Run for wildlife, look at the stars, pink out and much more all over the state
By the Thirst Team
On Saturday, the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg (30 miles northeast of Denver) hosts a festival and fundraiser that is tailor-made for this animal- and fitness-loving state.
The Into the Wild Running Festival includes a 5K family fun run or walk, and competitive 5K and 10K runs. It is a fundraiser for the sanctuary, a 33,000-acre refuge for rescued lions, tigers, bears and other large carnivores.
Carboy Winery in Denver hosts its annual pink party, the Rosé La La La, from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday. The event includes samples of rosé from 16 Colorado wineries. Food also will be available, and pink attire is encouraged.
Lake City is a small town south of Gunnison known for its dark and clear skies. It’s always a good spot for budding astronomers, especially during the Star Fest, running from Friday to Sunday.
In addition to stargazing, the event includes astrophotography lessons, a solar telescope, networking, kids activities, films, art and more. The events are free, but RSVPs are requested.
Grand Mesa Songwriter Festival
Cedaredge hosts seasoned and aspiring songwriters in five venues for a songwriter festival on Friday and Saturday. Rock Hall of Fame member John Oates will headline the festival, and other songwriters from around the world also will perform.
The event also includes workshops and “in the round” acoustic shows.
The feast of Saint Arnold may sound like a church banquet, but it is a Colorado Springs libations festival honoring the patron saint of beer.
According to legend, a monk named Arnold persuaded his townsfolk to drink beer in place of water, and successfully ended a local plague outbreak.
In his honor, Colorado breweries, wineries and distilleries will pour samples at the festival, hosted at the Chapel of our Savior Episcopal Church. The all-ages event also includes a family zone, live music and a VIP area with catered lunch.
Lander in central Wyoming hosts a beer festival on Friday and Saturday that is worth the drive. More than 80 beers, ciders and seltzers will be available to sample, representing more than 30 craft libations makers around the Rocky Mountain West.
The laid-back family-friendly event is at the Fremont County Pioneer Museum, and also includes music from The Two Tracks and John Roberts y Pan Blanco.
Save the date for Blues from the Top
Finally, book your rooms and get your tickets for the Blues from the Top Music Festival, coming to Winter Park Friday, June 28, through Sunday, June 30. The headliners are Big Head Todd & the Monsters and Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals. The lineup also includes Charlie Musselwhite, Canned Heat and more.
As always, please send us your events and announcements. We’re happy to share them. And enjoy your Colorado craft libations responsibly.