September 17, 2026

It’s Officially Fall Things to Do This Weekend!

Autumn is almost officially here, and Parker has plenty of ways to celebrate the changing season. From Parker Fall Fest to whimsical family productions at the PACE Center, a jazz evening with a celebrated vocalist, and one last downtown market before the season turns, there’s plenty happening near Looking Glass this weekend and next.

TODAY/TONIGHT, Thursday, September 17

ARCTIC ANIMALS: SINGLE DAY ADVENTURES

Parker Parks and Recreation’s Single Day Adventures series heads to the poles Bundle up for a frosty adventure! Children will explore the icy wonders of the Arctic through themed crafts, games, and hands-on activities that bring polar bears, seals, and snowy owls to life. This class blends science, creativity, and imagination.   Children will build early science knowledge, fine motor skills, and social confidence while discovering fascinating Arctic wildlife. The class promotes curiosity, teamwork, and creativity in a playful environment.  Beginner to Intermediate.

THE OUTSIDERS

The winner of the 2024 Tony Award for Best Musical brings its Tulsa, Oklahoma story to Denver. Set in 1967, this classic coming-of-age tale follows Ponyboy Curtis, his best friend Johnny Cade, and their family of Greaser “outsiders” as they dream about who they want to become in a world that will never accept them. Featuring a tuneful, soul-bearing original score and high-octane choreography brought to life by a sensational young cast.

DESTINY OF DESIRE: A TELENOVELA PLAY WITH MUSIC

On a stormy night in Bellarica, Mexico, two baby girls are born — one into outlandish wealth, one into a life of poverty. When the newborns are swapped by a ruthless ex-beauty queen, the stage is set for two outrageous misfortunes to grow into an extraordinary destiny. Karen Zacarías’ hilarious hit is brimming with energy and music, taking audiences on an emotional rollercoaster sprinkled with the melodrama and wild antics that make the telenovela the most popular form of storytelling in the world.

JAZZ: CJRO WITH MARION POWERS

The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra brings a full evening of classic jazz standards and fresh interpretations to the PACE Center, featuring the CJRO sextet alongside acclaimed vocalist Marion Powers. An intimate, sophisticated night out for jazz lovers and anyone looking for a beautiful excuse to dress up.

TUNES FOR TRAILS / PERKS FOR PARKS: NINETY PERCENT 90S

Castle Rock’s beloved free outdoor concert series brings back the 90s with Ninety Percent 90s on the third Thursday of the month. While the event is free, donations are welcomed for the Castle Rock Parks and Trails Foundation, and beverage sales help fund the cause too.

HOLD ON TO YOUR BUTTS

Following its critically acclaimed West End and Off-Broadway debuts, this smash-hit show comes to Denver. Two actors and a Foley artist perform a live, shot-for-shot parody of the greatest dinosaur film of all time in a wildly inventive tour-de-force of comedy, physical theatre, and live sound effects. Called “a non-stop laugh fest” and a Time Out Critic’s Pick.

Thursday–Sunday, September 17–20

JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS DOUGLAS COUNTY

Kids are expensive and they grow fast — this community consignment event lets parents shop 50–90% off retail on thousands of name-brand items. Find infant, kids’, and junior’s clothing, baby gear, electronics, toys, books, games, and baby equipment at Colorado’s best children’s and maternity consignment sale.

TOMORROW, Friday, September 18

CORN MAZE AT CHATFIELD FARMS

This year’s Corn Maze honors Colorado’s 150th anniversary, with twists and turns cut into the maze forming state symbols like the Rocky Mountain columbine and the bighorn sheep. Climb the bridge for a bird’s-eye view of the whole design. Children under 10 can explore a dedicated mini corn maze.

SUBLIME NATURE: KATE BREAKEY & TONY HOCHSTETLER

Experience the beauty, complexity, and wonder of the natural world in this striking exhibition featuring the extraordinary photography and mixed-media work of Kate Breakey and Tony Hochstetler. On view at the PACE Center Box Office lobby during regular hours through October 22 — a quiet, beautiful stop before or after any evening show.

THIS WEEKEND, Saturday, September 19

WALK THE WETLANDS BIRD WALK AT KINGERY NATURE CENTER

Denver Audubon Master Birders lead this shorter version of their popular monthly walk, exploring the diverse habitats of the Kingery Nature Center campus. Covering 1.5–2 miles of mostly flat gravel and dirt trails, this is a great outing for curious nature lovers — bring your own binoculars for the best experience.

Kingery Nature Center, Littleton
8:00–9:30 a.m.
Tickets: Suggested donation $5

MILES4MADISON 5K/1K RUN & WALK

This inclusive community event welcomes runners, walkers, families, strollers, and even four-legged friends for a morning of fun, fitness, and purpose. Miles4Madison is dedicated to creating educational and recreational opportunities for families with children of differing abilities, with proceeds supporting adaptive camp scholarships, sensory-friendly community events, playground equipment donations, and more inclusive parks throughout the community. Features a timed 5K, a family-friendly 1K, and virtual participation options.

Providence Park, Sterling Ranch
1K starts 8:45 a.m.; 5K starts 9:15 a.m.
Tickets: $30

FAMILY DISCOVERY SERIES: CINDERELLA

A beloved fairy tale comes to life through dance in this charming, family-friendly production perfect for introducing young audiences to the magic of live performance. Note: this show has sold out in the past, so grab tickets early if you can.

FESTIVAL PARK FARMERS MARKET

Locally raised meats, farm-fresh eggs, seasonal produce, baked goods, and artisan-made products from dozens of vendors fill Festival Park every Sunday in downtown Castle Rock — though this Saturday brings a special early-fall market energy as the season shifts.

Festival Park, 300 Second St., Castle Rock

9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Tickets: Free admission

Saturday, September 19–Sunday, September 20

AUTUMN ARTS & CRAFTS FEST 2026

Two days of arts, crafts, music, food, and fun await at Larkspur Community Park as the Larkspur Chamber of Commerce welcomes cooler days with this beloved fall tradition. Free admission and free parking make it an easy, feel-good weekend outing for the whole family.

Larkspur Community Park, 8820 Spruce Mountain Rd., Larkspur
Sat., 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sun., 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

Sunday, September 20

PARKER SUNDAY FARMERS’ MARKET

Parker’s beloved weekly market continues on Downtown Mainstreet with locally grown produce, fresh breads, honey, pastas, and more from small farmers and artisans, plus live music and easy Sunday energy — one of the last few weekends of the season.

Thursday, September 24

THE SIXTIES SHOW

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and spirit of a revolutionary decade with this award-winning Off-Broadway production. Far more than a concert, it’s an authentic musical journey through the 1960s featuring a powerhouse cast of musicians linked to renowned artists like The Who, The Rascals, and John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival. With live performances, multimedia visuals, archival footage, vintage instruments, authentic costumes, and dazzling stage effects, every song is performed live to capture the raw energy of a decade that transformed music forever.

Friday, September 25

LONE CREEK FARMS FALL FESTIVAL OPENS

Just down the road in Franktown, Lone Creek Farms kicks off its fall festival season with pumpkin patches, hayrides, and all the classic autumn farm fun. Open Thursdays through Sundays through November 1 — a perfect first taste of fall for the whole family.

DOWNTOWN PARKER WINE WALK

Parker’s favorite summertime tradition returns for one of its final walks of the season. Grab your collectible glass, map, and wristband at the Parker Chamber office, then spend the evening wandering Downtown Parker’s shops and businesses tasting wine poured by participating merchants. Advance tickets save you money — rain or shine. Must be 21+.

HALWA BY AMIT TANDON: STAND-UP COMEDY SHOW LIVE

Get ready for an evening of laughter with HALWA, the latest stand-up comedy show from internationally acclaimed comedian Amit Tandon. Known for his sharp observational humor and engaging storytelling, Tandon has become one of India’s most celebrated comedians, performing more than 1,400 shows in over 25 countries. He was also one of the first Indian comedians featured in Netflix’s Comedians of the World. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience his signature brand of relatable comedy live at the PACE Center. Please note: this performance will be presented in Hindi. Ages 12+, strictly enforced.

Saturday, September 26

OKTOBERFEST 5K

Put on your lederhosen and sneakers to kick off HRCA’s annual Oktoberfest in Town Center with this 5K, run on a mix of sidewalk and gravel trails well-suited for all ability levels. Stick around after the race for a pancake breakfast from Flippin’ Flapjacks, free beer from Living the Dream Brewery (21+), and more Oktoberfest festivities throughout the afternoon, including polka, German food, and other HRCA celebrations.

8TH ANNUAL CAR & BIKE SHOW BLOCK PARTY

Mile High Harley-Davidson of Parker celebrates eight years of one of its favorite traditions with this free car and bike show block party. All makes and models are welcome, with food, music, face painting, a kids’ corner, vendors, giveaways, and trophy categories including Best Antique, Best Classic Car, Best Truck, Best Motorcycle, and Best in Show. A fun, laid-back Saturday for gearheads and families alike.

COMEDY NIGHT: BRAD UPTON

Enjoy a night of laugh-out-loud comedy with viral sensation Brad Upton at the PACE Center. Known for his relatable, everyman humor that’s found a whole new audience online, Upton brings a full night of stand-up to downtown Parker.

PARKER FALL FEST

Parker’s signature end-of-summer celebration takes over O’Brien Park for a full afternoon and evening of community, creativity, and fall spirit — free admission means there’s zero reason to miss it. Highlights include:

• An artisan market featuring dozens of local makers and vendors
• A dedicated children’s entrepreneurial market, where young business owners get their own spotlight to sell handmade goods and creative projects
• Live music throughout the event
• Food trucks serving everything from sweet to savory
• Hands-on family activities for all ages

Whether you’re grabbing an early holiday gift from a local vendor, cheering on a pint-sized entrepreneur, or just soaking up one of the town’s best-loved community gatherings, Fall Fest is the kind of event that makes Parker feel like Parker.

Sunday, September 27

THE COLORADO BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

One night, ten bands, three songs each — The Colorado Bluegrass Festival brings the best of Colorado’s acoustic music scene to the intimate McAwesome Ranch in Castle Rock. Each act plays a short single-mic set in the traditional style, creating a genuinely unique, community-driven night where you can listen close and meet the artists. Camping is included with admission, dogs are welcome, and the whole evening has an easygoing, by-musicians-for-musicians spirit that’s hard to find anywhere else in Colorado.

Looking Glass – A Location to Love

Fall season brings plenty to do in Parker, and Looking Glass is ready for all the fun times ahead. With top-rated schools just steps away, trails that wind through every corner of the neighborhood, and parks built for the kind of evenings you’ll remember, you’ll love coming home to Looking Glass. Homes from Richmond American and Dream Finders Homes both offer quick move-in homes with plenty of room to settle in before the first frost.