The Definitive Guide to Denver and Colorado

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Ellen Gray

Ellen Gray has 90 articles published.

Ellen is the Editor and Publisher of Colorado Traveler Magazine and Denver Traveler Magazine.

Play Your Way Through A Colorado Summer

in Activities/Front Range Activities/Front Range Attractions/Uncategorized by

Our Top Picks for Festivals and Fun

By Rebecca Treon

Summer is one of Colorado’s most beautiful seasons, when warm weather beckons us outside to enjoy all the state has to offer, from high-country adventure to the bustle of the city. Festivals abound both in the Mile High City and further afield, offering everything from live music to food and wine — all with the purpose of bringing community together for an immersive experience. We’ve gathered some of the state’s notable summer festivals below.

Denver Chalk Art FestivalJune 2-3 in Larimer Square

Denver Chalk Art Festival follows street painting traditions that originated in 16th century Renaissance Italy when artists began transforming asphalt into canvas using chalk. The artists were called “madonnari,” after their customary practice of recreating chalk paintings of the Madonna. Historically, madonnari were known for their life of travel and freedom, making their living from coins received from passersby. Along with the hundreds of visual artists you’ll see creating masterpieces along Larimer Square, there will also be a selection of talented musicians on hand. www.larimerarts.org

Folk West in Pagosa Springs
Various times this summer

Far-flung Pagosa Springs is nestled in Southern Colorado’s San Juan mountain range, and is host to Folk West, which puts on two festivals during the summer: the Four Corners Folk Festival (August 31-September 2) and The Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass event (June 8-10). The Four Corners Folk Festival has hosted the likes of Los Lobos and Bela Fleck; Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass has featured the Tony Furtado Trio and the Lil Smokies, among others. Camp under the stars and enjoy all the folk and bluegrass you want at these two festivals. www.folkwest.com

GoPro Mountain Games
June 7-10 in Vail

Head up to Vail to watch the top national event in the outdoor industry. Under human power, outdoor athletes compete in 11 sports and 27 disciplines for more than $120,000 in prize money. Lifestyle events include the GoPro Outdoor Reels film series, the Mountain Click photography competition, interactive expo area, Gear Town, the Mountains of Music concert series and the Outside Adventure Film School. www.mountaingames.com

Vail Craft Beer Classic
June 14-17

What could be better than enjoying a great craft beer or spirit in a picturesque mountain setting? All the greats will be on hand for you to try, including Odells, Great Divide, 10th Mountain, Boulder Beer, Breckenridge Brewery, Broken Compass, Colorado
Cider Co., Epic Brewing, Left Hand Brewing, Oskar Blues, Telluride Brewing, Tito’s Vodka and lots more! Enjoy sips, bike rides, parties and hikes at this fun event! www.vailcraftbeerclassic.com

25th Annual Colorado BBQ Challenge
June 14-16 in Frisco

A popular tradition since 1993, the 2018 BBQ Challenge in Frisco features bands, pig races, kids’ activities, the annual Fire Fighter Cook Off, food sampling, whiskey tasting and much more. Fun for kids and adults, and this will be some of the best barbecue you’ll enjoy. Hogback tickets are the official currency and are good for everything from beer to BBQ to berry kabobs. This is a Kansas City Barbecue-sanctioned competition, and winners of the Frisco Challenge are eligible to compete in the American Royal – the “World Series” of Barbecue. www.townoffrisco.com

Aspen Food & Wine Classic
June 15-17

The food and wine world’s premier event unfolds with much fanfare every summer in the mountains of Aspen, where celebrity chefs, world-class wine experts, and exhibitors gather to bring the best of the culinary scene to our front door. From chef-prepared dinners by the hottest names in the industry to workshops on wine and tastings and after-parties galore, this is the summer’s hottest ticket. www.foodandwine.com

Denver Barbecue (BBQ) Festival
June 15-17, Sports Authority at Mile High

Father’s Day practically screams barbecue, and this year, Dads, you’re in luck: it’s the inaugural year of the Denver Barbecue Festival, bringing together the country’s best pitmasters for an event of epic, um, pro-portions, with tickets benefitting Food Bank of the Rockies. Sports Authority at Mile High is the place to be, with two BBQ-consuming options: Saturday and Sunday admission is free with live music and food (plus beer and drinks) for purchase; ticketed all-you-can-eat Pit Passes (including a Friday Preview Party) have all-access. Honored award-winning pitmasters include local favorite Jason Ganahl (GQUE BBQ), Big Moe Cason (Des Moines, IA), Scott Roberts (Driftwood, TX), and John David Wheeler (Horn Lake, MS) among other award winners. www.denverbbqfest.com

Colorado Renaissance Festival
June 16-August 5, Larkspur

Each weekend during the summer, the town of Larkspur is transformed into a magical place, as hundreds of costumed merrymakers create original works and entertain crowds. This year marks the festival’s 42nd season, and will be a memorable experience with rollicking music, wonderful food and performances galore. www.coloradorenaissance.com

Telluride Bluegrass Festival
June 21-24

Now in its 44th year, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a rare treat, and performers include bluegrass superpickers, soulful songwriters and a variety of musical superstars sprinkled into the mix. The festivarian audience is a loyal bunch, and many attendees are going on their 20th consecutive year (or more!). The setting of the festival, in the rugged San Juan Mountains surrounded on three sides by the spectacular Telluride Box Canyon, makes this a special event. www.bluegrass.com/telluride

BRAVO! Vail
June 21-August 2

Four of the world’s greatest orchestras make their summer home at Bravo! Vail. All summer long, internationally renowned musicians and acclaimed soloists perform powerful classical masterworks and sensational pops programs in the beautiful setting of Vail. Plus, experience intimate chamber music concerts performed by world-class soloists throughout the Vail Valley. Featuring the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic. www.bravovail.org

Colorado Tiny House Festival
June 22-24, Adams County Fairgrounds

The Colorado Tiny House Festival is returning for its second year – bigger and better than ever! Doubling in size, the festival features a uniquely diverse assortment of small living structures from tiny houses on wheels to container homes, a semi-trailer conversion, schoolies, van conversions, teardrops, yurts and more. The Colorado Tiny House Festival will blend the spirit of the tiny living movement with the most up-todate information on going tiny, simplifying your life, minimalistic living, and living greener. In addition to tours of nearly 40 unique small living structures, attendees will enjoy expert speaker presentations, hands-on workshops, a product and service marketplace, food, drink, and more. www.coloradotinyhousefestival.com

Westword Music Showcase
June 23 in Golden Triangle

Now in its 24th year, the Westword Music Festival offers more live music than ever at various venues throughout the Golden Triangle neighborhood. After polling some 200 people in the music biz, who nominated 800 musical acts, Westword whittled the selection down to 150 — half of which will perform at the festival. In the lineup: national headliners like Galantis, St. Lucia, and Tracksuit Wedding, plus slews of local bands (guests are encouraged to vote for their favorites). The main event takes place on two outdoor stages (and other venues) from noon until 10 p.m. VIP tickets are also available, with access to perks like shade, food and drink, and a private entrance. www.westwordshowcase.com

Cherry Blossom Festival
June 23-24, Sakura Square in downtown Denver

A thrilling celebration of Japanese heritage and culture through live entertainment, food and drink and a marketplace of informative exhibits and demonstrations. www.cherryblossomdenver.org

Telluride Wine Festival
June 28-July 1

The historic mining town of Telluride is the ideal backdrop for an intimate four-day food and wine festival that immerses guests in a complete gourmet experience. The 37th annual Telluride Wine Festival assembles chefs like Tom Coohill and John Tesar for wine pairing dinners and more, but the real focus is wine, with winemaker seminars, reserve and grand tastings, and a culinary village. www.telluridewinefestival.com

Colorado Lavender Festival 2018
June 29-July 1, Palisade

Every year in Palisade in western Colorado, visitors flock to gawk at the endless variety of lavender that thrive under clear blue skies, a dry climate and lean soils. The beautiful landscape derives from snowmelt waters from the Rocky Mountains, which nourish the high-altitude farms where the lavender is cultivated. The festival includes educational seminars, great food and wine, and an intriguing array of artisan products. www.coloradolavender.org

Vail Jazz Festival
July 1-August 24

From jazz legends to emerging artists, the Vail Jazz Festival showcases a variety of styles, from swing, salsa and blues to Brazilian and American songbook. Featuring performances by some of the world’s greatest jazz musicians, this season’s lineup includes more than 75 performances and 200 artists. www.vailjazz.org

Cherry Creek Arts Festival
July 6-8, Cherry Creek North

This world-class and award-winning celebration of visual, culinary and performing arts tranforms the tree-lined streets of Cherry Creek North into a high-end gallery. Through engaging cultural and arts education experiences, thousands of visitors interact with 265 visual artists, performing artists, sponsors and other cultural organizations. More than 2,100 artists apply annually, making CCAF one of the most competitive juried shows in the nation. This year’s festival features 265 national and international artists, in 13 different media categories. Wander over to Artivity Avenue for hands-on demonstrations and interactive art-making at the Janus Henderson Art Experience. This year, Arrow Electronics features Handsome Little Devils as they provide surprise popup performances throughout the festival site. On Culinary Avenue, patrons will enjoy a selection of 22 unique and tasty delights fit to satisfy any festival foodie. Four food trucks will also be located throughout the festival site. www.cherryarts.org

Central City Opera’s 2018 Festival

Experience the extraordinary at Central City Opera’s 2018 Festival July 7 through August 5. This year, main stage productions include “The Magic Flute” (beginning July 7) and “Il Trovatore” (beginning July 14). Both world-class performances will be brought to life in the historic 550-seat jewel box opera house in Central City, Colorado. Patrons will experience the grand talent of opera singers who perform at top-tier venues such as the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, and are the first to see young talent who are accepted into the competitive Bonfils- Stanton Foundation Artist Training Program. Graduates of this program perform throughout the world to critical acclaim. In addition to the two main stage productions, Central City Opera’s 2018 Festival will feature two one-act operas: the 40th anniversary of “The Face on the Barroom Floor” and “Acis and Galatea.” These one-act operas will be performed in various locations in Central City, beginning July 25. Wrapping up the 2018 summer season, Central City Opera is excited to announce “Encore: A Musical Revue,” August 8, 9 and 11. Conceived by Curt Olds, who is a past apprentice and principal artist with Central City Opera, “Encore: A Musical Revue” is an exhilarating and eclectic mix of old and new pieces of music theater, from Broadway and Off-Broadway composers. www.centralcityopera.org

Slow Food Nations
July 13-15 in Larimer Square

The Slow Food movement began in Italy in the late 1980s, dedicated to preserving traditional foodways and combatting fast food and lifestyles. Today, more than 160 countries participate in the movement, with 150 chapters in the United States. Slow Food Nations will host a takeover of Larimer Square that celebrates flavor, culture, and exploring food. There are several free events like the Taste Marketplace, featuring more than 100 culinary exhibitors offering samples, or Eat Street, a block-long pop-up food and drink court. Ticketed workshops run for $50 with topics like The A to Z of Olive Oil and The Ancient Art of Tortillas, where you can expand your culinary knowledge. www.slowfoodnations.org

Hot Air Balloon Rodeo
July 14-15 in Steamboat Springs

One of Colorado’s most colorful weekends takes place each summer in the picturesque setting of Steamboat Springs. Now in its 37th year, balloons lift off over Bald Eagle Lake, and the image is nothing short of magical. The colorful balloons dot the Yampa Valley sky, and local vendors offer great food and hot coffee, while just minutes away kids can enjoy Art in the Park featuring arts and crafts, performances and an interactive children’s area. On Saturday as the sun sets, head back to the mountain area and watch in wonder as the colorful balloon glow lights up on Mt. Werner. www.steamboatchamber.com

Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival
July 28

This rustic mountain town is transformed into a picturesque mountainside vineyard, featuring a tantalizing array of varietals from top wineries. An enthusiast’s choice of nearly 300 wines, complemented by mouthwatering small dishes selected to accompany each vintage. Add to this some great live music, and you’ll want to make this a mainstay of every summer vacation! www.rockymtnevents.com/breckenridge-food-wine

Vail International Dance Festival
July 28-August 11

Celebrating its 30th anniversary season, the 2018 Vail Dance Festival is a two-week showcase of the beautiful world of dance, with showstopping performances by acclaimed artists from around the world. www.vcf.org/arts

Underground Music Showcase
July 27-29 in Denver

The Rocky Mountain region’s largest indie music festival returns to Denver’s Baker/South Broadway neighborhood. This is a great opportunity to discover new musical acts as you stroll along the eclectic streets lined with unique restaurants, bars and shops. The multi-day event showcases local bands and national acts, including comedy and podcast recordings, panel discussions and live music. Sponsored by Two Parts, tickets and information are available at www.undergroundmusicshowcase.com

Beaver Creek Wine & Spirits Festival
August 9-12

Celebrate great food and drink in a spectacular setting at the 12th annual Beaver Creek Wine & Spirits Festival. Showcasing the culinary wizardry of local chefs, exclusive wines and more. Sip custom blends, sample great tequilas, indulge in a fabulous wine dinner, participate in hands-on mozzarella making or take a port and cheese excursion. Fun for foodies as well as anyone who appreciates a great glass of wine at altitude! www.beavercreek.com/explore-the-resort/activities/summer-activities

Velorama Colorado
August 17-19

RiNo Art District is the place to be for the second annual Velorama entertainment experience. Celebrating the arts, music and cycling, this is a one-of-a-kind “festival” where you’ll be treated to national music acts including Wilco and Death Cab for Cutie, hundreds of vendors, a Bike Expo, and independent craft makers of beer, cider and wine. www.veloramafestival.com

“Happy City: Art for the People”

“Happy City: Art for the People” is a six-week, citywide art intervention with the purpose of breaking down personal, emotional and social barriers, while nurturing individual and collective well-being. The project is produced by The Denver Theatre District with artistic direction by Black Cube and is inspired by British artist Stuart Semple. “Happy City” brings together more than 10 artists’ perspectives to address ideas of happiness and community wellness, in an effort to imagine a more connected society. The initiative includes a series of artwork interventions by local, national and international artists spread throughout public spaces of downtown Denver. Artists include Theresa Anderson, Matt Barton, Milton Melvin Croissant III, Carlos Frésquez, Vince McKelvie, Kelly Monico, Zach Reini, John Roemer, Stuart Semple, Joel Swanson and Frankie Toan. The installation sites include streets, alleyways, billboards, video screens and Union Station, among other locations. In addition to the installations, the “Happy City” initiative will present “Happy Talks” and “Happiness Unpacked: a panel discussion,” deeper conversations exploring the intersection of art, mental wellness and civic participation, and engaging programming initiated and supported by nearly a dozen community partners. www.happycitydenver.com

Global Hope Network International

in Profiles by

Helping the World’s Destitute Help Themselves

By Ellen Gray

Jeff Power is on a mission. Working through his organization, the former pastor from Broomfield, Colorado is passionate about carrying out the work of Global Hope Network International (GHNI): to bring help and hope to the hidden and hurting .

For the last seven years, Power has traveled to the world’s most downtrodden areas of Africa, the Middle East and Asia, to lift up communities that have scant food sources, no running water, access to healthcare, schools or money. But unlike many other aid organizations, GHNI is dedicated to teaching the villagers to help themselves, rather than merely providing funding or services.

The norm for humanitarian aid shows that for the past 70 years, the solution was to throw large sums of money at a problem, which just does not work. “It creates a dependency upon the aid organization and sets nations and villages back,” Power explain

s. “Instead, we teach the people in the poorest villages to be self-sustaining. It’s a dance, one that is much like parents who give their kids everything and are later shocked when they end up living in their basement at age 35, because they cannot live on their own.”

In each village where they work, GHNI hires coaches; locals who grew up in the village and somehow found a way to obtain an education and better themselves. Coaches are provided with a motorcycle which permits them to move easily about, and the village must agree to participate in the program, meeting with the coach once a week for five years.

With the coach’s help, the village forms five committees: food, education, water, health and income generation, addressing the fundamental needs of any community. “If we can help a destitute village work in all these areas, they will turn that community around in five years,” explains Power. “It’s the committees’ job to lift the village, not the donors.” Together, the coach and the committees can make sure the village lifts itself out of poverty.

“If we can get enough organizations working together, we can improve one million villages.”

Power is proud that GHNI captured the attention … and approval … of the United Nations, which awarded the organization with consultative status. But more than the recognition is the fruit of the labor, in this case evidenced by very real success stories in villages that literally have risen from the ashes.

“We worked with a village in Kenya that had no money, no school, no clean water, rampant disease, families living on $1 per day, one small meal per day, and one baby dying every month. Today, that same village has access to clean water, grows enough food for three meals per day for every person, incomes of $10 per day, every child in school, and one infant death per year – all accomplished in five years. The total cost of the project to turn around an entire village was less than $90,000,” Power says.

Power first learned about GHNI from friends who put him in touch with the founder. His interest in the organization resulted in a trip to Kenya to see first-hand what could be done to lift up the poorest communities. Today, Power works to secure donors who can work with specific villages (hopefully th

rough a five-year commitment) to lift a village out of poverty. Half the donor money goes to the coach, the rest to the village to carry out the work.

The premise of GHNI is fairly straightforward, Power says. “If we can get enough organizations working together, we can improve one million villages. The bottom billion people (living in utmost poverty) are located in less than one million villages. And one million villages is a finite number.”

Aside from the obvious benefit of vastly improving villagers’ quality of life, there are less tangible events that will occur. “When people are less desperate, there will be less extremism, because much of terrorism stems from poverty and lack of hope. If people have hope and resources, when they are working together instead of fighting one another, there will be no place for extremism,” Power explains.

In a growing movement, Power is successfully spreading the word about GHNI to corporations, capturing their interest in a unique way. In a nutshell, for $15,000 a year, a company can adopt a village and watch as it progresses along the path from poverty to productivity. Some companies today are so vested in the program that they are adopting clusters of villages, which makes sense both from an economic perspective as well as a functional and operational one. When several villages in a cluster all work to better themselves, an entire region becomes stronger and more vested in sustaining a strong future.

This type of partnership is about so much more than giving money to kickstart a village’s road to recovery. Some organizations are sending their employees to the village to see the work being done firsthand. Technology now allows villagers to Skype or facetime with the organizations providing the helping hand, so employees and employers can follow the progress being made. They can watch in real time when running water is first brought to the village, they can see the children attending their new school, they can relish the looks on the faces of the destitute when they understand what it is to have hope and a vision for a better life.

“There is nothing better than watching as a village is being lifted out of poverty. And even though it’s far away, when we can connect someone living in a remote part of Kenya with the people here who are helping them help themselves, and they can laugh together and cry together, it truly is changing the world,” Power says with a smile.

For more information on how you can get involved with Global Hope Network International, contact Jeff Power at jeff.power@ghni.org

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CALENDAR

in Uncategorized by

Event Lineup

MARCH

March 1-April 1
Hamilton
Buell Theatre
The national tour of the highly acclaimed musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda, about America’s founding father, Alexander Hamilton. A wonderful blend of hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway, this is the story of America then, as told by America now.

March 1-11
The Great Leap
Ricketson Theatre
When an American college basketball team travels to Beijing for an exhibition game in 1989, the drama on the court goes deeper than the strain between their countries. Tensions rise right up to the final buzzer as history collides with the action in the stadium.

March 1-April 22
First Date
Garner Galleria Theatre
When blind date newbie Aaron is set up with serial-dater Casey, a drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner when other restaurant patrons transform into supportive best friend, manipulative exes and protective parents.

March 3
Trevor Noah
Bellco Theatre
Africa’s most successful comedian and host of the Emmy and Peadbody Award-winning The Daily Show on Comedy Central comes to Denver for one fabulous night. Noah was the subject of David Paul Meyer’s award-winning documentary You Laugh But It’s True, the story of his remarkable career in post-apartheid South Africa.

March 5-April 23
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill
Garner Galleria Theatre
Jazz legend Billie Holiday’s troubled life story comes to life through the songs that made her famous, including “God Bless the Child,” “What a Little Moonlight Can Do,” “Strange Fruit” and “Taint Nobody’s Biz-ness.”

March 5
Lorde
Pepsi Center
This New Zealand songwriter and singer rose to prominence with the release of “Royals” in 2013, making her the youngest solo artist to reach a No. 1 single since 1987. She curated the soundtrack for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1; the lead single “Yellow Flicker Beat” was nominated for the Golden Globe for Best Song.

March 6
G-Eazy
1STBANK Center, Broomfield
His career started when he opened for superstars such as Drake and Lil Wayne, and following his college graduation he released “Must Be Nice,” which landed at #3 on the ITunes Hip Hop Chart. His most recent album, “The Beautiful & Damned”, was released this fall, and is a huge hit among his rapper fans.

March 8
Justin Moore
1stBANK Center, Broomfield
The country music singer was named 2014 ACM New Artist of the Year. His single “You Look Like I Need a Drink” is climbing the country charts, following up his second consecutive No. 1 album release of Off the Beaten Path. He has several gold-certified #1 hits and has sold more than 7 million digital downloads.

March 9
Jim Jefferies Live
Bellco Theatre
Jeffries stops in Denver as part of his 2018 tour across the United States and Canada. The tour follows his successful Netflix comedy special, “Freedumb”. Jefferies has garnered strong popularity for his controversial views delivered in original and entertaining standup performances.

March 10
L.A. Dance Project
Gates Concert Hall
A wonderful performance featuring a fresh, contemporary vision of dance and stylistically diverse repertory. The audience will be treated to a night of bold musicality, dynamic movement and ballet.

March 11
k.d. lang
Paramount Theatre
For more than a quarter century, k.d. lang has entertained fans with her blend of country-rock with a bit of punk thrown into the mix. Her best-known hit, “Constant Craving,” earned her a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. She has collaborated with the best, including Bonnie Raitt, Elton John and Tony Bennett, who declared her “the best singer of her generation.”

March 11
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Carnival of the Animals
Boettcher Concert Hall
An enjoyable performance especially for kids, as the symphony performs some of the best-known pieces from French composer Camille Saint-Saens, with each movement depicting a different animal from the royal lion to the graceful swan.

March 14
Bon Jovi: This House is Not For Sale Tour
The Pepsi Center
The band has been rocking it for more than three decades and has earned their place among global rock royalty. Bon Jovi will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this April!

March 16-17
Denver Gay Men’s Chorus Presents British Invasion!
Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Now in its 36th season, the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus entertains audiences with old and new works. Recent chorus highlights include DGMC’s participation in the 2016 Film on the Rocks Prince Tribute. DGMC is devoted in its commitment to commissioning new works, including “I Am Harvey Milk” by Andrew Lippa.

March 16-18
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 5
Boettcher Concert Hall
Pianist Zhang Zuo (Zee Zee) performs Beethoven’s vigorous and demanding Piano Concerto No. 5. Zee Zee has been dubbed “full of enthusiasm and glamour, radiating the vigor of youth” by Chinese Gramophone.

March 17
The Harlem Globetrotters
The Pepsi Center
Since 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have entertained more than 144 million fans in 122 countries and territories worldwide, popularizing the slam dunk, fast break, the forward and point guard positions and the figure-eight weave.

March 17-18
Amsoil Arenacross
Denver Coliseum
A thrilling spectacle as riders are jammed onto the track in a nail-biting chase where anything goes. The event is a mixture of sports and entertainment, and only the strong — and the fearless – will make the grade.

March 17
Sam Bush
Boulder Theatre
This American bluegrass mandolin player is hailed as the originator of Newgrass style. His achievements have earned him three Grammys, including Album of the Year for “O Brother, Where Art Thou” in 2001.

March 17
Harlem Globetrotters
1stBank Center
Since 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have entertained more than 144 million fans in 122 countries and territories worldwide, popularizing the slam dunk, fast break, the forward and point guard positions and the figure-eight weave.

March 20
The Illusionists Present Adam Trent
Ellie Caulkins
Direct from Broadway, Adam Trent, the breakout star of the world’s bestselling magic show “The Illusionists,” presents an immersive entertainment extravaganza of magic, comedy and music perfect for the entire family.

March 20
Kid Rock’s American Rock ’n Roll Tour
Pepsi Center
This rockin’ recording artist has had a slew of hit singles, and his 2018 tour will introduce fans to his brand-new album, Sweet Southern Sugar. Drawing his musical influence from The Beastie Boys and Bob Seger, his work is a combination of hip hop, rap, rock, country, blues, funk, heavy metal and soul.

March 22, 24
Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert with The Colorado Symphony
1stBANK Center
Performed for the first time in full in Colorado, this performance relives the epic score by John Williams. The score was named the greatest American film score of all time by AFI in 2005. A screening of the film will accompany the concert.

March 22-April 15
This is Modern Art
The Jones
Graffiti crews are willing to risk anything for their art. But when one crew finishes the biggest graffiti bomb of their careers, the consequences get serious and spark a public debate asking, where does art belong?

March 23
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – John Denver: A Rocky Mountain High
Boettcher Concert Hall
Musical legend John Denver is honored in this special concert. The two-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter preforms classic songs in archival video footage, backed by live performances from his former bandmates and full symphony orchestra. A wonderful multi-media treat.

March 24
Paula Poundstone
Paramount Theatre
The host of NPR’s #1 weekly comedy news quiz summed up Paula Poundstone when he said, “Air becomes funny having been breathed by her.” She’s hailed as one of the funniest comedians performing today, and her newest book, “The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search For Human Happiness,” was best described by Lily Tomlin who said, “I laughed. I cried. I got another cat.” She will truly keep you in stitches!

March 24
John Hiatt
Boulder Theater
American rock guitarist, pianist, singer, and songwriter Hiatt has a far-reaching repertoire, including new wave, blues and country. He’s been nominated for numerous Grammy Awards and has received several distinctions in the music industry. He remains one of the most respected and influential American singer-songwriters.

March 27
Romeo Santos
Pepsi Center
Romeo Santos is a singer, songwriter, actor, record producer and former lead vocalist of the American bachata band Aventura. His solo career includes seven No. 1 songs on the Hot Latin Songs chart and 11 No. 1 songs on the Tropical Songs chart.

March 28
Buddy Guy
Paramount Theatre
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee has had a major influence on rock superstars including Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimi Hendrix. At age 81, he’s still going strong, and Rolling Stone Magazine ranked him #23 in the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.” His work continues to keep the blues alive.

 

APRIL

April 4
Jeff Dunham: Passively Aggressive
1stBANK Center
This incredibly talented ventriloquist is the consummate entertainer, and holds a Guinness World Record for “Most Tickets Sold for a Stand-up Comedy Tour.” With more than 1 million YouTube subscribers amassing more than 1 billion views, Dunham and his cast of characters (Walter, Peanut, Achmed and Me) are beloved by his fans.

April 4
Jake Bugg
Bluebird Theater
“Lightning Bolt” and “Slumville Sunrise” made him famous, but it’s his latest work, “Hearts That Strain” that is creating a buzz for its largely acoustic emphasis, as well as for his collaboration with Miley Cyrus sibling Noah Cyrus in “Waiting.”

April 5
Dan Auerbach
Paramount Theatre
The former Black Keys frontman released his solo album, “Waiting On A Song,” acclaimed as a love letter to Nashville. His music is a mix of blues and rock, and his newest work contains collaborations with acclaimed songwriter John Prine.

April 5-29, 2018
A Picasso – All’s Fair in Art and War
Cherry Creek Theatre at The MACC
Paris 1941, German occupation forces have dragged Pablo Picasso from his favorite café into a dark basement storage vault. The Third Reich’s cultural attache, Miss Fisher, interrogates the cubist master to verify three of the master’s works for the Ministry of Propaganda’s “degenerate” art exhibition. Through their thrilling power play, truths are revealed and tensions rise when art, politics, sex and lies collide.

April 6-May 6
Native Gardens
Space Theatre
Dealing with neighbors can be thorny, especially for a young Latino couple who move into a well-established DC neighborhood. Though their neighbors have the best intentions, their newly budding friendship is tested when they realize their shared property line isn’t where it’s supposed to be.

April 6-8
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Coplands Rodeo
Boettcher Concert Hall
Principal Guest Conductor Andrew Litton’s tenure concludes with this rollicking piece of American Rodeo: Ballet In One Act. Litton recorded and released the performance with the Colorado Symphony, and it was named one of Colorado’s best classical albums of 2016. Cellist Alban Gerhardt joins Litton onstage for a rare performance of Barber’s Cello Concerto.

April 7-28
Disney’s Aladdin
Buell Theatre
A thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.

April 8
Disney On Ice: Frozen
Denver Coliseum
Kids and adults alike will thrill to this dazzling ice show, replete with special effects and beloved musical score. Hosted by Mickey and Minnie with special appearances by other Disney characters.

April 11
Judas Priest
Budweiser Event Center, Loveland
For nearly 40 years this British heavy metal band has wowed fans, and their 2008 album “Nostradamus” was the highest-charting album of their storied career. They won a 2010 Grammy for Best Metal Performance, are a VH1 Rock Honors recipient, and have sold more than 50 million copies of their albums. They are truly one of the greatest metal bands of all time.

April 12
Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Paramount Theatre
Bradlee’s PMJ has garnered more than 740 million YouTube views and 2.7 million subscribers since its creation in 2009. Bradlee continues to add new arrangements every week, featuring interpretations from artists such as Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Radiohead, Maroon 5 and more.

April 13-14
Bela Fleck: Concerto for Banjo and Orchestra No. 3
Boettcher Hall
Bela Fleck has been nominated in more categories than any other artist in Grammy history, and has won 14 awards. The king of the banjo performs with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra in this regional premier.

April 14
Toughest Monster Truck Tour
Budweiser Events Center, Loveland
Watch six of the nation’s toughtest monster trucks, including Bigfoot, Quad Chaos, Dirt Crew, Heavy Hitter and Dawg Pound. The event also brings back Megasaurus, the transforming, fire-breathing, car mangling dinosaur robot.

April 14
The Dixie Dregs
Boulder Theater
This American band formed in the 1970s and continues to pave the way with a unique instrumental sound that fuses hard rock, southern rock, progressive metal and classical forms. The band remains a loose collection of its former members, reuniting briefly for short tours and rare studio work.

April 14
David Feherty: Live Off Tour
Paramount Theatre
This professional golfer and TV personality is a entertainer. He won five European championships during his career, and played on the PGA Tour. His books include A Nasty Bit of Rough, Somewhere in Ireland a Village is Missing an Idiot, and David Feherty’s Totally Subjective History of the Ryder Cup. He’s smart, quick and very very funny.

April 18
Branford Marsalis
Fort Collins Colorado Lincoln Center
Saxophonist, composer and bandleader Branford Marsalis has been described as “arguably the most respected living U.S. jazz instrumentalist.” Marsalis, with his father and brothers, were group recipients of the 2011 NEA Jazz Masters Award.

April 19
311/Method Man & Redman
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Method Man is a rapper, actor and record producer, a member of the East Coast hip hop collective Wu-Tan Clan, and half of the hip hop duo Method Man & Redman. Redman is a member of Def Squad.

April 19-21
Return to the Cabaret
Fort Collins Colorado Lincoln Center
The High Performance Dance Theatre delivers an inspiring performance where you’ll be entertained by dancers and singers. The show is inspired by cabaret-style musicals and clubs, and takes you back to a time when jazz was alive and hot!

April 20-21
Lewis Black
Paramount Theatre
This comedian, author, playwright, social critic and actor is best known for his angry demeanor and belligerent comedic style, in which he often simulates having a mental breakdown. His comedy routines often escalate into angry rants about history, politics, religion, or any other cultural trends.

April 20
Flosstradamus
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Curt Cameruci, or Flosstradamus is an American DJ and producer, who has produced iconic tracks like Major Lazer’s “Original Don” “CROWD CTRL,” “Mosh Pit,” and “TTU (Too Turnt Up). The latest single is “Back Again.”

April 20-May 27
The Who’s Tommy
Stage Theatre
After a traumatic incident, young Tommy retreats from the world around him. But a newfound talent for pinball introduces him to the fame and fortune of success. Tommy and his family give new voice to The Who’s iconic 1969 concept album as they navigate the troubles and joys of being alive.

April 20-22
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Wagner The Ring Without Words
Boettcher Concert Hall
Music Director Brett Mitchell leads the orchestra through the fundamental sequences of Wagner’s Ring cycle in this piece which normally takes days to perform in its entirety.

April 21
Spring with the Children’s Chorale
Boettcher Concert Hall
A memorable performance by the internationally acclaimed Colorado Children’s Chorale that includes a wonderful repertoire ranging from opera to pop. The performance blends creative artistry with an infusion of theater.

April 21
Wild Child
Bluebird Theater
This Texas band is really a seven-piece pop mini orchestra, presenting violin, ukulele, cello, keyboards, trumpet, harmonica, drums, guitar, trombone and bass. Their latest album, Expectations, is an artful combination of their indie-pop sound that has shaped so many of their hits.

April 24
Rain – A Tribute to The Beatles
Memorial Hall, Pueblo
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band! The historic album is brought to life in its entirety for this psychedelic multimedia spectacular. A note-for-note theatrical event that is the next best thing to seeing the Beatles.

April 27
The Velveteen Rabbit
Gates Concert Hall
Kids and adults will be charmed by this celebration of the enduring power of love. Known for their athleticism and passion, the ODC dancers seamlessly navigate the many roles that bring this story to life, in this tale of the enduring relationship between a boy and his stuffed rabbit.

April 28
The Comedy Get Down
Bellco Theatre
Four groundbreaking comics come together for a night of hilarity. Featuring Cedric ‘The Entertainer,’ Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley and George Lopez. From sitcoms, to standup to radio and books, these comedians are not to be missed.

April 28-29
Carmen
Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center, Pueblo
A story of love, jealousy and fate, Carmen will leave you breathless. This one-act ballet written in 1967 by Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin is based on the Bizet Opera with original choreography, and will captivate you from the moment the dancers take the stage.

MAY

May 1
“Weird Al” Yankovic – The Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour
Paramount Theatre
He’s a singer-songwriter, parodist, record producer, satirist, actor, voice actor, music video director, film producer, and author. Weird Al is known for his humorous songs that make light of popular culture and often parody specific songs by contemporary musical acts.

May 2
Maks, Val & Peta Live on Tour:  Confidential
Bellco Theatre
Dancing With The Stars hottest stars, Maks and Val, present a spectacular dance show that combines the elegance of the ballroom, some confidential revelations and a true love story.

May 2
George Ezra
Ogden Theater
This soulful artist with the beautiful deep voice is gearing up for the release of his third album, “Staying At Tamara’s”, an album of positivity and hope written during a tumultuous time. With songs such as “Pretty Shining People” and “Get Away”, this will be a memorable performance.

May 3
X Ambassadors
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Their gold-certified album, VHS debuted at No. 7 on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, and the platinum- selling “Renegades” spent 12 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Alternative chart. The band recently released “Ahead of Myself,” their first single off their forthcoming set.

May 3-4
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Jurassic Park in Concert
Boettcher Concert Hall
Featuring the iconic musical scores of John Williams, you will experience this groundbreaking film set to the beautiful performance of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. Jurassic Park was the highest- grossing film of all time in 1993, and won three Academy Awards.

May 4
An Evening With Michael Wolff
Paramount Theatre
Wolff is an author and journalist and contributor to USA Today, The Hollywood Reporter and the UK edition of GQ. But he is best known for his recent tome, Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House, which quickly rose to No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller list.

May 5
Phil Lesh & The Terrapin Family
Band/Leftover Salmon
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Phil Lesh performed with the Grateful Dead and uses the songbook as the impetus for much of this band’s music. What began as a house band is now so, so much more. Colorado band Leftover Salmon serves up a mix of rock, folk, bluegrass, Cajun, soul, zydeco, jazz and blues. Their music is always entertaining, always evolving.

May 6
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Pirates of the Symphony Seas
Boettcher Concert Hall
Christopher Dragon conducts this quirky program that takes you on an adventure to an island of swashbuckling delight. A symphony of treasure that is sheer fun and entertainment for kids and adults.

May 8
P!NK Beautiful Trauma World Tour
Pepsi Center
From her first album “Can’t Take Me Home” in 2000, this singer/songwriter has turned out the hits. She’s a Grammy winner, topped the Billboard charts and sold more than 40 million albums worldwide. She received the BMI President’s Award for “her outstanding achievement in songwriting and global impact on pop culture and the entertainment industry.”

May 10
The Purple Xperience – The Greatest Prince Tribute
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
This tribute to one of Rock’s greatest icons showcases the talent of Marshall Charloff, who’s vocals and artistry are reminiscent of the incredible talents of Prince. A great night of singing and dancing to classic songs including “Purple Rain”, “1999”, “Raspberry Beret” and more.

May 10
Daryl Hall & John Oates and Train
The Pepsi Center
These Rock and Roll Hall of Fames inductees have been performing for more than three decades, and they have sold more albums than any other duo in music history. In 1987, Daryl Hall and John Oates were deemed the No. 1 selling duo in music history, a record they still hold today.

May 11-13
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Mozart’s Elvira Madigan
Boettcher Concert Hall
Mozart’s sprightly Overture to The Marriage of Figaro conducted by Ken-David Masur opens the performance, leading to pianist Orion Weiss and the Colorado Symphony performng Mozert’s Piano Concerto No. 21, often called “Elvira Madigan”.

May 12
Start Making Sense: Talking Heads Tribute
Ogden Theatre
This 7-piece Talking Heads Tribute band recreates the musical genius of the band. A fun celebration of this new-wave band who took the ‘80s by storm. You’ll love the sounds as the band performs hits such as “Psycho Killer”, “Burning Down the House” and “Once in a Lifetime”.

May 13
Modest Mouse
Red Rocks Amphitheater
This American rock band, formed in 1982, derives its name from a passage from the Virginia Woolf story, “The Mark on the Wall”. Their work draws strong influence from groups such as Pavement, the Pixies, XTC and Talking Heads.

May 14
Khalid
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Khalid’s debut album, “American Teen,” was best described by TIME Magazine: “Preternaturally soulful 19-year-old Texan singer-songwriter Khalid has a way with beats – and words — that speaks to the Modern American experience of youth in a natural, resonant way.” Enough said.

May 17
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Musique Nouveau
Boettcher Concert Hall
Guest conductor Edwin Outwater conducts a quartet of modern composers. Principal Violist Basil Vandryes offers an intricate pace for viola and the orchestra then delves into the beauty of five more feature works. The evening’s centerpiece is Mason Bates’ spectacular Anthology of Fantastic Zoology.

May 17
Three Dog Night
Paramount Theatre
When this iconic rock band formed in 1967, it helped introduce mainstream audiences to the work of many songwriters, including Paul Williams (An Old Fashioned Love Song), Hoyt Axton (Joy to the World and Never Been to Spain), Laura Nyro (Eli’s Comin), Harry Nilsson (One), Randy Newman (Mama told Me Not to Come) and Leo Sayer (The Show Must Go On).

May 18-June 24
Human Error
Garner Galleria Theatre
After an unfortunate mix-up by their blundering fertility doctor, Heather is mistakenly impregnated with the wrong child. Now two very different couples face sharing an uproarious nine-month odyssey of culture shock, clashing values, changing attitudes and unlikely – but heartfelt – friendships.

May 19
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Rock On!
Boettcher Concert Hall
Take a trip back to the Rock and Pop hits of the 1970’s and 1980’s with three dynamic musicians. Featuring the works of Bruce Springsteen, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Queen and many more.

May 20
Elephant Revival
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Their latest album, “Petals” is a journey into new territory for the Colorado band. Their music is rooted in American and Celtic song craft, but “Petals” is infused with a more modern classical approach.

May 24
Celtic Woman
Budweiser Events Center
For more than a decade, the Irish group has celebrated Ireland’s rich musical and cultural heritage through a fusion of traditional Irish music and contemporary song craft. Their 2016 release “Destiny” was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best World Music Album.

May 25
Taylor Swift
Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Swift is a seven-time Grammy winner and the youngest recipient in history to win a Grammy for Album of the Year. Her latest album, “Reputation”, was the top-selling album in the country when it was released in 2017.

May 25
The Devil Makes Three
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The band’s fourth album, “I’m a Stranger Here”, was recorded at Dan Auerbach’s Nashville studio. The album is a compilation of part road songs, part heartbreak songs and part barnburners, accompanied by great harmonies and strong acoustic guitar and bass elements.

May 25-27
Colorado Symphony Orchestra – Bernstein and Mahler
Boettcher Concert Hall
The centennial of Leonard Bernstein’s birth is marked in a program highlighting the maestro as both composer and conductor. From Bernstein’s spirited Overture to Candide to Bernstein’s Serenade, capped off with a performance of Mahler’s Titan Symphony.

May 26
Bill Maher
Buell Theatre
(May 27 at Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs)
Comedian, political commentator and television host Bill Maher is best-known for his HBO political talk show Real Time with Bill Maher and the late-night show, Politically Incorrect. His repertoire spans a wide range of topics, including religion, politics, bureaucracy, political correctness and the mass media.

May 27
The Disco Biscuits
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
This jam band from Philly draws inspiration from a variety of musical genres, melding electronic and rock into a style described as trance fusion. They are true rock artists with a technological flair.

May 27
James Taylor & His All Star Band
Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre
This prestigious rocker has earned 40 gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards and 5 Grammy Awards. His lineup of hits includes “Fire and Rain”, “Country Road”, “Mexico”, “Carolina in My Mind”, “Sweet Baby James” and so many more. James Taylor was honored with the 1998 Century Award, Billboard Magazine’s highest accolade for creative achievement.

May 29-June 10
School of Rock The Musical
Buell Theatre
Based on the hit film, School of Rock follows Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star who turns a class of straight-A students in grade-A rockers. The hilarious musical features new songs form Andrew Lloyd Webber, all the original songs from the movie and musical theater’s first ever live kids rock band.

May 30
Vance Joy
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The Australian singer-songwriter hit it big with his single “Fire and the Flood,” which was featured on his 2014 debut album, “Dream Your Life Away.” His behind-the-scenes video set that accompanies the song gives fans a glimpse into Vance Joy’s life on the road.

May 30
Paul Simon
Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre
Rock ‘n Roll great Paul Simon has received numerous awards, including 12 Grammys. He was awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his Simon and Garfunkel days, and his song “Mrs. Robinson” was named in the top 10 of The American Film Institute’s 100 Years 100 Songs.

SPORTS

DENVER BRONCOS – All games played at Sports Authority Field

 

 

DENVER NUGGETS – All games at Pepsi Center

 

COLORADO AVALANCHE – All games played at Pepsi Center

 

DENVER PIONEERS – All games played at Magness Arena

 

 

TAKING UP RESIDENCE, COLORADO

in Relocation by

An inside look into why people are flocking to the nation’s most lifestyle-inspired state

BY BRITTANNY HAVARD, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

The secret is out that Colorado features a quality of life that makes it one of the best places in the country (and arguably the world) to live, work and play. With its vibrant economy, abundance of outdoor activities, and welcoming atmosphere as a place for education and business, there are many reasons to visit to Colorado, and today, an increasing number of people are viewing the state as an excellent place to stay. Offering a quality of life, hard to match anywhere in the world, it is hard to ignore the question, is living in Colorado right for you?

DENVER FEATURES THE LARGEST PUBLIC PARK SYSTEM OF ANY U.S. CITY ,
WITH 205 PARKS WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS 

UNPARALLELED SETTING

Home to more than two dozen world-class ski resorts, nestled among the majestic, Rocky Mountains, few people realize that locals wake up to more than 300 days of sunshine each year in Colorado. In metro Denver, temperate conditions bring only 8 to 15 inches of precipitation annually, where the nearby mountains and ski resorts often receive a significant amount of the light, fluffy, “champagne” snow Colorado is known for. In Summer, Colorado enjoys low humidity, making for beautiful, sun-filled days and cool, comfortable evenings. The average daily high temperature in August is a mild, 86 degrees. Denver features the largest public park system of any U.S. city, with 205 parks within the city limits, more than 60 miles of bicycle paths, 374,000 acres of open space, and more than 100 public and private golf courses in the metro Denver area alone.

Colorado boasts ten pristine national parks and monuments and 42 state parks, offering endless recreational opportunities for biking, hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, and more. Whatever your interests are in the outdoors, Colorado answers the call for adventure.

BOOMING ECONOMY – DENVER

With a population of approximately 3 million people, metro Denver’s cost of living is just slightly above the national average, but well below many other major cities. The median household income in Denver is 25.8 percent higher than the national median income, and business-friendly tax laws welcome entrepreneurs into the state.

PEOPLE WHO CARE – HEALTHCARE

Metro Denver is home to some of the finest hospitals and medical research facilities in the world, with the National Jewish Medical and Research Center ranked in the top two best respiratory hospitals in the nation for the past 20 years, Craig Hospital, ranked sixth nationally in rehabilitation, and Children’s Hospital Colorado ranked seventh nationally in pediatrics.

Additionally, the number of new healthcare facilities continues to rise. Centura’s St. Anthony Central Hospital recently constructed a $440 million, 330 bed hospital in Lakewood, and the redevelopment of Fitzsimons military base, resulted in a 227-acre Anschutz Medical Campus for education, research, and hospital facilities. For families seeking some of the top healthcare in the nation for their loved ones, Colorado delivers the best personal care and cutting-edge research available.

BREEZY TRANSPORTATION

Located 23 miles northeast of downtown Denver, Denver International Airport is the 18th busiest airport in the world. An iconic Denver landmark, DIA provides nonstop service to more than 188 domestic and international destinations, with nonstop service to 25 international destinations in eleven countries. The Westin Denver International Airport Hotel is now conveniently located just steps from the main terminal.

For easy transportation around the metro Denver area, the state offers the Regional Transportation District (RTD) line, which is in the process of building out its entire mass transit system, adding hundreds of miles of rapid Light Rail transit and expanding its existing bus network. Currently, there are more than 1,071 buses on 170 fixed routes. A new rail line running from downtown Denver to Denver International Airport in just 37 minutes, makes local and international travel easier than ever before.

A ‘HOT’ HOUSING MARKET

Throughout many of Colorado’s popular real estate markets, sellers sit in the driver’s seat, enjoying the fruits of what many consider a booming time in real estate. The state’s low unemployment rate, combined with

the opportunity to purchase homes in a place that offers unparalleled lifestyle opportunities, continues to position Colorado’s real estate market as one of the strongest in the country. Buyers enjoy still-low interest rates and the opportunity to purchase homes in a state whose home values will likely continue to rise.

Most 2018 real estate market predictions remain bright, with some minor adjustments. Inventory levels for the average metro Denver home should increase slightly by summer, and will likely take longer to sell in mid to upper price ranges. Mortgage rates are projected to inch up from 4%, to between 4.5% and 5%, before year-end.

THE LIFE YOU LOVE

With the numerous recreation, health, wellness and employment opportunities that Colorado offers, people ar e continuing to invest in the plac e that’s being recognized as one of the best places to live in the country. Whether one is considering a move to Colorful Colorado based on lifestyle preferences or employment, understanding the reasons why people are drawn to the state will help consumers make better real estate decisions whether considering a move.

Relocating to a new area can often be an exciting, yet challenging process. LIV Sotheby’s International Realty understands this challenge, and is committed to making these transitions as seamless as possible.

For more information, please contact Kim Taylor, VP of Relocation and Referral Services at 720.488.6035, or relocation@livsothebysrealty.com. To buy or list your home for sale with LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, please visit www.livsothebysrealty.com or call 303.893.3200. Let us help you live the life you love.  #thelifeyoulove

VISIT or STAY?

  • Panoramic views of the majestic Rocky Mountains
  • 300+ days of sunshine each year
  • Dozens of world-class ski resorts
  • 100+ public and private golf courses
  • Championship sports teams
  • Home to the Denver Performing Arts Complex
  • Home to the Denver Art Museum
  • Home to the nation’s largest public park system
  • Ranked as one of the fittest cities in the country

Eat Drink and Make Merry

in Profiles by

Bobbii Jacobs’ celebration of great music, wine and food

By Marian Tuin

One of Colorado’s most understated, yet incredibly effective entrepreneur is a woman by the name of Bobbii Jacobs. She is responsible for curating some of the most coveted and exclusive events nationally that pair fine dining, choice wine and celebrated music hosted in the vineyards of the Napa Valley. In 2017 Bobbii expanded her brand, creating an entertainment group that serves as an umbrella to the exclusive experiences she cultivates.
Under the creative brand called Live in the Vineyard Entertainment Group (LITVEG), you may find the charismatic Jacobs aboard a Southwest Airlines flight surprising passengers with a band for a live music performance she calls Live at 35. This serves as a promotion and precursor to an exclusive private event called Live in the Vineyard, hosted each fall in the luxurious vineyards of Napa, pairing food, wine and music.
More immediately, you can taste and experience just what it means to be a part of LITVEG’s intimate affairs by joining them in Yountville to celebrate some of the nation’s best cuisine. Taking place March 15-18, 2018, Yountville Live will showcase Jacobs’ creative prowess, as well as Denver’s renowned chef, Frank Bonnano.
Get acquainted with this remarkable visionary and find out more about LITVEG’s unforgettable experiences.

Colorado Hotel Magazine: Can you briefly tell us a little about the evolution of the Live in the Vineyard Entertainment Group?                                                                                                                                               Bobbii Jacobs: It was a natural progression with what I envision this company to be and how much we are growing, to create an overhead company with LITV Entertainment Group. We are now tapping into so many corridors curating specialized events that are experiential custom buildouts, marketing, consulting, producing and much more. I thought it made sense to create an umbrella company where all the events and activations we have our hands in, can live.

CHM: As a nationally successful entrepreneur, what made you choose Denver as home? What are the unique attributes of this community?
BJ: I am originally from Iowa and made my way to California for a while, but Denver is the sunniest place to live in the country. My husband and I wanted to come here and raise a family. I am a frequent flier, so being in Colorado is a pretty quick flight to anywhere in the country, especially California, where we host most of our events. Parker, where I actually reside, is a very inclusive and growing community that I have never felt anything other than right at home in and my two sons love it!

CHM: I understand you’ve teamed up with local chef extraordinaire, Frank Bonnano for an event you’re producing in March called Yountville Live?
BJ: Yes, Chef Bonnano is incredibly talented and has such a massive footprint with some of Denver’s finest dining and drinking establishments! So, I could not think of a better chef from my hometown market to come to Yountville Live and represent his talents at the 25th Annual Taste of Yountville.

CHM: What makes Yountville Live different from other festivals?
BJ: Yountville Live is a public event that anyone can attend. It is that up-close, personal touch point we have with all of our events pairing music, food and wine, but a bit heavier on the culinary side. It gives fans the chance to attend one of our coveted events, since Live in the Vineyard is a private event you can only win access to. Yountville is considered the culinary capital of the world, so fans can expect a high-end luxury weekend with rock star chefs like Stephanie Izard, Bob Blumer, Ken Frank and many more, with performances by Foy Vance, X Ambassadors, NEEDTOBREATHE, Marc Broussard, and others. And of course, pourings by some of the most revered vintners that the Napa Valley has to offer.

CHM: Is LITVEG putting on any other Colorado events?
BJ: I have always wanted to curate an event here in Colorado, because it is clearly the perfect setting. I have been in discussions with a few local people, but nothing is set in stone yet. So stay tuned because it’s coming, I promise!

CHM: What else is on the horizon for you and LITVEG in 2018?
BJ: We are expanding in May with our first ever Live in the Vineyard Goes Country, in partnership with the Academy of Country Music, which has been creating a ton of buzz! And as a big country music fan, I am so excited to see this finally being planned! We are continuing to work with national brands like Southwest Airlines on the Rapid Reward Credit Card member’s experiential events and have a few more fun activations in the works as well. To purchase tickets to Live in the Vineyard visit: https://yountvillelive.com

World-Class Exhibits Wow at The Denver Art Museum

in Uncategorized by

Her Paris: Women Artists in the Age of Impressionism

Mary Cassatt (American, 1844-1926), Autumn, Portrait of Lydia Cassatt, 1880

Her Paris: Women Artists in the Age of Impressionism has been extended through Monday, Jan. 15, at the Denver Art Museum (DAM). The exhibition features more than 80 remarkable paintings by 37 women artists, created in Paris from 1850 to 1900, a time of great social, cultural and artistic change. These women from across Europe and America migrated to this epicenter of art to further their careers. They range from well-known artists such as Berthe Morisot, Mary Cassatt and Rosa Bonheur, to painters who are lesser-known in the United States, including Anna Ancher and Paula Modersohn-Becker.
While Paris was known as a cosmopolitan city in the late 19th century, society was still very restrictive for women. They were not allowed to attend the École des Beaux-Arts (School of Fine Arts)—the country’s most important art academy—until 1897, and it was not socially acceptable to frequent public spaces, such as cafes, to work on their art and mingle with their peers without a male companion. Her Paris: Women Artists in the Age of Impressionism traces how women pursued their artistic aspirations, despite societal challenges, and helped create an alternative system that included attending private academies, forming their own organizations and exhibiting independently.
A fully illustrated exhibition catalog is available in The Shop at the Denver Art Museum and online. Her Paris is a special ticketed exhibition; advance ticket purchase is recommended. Tickets for youth five and under free, ages 6-18 are $5. #HerParisatDAM

Mary Cassatt (American, 1844-1926), Autumn, Portrait of Lydia Cassatt, 1880. Oil on canvas; 36-5/8 x 25-5/8 in.
Petit Palais, Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris.
Photo: Bulloz ©RMN-Grand Palais/Art Resource, NY. Courtesy American Federation of Arts

Eyes On: Xiaoze Xie

Through July 8, 2018

Eyes On: Xiaoze Xie is the first in a contemporary art series at the DAM featuring contemporary artists. Xiaoze Xie has a lifelong passion for books. In his worldview, books are conveyers of prestige and signifiers of collective cultural knowledge: repositories of historical meaning, cultural conflict and political strife. For Eyes On: Xiaoze Xie, the artist has created still-life paintings of books, videos and installations based on banned and forbidden books in China. Born in a small town in Guangdong Province, China, at the beginning of the Chinese Cultural Revolution in 1966, Xie now splits his time between studios in Beijing and Palo Alto, California, where he is the Paul L. & Phyllis Wattis Professor of Art at Stanford University. New Eyes On rotations will be featured every six months in the Logan Gallery and Fuse Box on level 4 of the Hamilton Building. Included with general admission, which is free for youth 18 and younger.

Conversation with a Curator: Eyes On: Xiaoze Xie

Jan. 5, 4 p.m

Curator Rebecca Hart will discuss how artist Xiaoze Xie studies books to understand their role in society, much like the Chinese scholar-artists of bygone centuries. Meet at 4 p.m. in the elevator lobby of level 4 of the Hamilton Building. Conversations with Curators feature lively discussions with different curators on the first Friday of the month. Included with general admission; no reservations are needed.

Xiaoze Xie, The Morgan Library and Museum (f138), 2017. Oil paint on canvas; 48 x 82 in. Collection of Jerry Neumann © Xiaoze Xie
Xiaoze Xie, The Morgan Library and Museum (f138), 2017. Oil paint on canvas; 48 x 82 in.
Collection of Jerry Neumann. © Xiaoze Xie.

Exchange

Jan. 12, 6-7:30 p.m.

How does art play a role in helping us discuss contemporary social issues? Find out at the DAM’s new program, Exchange. Come face to face with artworks that can help us explore the pressing questions we have about current events and lend your voice (or maybe even find it) as part of our unfolding conversation. Using Eyes On: Xiaoze Xie as a starting point, we’ll explore the theme of free speech with comic Janae Burris, poet Jen Harris, Sarah Magnatta from the University of Denver and Jim Walsh, founder of the Romero Theater Troupe. Meet in the elevator lobby on level 4 of the Hamilton Building. Included with general admission, which is free for members.

ALSO ON VIEW

Then, Now, Next: Evolution of an Architectural Icon

Through Feb. 25, 2018

Punctuating the DAM’s North Building revitalization project, Then, Now, Next: Evolution of an Architectural Icon is an exhibition on the renowned modernist building, its history and its future. The exhibition features historical photos, original architectural sketches, building models and project renderings to tell the story of the North Building’s evolution. Included with general admission, which is free for youth 18 and younger.

Linking Asia: Art, Trade, and Devotion

Through April 1, 2018

Linking Asia features approximately 150 sculptures, ceramics, textiles, scrolls and other multi-dimensional works from 20 countries spanning 2,000 years. Linking Asia will dive deeper into the exchange of ideas, beliefs and techniques along the Silk Road trade routes, which profoundly affected the development of Asian art. The presentation explores themes such as artistic inspiration and cross-cultural hybridization of styles, trade by land and sea, ink art trends in East Asia and religious link s before the 20th century. Works on view from the DAM’s Asian art collection will include visitor favorite Shiva, King of Dancers (Shiva Nataraja) and many on view for the first time, such as objects from three shipwrecks. Guided tours are available daily at 2 p.m. Included with general admission, which is free for youth 18 and younger.

Stone sculpture of Six-Armed Dancing God Ganesha created in India in the 1000s-1100s. In the Asian art collection of the Denver Art Museum.
Six-Armed Dancing God Ganesha, 1000s–1100s, India.
Stone; 24.5 x 14.5 x 4.5 in. Denver Art Museum: Museum purchase. 1968.24

Ganesha: The Playful Protector

Through Oct. 28, 2018

Ganesha: The Playful Protector was developed in collaboration with the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh. Widely worshiped since the 400s, Ganesha originated in India as a Hindu god who removes obstacles and is known for granting wealth and success. Imagery of Ganesha has crossed both geographic and religious boundaries, inspiring numerous representations throughout the Asian subcontinent over time—all of which are surveyed in the exhibition to showcase the iconographic changes of this popular Hindu deity. Sculptures, paintings and textiles provide a spectrum of ancient to modern representations of Ganesha. Included with general admission, which is free for youth 18 and younger.

Past the Tangled Present

Through Oct. 28, 2018

Inspired by imagination and the joy of discovery, Denver artist Jaime Molina’s interactive and immersive installation gives kids and adults alike the opportunity to sit on boxes painted with faces, play in a garden of fabricated cacti and experience an imaginary place where paintings on the walls flow into 3-D objects. During the year the installation will be on view, Molina plans to work with groups to paint different sections of the mural and installation. Included with general admission, which is free for youth 18 and younger.

Stampede: Animals in Art

Through May 19, 2019

Stampede: Animals in Art brings together more than 300 objects from the DAM’s collection, demonstrating how animals have captivated artists throughout history. Stampede creates an opportunity for visitors to discover and consider the role animals play through themes such as personal connections with animals, how animal materials have been used in art, how animals are used to tell stories or represent political ideas and how artists use animals in imaginative ways. Also included in the expansive display is an interactive space where visitors can learn about the creative process behind the Never Alone video game created by Native North Alaskan storytellers. Guided tours are available daily at 1 p.m., and a Spanish tour of Stampede is offered on Free First Saturday. Both the exhibition and tours are included with general admission, which is free for youth 18 and younger.

Papua New Guinea artist, Malagan Figures, mid-1900s. Wood, paint, fiber and shell;
Papua New Guinea artist, Malagan Figures, mid-1900s.
Wood, paint, fiber and shell; 88 x 12 x 41 in.
Denver Art Museum: Gift of Joan and George Anderman, 2001.177A-C

ADULT LECTURES & PROGRAMS

Beyond America’s Heartland: Regionalism and the Art of the American West

Jan. 4, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

This symposium focuses on regionalism, a specifically American art form. Guest speakers will expand upon the well-known artist triumvirate of Thomas Hart Benton, John Steuart Curry and Grant Wood to explore regionalism’s impact on artists working in the West. Tickets are $25 student, $55 DAM members, $65 others. For additional information, visit http://denverartmuseum.org/westernsymposium, or email symposium@denverartmuseum.org. Sponsored by the Petrie Institute of Western American Art.

Fiber Art in the Museum with Steven Frost

Jan. 5, 12 & 19, 2–4:30 p.m.

Taking inspiration from the DAM’s current exhibitions, this artmaking course introduces participants to working with fabric, yarn and thread in a contemporary art practice. The course will consist of several material experiments and one major project, a soft or fabric sculpture influenced by artworks in the collection. Students will visit the museum’s collections for inspiration, listen to brief weekly lectures on textile art history and integrate sewing, weaving, embroidery and pattern making into their final project. $65 members, $75 nonmembers.

Mindful Looking

Jan. 16, 1 p.m.

This month, get to know Willy, Argus and Lucky, the whimsical, expressive and impressive sculptures by Deborah Butterfield (now in their new home in the Hamilton Building), with DAM teaching specialist Molly Medakovich. Join us on the third Tuesday of each month for Mindful Looking as we slow down and savor a single work of art. Included in general admission, free for members.

Barbarian Tropes Framed Anew

Jan. 17, noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.)

Professor Tamara Bentley’s talk will examine three Chinese incised lacquer folding screens produced between 1665 and 1800. Her analysis will highlight the ways in which these Chinese screens borrowed “foreigner” imagery both from earlier Japanese Nanban screens and from earlier paintings of Mongols hunting. Those “barbarian” constructs were even marketed back to Europe. Tickets range from $5-$10. Sponsored by the Asian Art Association, a DAM support group, and Curator’s Circle.

Artist seated on skateboard drawing on sidewalk in downtown Denver.
Shantell Martin at work in downtown Denver. Photo by Jon Paciaroni.

Logan Lectures Spring 2018—Artists on Art: From Any Angle

Shantell Martin: Jan. 17, 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

This spring, DAM Contemporaries celebrates artists speaking about their work with four fresh perspectives. The first speaker is London-born and New York-based Shantell Martin. Her largest artwork to date covers the sidewalks of a downtown Denver plaza for the next 2-3 years. Known for simple, strong black and white marks that invite viewers to share in her creative process, her aesthetic offers immediate engagement. Tickets go on sale Dec. 26: Free for DAMC members and students with valid ID, $10 DAM volunteers, $15 DAM members, $20 nonmembers. The Logan Lecture series is sponsored by Vicki and Kent Logan in affiliation with DAM Contemporaries, a DAM support group.

Animate Architecture in the Yucatán Peninsula

Jan. 18, 1:30 p.m.

Ancient Maya art offers a window into a world imbued with supernatural forces, a place where rulers interacted with gods and mountains were anthropomorphic beings. The same blurring between the natural and supernatural realms was reflected in the built environment, where structures could be living things. Art historian Dr. Meghan Rubenstein specializes in the ancient Americas. Her lecture will explore the concept of animate architecture using examples from the Puuc, Chenes and Río Bec regions in Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula. Tickets available at the door. Sponsored by Alianza de las Artes Americanas, a DAM support group.

Untitled logo, yellow text on black background

Untitled 2018 Season Kicks off with Nathan Hall and Laura Ann Samuelson

Jan. 26, 6-10 p.m.

In 2018, Untitled: Final Fridays get even more creative! Join us for the season kick-off and our first artist-designed lineup as composer Nathan Hall and dancer Laura Ann Samuelson guest curate the night’s events. Stop by for a night of offbeat art and fun! Produced with local creatives, Untitled Final Fridays is the museum’s monthly late night program featuring workshops, performances and tours with a twist. Experience the museum in an entirely different way—every time. Included in general admission; free for youth 18 and younger. College students with valid ID receive 2-for-1 admission to Untitled Final Fridays.

FAMILY FUN

Free First Saturday

Jan. 6, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

On the first Saturday of every month, enjoy the museum’s art collections and non-ticketed exhibitions without spending a dime! Check out some of the DAM’s many family-friendly activities and enjoy bilingual fun with a free Spanish language tour of Stampede: Animals in Art at 1 p.m., Create-n-Takes and the storytelling program Cuentos del Arte at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free general admission tickets are available onsite starting at 10 a.m. (Special exhibition ticket required for Her Paris.) Free First Saturday is made possible by Your 6 Hometown Toyota Stores and the citizens who support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). #ThanksSCFD #GraciasSCFD

Rustic signpost in Walk in the Woods pointing way to Stampede, aspen tree trunks to the left side

A Walk in the Woods

Through May 19, 2019

Explore animal-themed artmaking activities in the DAM’s newest family space on level 3 of the Hamilton Building. Created to celebrate Stampede: Animals in Art, A Walk in the Woods includes interactive activities including a birdwatching challenge, building with branches and the chance to create your own shadowbox displaying your favorite animals. Included with general admission; kids 18 and younger free. No reservations required.

Create Playdate

Jan. 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Drop in with your little ones, aged 3 to 5, on the second Wednesday of the month. Meet up with other tots and their grownups for story time, artmaking and more! Included with general admission; kids 18 and younger free. No reservations required.

Foxy and Shmoxy: Art Detectives

Jan. 14, 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.

Two smart and hilarious foxes are ready to solve art mysteries in the galleries. Bring the whole family to help Foxy and Shmoxy sniff out clues and unseen treasures in the museum. To find the foxes, visit the Family Activity Cart on level 1 of the Hamilton Building, pick up a letter from the Fox Box and follow the riddles into the galleries. Included with general admission; kids 18 and younger free. No reservations required.

Actors in Art Emergency: Stampede Edition, an original play at the Denver Art Museum

Winter Break and Art Emergency: Stampede Edition

Through Jan 7, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (closed Dec. 25)

During Winter Break at the Denver Art Museum, the 3-D Studio, Create-n-Takes and much more will be available daily (except Dec. 25). See performances of the family-friendly play, Art Emergency: Stampede Edition, at 11 a.m. weekdays during Winter Break (except Dec. 25, Jan. 1 and 4). Included with general admission, which is free for kids 18 and younger. Special exhibition ticket required for Her Paris; free for kids five and younger, $5 for youth 6-18.

ARTISTS ONSITE

3-D Studio and Weekend Artist Demonstrations

Through May 19, 2019

Explore the expansive and varied realm of 3-D art in the 3-D Studio. Build an abstract sculpture at our Purely Paper activity, draw inspiration from Stampede to create your own animal at Wound in Wire or become part of the art as you work together with family and friends to contribute to a collaborative sculpture designed by artist Pam Fortner.

Every Saturday and Sunday from noon-3 p.m., see an artist at work on 3-D art, from sculpture, to 3-D printing, to drawings that turn 3-D right before your eyes! Included with general admission; kids 18 and younger free. No reservations required.

Weekend Artist Demonstrations in January – Saturdays & Sundays, noon–3 p.m.

January 6-7: Cal Duran, Clay Totem Design

January 13-14: Judy Gardner, 3-D Printing

January 20-21: Andryn Arithson, 3-D Animal Puppetry

January 27-28: Bonnie Roman, Handmade Paper Sculpture

NORTH BUILDING RENOVATION PROJECT

To expand access during the renovations, the Hamilton Building is now open seven days a week. Enjoy DAM exhibitions, programming and hands-on creativity every day of the week—including Monday! Note: The museum will be open Dec. 24 and Jan. 1, but closed on Dec. 25.

For ongoing information about the North Building renovation, visit denverartmuseum.org/north.

DAM WEBSITE LAUNCHES BILINGUAL PAGES

The DAM website has added several pages in Spanish, offering information on hours, admission prices, parking details, exhibitions, and family and kids programs, including bilingual options. For more information, visit https://denverartmuseum.org/bienvenidos.

Note: This is an overview of January happenings and does not include all exhibitions, events and programs available at the DAM this month. Please visit the museum website for complete information.

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Fashion Hits a High Note

Glamour and style return to the slopes this season By Ellen Gray Luxury is the operative word on the slopes

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

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Holiday Happenings for the Whole Family

By Rebecca Treon

Spending time with family and loved ones is what the holidays are all about—making memories and celebrating traditions both new and old. From Thanksgiving until we welcome 2018, there are plenty of things to keep people of all ages busy in and around Denver. Below, we’ve col- lected some of our favorite activities around the metro area to help your family celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Thanksgiving

The Mile High United Way Turkey Trot has been bringing runners to historic Wash- ington Park for more than 40 years. While grownups can tackle the four-mile run, little (turkey) legs can run the quarter-mile fun run before enjoying post-race entertainment. www.unitedwaydenver.org/turkey-trot

When LoHi standard Rosa Linda’s closed after 30 years, The Squeaky Bean took up the annual tradition of feeding area homeless and hungry at Thanksgiving. The Squeaky Bean, Warren Tech, We Don’t Waste and Denver’s Community teamed up the past two years to continue the event. Today, the Thanksgiving Feed event continues with the support of Warren Tech Central, North and its satellite programs, DHA and Denver’s community. Last year, they fed more than 6,000 of Den- ver’s hungry. The whole event runs on the generosity of volunteers and donations; to participate, email tsbfeed@gmail.com; to donate contact acreswarrentech.com.

Downtown Denver’s Winter in the City program kicks off the day after Thanksgiving with the Grand Illumination, so after you’ve finished bargain hunting on Black Friday, head downtown to the City & County Build- ing. At 6 p.m., holiday lights will be lit from Civic Center to Union Station and all points in between, turning Denver’s downtown cityscape into a glittering holiday wonderland. www.visitdenver.com

Chanukah

On December 3 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., the Jewish Community Center (JCC) will host a family-friendly community Chanukah celebration, Light Up Your Chanukah, including latkes, music, crafts, stories, and dreidel games. www.jewishcolorado.org/event/community-light-up-your-chanukah-celebration

Pro tip: Hosting your own Chanukah celebration? Get your latkes from Littleton-based Latke Love (www.latkelove.com) and other Chanukah treats and eats from Glendale’s East Side Kosher Deli (www. eastsidekosherdeli.com).

Christmas

Starting November 17th, Denver’s Skyline park is transformed into a Euro- pean-style holiday market, with vendors from Ukraine, Ireland, Germany and other countries — not to mention local artisans — selling high-quality, handmade gifts. The Denver Christkindl Market features hand-carved wooden figurines, hand-made candles and ornaments, along with German food, Glühwein (hot mulled wine), live German music and traditional carols. www.denverchristkindlmarket.com

The town of Golden, nestled in the foothills outside of Denver, transforms itself into the ultimate place to celebrate Christmas, western style. Kicking off with the Candlelight Walk on December 1, a procession of thousands of people will walk, holding candles, down Washington Street, illuminating each block with lights as they go. Afterward, find everything from roasted chestnuts to hot cider and Santa Claus. The following day, December 2nd, along with December 9th and 16th, Golden hosts its popular Olde Golden Christmas Parades, filling the town’s historic down- town with traditional decorations and fun activities for the whole family. The parade features cowboys on horses, floats, march- ing bands, classic cars, elves on unicycles, the Grinch in a Corvette, and of course, Santa Claus. Following the parade, enjoy free horse-drawn carriage rides.

Since 1956, Cascade, Colorado — just minutes outside of Colorado Springs — has been home to the North Pole and Santa’s Workshop, a charming Christmas-centric village. At this North Pole, the ice never melts, and visitors can explore the wares in several shops, experience 25 rides and attractions, see magic shows, lis- ten to music, and of course, visit Mr. Claus himself. www.northpolecolorado.com

For an unforgettable ice skating ex-perience, head to Evergreen Lake, the world’s largest groomed outdoor ice rink. Nestled among the pine trees of the foot- hills, you can skate the day away before sitting in front of a roaring fire in the stone fireplace, sipping hot cocoa. www.evergreenrecreation.com

Nothing is more in the holiday spirit than festive gingerbread houses, and at Stir It Up Cooking School, families can create candy sidewalks, ice cream cone trees, and gumdrop-lined rooftops on their own houses at one of their popular gingerbread house workshops. www.stiri- tupcooking.com

New Year’s Eve and Beyond

Bring your family to experience the sights, sounds, and celebration of New York City’s Times Square ball drop — all before bedtime. Noon Year’s Eve at the Children’s Museum features rainbow confetti, bubble wrap fireworks, art proj- ects, music, special characters, and best of all, hourly countdowns and ball drops. www.mychildsmuseum.org

Nothing wraps up the holidays like the National West- ern Stock Show (January 6-21), which draws visitors from all over the west for a plethora of western activities, from livestock competitions, horse shows, fiddling competitions, ro- deo (of course) and much more. In true Colorado tradition, The Brown Palace Hotel leaves its holiday décor up through the last day of the exhibition, culminating in a viewing and photo op with the Grand Champion Steer on January 19th, on display in the lobby. This is the 73rd year the Brown has hosted the rose-bedecked steer. Enjoy high tea surrounded by elegant holiday decorations (there are more than 4,800 ornaments used!) before taking a photo with rodeo royalty. www.brownpalace.com

With so many holiday goings-on, making memories will be some of the most fun you’ve had all year, and remind you why Denver is one of the best cities to visit — or live!

9NEWS Parade of Lights Marches Downtown Denver into the Holiday Season

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43rd Annual Parade of Lights to take place in Downtown Denver December 1 & 2

DENVER – (November 28, 2017) – One of Downtown Denver’s greatest traditions, the 9NEWS Parade of Lights (Parade), presented by American Furniture Warehouse and produced by the Downtown Denver Partnership, will take place this Friday, December 1 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 2 at 6 p.m.

For more than four decades, the Parade has been one of Colorado’s largest and most cheerful holiday traditions. Hundreds of thousands of people gather along the two-mile route through Downtown Denver to see 11 twinkling floats, 3 giant balloons, marching bands performing holiday classics, and performers adorned with more than three pounds of glitter. And, of course, to see Santa Claus.

This year’s Parade will feature a new Ice Castle float, conceived and constructed by the Independent Electrical Contractors Rocky Mountain (IECRM) Apprenticeship Training Program. The Ice Castle features state-of-the-art lighting and usage of fiber optics and programming not seen before in the Parade, and brings a glimpse of the Northern Lights to the center city. The design was chosen following an IECRM contest and constructed by a volunteer team.

“The 9NEWS Parade of Lights is a treasured holiday tradition gifted to our community by the Downtown Denver Partnership and our member businesses,” said Tami Door, president and CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership. “The center city buzzes with energy, excitement and holiday cheer as hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors alike experience the entertainment put on by more than 1,400 Parade participants, 350 Parade volunteers and 200,000 lights.”

Parade enthusiasts have an opportunity to purchase a number of unique items and experiences, such as, the chance to join Santa in his sleigh during the 43rd annual Parade of Lights, giving you the opportunity to watch the Parade up close and personal. Funds raised from these items will help ensure the Parade of Lights tradition continues for years to come. Please note: All Parade items close December 1. Starting in December you’ll be able to purchase new exclusive Denver experiences like a stay at the Four Seasons or the Oxford, fine dining packages and admission to popular attractions such as the Clyfford Still Museum. For additional information on the auction and how to support the Parade, please click here.


Where to Watch
The Parade of Lights begins at 14th and Bannock Streets, where spectators can get the best seats in the house by purchasing grandstand seating directly in front of the City and County Building. A limited number of grandstand tickets are available through Altitude Tickets by calling 1.866.461.6556 or online at www.altitudetickets.com.

Spectators can view the Parade for free along the two-mile route on Tremont Street between 14th and 17th Streets, on 17th Street from Tremont to Arapahoe Street, on Arapahoe between 17th and 15th Streets, and on 15th Street from Arapahoe to Glenarm. Visit www.denverparadeoflights.com for a map of the Parade route.

Those who cannot make it to view the Parade in person can watch a live telecast on Friday, Dec. 1 at 8 p.m. on 9NEWS (Live) as well as repeat broadcasts on 9NEWS on Dec. 9 at 6 p.m., Dec. 24 at 2 a.m., Dec. 25 at 5 a.m. and on KTVD Channel 20 on Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. and Dec. 25 at 8 a.m.

How to Get There
Parade viewers are encouraged to use public transportation. The 16th Street Free MallRide Shuttle provides free services and passes by the California, Stout and Union Station Light Rail Stations. The Free MallRide shuttle will not operate during the one-hour Parade, but will run before and after.

RTD’s Light Rail provides uninterrupted service before and after the Parade with parking available at RTD park-n-Ride locations with some lines experiencing delays during the Parade.

Fashion Hits a High Note

in Front Range Shopping/Mountain Hotels & Resorts/Mountain Shopping/Shopping by

Glamour and style return to the slopes this season

By Ellen Gray

Luxury is the operative word on the slopes this winter. Fashion-forward skiers will no doubt thrill to see the return of glamour, sophistication and high style, as skiwear takes a bow to both designer street looks and technical function.

Gone are the days when baggy pants and long jackets, often a staple of snowboard enthusiasts, ruled the slopes. Replacing the look are form-fitting jackets, adorned with fur, metallic finishes and jewel tones, paired with functional stretch pants first introduced by Bogner in the 1950s. In fact, when it comes to luxury, skiwear designers such as Bogner, Toni Sailer and Skea rule the day, with beautiful collections that are as eye-catching asthey are versatile.

ML Furs, a highly respected boutique in Denver’s chic Cherry Creek North, is the exclusive purveyor of the Bogner brand. The marriage of the upscale boutique with the industry’s most-respected skiwear designer is indeed a match made in heaven. As you head to one of Colorado’s fabulous resorts this winter, you’ll want to tackle the slopes in style, and the season’s beautiful collection will show off your moves both on and off the slopes.

Many of the pieces that will mark the slopes this season feature elements of fur. According to ML Furs, it’s runway on the slopes, and Bogner’s Fire + Ice collection is a prime example. Drawing inspiration from motor racing sports and the iconic style of Steve McQueen, the designs are incredibly intricate, using materials and threads that can take as long as 30 hours to assemble. The Fire + Ice line is pure street style, and highlights why the Bogner name remains the uncontested leader in ski fashion.

“Bogner Sport, the most sought-after ski brand worldwide, not only combines fashion and function, each piece is a work of art, a collector’s item, from the illustrious one-pieces, jackets and helmets, to the transitional mid and base layers that can be worn all year while hiking, biking or even golfing. Their brand boasts an aura of exclusivity, according to Ms. Gross of ML Furs.

Sleek fit rules the day, and established designers bring color and glamour to the season. Sophisticated skiwear transitions easily from slopestyle to après ski, with colors and fabrics that meld perfectly with runway fashion. In addition to a beautiful collection featuring contemporary styling, fabrics and design, skiing legend Toni Sailer is showcasing a smaller, limited line inspired by the “black blitz from Kitz,” a predominantly black collection that features luxurious materials including leather, lambskin and fur. Kitzbüehl, Austria being one of the most famous, demanding downhill’s in the world, often boasting the Men’s World Cup. Toni Sailer’s elegant women’s collection is both athletic and versatile, featuring four-way stretch material with a shiny, satin finish. Emphasizing femininity, the outfits showcase an elegant, athletic silhouette, including a stunning jumpsuitincorporating a blouson jacket.

Bogner, long recognized as the fashion leader in beautiful skiwear, once again delivers a fabulous lineup, with great looks that incorporate modern and biker black-and-whites, navy/denim and red-white-and-blue patriotic themes for the 2018 Olympic Games. Also big this year are eclectic metallics with gold and violet ash straight from the runway, bright pinks and darker mocha tones. Much of the Bogner Women’s line draws inspiration from the urban cowboy trend, merging the Bogner heritage of traditional ski and active sportswear in a relaxed and comfortable style.

Skea, another Colorado favorite, pushes the limits of function and style in this season’s collection featuring technical fabrics, customized trims, gorgeous prints and fashionable silhouettes. Skea designer and owner Diane Boyer, a Vail, Colorado resident and former freestyle skiing champion, understands what it takes to combine performance and high style. The designer’s line appeals to women of all ages, and the clothing works equally well in the big city or on the slopes of Vail. This season’s lineup features fun colors and textures, reflective and shiny touches, and even sequins on both base and mid layers. Look for beautiful accessories to complement the ensemble.

Just Fur Fun

At the end of an epic ski day, there’s an art to looking great when you come off the slopes. There are so many options, so we’ve narrowed down the field to help you select what to wear, whether on a ski holiday in the mountains or elsewhere in Colorado. To help us develop a template for winter après ski fashion, we turned to the experts at ML Furs, who have helped visitors from across the globe to look their cold-weather best.

The family-owned business works with national and international brands, and prides itself on remaining current and contemporary. A keen sense of understanding their customers and what they need is key to the company’s success since its humble beginnings in 1987. With a finger on the pulse of runway fashion, ML Furs caters to modern women who desire high-end outerwear or skiwear for the coming season. This season, the boutique is awash in beautiful style, including

 stunning fur, vivid color, denim, navy and metallic.

Forget the image of your grandmother’s fur coat, and look to celebrities and fashion models who more and more are incorporating elements of fur into their everyday wardrobe. Whether the goal is function or fashion – or a combination of the two, elements of fur are everywhere, and are being produced in highly regulated operations worldwide. The furs of today are very lightweight, and in many instances, are so highly styled that it takes a closer look to understand they are indeed the real deal. A huge seller at ML Furs is a reversible, easy-to-wear coat that is fur on one side and water-repellant taffeta or silk on the other. The coat can be worn with pants or a dress, and is the epitome of style and function. So just who is buying these pieces? “If you think back to the days when Sex and the City was on television, you’ll recall that fur was front and center in every episode. They all wore fur, and it was considered the height of fashion,” ML Furs Ms. Gross says. “Today it’s less about luxury and more about everyday style.”

The fur industry is a huge employer around the world, from Africa to Scandinavia and China. The industry employs millions of workers, and is a $15 billion industry worldwide. The U.S. fur industry represents about 10 percent of that number, so imports are a major factor in the business. The majority of skins are sourced in the United States, Denmark, Finland and Russia, all from places that are 100-percent regulated and monitored. “This industry is better regulated than any other,” Mr. Gross says. “You’re not going to find any leopard, or any endangered species. If they’re on the endangered or protected list, they are protected.”

When it comes to this type of apparel, each piece is a true work of art, from the dyeing process to matching up each piece for color and design. The pieces are put together by artisans, and represent hours of work and expertise. This season, designers closely follow the rest of the fashion world, featuring monochromatic jewel tones, muted earth tone palettes from Michael Kors, modern classics from Zac Posen, textures, color, camo, navy, horizontals, reversible, lightweight garments including sweatshirts, hoodies, ponchos, and sheared designs.

With options such as these it’s impossible not to look good. “If you aren’t a skier, we show you how to look good off-piste in some of our longer down garments with fur trim from Bogner, M. Miller and Guy LaRoche,” Ms. Gross says. And fear not, any contemporary fur coat will style well while sipping on a hot toddy! Looking for stocking stuffers or just a touch of fur? ML Furs carries a vast selection of accessories, including the locally distributed Hestra luxury brand dress and ski gloves for both men and women.

Of course, looking hot on the slopes is not just a woman’s prerogative. Highend designers pay homage to men, with high-tech fabrics, exquisite workmanship and sporty styles. Toni Sailer’s limited Montgomery jacket is a work of art, featuring details from hydrophobic reindeer nubuck, carbon zippers and lasered carbon logos. Add a hood, lined with Tuscan lambskin, and lightweight yet ultra-warm Francis ski pants, and this is a standout on the mountain.

Ultimately, the return of the stretch pant is what sums up the style stories.When Maria Bogner began experimenting with the sexy stretch pant material in 1952, little did she know that her innovation would turn the world of ski fashion upside down. Initially a favorite of leggy models, including Aspen’s Monica Brown and Stein Eriksen, the pants sold for a pricey $40 but were hugely popular. Racers immediately loved the new material, both for their sleek look and their aerodynamic qualities which meant faster times. The stretch pant became a permanent fashion craze, and even prompted ski legend Warren Miller to write, “I credit the growth of skiing during those years (the ‘50s and ‘60s) to Maria Bogner and her invention of stretch ski pants. Let’s face it, sex sells. Anyone who was in reasonable shape could put on a pair of her stretch pants and look as sleek and attractive as someone in a James Bond movie.”

Maria Bogner, the wife of Bogner founder Willy Bogner, designed skiwear until the 1970s, when her sons Michael and Willy Jr. took the helm. Willy Jr. continues to run the company, and his wife Sonia works on the design side.

Get the Look

BOGNER

ML Furs, 263 Josephine in Cherry Creek North    MLFurs.com

TONI SAILER

ML Furs, 263 Josephine in Cherry Creek North    MLFurs.com

SKEA

ML Furs, 263 Josephine in CherryCreek North    MLFurs.com

Christy Sports, Multiple locations in Colorado    ChristySports.com

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