The City of Colorado Springs launched the 100-day countdown on Apr. 23 to mark both Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood on Aug. 1 and the United States’ 250th anniversary on July 4, announcing a range of events and programs across the Pikes Peak region this summer.
The initiative aims to bring together residents and visitors for cultural programming, community gatherings, and commemorative activities that honor local history. The announcement was made at North Catamount Reservoir overlooking Pikes Peak, where officials detailed plans for signature events throughout the next several months.
During the kickoff event, Phil Long Dealerships announced a $25,000 donation to support statewide America 250 – Colorado 150 programming efforts. Mayor Yemi Mobolade said, “Today, we begin the 100-day countdown to Colorado’s 150th birthday of statehood, while also looking ahead to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Over the next 100 days, our community will come together; on America’s Mountain, at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, and across our neighborhoods.” Mobolade added: “More importantly, we will reconnect with what has always made this country special: freedom, opportunity, and the belief that everyone has a place, that everyone belongs. This moment invites us to recommit to one another and remember that we are part of the same story — a complete story of red, white, and blue.”
Nathan Richie, co-chair of the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission said: “Colorado holds a unique place in this moment as we celebrate both our state’s 150th anniversary and our nation’s 250th. Through this effort, we are working to encourage communities across Colorado to engage with the commemoration in ways that are meaningful for them. Colorado Springs has been inspiring and thoughtful in their planning and efforts to bring these milestones to life in ways that reflect both its shared history and its future.”
Planned activities include day-long programming at Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain on July 4 and Aug.1 with first-ever sunset experiences from the summit as well as sunrise events requiring timed-entry tickets available through drivepikespeak.com. On Aug.1 (Colorado Day), there will be recognition programs for partners supporting mountain operations along with an attempt at setting a Guinness World Record from atop Pikes Peak.
Other highlights feature family-friendly celebrations at Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum on Aug.1 with live music and activities marking statehood’s sesquicentennial; new exhibits such as “Freedom to Thrive: The American Experiment in Colorado Springs” debuting later in year; educational lecture series; hands-on children’s programs; plus launch events like COS Culture Passport set for May 30.
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site will host “United We Rock” on Aug.1—an event featuring live music performances alongside interactive historical experiences plus beer/whiskey tastings—with tickets already available online.
Additional details about ongoing or statewide commemorations can be found by visiting curated calendars hosted by local organizations such as PeakRadar.com or through Am250CO150.org.
