February 19, 2026

Culture, History and the Garden & Home Show!

As February winds down and spring peeks around the corner, Parker and the surrounding communities come alive with vibrant cultural celebrations, inspiring performances, and outdoor adventures! From Lunar New Year festivities welcoming the Year of the Horse to world-class ballet, bestselling author meet-and-greets, and scenic runs through Cherry Creek State Park, late February offers the perfect blend of winter magic and springtime anticipation. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, date night inspiration, or ways to embrace the warmer days ahead, discover unforgettable experiences right in your backyard!

Thursday–Sunday, February 19–22

COLORADO GARDEN & HOME SHOW

Discover the Rocky Mountain region’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious garden and home show! This nine-day spectacular features 19,000 square feet of inspiring feature gardens, more than 500 booths with top gardening and home improvement experts, hands-on plant workshops, interactive exhibits, and exclusive show-only deals. Meet celebrity guest presenters, explore local garden centers, experience Backyard Buzz, and enjoy family-friendly fun in the Kids Zone—with ideas for every space and budget!

Friday, February 20

PARKER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: AWE-INSPIRING AMERICAN WOMEN

Celebrate the brilliance of female American composers with the Parker Symphony Orchestra! This inspiring concert showcases early and contemporary works by groundbreaking women who shaped American symphonic history, including Florence Price, Joan Tower, Valerie Coleman, Amy Beach, and Carolyn Shaw. From brass fanfares to woodwind quintets and Price’s powerful Symphony #1 in E Minor, experience the music of leading figures who continue to inspire generations — right in your backyard at the PACE Center!

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $29–$34

Saturday, February 21

CHINESE NEW YEAR GALA PERFORMANCE

Ring in the Lunar New Year with a stunning showcase of traditional Chinese dance and music! This graceful 30-minute performance features flowing costumes, elegant movements, and symbolic choreography that bring centuries-old stories to life while classical instruments create a rich, immersive soundscape. Want more? Catch the Lion Dance and Kung Fu Performance at 12:30 p.m. or the Kung Fu and Taekwondo Demonstration at 2:30 p.m. for a full afternoon of cultural celebration!

HRCA – Southridge Rec Center, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd., Highlands Ranch
1:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Tickets:Free with RSVP

METRO-WIDE CAMP EXPO AND FUN FAIR

Say goodbye to summer camp research overwhelm! Nine MacKID editions team up for this free one-stop event where families meet face-to-face with the Denver metro area’s best camps and summer activities. Explore performing arts, adventure, sports, gymnastics, day camps, overnight options, and more while enjoying interactive exhibits, freebies, giveaways, and entertainment from Chatfield High School groups. Pre-registered attendees score entries for prizes including summer camp registration funds — conveniently located just off 470!

Chatfield Senior High School, 7227 South Simms St., Littleton
1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

PARKER HISTORY PRESENTS AFRICAN AMERICANS OF THE WEST: YORK

Step back in time for this powerful one-man performance about York, the first recorded Black explorer who traveled with Lewis and Clark! Portrayed by Marvin Jefferson, this compelling presentation shares York’s story as an enslaved laborer who navigated trails and waterways, interacted with native populations, and contributed to the expedition’s national importance. Experience his brief glimpse of freedom and understand the role of African Americans in the West before slavery’s end — an important piece of history right at The Schoolhouse!

The Schoolhouse, 19650 East Mainstreet, Parker
6:30 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission

Sunday, February 22

AN AFTERNOON WITH NYT BESTSELLING AUTHOR C.J. BOX

Mystery lovers, rejoice! New York Times bestselling author C.J. Box discusses his latest Joe Pickett novel, “The Crossroads,” followed by a book signing. General Admission ($35) includes a hardcover copy of the book, presentation seating, and signing line access, while Companion tickets ($20) offer presentation seating only. Coffee, tea, and light bites keep you fueled for this literary afternoon, with book sales by Books Are Awesome. Don’t miss this chance to meet the master of Wyoming-based thrillers!

DCSD Legacy Campus, 10035 Peoria St., Parker
4:00 p.m.
Tickets: $35 General Admission, $20 Companion

FREE DAY AT THE DENVER ZOO

Experience world-class wildlife without the admission price! Denver Zoo opens its gates for a Community Free Day with limited tickets available first-come, first-served. From playful primates to majestic big cats, explore incredible animal habitats and conservation stories perfect for all ages. Remember — tickets are only available online and walk-ups won’t be accepted, so snag your free reservation early for this popular family favorite just a short drive from Parker!

Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele Street., Denver
10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (Reservations required, released Feb. 8)

PASSPORT TO CULTURE: JOURNEY TO OZ

There’s no place like Oz! Join Dorothy on an extraordinary adventure where audience members become part of the magic, singing, dancing, and acting alongside professional actors in this experiential production. When the cyclone strikes, the entire theater enters the eye of the storm with dazzling lights and exciting music by Barrymore Award-winning composer Josh Totora. Kids receive a special “Passport” with stickers for each performance attended — collect 8 for one free future ticket!

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree
1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Tickets: $9

Tuesday, February 24

GRAND KYIV BALLET PRESENTS SWAN LAKE

Witness Tchaikovsky’s timeless masterpiece brought to life by world-class dancers from Ukraine, Italy, Spain, the USA, and Japan! This enchanting tale of a prince, a beautiful swan princess under a spell, and their journey through love, sacrifice, and redemption captivates audiences of all ages with stunning choreography, intricate set design, and captivating music. Colorful costumes and magical decorations transport you to a world of wonder — an unforgettable evening of classical ballet beauty right at the PACE Center!

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: $49–$79

Thursday–Sunday, February 27–March 1

MEREDITH WILLSON’S THE MUSIC MAN

There’s trouble in River City! The six-time Tony Award-winning musical comedy follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments for a boys’ band — despite not knowing a trombone from a treble clef. When the town librarian steals his heart, this charming hustler discovers something more valuable than any con. Experience this beloved American classic at the magnificent Buell Theatre with show-stopping songs and irresistible charm!

Denver Center for the Performing Arts – Buell Theatre, 1101 13th St., Denver
Fri./Sat. 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2:00 p.m.; Sun., 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Tickets: $47–$135

Saturday, February 28

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Parker’s beloved community tradition! This vibrant free celebration features traditional performances, martial arts demonstrations, hands-on activities, and mini classes highlighting Lunar New Year customs. Catch spectacular performances throughout the morning including Lion Dances, traditional Chinese dance and instrumental music, Kung Fu demonstrations, and a Vietnamese Water Puppet Show. Register for one of three time slots (8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., or 11:00 a.m.) for this can’t-miss cultural extravaganza at the PACE Center!

PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (Registration requested)

PEAK ATHLETIC’S PARENT’S NIGHT OUT

Date night calling? Drop the kids at Peak Athletics for an evening of crafts, games, and gym fun while you enjoy some well-deserved adult time! Children ages 3–12 (must be potty-trained) enjoy pizza dinner and four hours of supervised activities. Sibling discounts make it even more affordable for families. Pre-registration encouraged, so grab your spot online and reclaim your Saturday night!

Peak Athletics, 399 Dad Clark Dr., Highlands Ranch
6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Tickets: $40 first child, sibling discounts available

Sunday, March 1

PEPPA PIG: MY FIRST CONCERT

Oink your way to Boettcher Concert Hall for an adorable introduction to live orchestral music! Peppa Pig, George, Mummy Pig, and Daddy Pig join the Southbank Sinfonia for a delightful 60–90 minute family concert featuring favorite songs from the show plus exciting classical pieces perfect for little ears. This interactive experience invites children ages 18 months and up to make music alongside their favorite piggy family — a wonderful first concert for your youngest music lovers!

Colorado Symphony, 1000 14th St., Denver
1:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m.
Tickets: Prices vary

THAT DAM RUN 13.1, 10K, AND 5K

Come crush the Dam at Cherry Creek State Park! Choose your challenge — Half Marathon, 10K, or 5K — and enjoy stunning views of Denver and the Rocky Mountains along Cherry Creek Dam Road. Every finisher receives a custom medal, That Dam Run shirt or tank top, free photos with Justin Beaver, and entry to the post-race celebration. Little ones can join JB’s free Kids 200 Meter Fun Run for pint-sized racing fun!

Dam Road and South Dayton Street, Cherry Creek State Park
8:00 a.m.
Tickets: Prices vary

BALLET ARIEL PRESENTS LITTLE WOMEN

Experience the heartwarming story of the March sisters — Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy — brought beautifully to life through graceful dance at The Schoolhouse Theatre! Ballet Ariel’s original production features choreography that highlights each sister’s unique character, set to a lovely blend of traditional holiday music and classical pieces by composers including Grieg. This fresh, delightful ballet celebrates the love, lessons, and growth of four sisters during the Civil War era — perfect for ages 5 and up!

The Schoolhouse Theatre, 19650 East Mainstreet, Parker
3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $25 youth, $28 seniors/students, $30 adults

Spring Starts Here in Looking Glass

As late February brings longer days and brighter Colorado skies, Looking Glass in Parker is ready to welcome you home. Tour beautifully designed model homes from Dream Finders Homes and Richmond American Homes, featuring open-concept kitchens, light-filled living spaces, flexible lofts, and spacious retreats designed for the way you live. Step outside to connecting trails, neighborhood parks, and wide-open green spaces perfect for bike rides and sunset strolls, all within the highly regarded Douglas County School District and just minutes from downtown Parker’s local dining, seasonal festivals, and performances at the PACE Center. With new homes starting from the $600s, your fresh start for spring begins here.