Author: Laura Fitzgerald

A previous SET production, Eureka Day. Photo by Jodi Papproth. × Expect the unexpected for Springs Ensemble Theatre’s 17th season. “What we’re talking about is the uncertainty of certainty,” says President Matt Radcliffe. “So many of the themes in these plays are about different worldviews. They’re about differing beliefs. They’re about trying to find ways to come together amidst them.” SET’s main location, the black box theater at 59er Speakeasy, allows only 50 people, which creates an intimate setting where audience members can focus on the performance. “It feels like we’re all sharing a meal together and enjoying this performance,”…

× With a plethora of theatrical productions, art exhibitions and art classes, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College invites people of all ages to unleash their creativity and connect with the arts this 2026–27 season. Fine Arts Center Museum This year’s museum exhibitions explore how art relates to place and reflects the culture and creative practices of the Pikes Peak region, as well as those of cultures across the globe, says Michael Christiano, director of visual arts and museum. The museum will host opening events for all exhibitions as part of Colorado Springs’ First Fridays, giving community…

The La Junta Tarantula Fest takes place Sept. 25 and 26 in Downtown La Junta. Photo courtesy Visit La Junta. × Hoping for a fun and unique adventure this fall? Look no further than Southern Colorado, where hundreds of male tarantulas roam the prairie in search of love. Tarantulas are native to the semi-arid grasslands of Southwestern Colorado, most notably near La Junta in the undisturbed prairie of Comanche National Grassland, and from the Four Corners area to Pueblo. They are seldom seen in the wild for most of their adult life because they live in burrows and ambush prey…

× October is Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region, so get out and celebrate our visually creative friends and neighbors. Check out local gallery and museum exhibits or roam farther afield with a fun day trip. Colorado Springs The Peak Radar website, managed by the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPR), is the definitive resource for visual arts news in El Paso and Teller counties. COPPR has also collaborated with Cottonwood Center for the Arts to present “Stronger Together,” a juried exhibition featuring 34 locally created artworks honoring arts organizations across the Pikes Peak region. The exhibit…

× Whether it’s viewing fall color, biting into fall flavors or celebrating Southern Colorado’s rich heritage, these festivals will make you appreciate all that autumn has to offer. Fiestas Patrias Sept. 12 Where Colorado Springs Flea Market, 5225 E. Platte Ave. Time 11 a.m. Kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month with Fiestas Patrias, the Mexican national holiday commemorating the country’s independence from Spain. Celebrate Hispanic culture with music, food, heritage and community. Visit Website Chile & Frijoles Festival Sept. 18–20 Where Downtown Pueblo Time Various times Taste the flavors of Pueblo with this hot festival. Celebrating the Pueblo chile, a…

With its soaring mountains and stunning rock formations, Southern Colorado is the perfect playground for the dinosaur-obsessed, rock nerds and ancient history buffs. Check out these sites for a fun-filled day diving into Earth’s history. Cave of the Winds Manitou Springs 100 Cave of the Winds Road, Manitou Springs Walk through awe-inspiring cave formations and learn about cave geology at Cave of the Winds. Explore the caves with a family-friendly discovery tour, a spooky haunted lantern tour or, for the more adventurous, an in-depth tour to the undeveloped depths of the caverns. Visit Website Directions Colorado National Monument Fruita View…

Looking for something different to celebrate this 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence? Here’s a list of offbeat celebrations across Southern Colorado. Aspen Drone Show Aspen Light up the night with Aspen’s drone show at 9:30 p.m., featuring patriotic tributes, playful nods to Aspen’s rich history and stunning drone imagery. Best viewing is from Wagner Park. Stick around for family-friendly fun Friday through Sunday, including a carnival, a parade, a 5K, a Fourth of July picnic and community performances. Event Details Glow SUP Fireworks Colorado Springs Quail Lake, 915 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd., Colorado Springs Experience the fireworks in…

On a budget? No problem. Beat summer boredom without breaking your wallet with our list of free activities across Southern Colorado. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum Colorado Springs 215 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs Dive into Colorado Springs’ past with fascinating exhibits, programs, lectures and special events. Explore topics like the Springs’ history as a tuberculosis colony, indigenous impact and women’s and African Americans’ contributions to the city. Visit Website Directions Garden of the Gods Colorado Springs One of Colorado Springs’ most iconic natural wonders offers boundless hiking, biking and rock-climbing opportunities amidst stunning red rock formations. Stop by the Visitor…

Got Olympic fever? Known as Olympic City, USA, Colorado Springs is the perfect place to dive into the Olympics all year long. The city is home to the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee Headquarters, 20-plus National Olympic Governing Bodies, more than 50 National Sport Organizations, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum and the Colorado Springs Olympic and Paralympic Training Center. The Museum Nestled in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum inspires visitors to dive into the legacy of America’s greatest athletes. Immersive exhibits and memorable experiences explore the history of the Olympic Games,…

Whether it’s day-tripping to the mountains or finding beautiful spots right in town, Southern Colorado is home to breathtaking scenery and experiences. Check out these spots for your next outdoor adventure. Barr Trail Looking for a challenge? The 12-mile Barr Trail rises 7,500 feet in elevation from Manitou Springs to the top of Pikes Peak, offering stunning views of the Front Range for experienced hikers. Set out at first light on the 6–10-hour uphill trek to avoid afternoon storms. After you summit, either camp overnight along the trail, or get back down the mountain by car, on foot or on…