Discover Douglas County’s History Through These Upcoming Events
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary and Colorado marks 150 years of statehood — known as America 250 – Colorado 150 — communities across the state are coming together to honor the people, places, and stories that shaped our history.
Throughout Douglas County, including Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Parker, you’ll find special events, exhibits, and programs highlighting our rich local heritage. From historical tours to family-friendly celebrations, there are countless opportunities to learn more about our past.
Know of an event that should be included? Submit it here.
Curious how America 250 – Colorado 150 is being celebrated in Douglas County? Explore the full list of local events.
Stories of Colorado People After 1870
March 12; 7 – 8 p.m.
Philip & Jerry Miller Library
Retired local history teacher John Berry will continue his series on the history of Colorado after its statehood in 1876. Come hear stories about the important people in Colorado’s history.
The Colorful History of the Fly’n B
March 16; 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Southridge Recreation Center
The Fly’ n B house and Park has a long and colorful history, including greenhouses, gangsters and planes! On the surface it is a plain Jane, but so much more lies beneath its quiet facade.
History of Colorado Cattle Ranching Lecture
March 26; 5 – 7:30 p.m.
Philip & Jerry Miller Library
Long-time resident Sharon Sjostrom will share stories of cattle drives from Texas and the transition from open range to fenced ranches. A reception will be held upstairs in the local history lounge beginning at 5 p.m. This is a great chance to view the display of Ranch history that the Library has put together and share stories. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m.
Mountain Man Joe Meek: A Living History Presentation
April 18; 1 p.m.
Parker Library
Meet the man who went from a Rocky Mountain fur trapper to a pivotal figure in the settlement of the American West, as portrayed by his descendant, and his wife, Nez Perce wife, Virginia.
A Channel Through Time: The History and Legacy of the High Line Canal
May 4; 5:30 – 8 p.m.
Highlands Ranch Mansion
Through historic photos, community stories, and existing historic sites along the canal, this evening will trace how the High Line Canal shaped local communities and continues to connect people across generations.
Hike ~ Walk Through Time
June 6; 8 a.m.
Cherokee Ranch and Castle
Enjoy the incredible views from the top of Cherokee Mountain as we explore the basic geology, local weather, and visit one of our archaeological sites. Participants will learn about the archaeological history as well as the early settlers who came to Douglas County in the 1800’s.
Castlewood Dam Personalities
June 20; 1 p.m.
Parker Library
Ron Claussen returns to tell us about the people behind the development scheme of the Castlewood Dam—which was famously doomed to fail.
Highlands Ranch 45th Anniversary Celebration
July 17; 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Max Taps
Join the Highlands Ranch Metro District and Highlands Ranch Water to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Highlands Ranch. Enjoy fun facts and trivia about Highlands Ranch trivia and light refreshments.
The 1967 Snippy Story, UFOs, Paranormal & Cryptids
July 20; 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Southridge Recreation Center
This presentation reintroduces the well-known 1967 mystery of Snippy, which made front-page news worldwide, about an Appaloosa horse from the San Luis Valley, whose strange death sparked one of Colorado’s most enduring enigmas, alongside the state’s rich history of UFOs, paranormal activity, and cryptid encounters.
Hike ~ Walk Through Time
Aug. 8; 8 a.m.
Cherokee Ranch and Castle
Enjoy the incredible views from the top of Cherokee Mountain as we explore the basic geology, local weather, and visit one of our archaeological sites. Participants will learn about the archaeological history as well as the early settlers who came to Douglas County in the 1800’s.
Catching It Lovely: A Douglas County Pioneer Story
Aug. 22; 1 p.m.
Parker Library
Hear the true story of a young woman’s journey from the green fields of Scotland, through fire-ravaged Chicago, to the untamed prairies of Colorado. Local author Laurie Marr Wasmund recounts the life of her own great-great-grandmother, Jane Morton Scott, as she homesteaded in 1870s Castle Rock.
Western Fest
Sept. 12; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Highlands Ranch Mansion
Western Fest features live entertainment, hayrides, hands-on historical activities with educational vendors and self-guided tours of the Mansion. Food trucks will be on site with food and drinks for purchase.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, but be sure to check the event’s website for changes or cancellations.
View the complete calendar of events happening throughout Douglas County.
