OUR WORLD
BATTLEMOOR
HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— Some years past, with great delight, the wise leaders of the Outlands created a summer festival called Battlemoor, in the cool mountains where all could find rest and friendly competition. Alliances are strengthened, hospitality is joyfully returned, and feasts and revels abound. Battlemoor has become the gathering place for the all the widespread peoples of the region to meet old friends and new, to exhibit valor, and to have fun in a myriad of ways. It’s the Return of Battlemoor at a brand new site. Join us at the foot of the beautiful Spanish Peaks in southern Colorado.
Battlemoor is open now through Saturday, July 1 at the Sporleder Centennial Ranch, 19530 County Rd 54.2, west of Aguilar. To register, join the Society for Creative Anachronism, or for more information on how to stop by, please visit www.battlemoor.org.
HUERFANO
Welcome back to the John Mall High School Class of 1981
WALSENBURG— The great class of 1981, along with some of their favorite teachers and sponsors will be in town on Friday, June 30 through Saturday July 1 in Walsenburg.
The weekend starts by meeting at 3:15 Friday in the John Mall High School parking lot for a 3:30 p.m. ‘Thanks For All The Memories’ tour of John Mall High School, which will be torn down next year.
The group will then immediately go next door to see the new high school now being constructed next to John Mall. It will open next January. You must wear closed toe shoes, as this is an active construction site.
Cocktails and Conversations will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Whistle Stop Lofts at 408 Russell St.
On Saturday, there will be bowling from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the $10 fee includes shoes.
That evening, will be the final activity, a Hoedown BBQ at the Eagles, 614 Main featuring cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. and music by DJ Scott King and dancing from 7 p.m. on. Wear western attire to enter a drawing for a prize.
Thank you to class reunion chair and organizational genius Sandi Montoya-Foster, and to committee mambers Gabby Sanchez, Carolyn Cisneros Fischer, Donna Romero, and Gretchen Sporleder-Orr.
SPLD Summer Reading Program
WALSENBURG— Beginning in July the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg will have a Summer Reading Program for adults and kids. Sign up at the Library or email your info to sharonaspld@gmail.com. Free events for all ages including kid’s story time and adult book club. Prizes awarded for attendance and books read.
Head Start now enrolling
WALSENBURG— South Central Colorado Head Start is now enrolling Pre-school children 3 – 5 years old. Call now to apply 719-420-0125.
Cuchara walking history tour
CUCHARA— Join us on our very popular and always changing Walking History Tour of Cuchara where you will learn some of the earliest history of our beloved Cuchara. We have updated the tour to include some simple geologic history, Native American information and Land Grant maps. You will see old photos of our area and learn stories of some of our earliest pioneers.
Join us in our walk or ride along in a golf cart on Thursday, June 29, 9 a.m. We’ll meet at the Cuchara Recreation Center.
SPLD presents the All Together Now Picnic
WALSENBURG— Thursday, June 29, 1 – 3 p.m. The Spanish Peaks Library, Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and the Flamingo Book Club are teaming up! During the picnic at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg, kids can win free books and a stuffed animal reading buddy. All the kids have to do is read a book with someone at the picnic and they can adopt the stuffed reading buddy and take it home. The clothed stuffies are provided through HHF’s Arte de Nuestros Abuelos program. Don’t miss the fun and adopt a reading buddy!
La Veta Village Garage Sale
LA VETA— The La Veta Village Auxiliary is hosting their annual garage sale on Friday, June 30, and Saturday, July 1, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Located at the La Veta Village Assisted Living patio/porch, 109 E Francisco.
Weekend activities at Lathrop State Park
WALSENBURG— Friday, June 30, 11: 30 a.m. Kids, come to Lathrop State Park, learn about bugs and insects and then make a Twist-an-Insect game. Meet in the Martin’s Lake swim beach area.
Friday, June 30, 7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of music! Tuco Taveras will perform at Lathrop State Park Amphitheater. Listen to his rockabilly sounds and songs of the 60’s.
Saturday, July 1, 1:30 p.m. will be Junior Rangers, there’s an activity just for you at the Visitor’s Center. Learn about what owls eat by looking through some owl pellets, and earn a Junior Ranger Badge.
Saturday, July 1, 7 p.m. Diana Miller from the Pueblo Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center and Raptor Center will be giving a presentation at the amphitheater. She will come with some of the Raptor Center’s birds and discuss birds of prey.
Remember as always Park passes are required for all vehicles.
Fox Rocks the Block
WALSENBURG— Friday, June 30, 7 p.m. join the Fox Theatre crew at Miners Plaza in downtown Walsenburg. Six Bucks and a Flight will be rocking the stage! Check out www.foxtheatrewalsenburg.org for more information.
Beginning mosaic making at LVSA
LA VETA— In this workshop at the La Veta School of the Arts you will learn the basic tools used to create contemporary mosaics. You will learn to use the basic tools, how to break tile, the difference in tile quality, how to compose a good design, use grout to create beautiful stepping stones, indoor wall pieces, tables, outdoor walkways or wall murals. This class will happen Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2. The cost is $150 with a lab fee of $12 which will pay for all of your supplies.
Mud bogs in La Veta
LA VETA— Come one, come all to the 20th anniversary of the La Veta Mud Bog, Saturday, July 1, in La Veta at the Fairgrounds. The spectator gate opens at 8 a.m. Adults to 14 years of age $10, 5-13 years old
$5, and kids 5 and under free! Race begins at noon! The Huerfano County Fair Board will have mud bog t-shirts for sale! To enter contact Jerry Sporcich at 719-989-7257. Concessions will be provided by the Huerfano Highlanders 4-H Club from Gardner, Co. Also Sweet Treats Shaved Ice will be there with all of their summertime favorites!
Annual Art in the Park Festival
LA VETA— Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Held annually around Independence Day, La Veta’s Art in the Park features locally made, hand-crafted goods such as ceramics, paintings, woodcrafts, jewelry, glassworks and food vendors with tasty treats for sale. A great event for families, make sure to stop by during your fourth of July weekend. Free to the public.
West Peak treeline hike
CUCHARA— Saturday, July 1, 9 a.m. Come join the Cuchara Valley Rec for a hike! This hike is to the tree line of West Spanish Peak. Please come prepared. Bring a lunch, rain gear and wear appropriate shoes. All hikes meet at the Community Center
La Veta Independence Day parade
LA VETA— The La Veta Independence Day parade will be held on Saturday, July 1st in collaboration with the Town of La Veta and Spanish Peaks Chamber of Commerce. The theme this year will be “Back to Our Roots” and we encourage any and all to join. Lineup will begin at 9:30 a.m. and take place at 126 E Garland Street, please enter off East Virginia as the entrance on Main Street will be blocked. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. and follow the same route as years past. If you are interested in participating or if you have any questions about the parade, please email Stephanie@BachmanAndAssociates.com or call (720) 987-5495.
Bookmobile Open House
GARDNER— The Spanish Peaks Library District is proud to host the Gardner Bookmobile open house on Saturday, July 1, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Visit with Library Director, Kasey Almes and staff. Learn how to use available technology to access books across Colorado. Free Childrens books from the Flamingo Book Club and light refreshments. The Bookmobile is located at 28 CR 632 in the Community Center Parking lot in Gardner.
First Chair Festival in Cuchara
CUCHARA— The First Chair Festival is on Saturday, July 1, 4 to 9 p.m. Join us at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile for an evening of music, food, drinks, a silent auction, and more to raise money for Cuchara Mountain Park. 3 Bands with the Taylor Scott Band headlining and bringing their colorful hybrid of roots-rock, funk, soul, and troubadour-style Americana to Cuchara. Advance tickets are on sale at www.cucharamountainpark.org. $25 advance/$30 day of at the door.
Livin’ La Veta Locals
LA VETA— The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts proudly present Livin’ La Veta Locals with MiDi and Friends on Saturday, July 1 at 7 p.m. Come enjoy an evening of Jazz, Pop, Country, Broadway, R&B and Yacht Rock classics. Tickets $20 ($21 by card) Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.fcpalaveta.org
JW Ranch Bison Burger Cook Off
LA VETA— We are looking for cooks to compete in the cook off on Sunday, July 2, 1:30 – 5 p.m. We provide buns, American cheese and the bison meat. Cooks can put their own spin to the burger to compete for a cash prize or if they would prefer a meat prize. Contact Cooper at 307-220-4742 to register.
To come to the event, it is a $10 suggested donation, you can try as many burgers as you want, vote for your favorite, there will be fresh fries, water, lemonade and cookies! We can not provide booze but people are welcome to bring their own booze. There will also be live music by Silver Eagle. JW Ranch is located at 6794 Highway 12, La Veta.
Annual Cuchara Family Fun Run
CUCHARA— The race course is a gently rolling 1-mile course through the back roads of Cuchara! The race will begin and end at the Cuchara Community Center on Tuesday, July 4, 8 a.m. Any proceeds from the race will benefit the Cuchara Recreation Summer Programs. All ages are welcome! The first 300 who register will receive an official race t-shirt!
Cuchara Independence Day Parade
CUCHARA— The Annual July 4th parade in downtown Cuchara will be on Tuesday, July 4, 11 a.m. Line up of the parade is behind the Cuchara Lokal. Parking is up the street at the Chapel. Parade ground marshal will be the Diane Broce family. Barbecues, street dance and cornhole tournament. Come join the fun!
July 4th picnic in the park
WALSENBURG— Join the fun at Fiesta Park in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 4, 3 – 8 p.m. This is a pot-luck style picnic, bring the whole family and a dish to share. There will be music and bakery products from Mariposa Baking. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs too!
Independence Day with the American Legion
WALSENBURG— Come celebrate July 4th with veterans and the American Legion. We’ll be celebrating Independence Day and having an awards ceremony honoring local businesses for their donations. There will be appetizers, refreshments, bar and music by the Apache Creek Fiddlers. Join us at the Eagles Hall, 614 Main St. in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 4, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Tickets for veterans and their spouses are $20, all others will be $25.
4th of July celebrations at LSP
WALSENBURG— Tuesday, July 4, 6 p.m. This Fourth of July come and celebrate at Lathrop State Park. Begin the celebration with The American Indian Dance Theater and the Southwest Tribal Dancers who will perform in the courtyard of the parks visitor center!! Their performance will begin at 6 p.m.
Then stay for the fireworks display. The fireworks begin as soon as it gets dark – around 9 p.m.. A Special Thanks to Huerfano County Parks and Recreation for the Fireworks Display, and to the Huerfano County Fire Protection District for being on standby with their truck. Remember as always park passes are required for all vehicles.
Learn About Colorado Rocks
LA VETA— Kids, come learn about the cool rocks we have in Colorado with rock enthusiast, Harry Masinton! Join the fun at La Veta Public Library, Wednesday, July 5 th. Story time starts at 10:00 AM, activities afterwards. For more information call La Veta Library at 719-742-3572 or email stephanie@lvpl.org.
Rocks of Colorado with Harry Masinton
CUCHARA— Come get a hands-on experience with some of the most beautiful, collectable, and valuable examples of the amazing rocks and minerals the state has to offer on Wednesday, July 5th, 2 – 4 p.m. Harry Masinton founded “Mass’n Tons of Rock” over 20 years ago and has been exploring, discovering, polishing, and selling Colorado rocks and minerals ever since. Come be dazzled at the Cuchara Library, 73 Cuchara Ave.
Weekly wildflower & weed walks
LA VETA— Learn how to ID what is what and their uses. Wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and poisonous wild plants are popping! Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local interpretive naturalist Bob Kennemer. Cost $5 per person. Class size limited to 10. Current schedule: Cuchara July 5 and 12. Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance to learn locations and more. Email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com
Creating with Clay at LVSA
LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Ethan Meyler will teach Creating With Clay on Friday, July 7, 1 – 3 p.m. for students 6 and older. In this popular class, Ethen will guide students in developing ways of shaping, molding, and building with clay. The type of clay provided does not need to be fired — that’s the beauty of it. It is also reusable forever! All FFF classes take place at LVSA, on Ryus, across from Town Park in La Veta. More information and registration is available at thelvsa.org, or by calling 719-742-3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.
La Veta’s Friday Art Walk
LA VETA— Join us for art, food and fun this Friday at La Veta’s First Friday Art Walks, Friday, July 7, 4:30 – 7 p.m. The walks continue throughout the summer on August 4 and September 1. Stroll solo, or gather souls that love pondering inspiring art and meeting artists. Sponsored by the La Veta Creative District and Colorado Creative Industries. For more information, Info@LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org & LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org
LAS ANIMAS
Teen Bocce Ball
TRINIDAD— Area teens are invited to join the Carnegie Public Library at the Cimino Park Bocce Ball court for an hour of fun on Friday, June 30, 2 – 3 p.m. Fine tune your strategy and skill with a game of bocce.
Final Friday at Fishers Peak
TRINIDAD— Introducing Final Fridays at Fishers Peak State Park on Friday, June 30, 6:30 p.m. and every last Friday of the month. Join Tarantula for a lap (or two or three) on Poison Canyon at Fishers Peak State Park. Parking lot hangs to follow. Work on your skills, chase your buddies, get after it or take it slow and session some features. However you want to ride, we hope to see you there.
Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park
TRINIDAD— Every Friday Night beginning May 26th thru September 1st at 8 p.m. the park ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the Trinidad Lake State Park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.
Farmer’s Market in Trinidad
TRINIDAD— The Farmer’s Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it! July 1st through Oct. 12!
Jeff and Sam at TLSP
TRINIDAD— Hailing from Trinidad, Colorado, Jeff and Sam Montoya are an acoustic folk duo that are
captivating audiences around the Front Range and Spanish Peaks regions. With Jeff’s guitar and
vocals along with Sam’s violin, their music is a harmonious and unique blend of traditional folk
and modern Americana. Jeff and Sam are
also members of the highly acclaimed Indie Americana Rock band, Coal Town Reunion. They will be playing this Saturday July 1 st 7 p.m. at the Trinidad Lake State Park Amphitheater.
Youth Archery Program
TRINIDAD— Join Park Interpreter Pat Patrick in welcoming Parks and Wildlife District Wildlife Manager Bob Holder as he presents the Youth Archery Program. Activities include target practice, a fun shoot, a 3-D shoot, and instruction. Youth ages 7-16 are invited to attend, but must be accompanied by a parent. Instruction on the finer points of archery safety and shooting a bow will be presented. Equipment will be furnished . No personal equipment will be allowed. This event is a great opportunity for youngsters to learn more about this rapidly growing type of outdoor recreation and try their hand at using a bow. The program will be held on Sunday, July 2, promptly at 3 p.m. in the Carpois Cove area. All vehicles must have a park pass.
July full moon ride
TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles to celebrate the Buck Moon at Trinidad Lake State Park! We’ll meet at the South Shore trailhead just past the south campground on Monday, July 3, 8 p.m. Lights and a helmet required. Cold refreshments provided at the trailhead!
4th of July Water Parade
TRINIDAD— The Las Animas County Veteran’s Memorial Committee and Southern Colorado Family Center are proud to present the 2023 4th of July parade and the famous Trinidad Water Day parade. Join the fun in downtown Trinidad on Tuesday, July 4, starting at 10 a.m. Featuring the Ft. Carson Marching Band and Color Guard. There will be a picnic served at Cimino Park following the parade and ceremony at noon. For more information please contact Tommy D Productions at 719-680-4677.
Independence Day Celebration
TRINIDAD— Trinidad Historic Main Street Board proudly presents The Annual Independence Day Celebration at the Central Park ball park, 700, Smith Ave in Trinidad. Gates open and festivities begin at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4. The Trinidad Triggers are playing the Santa Fe Fuego at 5:35 p.m. with a fireworks show to follow at dusk.
Bake Sale
TRINIDAD— Noah’s Ark Thrift Store, 147 E. Main St. in Trinidad will be hosting a bake sale on Friday, July 7, 10 a.m – 12 p.m. Help support Noah’s Ark and the animals they help in our community.
Women of Las Animas County
TRINIDAD— Whether you are new to the area, or have lived in Las Animas County for years, we invite you to attend a ladies night out networking group and fashion show on Friday, July 7 from 4:30 on at the Space to Create commons.
Connect with other women to learn about local resources, make new friends, and explore opportunities.
Trinidad Trails Alliance Trail Work Day
TRINIDAD— Trinidad Trails Alliance will meet at Noah’s Ark, 224 N Chestnut St on Saturday, July 8, 10 a.m. to begin a new path for two and four-leggeds connecting Main St to the Riverwalk! All levels of experience welcome. Tools and snacks provided, BYO water, gloves and sunscreen. Tailgater to follow. Additional workdays TBD throughout the summer. For more info, contact Jenn Green 719-859-0379. trinidadtrailsalliance@gmail.com
Open Mic for all Literary Souls
TRINIDAD—The series is hosted by the Creative District on the Second Saturday of the month at The Commons at Space to Create, 218 West Main St.
The evening begins with a featured writer; the microphone then opens to all who would like to share their creative literary efforts. This event is free and open to the public. Join us Saturday, July 8 at 7 p.m. and every second Saturday.
Legacies and Legends of Trinidad book signing event
TRINIDAD— Attention history buffs! Please plan to attend a book signing on Saturday, July 15 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Carnegie Library in Trinidad of Segundo born Phillip Arnold Vigil’s latest book, “Legacies and Legends, Trinidad, Colorado, 1860 – 1960”.
The book was released in February, and is described as the voice for legacies and legendary stories about the unforgettable people and events which shaped the history of Trinidad, including early founders like Felipe Baca and Frank Bloom, Michel Beshoar, Casimiro Barela, and José Agapito Vigil; well known, and not as well known, early Wild West legends like madam Mae Phelps and lawmen Lewis Kreegar and Bat Masterton. The book also discusses the development of Trinidad into the early 20th century by highlighting the impact of coal mining, labor activists, and residents who attained national stature, plus the local activities of the Ku Klux Klan.
If you are unable to make it to the book signing, you may also order the book for $24, plus 46 for shipping and handling by sending a check to Phillip A. Vigil, 2647 S. Johnson Circle, Lakewood, CO 80227. For more info, contact him at pmvigil63@yahoo.com
COLFAX
International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally
RATON— Here’s your chance to enjoy fresh mountain air and a carefree and wonderful weekend filled with colorful hot air balloons, delicious food, and celebration. The 2023 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally will be held from Friday to Monday, July 1 – 3 at La Mesa Airfield on York Canyon Rd, Highway 555, a half-mile west of Raton’s southernmost off ramp from I-25, Exit 450 For more information and a full schedule of the weekends events please visit www.exploreraton.com
Trash to Treasures fundraiser
ANGEL FIRE— It’s time for the Shuter Library’s annual Trash to Treasures fundraiser. Join the fun on Saturday, July 1st and Sunday July 2nd from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Angle Fire Community Center. This community garage sale benefits the Library. If you are interested in volunteering or donating please contact Linda Harkey at LindaHarkey@sbcglobal.net
Farmers Market in Cimarron
CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com
Lemonade Day
RATON — Support local youth entrepreneurs at the Second Annual Lemonade Day in Raton, New Mexico on Saturday, July 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Across Raton, 19 lemonade stands will be set up for patronage from thirsty citizens and touristy on-lookers. Be sure to check out the stands yourself. You’ll be supporting your community and its kids all while beating back the summer heat. For a full list of locations visit https://lemonadeday.org/raton
Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast
ANGEL FIRE— Join the Rotary Club of Angel Fire for the Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, July 2, 8 – 11 a.m. at the Angel Fire Olympic Park. Plates range from $2-$8 depending on age. This is a fundraiser to support MVHS senior scholarships and the community garden. Visit angelfirerotaryclub.com for more information.
Angel Fire Farmers Market
ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.
Enchilada Dinner for Troop 68
CIMARRON— Come join us for an enchilada dinner. Sister Hildegard Parish Hall will be hosting the dinner on Monday, July 3, 4 – 7 p.m. Dinner is for donation ($10 minimum) and goes to Troop 68.
Brat Trot 5k
ANGEL FIRE— Sign up today for the Brat Trot 5k family fun run on Monday, July 3, 7 p.m. The Moreno Valley High School fundraiser will help support sports programs for the school. $25 suggested donation and brats will be served at the finish line. Visit www.mvhsnm.org/parents for more information.
Skate Festival
ANGEL FIRE— The Village of Angel Fire in Coordination with the Overland Project, will host a Skate Festival on Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4 at Plaza Del Sol behind the Fire Station. There will be professional skaters to give demonstrations and stage competitions. The bulk of the day will be free classes for kids who want to learn to skateboard. Please bring a helmet to participate.
Independence Day Celebrations
RATON— Join Raton MainStreet on Tuesday, July 4, 1:30 p.m. on 1st St. for their annual Independence Day Parade. There will be vendors, live entertainment with contests and games for kids.
2nd Annual 4th of July Parade and light show
ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy the 4th of July Parade on Bill Burgess Blvd on Tuesday, July 4, 11 a.m. Then meet at Frontier Park at 7 p.m. and enjoy a fireless show as hundred of drones take to the sky to form fun shapes, patterns and create quite the spectacle!
No Road Blocks car & truck show
SPRINGER— Join the fun in downtown Springer on Saturday, July 8, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Low riders, motorcycles, trucks and more! There will be live music by the Michael Rascon Band, vendors and fun for the whole family.
Night Sky Viewing
CAPULIN— Join us for an exceptional Dark Sky experience on Saturday, July 8, 8:30 p.m. Telescopes are provided by us, and the dark northeastern New Mexico skies by nature. You will see planets, galaxies, nebula, and other amazing sights all with your own eyes.
Capulin Volcano is at a higher altitude of over 6,000 feet. Nights can get chilly even in summer. A jacket, long pants, and closed toe shoes are recommended to attend a Dark Sky program. No reservations are needed. Dark Sky programs may be changed or cancelled due to weather.
