Drive west on Colorado Avenue through the historic Westside, and you’ll come to Old Colorado City (OCC for short), a miraculously intact 19th-century commercial district that evaded the wrecker’s ball a few years after the destruction of downtown. Thanks to visionary preservationists led by retired Col. Dave Hughes, the beautiful old buildings were renovated and dozens of new businesses filled the storefronts.
For OCC, ten years is just a quick blink in the eye for a historic district whose buildings were erected in the 1890s and is surrounded by more than a thousand homes of the same era. Want to shop, get a drink, a bite to eat or attend an event? We’ve got you covered!
Spring events begin with Mad Hatter Saturday at the end of March, and continue with First Friday Artwalk in April. And less than two months later, the region-wide megafestival Territory Days will celebrate its 50th anniversary May 26-28. It’s fun, convivial and always unique. Every year outshines its predecessor, so you can count on continuing excellence. And if you haven’t seen it since 2016, come check it out – you ain’t seen nothin’ yet!
Free summer concerts in Bancroft Park are offered by various bands and artists every Tuesday evening beginning in June through October from 6-8 p.m.. First up: Rafiel and the Roomshakers on June 12. Bring a folding chair unless you don’t mind standing up.
The fall season officially begins with Scarecrow Days from October 1st-31st, Pumpkins in the Park on October 18th, and Safe Treats in Old Colorado City on October 31st. Winter events include the Christmas Stroll and Photos with Santa (weekends through Christmas). In December, the annual Christmas tree lighting is on the 14th, and New Year’s Eve Under the Lights on the 31st. Compared to ten years ago, the calendar is jammed, but there’s still room to expand during the next ten years.
So what about 2026? As Doris Day once sang, Que Sera, Sera. What will be, will be. We’ll let you know in 2026!
