattle to their winter pasture on horseback (and a few UTVs). The day includes live music, BBQ food trucks, and fun activities that tie into the bootscootin’ good times, such as a petting zoo and a mechanical bull.

Save the Date: Cattle Drive October 24 Families can line the streets and trail at the Overlook Clubhouse to watch the action, then gather together for great food, entertainment, and western spirit. It’s a one-of-a-kind event that brings history, flavor, and fun to the whole community!

Spotlight: Larry Vickerman Director at Chatfield Farms Retires Larry Vickerman has served as the Director of Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms for 21 years. This year, as Vickerman prepares to retire from his work at the 700-acre farm and public garden in Littleton, he shares some of his deep knowledge and appreciation of this Colorado gem. Q: After more than 20 years leading Chatfield Farms, what are you most proud of when you look back? A: Taking Chatfield Farms from a relatively neglected and unknown property to a community education resource that showcases horticulture, sustainable agriculture and habitat restoration.

Above: Larry Vickerman. Photo courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens © Scott Dressel-Meyer

Q: Many Sterling Ranch residents visit Chatfield Farms for the Lavender Festival, Corn Maze, CSA, or Trail of Lights. Is there one event or tradition that has a special place in your heart? A: My favorite has always been the Pumpkin Festival. It is like the country fair that many people remember going to when growing up. Plus, the sheer joy on a kid's face when they walk out into a 10-acre field of pumpkins is hugely rewarding to me. Q: Denver Botanic Gardens partnered with Sterling Ranch to develop our recommended plant list for Northwest Douglas County. Why is it so important to choose plants that are well suited to our local microclimate? A: The water we use on landscapes is an important resource we do not have enough of in Colorado. We can still have beautiful landscapes by using drought tolerant and native plants that thrive while saving the water for other necessities. We do not have to give up beauty to save water. We do need to continue to change our idea of a beautiful landscape. Q: What changes have you seen in Colorado's landscapes and gardens over the course of your career?

Photo courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens © Scott Dressel-Meyer

A: We are rapidly moving away from water-intensive lawns and annuals in the landscape. We are embracing a low-water-use plant palette that features many native plants from Colorado. When I started in this business, it was very hard to find a good native plant in a nursery. Now there are sections of just natives. The most disturbing thing I have observed during my career is the frequency of droughts has increased. We used to expect a drought every 20 years or so in Colorado. Now we have had multiple droughts in the last 15 years and two of the most severe in the last 24 years.

Spotlight: Larry Vickerman Q: For someone who's never visited Chatfield Farms, what's your favorite spot on the property that you'd encourage them to discover? A: The meadow in the Oak Savannah surrounding the chapel. This area can give you a feel for what prime creekside prairies used to look like in Colorado before agriculture converted them to crop fields.

“We can still have beautiful landscapes using drought tolerant and native plants.”

Q: What's one gardening tip you wish every Colorado homeowner knew? A: Plant selection is key along with good soil preparation. Soil preparation is where it all starts. Get that right and maintaining the garden becomes much easier. Q: You've spent your career helping people connect with plants and the outdoors. What do you hope visitors take away after spending a day at Chatfield Farms? A: I hope they come away with a sense of wonder about how gardening in Colorado can be done in so many different ways and by using the native plants of our mountains and plains to enhance their gardens. I hope they can also appreciate where their food comes from by looking at our vegetable fields and how hard it is to grow produce.

Photos, this page and next: courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens © Scott Dressel-Meyer

Spotlight: Larry Vickerman Q: As you retire, what gives you the most optimism about the future of conservation, gardening, and open spaces in Colorado? A: Coloradoans are some of the most environmentally savvy and conservation-minded people I have ever met, and I have lived and worked in many places around the world. They give me hope that we can continue to gain ground in conservation of our amazing landscapes, manmade or natural! Q: What are your plans for retirement? Will you finally have time to relax, or do you expect you'll always have a project growing somewhere? A: I always have many projects! My family owns a ranch in Southern Colorado that always needs a lot of work. My wife and I both love to travel internationally. Q: Looking back over your career, what has been the greatest lesson that nature has taught you? A: Never go against nature! It is much easier to adapt your garden style to nature’s rhythms. I tell everyone I have killed more trees I have planted in my career than have survived. The Front Range of Colorado is a tough place to grow trees, hence why most of it was prairie originally. Nature provides a roadmap for what is possible; we need to recognize that path and follow it. I have visited cities like Tucson that have adapted their landscapes to the natural environment of the Sonoran Desert. Colorado is not there yet! Q: Is there a memorable moment—or even a funny story—from your years at Chatfield Farms that still makes you smile? A: We had a visitor to the Corn Maze complain that the paths through the maze were not paved. That still makes me smile. Q: If you could leave one piece of advice for the next generation of gardeners and land stewards, what would it be? A: We are seeing huge disruptions in the natural rhythms of ecosystems and weather, with detrimental effects. Now is the time to start building resilience in our natural and manmade landscapes.

Corn Maze and Pumpkin Days Fall Fun Happening Now at Chatfield Farms In October, corn and pumpkins take top billing at Chatfield Farms. This year’s Corn Maze is especially worth exploring as it celebrates Colorado’s 150th anniversary. Twists and turns cut into the maze create iconic Colorado symbols, including the Rocky Mountain columbine and bighorn sheep. Climb the bridge along the way for a bird’seye view and a little help getting your bearings! Little ones under 10 can join the fun in the mini corn maze, while tickets also include barrel train rides, classic yard games and plenty of opportunities to explore the farm, historic homestead and curated gardens. Food and beverage vendors will be onsite, too, so you can make a whole day of it. Left: the Corn Maze at Chatfield Farms. Below: The Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms.

Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms BOGO Tickets to Trail of Lights Sterling Ranch residents receive BOGO tickets to Trail of Lights in November and December! The holiday season isn’t complete without a little sparkle, and Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is the perfect place to find it. Take a festive evening stroll along a paved path winding through the farm, historic homestead and curated gardens, all transformed with colorful string lights, glowing light tunnels, music and other special features. Bundle up, bring the family and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season as the farm comes alive after dark. And, of course, no holiday light adventure is complete without a warm cup of hot chocolate and a gooey s’more! Both are available for purchase along the trail. It’s a merry way to slow down, soak up the season and make a few holiday memories along the way. Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms November 21 – January 3, (closed November 26, 30, Dec. 1, 7-8, and 25) BOGO tickets available November 22-25, 29 and December 2-3 with code: TOL26 Member presale is November 4-6; public tickets on sale November 9.

Home for the Holidays Traditions to Try this Holiday Season Sterling Ranch has a unique volunteer group called the Community Navigators. These friendly folks reach out directly to new homeowners to invite them to our monthly new homeowner orientation meetings and to offer a “phone a friend” connection if needed. A few of our Navigators shared their favorite fall and holiday traditions; maybe they will inspire you to create a new tradition, or share your favorite with your friends and neighbors!

“We started a new tradition. Having a holiday dinner with our neighbors/new friends in our neighborhood. We take turns hosting, have a white elephant gift exchange and play team games (usually heads-up). It’s been one of our favorite get togethers with our friends.” - Denise Lapka

“In the fall I like to take my daughter somewhere she can enjoy the beauty of Colorado. This was an accessible trail called Wilderness on Wheels. It’s an hour away from Sterling Ranch in Grant, Colorado, and we can all enjoy it as a family.” - Tracy Hoel

Home for the Holidays Traditions to Try this Holiday Season “One of our favorite traditions is collecting Christmas ornaments every time we travel - that way, when we decorate the tree each year, we can reminisce about our favorite places all around the world! It’s hard to pick just one, but my favorite ornament is probably the velvet puffin that you can see towards the top right of the tree. It came from Iceland and we got it while we were there on our honeymoon!” - Adrienne Sobering

Homegrown Cheer: Sterling Ranch Christkindl Market The Magic: Returning for its sophomore season at Providence Park, our very own Sterling Ranch Holiday Market is fast becoming a core neighborhood anchor. The green spaces transform into a lively European-inspired village filled with independent Colorado makers, food trucks, and live holiday music. The Insider Tip: Don’t skip the limited-edition collector package. It scores you a beautiful, collectible Sterling Ranch mug loaded with hot mulled cider or wine, paired with a fresh, warm soft pretzel to enjoy while you shop. The Details: Saturday, December 5. Kids can visit with Santa from 9 am to noon at Ranch Social, followed by the market from noon to 7 pm at the Lawn at Providence Park (8100 Piney River Ave.)

Sterling Ranch Days Photos An Annual Tradition That Continues to Grow Sterling Ranch Days expanded this year, with more events celebrating our community’s unique mix of Western ranch vibes and outdoor adventure. Hundreds of residents came out to enjoy Pasture Golf, Blind Rancher Tractor Race, Cow Chip Chuckin, Chicken Scramble, Hobby Horse Barrel Racing, along with the returning favorites: Mutton Bustin’, the Saddles & Spurs Horse Parade and Pancake Breakfast. And since a picture is worth a thousand words... ‘nuff said. Enjoy the photos!

Sterling Ranch Days Photos An Annual Tradition That Continues to Grow

Fall 2026 Event Highlights View our full schedule at www.sterlingranchcab.com/calendar. Events are subject to change; see online calendar for updates.

October 2

October 3

October 24

Chili Cook-Off

Fall Festival

Cattle Drive

Bring your best recipe and your biggest appetite for a flavorful showdown! Sample a variety of homemade chilis and see who earns the title of Chili Cook-Off Champion. Enjoy some friendly competition and a little spicy heat as well. Registration required for contest.

Celebrate the season at our annual Fall Festival! This free event includes an outdoor concert by Uhl Duo Band, pumpkins, food trucks, and fun. You can leave your coolers at home because Salta will be selling beverages at the park.

Experience the thrill of the Old West as cowboys and cowgirls drive a herd of cattle right through town! After the drive, enjoy delicious eats from local food trucks, tap your boots to live music. Families can line the streets and trail at the Overlook Clubhouse to watch the action.

Friday, October 2 6pm Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Saturday, October 3 4 - 6 pm Prospect Park 8158 Monte Vista Ave.

Saturday, October 24 10 am - 2 pm Overlook Clubhouse 7853 Piney River Ave.

Fall 2026 Event Highlights View our full schedule at www.sterlingranchcab.com/calendar. Events are subject to change; see online calendar for updates.

October 30

November 7

November 11

Trunk or Treat

Dueling Pianos

Trunk or Treat is a safe and festive way to celebrate Halloween with friends and neighbors. Families can stroll through a parking lot full of creatively decorated car trunks— each one packed with sweet treats and spooky surprises. From silly themes to spooky displays, every trunk is part of the fun!

Get ready for an evening of highenergy entertainment as two talented pianists go head-to-head, taking live song requests and turning them into a fun, interactive musical experience. Sing along, clap along, and enjoy a night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and your favorite tunes! Registration required.

Veterans Day Coffee Join us as we honor and celebrate our veterans with coffee, pastries, and meaningful conversation. This special gathering is an opportunity to connect, share stories, and express our gratitude for the service and sacrifices of those who have served our country. All are welcome.

Friday, October 30 4:30 - 6:30 pm Overlook Clubhouse 7853 Piney River Ave.

Saturday, November 7 6 - 9 pm Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Wednesday, November 11 7 - 9 am Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Fall 2026 Event Highlights View our full schedule at www.sterlingranchcab.com/calendar. Events are subject to change; see online calendar for updates.

November 21

November 28

December 2

Holiday Wreath Decorating

Tree Lighting

Sensory Santa

Join us as we flip the switch on the Sterling Center tree and watch it come to life with twinkling lights. Enjoy wagon rides, hot chocolate, and live music for festive fun for the whole family. The tree lights up at 6 pm.

Celebrate the season in a calm, welcoming environment designed for children and families who benefit from a relaxed, sensoryfriendly experience. Miles 4 Madison sponsors this event. Registration required.

Saturday, November 28 5 - 7 pm Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Wednesday, December 2 4 - 7 pm Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Celebrate the season with a festive evening of creativity and holiday cheer! Join your neighbors to design and decorate a beautiful holiday wreath to take home. We provide all supplies; you supply your holiday spirit. Registration required. Saturday, November 21 6 - 8:30 pm Overlook Clubhouse 7853 Piney River Ave.

Fall 2026 Event Highlights View our full schedule at www.sterlingranchcab.com/calendar. Events are subject to change; see online calendar for updates.

December 4 & 5

December 5

December 31

Visit with Santa

Christkindl Market

Noon Year’s Eve

Share your wish list, snap photos, and maybe even chat about who’s been naughty… or nice! Enjoy holiday tunes, tasty treats, and a cozy, cheerful atmosphere. No registration needed, just first-come, first-served. Don’t forget to bring your own camera to capture those magical moments.

Join us for a magical holiday experience—general admission is free! Explore festive lights, local vendors, and all the holiday cheer Sterling Ranch has to offer. Register in advance for our Commemorative Event Package featuring a limited-edition mug.

Celebrate the new year without having to stay up late! Ring in the 2027 a little early during our Noon Year’s Eve Party. Enjoy festive music, sparkling (kid-friendly) drinks, and party favors as we count down to noon with confetti, cheers, and smiles all around.

Friday, December 4, 5 - 8 pm Saturday, December 5, 9 am - 12 pm Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Saturday, December 5 12 - 7 pm The Lawn at Providence Park 8100 Piney River Ave.

Thursday, December 31 11 am - 12 pm Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.

Sterling Ranch Living

Issue No. 12