The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) and the Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association (HRCAA) provide a wide array of cultural and special events to meet the diverse needs of the community within Highlands Ranch. Special events increase the quality of life in Highlands Ranch, provide unique activities for families to participate in together, and create a sense of community. CAA events are funded in part by a grant from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).

For additional details on events, please visit www.hrcaonline.org or call 303-791-2500. Please note that prices and dates are subject to change.

 

CAA Winter Cultural Series:
Treat yourself to cultural events close to home. A highlight of the many cultural programs brought to you by the Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association (HRCAA), the 2010 Winter Cultural Series features a variety of performances that have widespread appeal and are full of fun, family entertainment you are sure to enjoy.

 

CAA Showtime at Southridge:
Welcome to the wonderful world of the Salida Circus-Colorado’s newest troupe of stilt walkers, acrobats, jugglers, clowns, trapeze artists and more! ‘The Scarlet Sister’s Lost Circus is larger than life!

 

Night Magic-Northern Lights in 3D:
Bryan White, Astrophotographer, uses 3-D photography to transport the audience to a magical place where the Aurora Borealis or Northern Light dances nightly in the pristine night sky.

 

Coffee Tasting:
Starbucks baristas educate on different blends of coffee, the best brewing methods and then lead a tasting of the different types of coffee. For ages 14+.

 

CAA Showtime at Southridge - Chinese New Year Celebration:
Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association and the SCFD is partnering with Great Wall Chinese Academy to present a cultural program to celebrate Chinese New Year (Year of the Tiger). The program features exciting Chinese dragon and lion dances, beautiful Chinese folk dances, amazing Chinese martial art - Kung Fu, and well-prepared choral and instrumental performances. All performers are talented school-age individuals. Learn more about this rich culture by experiencing the traditions of Chinese New Year. All children will receive a red envelope, the traditional means of giving a blessing to the younger generation in the Chinese New Year. Chinese souvenirs will be available for purchase.

 

CAA Arts Live!
The Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association (HRCAA) provides culturally-enriching programming. Through bringing high profile artists, musicians, dance troupes, theatre productions, etc. to the HRCA Day Camps, HRCAA broadens children's cultural experiences, and by doing so, hopes to cultivate an interest in the Arts. We openly welcome families, schools, and groups in Highlands Ranch to attend. To arrange field trips, please call 303-471-8880.

 

Father/Daughter Sweetheart Ball:
Create wonderful memories full of fun, laughter, love and dancing with your sweetheart at the Father and Daughter Sweetheart Ball. Held at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, this ball includes a corsage and a special gift for each little sweetheart. In addition, you receive a commemorative photo of you and your little lady along with refreshments. Horse-drawn carriage rides are available for an additional fee.

 

Sweetheart Teddy Bear Tea:
Your little darling will love this tea with a special Valentine’s theme. Enjoy tea, refreshments, and a small stuffed bear for each child. Then it’s time to be entertained! Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Don’t forget your camera! No one under 2 please.

 

Highland Ranch Run Series:
This series gives you a chance to know spectacular trails and earn quality awards. You also get a little competition in a friendly atmosphere, a T-shirt and bib number for each run, and proceeds benefit local area charities. Register at any HRCA facility or online at www.highlandsranchrunseries.com.

• February 7: Super Bowl 5K Run/Walk (Recreation Center at Westridge)
• Benefiting: Denver ROTC
• March 20: St Patrick’s Day 5K Run/Walk(Town Center)
• Benefiting: Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Foundation for Civic Green Park
• April 10: Heritage/Adventure 5K & 10K Run (Red Tail Park)
• Benefiting: Mile High Pow Wow Association
• May 1: Cinco de Mayo 5K Run/Walk (Recreation Center at Southridge)
• Benefiting: El Centro Su Teatro
• July 4: Independence Day 5K (Town Center)
• Benefiting: HRCA Therapeutic Recreation Department
• September 18: Oktoberfest 5K Run/Walk & 100 Yard Dash (Town Center)
• Benefiting: Jordan's Angel Foundation
• October 9: Wildcat 5 Mile & 10 Mile Run/Walk (Paint Brush Park)
• Benefiting: Pura Vida
• November 13: Backcountry ½ Marathon (Rocky Heights Middle School)
• Benefiting: Douglas County Rescue League
• November 25: Turkey Day 5K presented by the Chamber of Commerce of Highlands Ranch (Town Center)

Tri Series: Three Triathlons, Three Reasons

• June 5: Adult & Kid’s Tune Up Sprint Triathlon (Recreation Center at Westridge) 500-yard swim, 12-mile bike, 5K run 
• July 17: Adult & Kid’s Tri N July Sprint Triathlon (Recreation Center at Eastridge)
• August 21: Adult & Kid’s Splash Mash Dash Sprint & Olympic length Triathlon (Recreation Center at Northridge)

 

Spirit Tasting:
Wine Tasting move over! Spend the evening with Highlands WineSeller sampling a chosen spirit. Delicious appetizers round out the evening. Everything is supplied! Must be 21 years or older

 

Murder Mystery Theater:
The moment you enter through the Mansion’s massive carved front door, you are transported to the scene of a crime. Walk through the mansion’s rooms and talk with characters who give hidden clues as to who could have committed the crime. Later join with other detectives who try to discover the culprit.

 

"In the Pink" Fashion Show and Champagne Luncheon:
Are you a little frazzled with your hectic daily life and in need of a little pampering? Then the Highlands Ranch Community Association’s “In the Pink” Fashion Show and Champagne Luncheon is designed just for you! Enjoy a light catered lunch with pink champagne and dessert with coffee or tea while the latest in women’s fashions including yoga wear, active wear and fine lingerie from Pampered Passions Fine Lingerie are modeled. Keri Christiansen will emcee. All proceeds benefit a breast cancer nonprofit.

 

Spring Bazaar:
By definition, a bazaar is "a fair at which miscellaneous articles are sold". Highlands Ranch Community Association's Spring Bazaar upholds that definition. The bazaar atmosphere attracts a multitude of vendors who sell a wide variety of handcrafted as well as commercial items. Look for treasures such as handcrafts, scrap booking materials, candles, dolls, jewelry, and much more. Admission is free and open to the public.

 

Chocolate Tasting – Health Benefits of Chocolate:
Don’t feel guilty anymore! Join Julie Pech, the Chocolate Therapist for this one hour seminar teaching the Health Benefits of Chocolate! Julie has appeared on national radio shows, local TV and talk shows, travels as an international guest speaker with cruise lines, teaches classes at Colorado Free University, and has been featured in numerous national magazines and newspapers. Each participant will enjoy premium chocolate tastings. Gather your friends for an evening of fun! You must be 16+ to attend.

 

CAA Fishing on the Fly:
HRCAA and the Cutthroat Chapter of Trout Unlimited teach middle school students the art of fly fishing. Students will attend three sessions in a classroom learning to cast, tie flies, and more. After these sessions, the information will be put to practice with a day of learning to cast. The last session will be practicing what they’ve learned at Lake Lehou.

 

Easter Egg Hunt:
Bring family and friends to watch as the little ones hunt for brightly colored plastic, and surprise filled eggs. The high point of the day is not the candy, it's the tradition and the fun of finding the eggs—the source of your child’s delight and a family tradition. Free to members, $5 to program guests. Program guests must pre-register.

 

9Health Fair:
9Health Fair offers medical screenings at no cost or low cost to Colorado residents. Most screenings are free. A fee will be charged for Blood Chemistry, Blood Count, Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), and a Colon Cancer Screening Take Home Kit.

 

Volunteer Fair:
Come to one place and check out nonprofit organizations that need volunteers. You’ll have all your questions answered in one location. Make a difference in your community. Find out how by attending the Volunteer Fair. Free

 

CAA Hooked On Fishing!
HRCAA, Metro Districts, and the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) get your little ones Hooked On Fishing! Experts from the DOW teach the art of angling and ecology. Poles and bait are provided. Kids keep the poles for future catches! Please, no registrants under 6 years of age.

 

Home Improvement Expo:
Looking for home improvement ideas? Investigating window, paint, or basement finishing? Seeking decorating ideas? Is your landscape in need of improvement? Head over to the Home Improvement Expo to explore the options available to you right here in Highlands Ranch as area businesses showcase their services and products. “Do-it-yourself” seminars on various home improvement projects will be held. Admission is free and open to the public!

 

Computer/Electronics Recycling:
Electronic components contain materials that are very harmful to our environment. Safely recycle the following types of electronic equipment:

• Computers
• Keyboards
• Telephones
• Cell Phones
• Fax Machines
• Electric Motors
• Auto Electronics
• Radios
• Palm Pilots
• Computer Mice
• Printers
• Laptops
• Stereos

For more information, visit HRCAonline.org or call 303-791-2500. FREE* *Additional charge for televisions. Suggested $20 donation to benefit the Cultural Affairs Association and the Community Scholarship Fund.

 

Farmers’ Market:
The Highlands Ranch Farmers’ Market has become one of the area’s finest. HRCA will be partnering with Denver Farmers’ Market to bring this exceptional market to Highlands Ranch residents. The season starts with a plethora of sauces, pastas, flowers, breads, and more. As produce comes in-season, the market explodes with all the colors, smells, and varieties of Colorado’s bounty. Free

 

Street Market:
 A Street Market right here in Highlands Ranch. Come to Town Center North on the first Sunday of each month to see what's new in antiques and unique objects of art. Free.

 

Taste of Highlands Ranch:
In its fourteenth year, this Friday night offers a banquet of mouth-watering, taste bud-tingling food and fun. Held at the Recreation Center at Eastridge, stroll through a café-lined avenue filled with fine wine and beer and sumptuous cuisine from area restaurants. A Highlands Ranch tradition, a silent auction help you make the most of this special and much anticipated event. More than an elegant evening with friends and neighbors, proceeds from the silent auction and the event benefit a chosen non-profit charitable organization. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.

 

CAA Culture on the Green Series:
This series will pair cultural performances with a beautiful outdoor setting for an experience that is sure to delight all ages. Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner for a great evening under the stars. Free admission.

 

Spotlight on the Plaza:
Come to Town Center North the first Wednesday of June, July, August and September to enjoy free outdoor entertainment on the plaza. Free.

 

Carnival:
A real carnival! Bill Hames Shows is well respected throughout the state of Colorado providing the carnival for the Greely Stampede, Cheyenne Frontier Days, and the Colorado State Fair. Come experience the bright lights, the thrill of the rides, the challenging midway attractions, and the myriad flavors of food concessions-all right here in Highlands Ranch.

 

CAA Classic Car Show:
A Father’s Day weekend tradition! On Saturday June 19, have fun in the sun with great cars, food, music and more! The HRCAA Car Show features cars in categories such as Classic, European, Hot Rod and Muscle cars. It’s an extraordinary exhibition that’s fun for all ages. Admission is FREE! Car clubs are welcome.

 

CAA Summer Concert Series:
It’s a free festive family event with music- featuring the best of local favorites, food, and beverages that guarantees a good time is to be had by all. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy these concerts! Past performers have included Opie Gone Bad, The Nacho Men,
Firefall, and Chris Daniels and the Kings. Performances are held at Highlands Heritage Park in Highlands Ranch.

 

Paper Recycling:
Relying on your personal shredder or using a regular waste disposal service may not ensure that sensitive information is being safely destroyed and can be more expensive than you think. Machines break down. Paper jams. When waste paper hits the dumpster, what then? XpresShred is a member of the National Association for information Destruction (NAID) and whose services are cost-effective, environmentally responsible and highly secure.
Limit of 3 bags or boxes of paper. Residential only. $10 suggested donation to benefit the Cultural Affairs Association.

 

Independence Day Celebration:
Enjoy a day of activities for the whole family, from tiny tikes and teenagers to those young at heart. Come celebrate your nation’s birthday with the HRCA, your family and your neighbors. The celebration includes parades, music, and community spirit. The Annual Community Parade and the Family Bike & Pet Parade kicks off the festivities. A Pet Adoption Fair, carnival rides, music, pony rides and other entertainment continue into the evening. End the day with a spectacular fireworks show at approximately 9:30 pm.

 

Rodeo in the Ranch:
Round up the family and bring em’ on down to the Ranch for the Highlands Ranch Rodeo. The HRCA is proud to host this staple of Colorado’s western heritage. Come see broncs and bulls, and the brave riders as they compete in one of the toughest sports in the world. Children can get their Rodeo start in the Mutton Bustin’ and Chicken Scramble, and there will be lots of great food and beverages.

 

Film in the Park:
Bring blankets or lawn chairs and join us for Film in the Park. On select Friday nights in August, HRCA shows a movie fit for the whole family. Showtime is around dusk (approximately 8:15 p.m.) and admission is free!

 

CAA Jazz at the Mansion:
Smooth, easy-listening jazz punctuates this delightful program. The historic Highlands Ranch Mansion provides the perfect backdrop for a jazz performance as well as the proper atmosphere for a casual, comfortable event on the green. Sit back, relax and listen to the beautiful music of well-known local jazz artist.

 

CAA Arts Festival:
The HRCAA Arts Festival features a little something for everyone. Many local artists selling one-of-a-kind creations including watercolors, sculpture, jewelry, oils and more are showcased. In addition, you may enjoy hands-on art activities for kids and adults, entertainment, the Farmers’ Market, and food concessionaires. Bring the family, shop, and enjoy. Admission is free!

 

Arts Festival Wine Tasting:
Run in conjunction with the HRCAA Arts Festival, you are invited to come enjoy refreshing wines from Highlands WineSeller and sample an assortment of appetizers.

 

CAA Highlands Ranch Days:
History is fun and educational—especially at Highlands Ranch Days. Join in this celebration of your community’s heritage at the Highlands Ranch Mansion with western entertainment, livestock displays, historical re-enactments, hay rides, and guided tours of the Mansion and much more. Discover bygone eras when pioneers, black smiths, fur trappers, gold panners, and Native Americans roamed Highlands Ranch. On Saturday, don’t miss the pancake breakfast (additional charge).

 

Doggie Splash & Dash:
Calling all nice doggies! Come and have a ball with all your friends as we open the Westridge Outdoor Pool to our canine companions.

 

CAA Oktoberfest:
HRCAA’s Oktoberfest is fun for all ages. Gather your family and friends together for a cultural experience that will delight your children and entertain the adults. Purchase genuine German food, dance to the music of a German band, polka with authentic German folk dancers, and imbibe German beers from Paulaner. It’s an evening of non-stop entertainment for the kids, too. Children can play midway games and bounce on inflatables until their hearts are content.

 

Mother/Son Masquerade Ball:
Please join us for an unforgettable evening for mothers and young sons. Creating special memories, the evening includes a complimentary mask, dancing to a DJ, a commemorative photo, hors d’oeuvres, and a fun craft.

 

Carson & Barnes Circus:
It's stupendous. It's spectacular. It's the biggest Big Top on earth and it's coming to Highlands Ranch! The Carson & Barnes Circus is a three-ring circus that features tons of performing elephants, circus stars from around the globe, and a huge exotic animal zoo.

 

Fall Craft Show:
This two day show features items that have been lovingly handcrafted by the artists. The majority of these crafters are from the Highlands Ranch area. All have gone through a rigorous jury to determine their eligibility to participate in the show. Some of the criteria used by the jury include uniqueness of product, quality of craftsmanship, booth display, and pricing. You will be delighted at the creativity shown in their work. Items exhibited include jewelry; bath products; pottery; wooden crafts; floral arrangements; wreaths; precious baby and children’s articles; fused glass vases and bowls; hand-knit scarves, shawls, afghans; and a multitude of other object of art and apparel. The Fall Craft Show is the perfect place to find that unique, one-of-a kind, handcrafted gift. Best of all, admission is free and open to the public!

 

Indoor Garage Sale:
Admission is free to this shopping extravaganza. Search for one-of-a-kind finds, or consider purchasing a booth space to sell treasures of your own. If you would like to purchase a booth, pre-registration of booths is necessary and applications can be found on the HRCA web site. Come early to find the best deals, and don’t forget your wallet!

 

CAA Showtime at Southridge-Magic Show:
Grab the family and join us for an exciting new evening of magic and illusion. A professional magician will delight people of all ages with astounding illusions.

 

Haunted Hayride:
Round-up family and friends for tons of fun on a haunted hayrack ride! Drawn by large and lovable draft horses, rumble down a trail through beautiful Chatfield State Park in the dark of night. The evening includes pony rides, a cozy fire and roasted marshmallows to make a complete and wonderful family time.

 

Scare on the Square:
This is a Halloween party just for adults. Dress up as your favorite character and trick-or-treat adult style. We will have food and beverages for purchase, music, and entertainment in the new Town Center North.

 

Trick or Treat Street:
Put on your costume and grab your trick-or-treat bag! The Highlands Ranch Community Association’s Trick-or-Treat Street is held at the Recreation Center at Eastridge, where local businesses provide treats for all the “little ghosts and goblins!” In addition, there is a pumpkin patch.

 

Paranormal Party:
Join the professionals from Spirit Paranormal Investigations at the famous mansion for cocktails and a presentation of “Things That Go Bump in the Night” including amazing photos and samples of real recorded spirit voices. Afterwards the Spirit PI team will lead groups on a ghost walk in the mansion showcasing their sophisticated equipment. This will be an evening you will never forget! Enrollment is strictly limited. You must be 21+ to attend. Advance registration a must.

 

Jewelry and Holiday Gift Fair:
Just in time for the holidays! This show features jewelry, accessories and many other Holiday gifts from handcrafters and commercial retailers. It’s the perfect opportunity to purchase unique necklaces, bracelets, earrings, scarves, purses and much more.

 

CAA Showtime at Southridge-The Nutcracker Highlights:
The International Youth Ballet acclaimed production of “The Nutcracker” is a one-hour performance specifically designed for children and families. This perfect introduction to the world’s most famous ballet features favorite characters such as the Nutcracker, the Mouse King, Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy, all in full costume. Advance purchase of tickets is strongly recommended.

 

“Hometown Holiday” Celebration:
This winter wonderland is an open house event with something for everyone! It is a fun-filled holiday celebration that includes caroling, food, games, crafts and a visit by Santa!

 

Sparkling Wine Tasting:
Celebrate the holidays in style this year! Enjoy appetizers while you sample sparkling wines from Highlands WineSeller. This is a social event at the Tattered Cover Bookstore to help select sparkling wines for your holiday celebrations. Held in conjunction with the Hometown Holiday event, you must be 21 years of age or older to attend.

 

Breakfast with Santa:
It’s sleigh-loads of holiday cheer for all good little girls and boys! Enjoy a pancake breakfast and a visit with Santa.

 

House Decorating Contest:
Show your holiday spirit by dressing up your house for the Christmas holiday. Judges will drive the homes of candidates and decide who has the best dressed home for the Holidays. Awards will be given out to the top three homeowners.

 

Holiday Teddy Bear Tea:
Delight in this special Holiday Teddy Bear Tea party with all the trimmings and warm your little one’s heart with a special outing together! After tea, enjoy a fun filled show. This is a great way to create charming memories for ages 2-12. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

 

CAA Holiday Concert:
Celebrate the season with the sound of music of the holidays. Entertainers will share everyone’s favorites Christmas melodies through music and song. A great way to share the holidays with family and friends.

 

CAA Christmas in Song:
A community Christmas concert for the whole family. Children’s choir featuring local talent and top professional soloists from the area. Join us for an evening of Christmas joy, holiday song, and family fun.

 

Hanukkah Happening:
Come join us at this annual celebration! For nearly two decades, this special Hanukkah celebration event has attracted Highlands Ranch neighbors who share a commonality of religion and culture. From noon to 8 pm, this celebration is full of great food, stories, games, and spinning dreidels! Contact the Jewish Community leader, Beth Horwitz, at 303-470-6652 for details on this event

 

Winter Market:
HRCA is bringing its own version of the German Christmas Market to the Ranch. If you are after unusual gift ideas, handmade items, or traditional Christmas foods for that special gift or holiday meal, then this Christmas Market is the perfect place to look! Free.