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Mardi Gras Celebration coming to Parker in 2023

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Mardi Gras also called Shrove Tuesday, or Fat Tuesday refers to events of the Carnival celebrations, beginning on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday”, reflecting the practice of the last night of eating richer, fatty foods before the ritual fasting of the Lenten season.

February marks the start of Mardi Gras celebrations nationwide and the Infamous “Fat Tuesday” falls early this month.

Support arts, science, and culture while experiencing the excitement of Bourbon Street!

Laissez les bons temps rouler! The Council of Arts, Science & Culture (CASC), a 501c3 nonprofit organization, throws the greatest Mardi Gras celebration south of Denver! Trade in your business suit for your best Mardi Gras costume, or your favorite attire, as we bring on the New Orleans magic!

Your ticket includes Cajun-style delectables, live music, and dancing. Cocktails and other beverages are available for purchase. In addition to this fun cultural event, your support enables us to put on events for all ages including Science Day, Science Night, the July 4th 5k, and many other events that enrich our local culture. 

Register Now

bethany mardi gras parker colorado

Parker Mardi Gras
Coming 2023

Why is Mardi Gras Celebrated?

Why do they Throw Beads?

Mardi Gras parades began in New Orleans in the 1830s and during that time, inexpensive necklaces made of glass beads were popular and parade krewes began to be tossing them into the crowds. The beads were an instant hit among the crowds of New Orleans residents and visiting Mardi Gras tourists and that tradition continues today.

Visit the website for more information

Learn more about CASC Here

mardi gras in parker colorado 2023

Love em or Leave em Valentines Day 5K or 10K Run/Walk

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valentines day 5 k Love em or leave um Parker Colorado

Parker Parks and Recreation will help you embrace the holiday or run from Cupid, either way, Valentine’s Day 5K is a great community event.

Will you embrace the holiday full of heart or run from Cupid? Either way, the Love ’em or Leave ’em Valentine’s Day 5K/10K is the signature run/walk of the Parker Parks and Recreation Run Series and is a fun and festive workout!

Valentine’s Day 5K 2023

Date: Feb. 11, 2023
Time:  10K: 10 a.m.   5K: 10:05 a.m.
Location: Salisbury Park, 11920 Motsenbocker
Standard 10K Cost: $50
Standard 5K Cost: $40

Registration costs increase on Jan. 28 and Feb. 11. Register by Jan. 21 to guarantee your event shirt and size; if extra shirts remain, sizes will be available by registration.

Part of the Parker Parks and Recreation Run Series, this event is professionally timed. Registered participants will receive a race shirt, custom bib and a delicious post-race pancake breakfast. The overall male/female finishers, as well as the top two male/female finishers in each of the following divisions of the 10K and 5K will be awarded: 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60+. The FREE Kids’ Dash follows the race for children 8 and under; no registration is necessary  

5K Course Map  |  10K Course Map (MapMyRun.com)

Race Packet Pickup

TBA

Volunteer Opportunities

Click here Volunteer OpportunitiesVolunteer Opportunities (www.VolunteerParker.org) for this event volunteer opportunity. Email recevents@parkeronline.org with questions about volunteering.  

Additional Information

Register for the event here (RunningGuru.com). This event is held rain, snow or shine. Refunds will not be issued. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome but must remain on the right side of the trail at all times. Parking is limited, please carpool. For registration questions, please email Sarah Armsbury at sarmsbury@parkeronline.org or call 303.805.3273. For sponsorship information, please email Jaime Vollertsen at jvollertsen@parkeronline.org or call 303.805.3267.

Enjoy photos from events on the Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

The 2023 Parker Parks and Recreation Run Series includes the Love ‘em or Leave ‘em Valentine’s Day 5K/10K, the Cattle Crossing 5K & Family Fun Trek, the So Long to Summer 5K/10K, the Family Fun Trek, and the Turkey Day 5K Fun Run/Walk on Thanksgiving Day 2023

Douglas County Household Chemical Roundup

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Household Pickup for Hazardous Waste

In place of a one-time annual event, the Douglas County Health Department is partnering with Waste Management to provide Douglas County residents with a low-cost household service for hazardous waste removal year-round. Get details and sign up for your household pick-up at Waste Management’s website. The cost is $30 for Douglas County residents.

Safe Storage
It is important to read the product labels to safely store, use, and dispose of chemicals. When these chemicals are not used up entirely, they become household chemical waste. Find safe handling tips by visiting the EPA’s Household Hazardous Waste webpage.

Toxic household products can be harmful to pets, wildlife, sanitation workers, our health and the environment if poured down the drain, toilet or storm sewer, or placed in the trash. If you’ve recently painted your house, changing your car’s oil or spruced up your lawn, proper disposal of the related hazardous materials will keep your family and our community safe.

Dispose of and recycle toxic household products from your home year-round with the Douglas County Health Department’s new Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program! This low-cost service for hazardous waste removal is a partnership with Waste Management and replaces the former Household Chemical Roundup events previously offered through the Tri-County Health Department.

Douglas County residents are eligible for one household pick-up appointment per calendar year. Please note, a $30 co-payment is a requirement from residents for each appointment.

Schedule a Collection

Call 1-800-449-7587 or click here.

Accepted Items for Hazardous Waste Disposal

  • Automotive fluids
  • Auto batteries
  • Chlorine bleach
  • Cleaners
  • Corrosive chemicals
  • Drain openers
  • Fluorescent bulbs
  • Fluorescent tubes
  • Fertilizers
  • Gasoline
  • Glue adhesives
  • Herbicides
  • Hobby chemicals
  • Household batteries
  • Insecticides
  • Latex paint
  • Mercury and Lead
  • Mercury thermometers
  • Mercury thermostats
  • Motor oils and used filters
  • Murlactic acid
  • Oil-based paints
  • Paint thinner
  • Pesticides
  • Polishes
  • Pool chemicals
  • Rust remover
  • Stains
  • Spray paint
  • Stripper
  • Varnishes
  • Waxes
  • Weed killer
  • Wood preservatives

Numerous materials are not eligible for this service, including ammunition, appliances, bio-waste, commercial chemicals, explosives, medicine, tires and more.

For more information about items that are eligible for collection and how to schedule and prepare for an appointment, visit https://www.douglas.co.us/health-department/household-waste-management/.

Recycling Parker Colorado 2011-2012

Many common products found in the home may be hazardous and should be used and disposed of carefully. These include motor oil, antifreeze, vehicle batteries, solvents, house and garden chemicals, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), fire extinguishers, items containing mercury, propane tanks, paint, and passenger vehicle and pickup truck tires (off the rim). Proper disposal at the Roundup helps prevent the potential of accidental poisonings and fire hazards in the home.

Residents just drive up and volunteers will unload the materials. Douglas County participants should bring proof of residency such as a driver’s license or utility bill and $25 per vehicle to offset the high cost of hazardous waste disposal. Residents are encouraged to register in advance online at www.tchd.org/hcroundup.

Free Electronic Waste for Douglas County Residents

Douglas County residents may recycle their electronics for free and year-round through Dec. 30 at Techno Rescue, 3251 Lewiston Street, Suite 10 in Aurora, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on occasional Saturdays from 10 am. to 2 p.m.

  • Check-in at the Front Office and state the drop-off is for the Douglas County event
  • Proof of Residency will be required (photo id and verification of address such as driver’s license or state id)

For questions or additional information please call Techno Rescue at 303-482-2207.

Christmas Tree Recycling in Parker Colorado & Douglas County

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Parker & Douglas County Christmas Tree Recycling Info

The Town will host its annual Christmas Tree recycling program from Dec. 25 through Jan. 29  2021 for Parker residents.

Parker Christmas Tree Recycling

Drop-off dates: Dec. 25 through Jan. 29
Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Contact Information: Town of Parker at 303-840-9546
Mulch: Available on a self-serve basis on-site while supplies last for the first week in January

Salisbury Park (East paved parking lot), 12010 S. Motsenbocker Rd.

The drop-off is available solely for Parker residents to recycle their Christmas trees. Additional yard waste and tree branches are not permitted. No commercial tree lot disposal is allowed as our elves have a hard time removing all of the tags.

Both green and flocked real trees are accepted. Before dropping off any Christmas trees, please remove all plastic tarps, tree stands and nails, ornaments, lights, garlands, and tinsel. No artificial trees, garlands or wreathes with wire backing will be accepted.

Please drop off during park hours only, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and do not illegally dump any other items at the drop-off location.

Tree Recycling Information

The trees collected by the program will be chipped into mulch, which is available at the same site at no charge to residents. The remaining mulch will be utilized throughout the Town and not discarded in a landfill.

Residents should not place Christmas trees in garbage containers. Keeping trees out of landfills helps extend the life of landfills and produces a useful resource. The annual Christmas Tree Recycling Program is just one of many ways that Parker residents can reduce, reuse and recycle.

Please remove all ornaments, lights, tinsel, garland, plastic wrap, tree stands, wire, rope, nails, etc. before bringing trees to be recycled. Live trees with artificial snow sprayed on the branches cannot be mulched. Please check with your local jurisdiction or newspaper during the holiday season as Christmas trees are typically accepted at the following locations, but are subject to change.

Douglas County

Drop-off dates: Dec. 26 through Jan. 31
Hours: Anytime
Contact Information: Douglas County Parks at 720-733-6990
Mulch: Available on-site while supplies last

Bayou Gulch, 4815 Fox Sparrow Road, Parker
Challenger Regional Park, 17299 E. Lincoln Ave., Parker
Fairgrounds Regional Park, 500 Fairgrounds Drive, Castle Rock
Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 S. Quebec St.

Castle Rock Christmas Tree Recycling

Drop-off dates: Dec. 26 through Jan. 31
Hours: Anytime
Castle Rock locations:

  • Founders Park, 4671 Enderud Blvd.
  • Metzler Ranch Community Park, 4175 Trail Boss Drive
  • Paintbrush Park, 3492 Meadows Blvd.

Highlands Ranch

Drop-off dates: Dec. 25 through Jan. 17
Hours: Anytime
Highlands Ranch locations:

  • Dad Clark Park, 3385 Asterbrook Cir.
  • Redstone Park, 3280 Redstone Park Cir.
  • Toepfer Park, 9480 Venneford Ranch Rd.
  • Contact the Highlands Ranch Metro District at 303-791-0430 for information about any of the above locations.

Douglas County location in Highlands Ranch:

  • Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 S. Quebec St.
  • Contact Douglas County Parks for information regarding this site at 720-733-6990

Mulch is available on-site while supplies last on a self-serve basis.

Holiday Craft Boutiques in Douglas County / South Denver Colorado

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Holiday Craft Shows in Douglas County Colorado

Feel free to send me information about your show. Our community is blessed with many gifted artists, artisans, and crafters who come together to sell their creations during the holiday season.

holiday craft boutiques

Parker Holiday Shows

Legend High School Annual Craft Fair

Mountain Pine Yuletide Bazaar – Parker Fieldhouse

Mark your calendars!  The 15th annual Mountain Pine Woman’s Club Yuletide Bazaar will take place on Saturday, November 12, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm at the Parker Fieldhouse. 

As a past shopper or vendor, you know what a great event this is.  2022 promises to be even better.  In addition to many of your favorite vendors, we have many new artists, crafters, and food vendors joining us this year.  We know you’ll find something to love at this year’s Bazaar. Click here to become a vendor.

Remember, admission and parking are free!  We look forward to seeing you on November 12.

Yes, it’s the same day as the Legend High School sale so make a day of it!

The Mountain Pine Yuletide Bazaar is the annual fundraising event for the Mountain Pine Woman’s Club.  The funds raised at this one day event help provide the scholarships, contributions and support throughout our local community and extending to the Denver Metro area, National and  International programs.

Grandmother’s House Boutique Holiday Craft Show

Holiday Boutique 2022
Tagawa Gardens
7711 S Parker Road, Centennial, CO 80016
Admission $5.00
(Good for all 5 days – Children 12 and under are free)
Thursday-Saturday, November 3-5, 2022

Thursday & Friday:  10:00 am-4:00 pm
Saturday:  10:00-3:00 pm

Once Upon A December Holiday Boutique – Chaparral HS

Saturday, December 3rd, 2022
9 AM to 3:30 PM
Chaparral High School,
15665 Brookstone Dr.
Parker, CO 80134

The Once Upon A December Craft Fair is an annual community tradition and a FUNdraiser for CHS Bands. It is always on the first Saturday in December in the Chaparral High School commons and gym and includes a bake sale, concession stand, kids’ play area, photos with Santa, and vendors selling amazing hand-crafted items for your holiday shopping. 

Castle Rock Holiday Shows

holiday craft show holly jolly

30th Annual Castle Rock Craft Show Extravaganza

November 5, 2022, 9-3 at the Douglas County Fairgrounds
500 Fairgrounds Drive Castle Rock, CO 80104

Colorado Community Media Holiday Craft Show and Mini-Market

The annual craft show is back with a new, bigger location in Douglas County. The show will be held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. Come and find holiday decorations, gifts, and more.
Interested vendors can contact Event Producer Thelma Grimes at tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

Friends of the Littleton Library Craft Fair, Littleton. October 1, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 250+ booths selling handcrafted items. Held rain, snow or shine. Ketring Park, 6000 S. Gallup St., Littleton.

Centennial Outdoor Market. October 8. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 65 vendors, food trucks. 12835 E. Arapahoe Rd., Centennial.

Rocky Mountain Weavers Guild, Englewood. October 13-15, Thursday, 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hand-crafted wearables, hand-woven home decor, holiday ornaments and more. Live textile demonstrations. Malley Recreation Center, 3380 S. Lincoln St., Englewood.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market Fall Holiday Market, Denver. October 15, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features holiday food producers, artisan makers, home & garden creators and vintage collectors, plus food trucks, live music and more. Cherry Creek Shopping Center (west end surface parking lot), 3000 E. First Ave., Denver.

Dakota Ridge High School Craft Fair, Littleton. October 15. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 13399 W. Coal Mine Ave., Littleton.

Junior League Mile High Holiday Mart, Denver. November 4-6. Friday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 100+ merchants. Admission: $10. Kids under 12 are free. Parking — $7/day in lots or use street meters. RTD Light Rail is recommended. Gates Field House at the University of Denver, 2201 E. Asbury Ave., Denver.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market Fall Holiday Market, Denver. November 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features holiday food producers, artisan makers, home & garden creators, and vintage collectors, plus food trucks, live music, and more. Cherry Creek Shopping Center (west end surface parking lot), 3100 E. First Ave., Denver.

Englewood Holiday Bazaar, Englewood. November 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 100+ artisans with crafts and handmade gifts. Concessions are available for lunch or snacks. Easy parking. Malley Rec Center, 3380 S. Lincoln St., Englewood, 303-762-2660.

Smoky Hill High School Craft Fair, Aurora. November 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 210+ vendors in two gyms and three levels of the cafeteria. Food is available for purchase. 16100 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Aurora.

Friends of the Littleton Library Craft Fair, Littleton. October 1, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 250+ booths selling handcrafted items. Held rain, snow or shine. Ketring Park, 6000 S. Gallup St., Littleton.

Centennial Outdoor Market. October 8. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 65 vendors, food trucks. 12835 E. Arapahoe Rd., Centennial.

Rocky Mountain Weavers Guild, Englewood. October 13-15, Thursday, 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hand-crafted wearables, hand-woven home decor, holiday ornaments and more. Live textile demonstrations. Malley Recreation Center, 3380 S. Lincoln St., Englewood.

Mollie McGee’s Annual Fall Market, Longmont. October 15 & 16. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 160+ booths. Handcrafted gifts, home decor, dolls, jewelry, pottery, art & more. Admission: $5 (good for both days), children under 12/FREE. VIP Entry at 9 a.m.: $12. No strollers on Saturday until 1 p.m. Boulder County Fairgrounds Exhibit Bldg., Hover Rd. & Nelson Rd., Longmont.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market Fall Holiday Market, Denver. October 15, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features holiday food producers, artisan makers, home & garden creators and vintage collectors, plus food trucks, live music and more. Cherry Creek Shopping Center (west end surface parking lot), 3000 E. First Ave., Denver.

Dakota Ridge High School Craft Fair, Littleton. October 15. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 13399 W. Coal Mine Ave., Littleton.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market Fall Holiday Market, Denver. October 29, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features holiday food producers, artisan makers, home & garden creators and vintage collectors, plus food trucks, live music and more. Cherry Creek Shopping Center (west end surface parking lot), 3100 E. First Ave., Denver.

Lone Tree Fine Arts & Craft Show, Lone Tree. November 2-5. Wednesday & Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. No strollers. Admission: $3/adult. Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel, 9808 S. Sunningdale Blvd., 303-741-2085.

Grandmother’s House Boutique, Centennial. November 3-5. Thursday & Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission: $5 (good all 3 days). Children 12 and younger FREE. Tagawa Gardens, 7711 S. Parker Rd., Centennial, 303-693-5500.

Junior League Mile High Holiday Mart, Denver. November 4-6. Friday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 100+ merchants. Admission: $10. Kids under 12 are free. Parking — $7/day in lots or use street meters. RTD Light Rail recommended. Gates Field House at University of Denver, 2201 E. Asbury Ave., Denver.

Urban Holiday Market. November 4-6, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Outdoor festival offering one of-a-kind seasonal items, high-quality handcrafted goods, specialty foods, home décor, and unique holiday gifts. Skyline Park on the 16th Street Mall at Arapahoe, Denver.

Castle Rock Craft Show Extraordinaire. November 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 100+ vendors, bake sale, wreath auction. Douglas County Events Center, 500 Fairgrounds Rd., Castle Rock.

Centennial Outdoor Market. November 5. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 65 vendors, food trucks. 12835 E. Arapahoe Rd., Centennial.

Cherry Creek Fresh Market Fall Holiday Market, Denver. November 5, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Features holiday food producers, artisan makers, home & garden creators and vintage collectors, plus food trucks, live music and more. Cherry Creek Shopping Center (west end surface parking lot), 3100 E. First Ave., Denver.

Englewood Holiday Bazaar, Englewood. November 5, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 100+ artisans with crafts and handmade gifts. Concessions are available for lunch or snacks. Easy parking. Malley Rec Center, 3380 S. Lincoln St., Englewood, 303-762-2660.

Smoky Hill High School Craft Fair, Aurora. November 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 210+ vendors in two gyms and three levels of the cafeteria. Food is available for purchase. 16100 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Aurora.

16th Street Mall Holiday Festival, Denver. November 12 & 13, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Outdoor festival offering one-of-a-kind seasonal items, high-quality handcrafted goods, specialty foods, home décor, and unique holiday gifts. On the 16th Street Mall between Tremont & California St., Denver.

Columbine High School Holiday Craft Fair, Littleton. November 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 140 vendors. Admission: $1 (age 5 and under FREE). 6201 Pierce St., Littleton.

Cherokee Trail High School Holiday Fair, Aurora. November 12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Handcrafted gifts, holiday decor, treats. 25901 E. Arapahoe Pkwy. N., Aurora.

Highlands Ranch Hometown Holiday & Winter Market. December 2, 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Outdoor market with meats, pastries, bread, fudge, and crafts. Santa is on site. Town Center North, 1100 Sgt. Jon Stiles Dr., Highlands Ranch.

Grandview High School Holiday & Craft Fair, Aurora. December 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 200+ vendors. Lower Commons level. 20500 E. Arapahoe Rd, Aurora.

Centennial Holiday Artisan Market, Centennial. December 3, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Handmade gift items, live music from local school choirs, family activities, food trucks. Centennial Center Park, 13050 E. Peakview Ave., Centennial.

Georgetown Christmas Market. December 10 & 11, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Outdoor European-style market. Victorian ladies and gents stroll through the streets and shops. Stop in the Community Center for entertainment throughout the day. Historic 6th Street, Georgetown.

Applewood Arts Show 2022 Festival Dates

The Ranch Events Complex

October 8-9, 2022 

Saturday, 10am-5pm

Sunday, 10am-3pm

$7.00 admission, kids 12 and under free.

Applewood Arts Festival

Arapahoe County Fairgrounds

 November 12-13, 2022

Saturday, VIP Entry 9am-10am

Click Ticket Link Here

General Public, 10am-4pm

 Sunday, 10am-3pm

$6.00 Admission, kids 12 and under free.

Applewood Arts Festival

The Ranch Events Complex

November 18-20, 2022

Friday Evening VIP Entry, 5:30 pm-8 pm

Click Ticket Link Here

Saturday, 10am-5pm

Sunday, 10am-3pm

$7.00 Admission, kids 12 and under free.

Applewood Arts Festival – New!!!

The Arvada Center

November 25-26, 2022

Friday, 9 am-4 pm

 Saturday, 9 am-4 pm

$6.00 admission, kids and under free.

 

Turkey Day 5K Fun Run/Walk Parker CO 2022

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Get a healthy start to the holidays with Parker Recreation’s Turkey Day 5K and Kick off a happy Thanksgiving with friends, family, and a great workout!

Come and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday while getting a workout! The course for runners is a loop through the community, while the walkers’ course is an out-and-back on Cherry Creek Regional Trail.

turkey trot 5 k parker co Thanksgiving Day 5K family friendly race.
Date: Nov. 24, 2022
Start Time: 8-8:15 a.m.; based on mile time
Location: Parker Recreation Center, 17301 E. Lincoln Ave.
5K Cost: $30
Pre-registration closes Nov. 23 at 7 p.m.; walk-up registration is available at the event for an additional $10 per person. 

Part of the Parks and Recreation Run Series, this fun community event is not timed. Registered participants will receive commemorative race socks, a custom bib, hot cocoa, cider, or coffee. 

Race Course

The Turkey Day 5K course is being evaluated and will be posted soon.

Race Packet Pickup

Pick up race packets on Nov. 21 and 22 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. at the Parker Fieldhouse, Nov. 23 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Parker Recreation Center and on event day, beginning at 7 a.m.

Volunteer Opportunities

Click here (www.VolunteerParker.org) for this event volunteer opportunity. Email recevents@parkeronline.org with questions about volunteering.  

Additional Event and Sponsorship Information

Register here. This event is held rain, snow or shine. Refunds will not be issued. Strollers are welcome but because of the size of this event, for safety reasons, please leave dogs, bikes and scooters at home. Parking is limited, please carpool. Any proceeds from the event will benefit the Town of Parker Scholarship Program, which helps Parker families and/or individuals with limited financial resources participate in Town Recreation programs and facilities. For event questions, please email the Race Team at recevents@parkeronline.org or call 303.805.3278. For sponsorship information, please email Jaime Vollertsen at jvollertsen@parkeronline.org or call 303.805.3267.  

Turkey Trot November 24, 2022

View the video to see how much fun this event is.
17301 E. Lincoln Ave.
Parker, CO 80134
Ph: 303.841.4500

Don’t forget Thanksgiving weekend kicks off the holiday season in downtown Parker.

Parker Tree Lighting

Parker Holiday Events

Community Messiah

Trick or Treat on Mainstreet Now Trunk or Treat Off Mainstreet

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Trunk or Treat off Mainstreet is FREE of charge but you do need to register.

trunk or treat off mainstreet parker colorado

This Halloween tradition that has been run by the Cherry Creek Valley Rotary Club for years is now in all-new hands. The Downtown Business Alliance of Parker is bringing some new ideas to this event that the entire community looks forward to each year.

WHEN & WHERE

Saturday, October 29, 2022

Event time – 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Location – Parker Station Rear Parking Lot

Attendees will pre-register for the event with a timed entry. Timed entry is designed to allow a fun & enjoyable flow throughout the event. All families will receive a swag bag at check-in for the parents with all vendor swag. Kids will get to trick or treat at your trunks.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER If you have any questions please email admin@downtownparker.com

Kids of all ages are encouraged to dress up as their favorite characters whether it be astronauts and princesses,  pumpkins or football players all are welcome to join in the festive fun. Well-behaved dogs in costume are welcome.

truck or treat off mainstreet

Mainstreet is frightfully fun with ghouls and goblins throughout the land… so set off on your quest for sweets. 

The PACE Center has authorized its lot to be used which is located at 20000 Pikes Peak Ave, Parker, CO 80138, There is street parking around the PACE Center and down Pikes Peak Court and Pikes Peak Drive. 

H2O’Brien Parking Lot will be open for use. 

Be sure and bring your camera to snap keepsake fall shots of all the fun your family is having and a Trick or Treat bag to hold all your tasty treasures.

Our favorite moment from past Trick or Treat off Mainstreet: Thriller Flash Mob, watch for rumors of the time to be revealed on social media.

The decades-old Trick or Treat on Mainstreet event has been a tradition for lots of families in Parker but with the growth and traffic concerns changes are being made. Not only will the event be OFF Mainstreet this year, but it’s also happening the Saturday before Halloween instead of on the date. I think that’s a great change. This part of the Halloween celebration will be in the Parker Station parking lot.

2022 Pub Crawl

  • Date: October 29, 2022
  • Time: 2p – 8p
  • Location: Downtown Parker (West-End and East-End)
  • Trunk or Treat off Mainstreet Street 2p-6p
  • Pub Crawl 6p-8p
  • Beer Gardens
  • Live Music
  • Scavenger Hunts
  • Costume Contest
  • All Day Family-Friendly, Fun
  • After Parties at Local Businesses

This event is organized by the Downtown Business Alliance of Parker

They are now registering vendors for the event. Please email admin@DowntownParker.com for more information.

Adults are encouraged to dress up and walk up and down Mainstreet using the tunnel that goes underneath Parker Rd. There will be Music on Mainstreet and all the bars on the route will also have drink specials we encourage all Zombies & friends to stop in. The DBA is also having a scavenger hunt as part of the event during the evening. There will be missions to do along the way such as checking into businesses, taking selfies at certain spots, and answering trivia questions all pertained to Mainstreet from one end to the other.

Participants are encouraged to use the tunnel under Parker Road for the safety of Pedestrians and Vehicles.

COSTUME CONTEST
A costume contest for the best individually dressed person & also for the best-dressed group.

trick or treat on mainstreet parker co

TRUNK OR TREAT OFF MAINSTREET VENDOR INFO

1 – WHAT IS THE TRUNK OR TREAT EVENT?

Our Trunk or Treat off Mainstreet event is a Parker Tradition with a spin. We have the Rear Parking Lot off Parker Station as a secure safe location for children & families to come trick or treat, hear music, see entertainment and just have fun. 

Trunk or Treat is easier on our Vendors as you will be decorating your vehicle versus setting up a booth. Easier set up and take down plus fun for everyone. 

2- WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT AS A VENDOR?

  • Bring your Car/Truck/Van and decorate the trunk for Halloween
  • Bring enough goodies to hand out to 1,500 kids (we’re limiting entries to 1500 children per Parker Police request)
  • Some examples: Candy, Rub on Tattoos, Stickers, Bracelets, Glow sticks, bouncy balls, etc.  
  • As a Sponsor, we are giving you an opportunity to place your own items in the Parents Swag Bags that each family will receive at check-in.
  • Examples are business cards, literature, coupons, specials, swag etc.
  • Cost for a vendor spot is $25 for DBA Members or $40 for non-DBA members

Overall we priced out this event & it should cost a vendor total around $500. Obviously

3- DETAILS FOR THE EVENT:

Saturday, October 29, 2022

Event time – 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Location – Parker Station Rear Parking Lot

Attendees will pre-register for the event with a timed entry. Timed entry is designed to allow a fun & enjoyable flow throughout the event. All families will receive a swag bag at check in for the parents with all vendor swag. Kids will get to trick or treat at your trunks.

4- DECORATING CONTEST:

We will be taking pictures of each vendors decorated trunk and will be having a contest for the best decorated trunk. The winner will be selected by our committee and will receive a gift card to one of our local restaurants. SO bring your best!

The finalists and winners will be posted onto our social media accounts with the hashtag #TrunkOrTreatParker

5- VENDOR REGISTRATION & PAYMENT:

To register for this event please email: Admin@DowntownParker.com

We will then get you registered, send an invoice for payment and send you the welcome email with further details and information for vendors.

Resources, Services and Food Banks in Douglas County Colorado

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Whether you are struggling or might have a little bit of money or time you can spare, Douglas County CO has several options for you.

douglas county resources

Woman’s Crisis Center

Serves Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln Counties – services include:

  • 24-hour crisis line
  • Emergency shelter
  • Adult and child therapy
  • Legal Advocacy
  • School and community outreach programs

Crisis Line 303-688-8484   – Toll-Free:1-888-247-7

Douglas/Elbert Task Force – services include:

Douglas County Volunteer Coalition services include:

Eldercare

Castle Rock Victims Assistance Program
Contact: Carole Malezija    303-663-6100

Parker Task Force

– Services include Foodbank, emergency assistance, holiday programs and referrals to other agencies.

Holidays can be a cause of special stress for our client families. We coordinate with various organizations and individuals in the community to provide special meals and various additional items.

Thanksgiving Program
Meals are provided to client families to take home and prepare. More Information

Christmas Program
Adopt-A-Family (AAF) More information.

Easter Program
Easter Baskets for children.

Children’s Programs (Available all year)

School Supply Program
Volunteers put together backpacks full of school supplies for kids in our community. More Information

Backpack Food Program
The Backpack Program provides kids in need with food for the weekend. Each Friday, the qualifying child picks up a backpack with food items to provide them nourishment so that they are able to focus on their studies instead of their hunger.
More Information

College Scholarship Program
The Parker Task Force Board of Directors have authorized five $1,000 annual college / post-secondary scholarships for students of current client families residing in Parker, Franktown, and Elizabeth, Colorado.    More Information.

Food Bank

Food is provided through local food drives by churches, schools, businesses, social organizations, grocery stores, and by donations from individuals within the community. Other assistance may be provided depending upon need.

Scheduled Food Drives
The monthly food drive is conducted usually on the third Saturday of the month.  Other dates to be announced, please click on Calendar for more information.

9 Cares / Colorado Shares
Go to our 9 Cares / Colorado Shares page for more information on the food drives.  Individuals and groups are able to make donations at the Parker Task Force location  for this year’s food drives.

Senior Program
The senior program, in which qualified seniors 60 or older can visit the food bank a couple times a month for as long as they need.

Emergency Assistance

limited financial assistance will be considered for families in PTF’s service area with a rent eviction status and/or utility shut-off bills. Homeless clients can be assisted with services as appropriate for their circumstances. Homeless clients may need to visit the Parker Police Department in some situations.

More volunteer information here.

SECOR CARES

Mission: Loving kids, families, and those in need with food and financial assistance while restoring dignity and hope for a better future!

Vision: to build a team implementing our services to 5,000 of the more than 45,000 families in our 42 zip codes while collaborating with other like-minded organizations as well as planting the SECOR model in additional locations.

As a faith-based organization, we are about restoring justice to a fearful, hidden, hopeless, and significantly unreached group through redemptive love and grace in the face of suburban poverty’s devastation.

While facing brokenness, hurt, confusion, and shame, we see the faces of our guests as they seek help in the midst of job loss, underemployment, recent divorce, inadequate retirement for the elderly, outrageous medical bills, brutal rents, almost non-existent public transportation, broken down auto’s, and multiple other “LIFE HAPPENS” events that few are capable of planning for.

SECOR FOOD MARKET

The Market is a grocery store with no cash registers.  As you arrive, you will sign in.  Once you are checked in by a staff member (paperwork or interview may need to be completed) and it is your turn to shop, a volunteer accompanies you through the Market where you choose the food that will best meet your needs.

There is a produce section where you can choose fresh fruit and vegetables as well as a huge selection of meats, eggs, milk, and more.

Shop with choice and pay nothing.  Please give them a call or come by the office during market shopping hours to experience it for yourself.

Please call 720-842- 5621 before your first visit to check that your address is within our areas of service.

Suicide Prevention / Mental Health Resources

Taking charge of noxious weeds can help save your home from wildfires

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Did you know allowing noxious weeds to grow and spread on your property can be damaging to native flora and increase the risk of a wildfire spreading to your home? We saw in December just how quickly a wildfire can spread in a populated area. Do what you can to protect your property and family.

Join a free workshop April 16 to safeguard property and landscaping

Join land, vegetation, and wildfire experts to learn how to identify and eradicate these invasive plants during Douglas County’s Noxious Weed and Wildfire Prevention Workshop from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 16. The workshop is available online or in person.

At this free workshop, you’ll learn the role weeds play in the spread of wildfires in both suburban and rural areas, how to keep noxious weeds from taking over your landscape, and how to properly use herbicides and other techniques to control weeds on your property.

The workshop will be live-streamed — you may watch live on YouTube, or if you would like to ask questions during the event, participate remotely via WebEx. Attend in-person at the Philip S. Miller Building, 100 Third St. in Castle Rock. Registration is not required.

Douglas County has information for you about both noxious weeds and the vital role of wildfire mitigation online.

Christmas Eve Church Services in Parker Colorado 2021

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Ruth Chapel Parker CO Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Church Services

Parker Colorado Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Church Service Times 2022 TBA

Of course, this year will be different than any other so please click the link for full information. Masks indoors will be required at all in-person services. Many of the churches haven’t updated their websites to include their Christmas Eve services.

If you don’t have a regular church home, Christmas Eve services are a great time to visit and check it out. If you are looking for a smaller church check out the ones with only one or two service times.

  • Crossroads Community Church
    Christmas Eve December 24th, 1,3, & 5 pm – Seating will be available the Main Auditorium, the East Auditorium, Camp Faith, and the Multi-Purpose area. This will not be a candlelight service. They will have regular services on Sunday, December 26 at 9:00am and 11:00am. There will be no Children’s Ministry or Student Ministry programming on December 26.
  • Grace Lutheran Church
    Christmas Eve Service of Lesson and Carols – December 24, 4, 5:30, 7, 10:30,p.m. Communion Service 10:30 p.m.
  • Parker Evangelical Presbyterian Church PEPC
    Christmas Eve  – 3:00 outdoor hillside service, 5:00, 7:00 p.m. Indoor social distanced services.
  • Parker United Methodist Church PUMC 
    • Blue Christmas Service – Christmas isn’t a joyful time for everyone. Some folks have lost loved ones around the holidays, or have difficult experiences and memories surrounding this time of year. Honoring these feelings is very important so we’ll be sharing a Blue Christmas service on December 19th at 5:30 p.m.
    • Christmas Eve Services – Please join us for Christmas Eve worship at 2, 4, 6, and 8 p.m. Families with children will really enjoy the 2 p.m. service. The 4 and 6 p.m. services will have a traditional feeling and performances from our fine arts teams, and our 8 p.m. service will be held outside in our parking lot. All services will have candlelight! 
    • Kids Live Nativity – Hey kids, we need you to be part of the Christmas Eve service at 2pm! We need narrators, sheep, shepherds, angels, wise people and of course Mary and Joseph. All ages welcome! We will be singing “Go Tell It On The Mountain” please watch the YouTube video for words and hand motions. Please contact Noelle Allison if your kids are interested in participating, noelle@parkerumc.org
    • Christmas Eve Workshop
      Families, join us on Christmas Eve for worship! We are having a special family service at 2pm and family friendly services at 4 & 6pm plus a special condensed outdoor service at 8pm.  At 3pm check out the Christmas workshop in the Fellowship Hall. It’s full of crafts and is a place for kids to be kids. 

You can click on the links for each church for more information and map and directions.

If I have left any churches off the list or made an error, please post in the comments. Merry Christmas Everyone