OUR WORLD
FNB Open House
OUR WORLD— On Friday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. come to The First National Bank in Trinidad, Walsenburg, and the Loan Production Office in Raton for their open house. This is also the time to pick up the their very popular 2024 calendar. The 2024 calendar is distributed as a free gift to the community while supplies last and features classic artwork published by The Saturday Evening Post.
HUERFANO
Science Seminars at LVPL
LA VETA— Hunting for Novel Viruses-What will cause the next pandemic, a science seminars at La Veta Public Library on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2 p.m. Hunting for Novel Viruses – What Will Cause the Next Pandemic, presented by Mary Anne Nelson, PhD (University of Colorado). Mary Anne Nelson is a Professor Emerita of Biology from the University of New Mexico. She received her Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado, where she studied interactions between viruses and their hosts.
Trivia with LVPL
LA VETA— Join La Veta Public Library at Mountain Merman Brewing Company for a night of Food Trivia on Thursday, Nov. 30, 6 p.m. Up to FIVE (5) people on a team. No electronic devices allowed-this will result in immediate team disqualification. There is no charge to participate in trivia. Great prizes donated by Mountain Merman Brewery! A great time guaranteed! Want to host a library event at your business? We want to hear from you! info@lvpl.org.
Hospital Auxiliary bake sale
WALSENBURG— Come one, come all to the Huerfano Memorial Hospital Auxiliary bake sale on Friday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Come shop for your homemade goodies and check out whats new in the gift shop. Located inside Spanish Peaks Regional Healthcare, 23500 US-160, Walsenburg.
Benefit Beer Release Party
LA VETA— Join La Veta Library at Mountain Merman Brewing Company on Friday, Dec. 1, 4 p.m. for the benefit new beer release party “Nutty Nutcracker”. This a family friendly event and all proceeds go to benefit the future La Veta Dance Studio. Ugly Christmas sweater contest 4 – 5:30 p.m. Kid and Adult Winners announced at 5:30 p.m. At 6 p.m. they will have holiday music bingo at 6 p.m. Hot chocolate and cider will be served as well as the Nutty Nutcracker. Come support the future La Veta Dance Studio!
First Friday at Honeypot
WALSENBURG— Every first Friday of the month Honeypot Warehouse, 111 W 10th st, Walsenburg will be hosting a free pilates and yoga combo class. Stay after for snacks, refreshments and a pop-up athletic wear shop. Check out this month’s free class on Friday, Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m.
Third Annual Season of Giving Food Packing
HUERFANO— On Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Spark the Change Colorado’s Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is hosting our third annual Season of Giving Food Packing event. We will pack 15,000 meals that will then be distributed by Huerfano County food banks. We still need volunteers! Volunteer sign-ups are required. Anyone interested in volunteering should call or email Josie Boynton at (303) 623-1536 or jboynton@sparkthechangecolorado.org.
Traditions Arts and Crafts Fair
WALSENBURG— The Traditions Arts and Crafts Fair will be held again this year at the Walsenburg Mercantile, 408 Russell Avenue on Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. We’ll have a variety of arts and crafts, great holiday music, Santa, the “Little People’s Store” and a secret workshop space for kids to make gift surprises. Booths only $10 (limited number of spaces available). Contact Sandy for vendor application. sdolak@hhfoundation.org or call or text 719-251-1271.
Small Business Saturday at MoF
WALSENBURG— Visit the Museum of Friends, 600 Main Street, Walsenburg on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. for the annual Marketplace of Ideas featuring local artists and vendors! Ring in the holiday cheer with hot apple cider, hot chocolate, cookies and other homemade goodies!
Annual Holiday Art Walk
LA VETA— Check out the Annual Holiday Art Walk Fundraiser in Downtown La Veta on Saturday, Dec. 2, 5 – 7 p.m. Gallery-hop, visit with artists, enjoy international eats and drinks, listen to live music by the Francisco Center for the Performing Arts (FCPA) Show Choir, and win unique prizes, all while supporting La Veta creatives and small shop owners. Your $25 donations will support several arts programs in La Veta: The SPACe Gallery and the La Veta School of the Arts, arts programming through the La Veta Public Library, La Veta Public School arts program, The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts, and the La Veta Creative District! Tickets are available via cash or check at H’s Place, Artisans on Main, and at SPACe. They can also be reserved by credit card online on the La Veta Creative District at www.lavetacreativedistrict.org/events. Contact info@lavetacreativedistrict.org for more info!
Bake sale for RE-1 students, staff
WALSENBURG — A bake sale fundraiser to benefit Walsenburg students and staff is being held Sunday Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Safeway. All proceeds will go to student activities and staff recognition.
An Afternoon of Poetry
LA VETA— An “Afternoon of Poetry,” in honor of Peace, will be held Sunday, Dec. 3, 3 – 5 p.m. at Tom Doerk’s home, 120 W. Grand, La Veta. Bring poems to read, your own or other favorites! For more information: Tom(719 742-3776) or Robin (719 742-3398).
Janice Walters poetry reading
LA VETA— Walsenburg resident, Janice Walters, will join us at the La Veta Public Library on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2 p.m. as she explores the history, legends and geological significance of our special little piece of paradise through her wonderful original poetry. She will have her beautiful book “The Twin Peaks Speak-Poetry of Southern Colorado” with amazing photographs to accompany each poem with her and extra copies available for signing and purchase and for each copy sold she will make a generous donation to LVPL. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet Janice and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
LV Elementary Christmas program
LA VETA— The La Veta Elementary music students, under the direction of Cheryl Shults, will be presenting a program entitled “Ode to Beethoven” on Thursday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. in the Redhawks gymnasium. Students, ages preschool through fifth grade, will be singing, playing bucket drums and xylophones, and honoring one of the world’s greatest composers, Ludwig van Beethoven. There are rumors that Mr. Beethoven may attend the program and that another great musician, Elvis Presley, may show up, too.
Santa plans an appearance after the program. Refreshments will be provided by the culinary arts classes. Junior high singers plan to carol and elementary artists to sell student-created gift-wrapping paper and holiday cards. The public is invited to this free, all-school event.
Wrap your gifts at LVPL
LA VETA— Wrapping paper and materials will be available for you to wrap your holiday gifts at La
Veta Public Library Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. There will also be materials to make a mini gift to keep or give away. There will be hot cider and cookies.
Holiday Bazaar
WALSENBURG— The Honeypot Warehouse, 111 W 10th st, Walsenburg is having a for women by women Holiday Bazaar on Sunday, Dec. 10, 12 – 4 p.m. We have 15 women owned vendors and we are so excited for this micro event as we celebrate locally owned women businesses. This is a great time to come in for last minute shopping for your special someone before Christmas and is open for everybody to attend.
The Muppet Christmas Carol – screenplay reading & sing along
LA VETA— Join us at the Francisco Center for the Performing Arts, 127 West Francisco St, La Veta for a potluck and screenplay reading and sing along of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” on Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. Bring a dish to share. No admission fee. For more info email theater@fcpalaveta.org.
La Veta Library Board
LA VETA— The La Veta Library Board is looking for two new members to help shape the future of award-winning library services in southern Huerfano County. Meetings are once per month and usually last between one and two hours. Terms are for a three year period, beginning January 1, 2024, and Board members must reside in the Library District. Send letters of interest to Library Board Chair, Brad Atchison at Trustee_Brad@lvpl.org or drop off a letter at the library at 310 S Main in La Veta by Tuesday, Dec. 12.
Abuelos painting class
WALSENBURG— The monthly Abuelos painting class will be happening on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 1 – 3 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg. Jenn Dunn will be instructing the subject of a deer in a winter forest, with snow coming down, a beautiful scene. Free to all, all ages, refreshments and materials provided. RSVP to Sandy by phone or text 719-989-8438.
Friends of the Library book sale
WALSENBURG— The Friends support ongoing efforts by the Spanish Peaks Library District to serve Walsenburg, Gardner, and surrounding communities in Huerfano County. Assistance is fostered and developed through fundraising, volunteer contributions, program sponsorship and infrastructure improvements. The Friends advocate for all constituents, inclusive of all demographics. Check our their book and bake sale on Thursday, Dec. 14 and Friday, Dec. 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg.
Christmas Cantata
HUERFANO— You are invited to experience the joyful sounds of Christmas with the Sangre de Cristo Vocal Arts Ensemble as they present their 2023 Christmas Cantata, “Joyful Noel”, at 3 of their favorite venues in Huerfano County: Friday, Dec. 15, 6 p.m. at the La Veta United Methodist Church, 416 S. Main Street, La Veta; Saturday, Dec. 16, 6 p.m. at Villa Jubilee (please call for directions – 719-742-5333); and, Sunday, Dec. 17, 2 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 121, E. 7th Street, Walsenburg. Please join us to celebrate the joy of Christmas in scripture and song. As always, admission is free. Be sure to join us after each concert for a festive spread of cookies and cider. We’re happy to be making a joyful noise for you! Merry Christmas.
LAS ANIMAS
Senior Days at Books and More Bookstore
TRINIDAD— Senior Days at Books & More Bookstore in Trinidad will be Friday, Dec. 1, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Most items will be 50% off. For more info, call 719-846-8522.
Local Landscapes in Miniature
TRINIDAD— The Corazon Gallery is delighted to announce an upcoming art exhibit, “Local Landscapes in Miniature”, which will celebrate the natural beauty of our local environment in a small but impactful format. The theme, local landscapes, hopes to encourage artists to explore the diverse surroundings of our local region.
There will be an opening reception on Friday, Dec. 1, 5 – 8 p.m. at the Corazon Gallery. The public is welcome and light refreshments will be served. Artwork will be on display from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31.
For more information, contact the Corazon Gallery at 719-846-0207.
The Solano’s Stories
TRINIDAD— On Friday, Dec. 1, 5 – 8 p.m. check out the Solano’s Stories at A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art in Trinidad. This exhibition draws from the Solano’s collection of over 300 hats collected over 68 years that tell the life stories of the ranchers and farmers from Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. This is a Smithsonian Companion event.
Cookie Exchange
TRINIDAD— Join the Trinidad History Museum for their free cookie exchange on Saturday, Dec. 2, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Bring 2-3 dozen cookies from your chosen recipe, and go home with a variety of new cookies and the recipes! Prizes will be awarded for “Most Creative Cookie,” “Best Tasting,” and more!
The event is completely free to participate in, but to ensure space is available, please sign up by contacting Millie at emily.duren@state.co.us or 719-846-7217.
A Light in Winter
TRINIDAD— The Trinidad Community Chorale invites you to an evening / afternoon of joyful and hearty song to kick off the Christmas season. We have selected a combination of secular and sacred songs to get you in the spirit of Christmas. These events are free to the public but donations are appreciated and located at Trinidad Community Church, 216 Broom St. There are two opportunities to enjoy this concert, Saturday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m. For more information contact Trinidad.music.association#gmail.com or call (719) 846-3062.
Children’s Services at SCDDS Open House
TRINIDAD— Children’s Services at SCDDS, 415 S. Indiana Ave, Trinidad, invites you to our Open House on Sunday, Dec. 3rd, 1 – 3 p.m. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive services to children with disabilities in our community. Join us as we showcase our Children’s Services Department, specializing in early intervention, and family support services. For more information please contact Bry Aiken at 719-680-3153 or bryaiken@scdds.com for more information.
Destination Blueprint Trinidad
TRINIDAD— Join the City of Trinidad Tuesday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at The Commons at Space to Create for an engaging discussion about the future of tourism in Trinidad and Las Animas County. This community visioning and action planning workshop, supported by the Colorado Tourism Office Destination Blueprint Program is open to individuals who want to help shape the direction of tourism for our community. For questions and to RSVP contact Marty Hackett at marty.hackett@trinidad.co.gov.
The Christmas Express
TRINIDAD— Main Street Live, 131 W. Main Street in Trinidad presents The Christmas Express. Directed by Nancy Mitchell this comedic play will sure to get you in the Holiday Spirit. Appropriate for all ages. Sponsored by First National Bank in Trinidad. The Christmas Express will be showing Friday and Saturday, Dec 8, 9, 15, 16 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 10 and 17 at 2 p.m.
Cut your own Christmas Tree
TRINIDAD— You’re invited to cut your own Christmas tree at Trinidad Lake State Park as part of our fuel reduction effort around the Piedmont Group Camping Area (on the east side of the dam road – watch for signs). First-come, first-served and only 25 trees available Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. They will be marked, $35 cash or check. Free holiday refreshments and proceeds go to the Friends of Fishers Peak and Trinidad Lake State Parks.
Furry Paws and Santa Claus
TRINIDAD— Join PALS for a yappy holiday celebration on Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. at The Well Hotel and Taproom in Trinidad. This event will feature photos with Santa Claus for you and your pets, plus low cost vaccinations with local veterinarian Dr. Laura Blanton and nail trims by groomer Dana Rawlings from The Tail’s End Grooming Salon.
Tractor Trek
TRINIDAD— Join us on Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. as we recognize and pay tribute to the generations of farmers and ranchers who have worked tirelessly to help make our communities strong and vital throughout history.
For the first time in recent memory, a parade of agricultural power equipment will pass through downtown Trinidad, showcasing the machinery that has helped shape the region’s development. It’s an opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and even smells of agricultural history!
Following the parade, stay for the Grand Opening of the Smithsonian Exhibition, Crossroads: Change in Rural America at Trinidad Space to Create.
Movie Madness at MSL
TRINIDAD— Check out the FREE Movie Madness at Main Street Live, 131 W. Main, Trinidad on Monday, Dec. 11 , 6:30 p.m. “Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas” and “Christmas with the Kranks” Doors open at 6, show starts at 6:30 p.m. Bar and concessions will be open For more info, call 719-846-4765.
Christmas Choreo and Caroling
TRINIDAD— Come bring the kids to Main St. Live at 131 W. Main St on Friday, Dec. 15, 1 – 3 p.m. Dance and sing to your favorite Christmas songs. There may even be a visit from Santa himself or possibly the Grinch. This family friendly event is free for everyone to attend.
Las Posadas
TRINIDAD— Las Animas County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Presents Las Posadas, Friday, Dec. 15, 5 p.m. Immediately following the procession there will be a Pot Luck meal for anyone that participated in the procession. Please call Yolanda or Desiree if you have any questions @ 7198468234 or 7198457839.
Shop with a Cop
TRINIDAD— Help spread holiday Cheer to Las Animas County Kids!
The Trinidad Police Department Shop with a Cop event is fast approaching. We will be holding our annual Shop with a Cop event on Saturday, Dec. 16. If you see a line of police cars escorting the Trinidad Trolley in the morning, please wave at the kiddos inside! Each child is paired with an officer, treated to breakfast, and given a 100-dollar Wal-Mart gift card to spend as they wish. During this event Wal-Mart employees and volunteers help wrap the presents for the children and they also help serve breakfast.
If you would like to donate to the program, please drop by the police department, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or drop donations in the utility’s payment drop box at City Hall.
Holiday craft fair
TRINIDAD— On Saturday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m. the Old School House, 221 CR 71.4, Trinidad will be hosting a holiday craft fair. There will be food, crafts and pictures with Santa. Vendor space is limited for this show, if you haven’t already messaged us for a space please contact Amanda at 719-493-3953.
Favorite book or book character ornament contest
TRINIDAD— Get ready to spread some literary holiday cheer with our “Favorite Book or Book Character Ornament Contest” hosted by the Trinidad Carnegie Public Library. Show off your creativity, celebrate the joy of reading, and decorate your own unique holiday ornament based on your favorite book or book character. This fun and festive contest is for ages 5-17 and you have the chance to win amazing prizes, thanks to the generous support of the Trinidad Community Foundation. Participants are encouraged to create a holiday ornament inspired by their favorite book or book character. Visit Trinidad Carnegie Public Library during our regular business hours to submit your ornament.
If you have any questions or need further information, please contact Jessica Huffman or Phyllis Kilgroe at 719-846-6841. All submissions must be turned in to the library by Monday, Dec. 18th.
COLFAX
Road closure- Eagle Tail Road
COLFAX— Road A-10, Eagle Tail Road is closed indefinitely at this time due to the bridge being shut down. The alternative route is to drive to Tenaja and drive around. Please use caution and drive safe.
Sunrise on Capulin
CAPULIN—Take a hike with a Ranger on the rim trail to view the sunrise Saturday, Dec. 2, at 5:30 a.m. at Capulin Volcano National Monument.
Little Critter Christmas Bazaar
RATON— Check out the Little Critter and United Women in Faith annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 1501 S. 4th Street. There will be baked goods, plants and craft items as well as a baked potato bar.
Springer’s Christmas
bazaar at St. Joe’s
SPRINGER— Check out the Springer Christmas Bazaar at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall on Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Please contact Judy at 575-447-3967 if you are interested in a booth.
Young adults peer
support group
RATON— Would you like to learn and share strategies for coping with life’s struggles? Young Adults, ages 18-30 join ZIA’ Youth, 207 Park Ave every Saturday, from 9 – 10 a.m. Join the community of encouragement and Empowerment and begin you weekend on a positive note. There will be free coffee and snacks.
Christmas bazaar
RATON— This years Christmas Bazaar at Phil Long Ford of Raton in the showroom will be on Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Registration fee is $10.00 and all fees will go toward Toys for Tots. To register call Shannon Portillos at 575-303-3585. Phil Long Ford of Raton is located at 223 S Second St. Raton.
The Grinch movie and photo op
RATON— On Saturday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m. head to Raton High School for pictures with the Grinch and then stay for the movie at 3:30 p.m. Pictures are two for $10 and the movie includes hot chocolate and popcorn.
Christmas Tree Lighting
SPRINGER— Check out the Christmas Tree Lighting at Museum Park on Sunday, Dec. 3, 6 p.m. There will be hot chocolate and cookies served.
Elks Hoop Shoot
RATON— Check out the Elks Hoop Shoot free throw contest on Saturday, Dec. 9, 9:30 a.m. at Raton Intermediate School. The free throw contest is for children ages 8 – 13 and gives them the opportunity to put their name in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. For more information please call Joana Apodaca at 575-707-8618.
