Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic
2026-01-10 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Denver) | Palmer Lake, 199 County Line Rd, Palmer Lake, CO, 80133, United States
Now entering its 5th year, the Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic has become a cherished tradition and small-town community event. Founded as a non-profit event, its mission is simple yet powerful: grow the game of hockey in the Tri-Lakes area.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Palmer Lake and its iconic mountaintop star, this unique event transforms a frozen lake into a battlefield of frozen dreams. Food trucks, fireworks, and thousands of fans filling the lakeside, turning a small-town event into a winter celebration unlike any other. Each winter, four Colorado high schools face off in a spirited competition for “The Star” trophy—a symbol of sportsmanship and small-town rivalry.
At the heart of the event is Lewis Palmer Hockey, which uses the high school foundation game as its primary fundraiser. The energy and excitement of the community help support the team’s goals and development, making this more than just a game—it’s a lifeline for their hockey team. This year’s matchup will feature Liberty, Chatfield, and Chaparral High Schools.

Where: On the Ice in Palmer Lake
When: Saturday, January 10th
Faceoff: 6:00 PM

Alongside the high school faceoffs, the weekend also features a Youth Hockey Camp where young players get to skate, learn, and grow their skills on the iconic outdoor rink as well as an adult tournament hosted by Ranger Hockey Club.
Whether you’re a player, parent, or passionate fan, the Palmer Lake Outdoor Classic is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the entire community together—under the star, on the ice, and at the heart of winter in Colorado.
More information is available at https://palmerlakeoutdoorclassic.com/

Winter Adult Reading Program Helps People Build Healthy Reading Habits in 2026
2026-02-07 18:00 - 19:00 | CO
Pikes Peak Library District’s (PPLD) annual Winter Adult Reading Program began on January 1. This popular program encourages adults ages 18 and up to put down their phone and pick up a book to develop brain-healthy reading habits and participate in activities. Participants earn prizes by completing 30 days of reading and activities between Jan. 1 – Feb. 28. Last year, 5,775 people registered for the program, a 13% increase from 2024.
Studies show that adults and seniors who use leisure time for reading receive a range of benefits including reduced stress, less cognitive decline, improved critical thinking, enhanced conversation skills, better sleep, higher empathy, and stronger connections with others. With national reading rates decreasing in recent years, the Winter Adult Reading Program supports mental and cognitive health in the Pikes Peak region by encouraging the community to pick up a book.
In celebration of the 150th anniversary of Colorado and 250th anniversary of the United States this year’s program is themed around Colorado and its history. The Library has planned a variety of engaging programs based on this theme. This year’s program also includes a special after-hours event, Sorry, I’m Booked: Winter Adult Reading Program Party. The event will include literary trivia, a book swap, an adult Storytime, bookish crafts, and book talks about titles coming out in 2026, hosted at East Library on Sat., Feb. 7 starting at 6 p.m.
Participants will receive a 2026 calendar with historic photos of Colorado Springs libraries when they register (while supplies last). After registering, participants must complete 30 days of reading and activities (such as attending a Library program) to earn this year’s limited-edition program mug and a coupon for a free dessert from Crumbl®, both while supplies last. They will also be entered into a Grand Prize Drawing for one of five $100 gift cards from The French Kitchen or a 50L hiking backpack from Mountain Chalet. Participants can earn additional entries for the grand prizes for every additional five days of reading and activities completed.

Now through February 28
All PPLD locations
More info: ppld.org/winter-reading

Father-Daughter Dance Fundraiser
2026-02-07 18:00 - 21:00 | Tri-Lakes YMCA, 17250 Jackson Creek Parkway, Monument, CO, 80132, United States
One of our missions at the YMCA is to nurture the growth and potential of every child in our community. The Father Daughter Dance is an annual occasion hosted by the YMCA’s Youth Development Department with this primary goal in mind. We believe that each child deserves access to quality care and meaningful experiences regardless of a family’s financial situation, and the purpose of this dance is to drive forward that initiative while providing an incredibly special occasion for all family members, but especially Fathers and Daughters. Families will participate in special crafts, cookie decorating, and lots of dancing! There will be opportunities for professional photos as well as a silent auction with larger prizes donated by partners in the community. This event is open to the public, and all family members are welcome and highly encouraged to attend!

Registration is available online or at the door. Activity tickets will be available for participation in crafts and photos.
Event Highlights

Dancing, music, and lots of laughs!
Crafts, snacks, and cookie-decorating stations
Professional photo opportunities
Activity tickets available for extra fun
Dress attire: semi-formal
All proceeds benefit the YMCA Annual Support Campaign, helping to offset membership and program fees for families in need.

Pre-Registration:
Members: $38 per couple ($19 each for father and daughter)
Non-Members: $48 per couple ($24 each for father and daughter) $15 for each additional guest (all family members welcome)

At the door entry tickets will be $25 per person

More information and to register at https://ppymca.org/event/father-daughter-dance-fundraiser/

St. Patrick's Day Parade
2026-03-14 12:00 - 13:30 | CO
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Grab your kilts, wear your finest greenery, and get ready for a day full of fun, for the Colorado Springs’ St. Patrick’s Day Parade has its own charm. Starting at noon, you can watch the floats, bands, dancers, and performers drive by in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day along Tejon Street. And you won’t have to get up at the crack of dawn to get a good spot.
This year’s parade takes place on Saturday, March 14. A time-honored tradition since 1985, COS’s Patty’s Day parade draws around 35,000 attendees. Additional events taking place include a beer garden, a 5k race, and a Leprechaun fun run.
The Parade route begins at noon on the corner of Tejon Street and E. St. Vrain in downtown Colorado Springs and continues south on Tejon Street to Vermijo.
The best place to park is in any one of the City Parking Garages or other downtown parking lots. Street meters will be working.
Go to csstpats.com for information about the parade.

Picnic & Planes
2026-05-28 09:00 - 16:00 | Western Museum of Mining and Industry, 225 Northgate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO, 80921, United States
The Western Museum of Mining is honored to be the Air Force Academy’s neighbor…and lucky too! The Mining Museum is the perfect place to watch the amazing aerial acrobatics of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

We suggest you bring your own chairs, blankets, and sunscreen. Feel free to bring a picnic or purchase from one of our food trucks. Let WMMI provide the location for you to experience the mighty Thunderbirds soaring overhead!

Kids' Fishing Derby
2026-06-06 08:00 - 12:00 | Palmer Lake, 199 County Line Rd, Palmer Lake, CO, 80133, United States
** Kids Fishing Derby
