Thirst Colorado -- May-June 2024

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Going the distance to create community Extreme

Plus:

Exploring the magic of the eastern plains Wilderness access for all abilities

Colorado Springs adds amphitheater to the mix

Vol. 9, No. 4 May-June 2024 SERVING UP THE COLORADO EXPERIENCE
Running

Keep Colorado Wild

You see a car, we see support for over 960 wildlife species.

Get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your car registration. It’s so much more than a state parks pass — your pass funds wildlife conservation and educational programs across Colorado. cpw.info/KeepColoradoWildPass cpw.info/KeepColoradoWildPassSpanish

In English En español

VISIT US ONLINE

We publish more stories than we can fit into each print issue. Visit ThirstColorado.com (or point your smartphone at the QR code) to see these stories and much more, including our weekly events roundup, food and drink recommendations, ticket giveaways and much more.

WE’RE ON THE BURRO BEAT

Pack burro racing may be Colorado’s only homegrown sport, and it’s more intense than many realize. Melissa Voss helps you enjoy the state’s signature races coming up this summer.

COLORADO HAS A NEW WILDLIFE AREA

Johnny Burkin has your guide to Collard Ranch, a new State Wildlife Area just 60 miles southwest of Denver. The state designation will preserve a vital wildlife corridor while allowing new recreational access.

24 HOURS IN STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

In any season, you’ll have a hard time packing everything David Young loves about Steamboat Springs into one day. And find more “24 in 24” features, with suggested itineraries for quick staycations around Colorado in 2024.

And sign up for our weekly newsletter so you never miss another update.

4 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024 Publisher Paul Johnson paul@thirstcolorado.com Associate Publisher & Editor Joe Ross joe@thirstcolorado.com Vice President, Sales Scott Kaplan Sales Linda Battle, Rebel Becker, Nina Gunther, Christine Werner Design & Layout Sandy Birkey Stacey Krull President & Founder Emeritus Wilbur E. Flachman Digital & Marketing Manager Steve Graham Editorial Assistant Johnny Burkin Contributors John Garvey, Kristen Kuchar, Malena Larsen, Jay McKinney, Eric Peterson, David Young For advertising and editorial information, please contact Joe Ross at 303.428.9529 or email joe@thirstcolorado.com Proud member of the Colorado Brewers Guild Thirst Colorado is produced by The Publishing House, a division of Colorado Word Works, Inc. The Publishing House also produces Colorado’s Performing Arts Publications, serving arts venues along the Front Range. 7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, Colorado 80030 303.428.9529 Drink up life in large amounts, but restrict your alcohol consumption. We do not endorse or support excessive drinking. Thirst Colorado is published six times a year by The Publishing House, 7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, CO 80030. © The Publishing House, 2024. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. Except where noted, the content of Thirst Colorado is the property of the magazine and should only be reprinted with permission. Thirst Colorado is not responsible for false or misleading claims made in advertising or editorial materials published herein. Thirst Colorado Magazine is distributed in part by DJM Distribution, Inc., and Community Racks Distribution, LLC.

CONTRIBUTORS

KRISTEN KUCHAR

Kuchar has written about travel and the beverage industry for 15 years in a variety of national and local publications. For Thirst, she primarily covers food, wine, cider, beer and other beverages. She has contributed to VinePair, Zymurgy, The Beer Connoisseur, Craftbeer.com, Beer Advocate, Brew Your Own, All About Beer, DRAFT and dozens more. Currently, she is a Certified Cicerone Beer Server and has a Level 1 Wine Certification with the Wine & Spirits Education Trust, and she continues to pursue further wine and beverage education.

ERIC PETERSON

Peterson is a freelance writer who covers travel, business and real estate as well as Colorado’s craft beverage industry. In his spare time, he likes to create hard listening music, oddball art and psychedelic videos. Eric lives in Denver with his wife, Jamie, and their faithful mutts, Aoife and Ogma.

JAY MCKINNEY

McKinney is a Colorado native who grew up south of Denver in Sedalia. In 2020, he graduated from the Metropolitan State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Shortly after, he began contributing to Thirst Colorado. He is passionate about promoting the Colorado lifestyle and the independent craft businesses that make the state a magnet for creative people. During his free time, he enjoys playing golf, shooting pool and hiking throughout Colorado and neighboring Utah.

MALENA LARSEN

Larsen is a writer and Minnesota-to-Colorado transplant. Her favorite subjects to write about are craft beer, outdoor adventures, and any topic where she gets to learn something new. In her free time, she enjoys trail running, taking photos of mountain goats, and checking out breweries with her pals.

DAVID YOUNG

Young is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins who specializes in beer, whiskey and outdoor writing. David has been published in SKI Magazine, GearJunkie, 5280 Magazine, USA Today, and The Denver Post. Learn more at davidyoungcommunications.com.

JOHN GARVEY

Garvey is a storyteller, freelance writer, illustrator and nerd. He has written for dozens of lifestyle magazines, business publications, and blogs, including Entrepreneur, ColoradoBiz, InnovatioNews, and Thirst Colorado. A Northern Colorado resident, dad, and artist, one of John’s strangest and most notable accomplishments is completing a drawing a day for the entire year of 2023. That creative practice that taught him far more about the human mind than he had expected. You can see John’s writing at clippings.me/johngarvey. His art is at CreativeFollies.com and @CreativeFollies.

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 5
6 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024 12 26 THIRST COLORADO | May-June 2024 Festival Season Colorado has a multi-day music event for every taste and style Amphitheater Opening Colorado Springs' concert options expand with new 8,000-seat venue Events Guide From arts to food and drink fests, you'll find a favorite in this list Keeping it Quiet Punk rock's secret Colorado mecca now boasts a Latin Grammy award On the cover: Colorado ultra runners form a strong community. See story on page 18 EXPERIENCES LISTEN UP 12 18 34 40 42 8 22 22 Go East, Young Man Escape the crowds and explore the magic of the eastern plains Ultra Running Meet the distance runners who explore the state on foot Deeply Rooted Cocktails Local experts share recipes using homegrown ingredients All Inclusive Wilderness on Wheels provides trail access for all abilities Embracing Cannabis Some advice for weed newbies, whatever their goals may be 36 26 36 lzf - stock.adobe.com Brewery, Distillery, Winery, Cidery and Meadery Guide Find great craft beverages wherever the adventure takes you 44 40
Design/Build Landscape Architecture and Construction 303.750.6060 PhaseOneLandscapes.com email@phaseonelandscapes.com Outdoor spaces where people live and play...

SING THE BODY ECLECTIC Music festivals know

no genre boundaries

8 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024

Nobody can pigeonhole the sound of Colorado, which has exported the classic rock of Firefall, the EDM of Pretty Lights, the alternative hip-hop of the Flobots, the pop-rock of the Fray and the jams of String Cheese Incident, among countless others.

There is no defined Colorado musical genre. Our tastes and interests range widely, and our music festival lineups are as eclectic as our streaming playlists.

We have a symphony that performs with rappers, pop bands and country singers; bluegrass festivals with bands that have never touched a banjo; and jazz fests with lineups that might make Branford Marsalis scratch his head.

It’s fun to see musical genre lines blurring so much, and exciting to know that our homegrown bands and festivals are responsible for a lot of the mixing. Here are the Colorado music festivals coming this spring and summer, with an emphasis on the eclectic lineups.

MAY

Meadowgrass Music Festival

May 24-26, Black Forest

“Grass” in this context seemingly refers to the lawn, not the genre. This year’s headliners are Americana roots band The Steel Wheels, folk rockers Blitzen Trapper and singer-songwriter John Craigie. rockymountainhighway.org

SpringFree Bluegrass Festival

May 24-26, Vail

This free festival is only slightly more bluegrass-y than the Black Forest event on the same Memorial Day weekend. Nashville’s Infamous Stringdusters headline, but the lineup also includes soulful funkster Robert Randolph and mandolin virtuoso Sierra Hull, as well as the Rock and Roll Playhouse for the kids. springfreebluegrassfest.com

GoldenGrass

May 30-June 2, Golden newterrainbrewing.com/golden-grass

Greeley Blues Jam

May 31-June 1, Greeley greeleybluesjam.org

JUNE

Outside Festival

June 1-2, Denver

Thundercat is a genre-defying and Grammy-winning bassist who has collaborated with virtually everyone in the rap, soul and R&B worlds and beyond. In between a mostly sold-out European tour and a Bonnaroo set, Thundercat will headline Denver’s biggest new festival. Also, as part of the festivities, Outside magazine will roll out

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Photo by Tom Cohen, courtesy of Bravo! Vail

JAS June Experience

a line up of films and guest speakers to go along with an outdoor gear expo, wellness events and concerts at Civic Center Park. The other headliners are Fleet Foxes, Andrew Bird and Lettuce. festival.outsideonline.com

Mountains of Music

June 6-9, Vail

The GoPro Mountain Games bring cycling, kayaking, disc golf and much more to Vail in June. The events are accompanied by free daytime concerts from many of Colorado’s best musicians, including Bill McKay, Daniel Rodriguez, Rapidgrass and Mama Magnolia. Ticketed evening concerts bring in major national acts, including Dispatch, Xavier Rudd, Lotus and Mike Love. mountaingames.com

Regenerate Festival

June 7-8, Denver regeneratedenver.com

Palisade Bluegrass and Roots Festival

June 14-16, Palisade

Progressive bluegrass and Americana band Railroad Earth headline the Saturday show, which also includes a tribute to Earl Scruggs. But, as the name suggests, there is also roots music and other genres in the lineup. Mipso brings the harmonies of a string quartet to various styles during a Sunday headlining set. Other acts include the Last Revel, Good Morning Bedlam, Mild Goose Chase and the

the Last Revel, Good Morning Bedlam, Mild Goose Chase and the Fretliners. palisademusic.com

Juneteenth Music Festival

June 15-16, Denver juneteenthmusicfestival.com

Country Jam Colorado

June 20-22, Grand Junction countryjam.com

Telluride Bluegrass Festival

June 20-23, Telluride bluegrass.com

June 20-23, Aspen

June 20-23, Aspen

Swing with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, funk with the New Mastersounds (who are celebrating their 25th anniversary), and have a gospel brunch with the Blind Boys of Alabama. All this happens in one weekend in June in downtown Aspen. JAS stands for Jazz Aspen Snowmass, and there is some jazz on the menu from the Headhunters (on their 50th anniversary tour), but many other genres also are represented. jazzaspensnowmass.org

Bravo! Vail Music Festival

June 20 to August 1, Vail

The venues around Vail for this event are as diverse as the music. They include world-class symphony and world music performances at Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater; chamber music, Broadway tunes and more in private residences and other intimate venues; and even children’s events at the library. bravovail.org

Aspen Music Festival and School

June 26-Aug 18, Aspen

aspenmusicfestival.com

Blues From The Top Festival

June 28-30, Winter Park grandblues.org

Yarmony Music Festival

June 28-29, Bond

It’s hard to find a festival that feels more “Colorado” than Yarmony, coming to Rancho Del Rio, which is tucked into a canyon on the Colorado River north of Vail. It is as much about the music as the rafting, floating and fishing. At press time, tickets were nearly sold out for the festival, which spotlights Lindsay Lou, Drunken Hearts, the Fretliners and more. yarmonyfest.com

JULY

Colorado Music Festival

July 5 to August 4, Boulder

The Chautauqua Auditorium hosts the Colorado Music Festival, which brings beloved works from Mozart, Mahler and more. The lineup also features innovative new performers and composers, including

sisters and piano duo Christina and Michelle Naughton, and Boulder’s Grammy-winning Takács Quartet performing a world debut concerto by Gabriela Lena Frank. coloradomusicfestival.org

Yampa River Reggae Festival

July 20, Craig yampafest.com

Rockygrass Festival bluegrass.com

Sisters and piano duo Christina and Michelle Naughton will perform at the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder
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Order “one of everything.”

Your dining escape awaits tucked away in the pines of Black Hawk. Savor every flavor with award-winning restaurants where you can discover tastes as bold as your laugh.

Make your reservation at MonarchBlackHawk.com

WHEN YOU REALLY, TRULY WANT TO GET AWAY FROM IT ALL, HEAD EAST TO THE PLAINS

Sure, Colorado’s mountains get the hype and the magazine covers, but they also get the crowds. The eastern plains remain under the radar, meaning visitors can explore the area’s history without dodging bus loads of tourists. Consider a three-day tour to take in the beauty, history and solitude.

Gerald Zaffutsstock.adobe.com 12 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024

Day 1

ThePawnee Buttes are a perfect starting point for a weekend loop. Located about 60 miles northeast of Greeley and just south of the Colorado-Wyoming border, this pair of 300-foot-tall sandstone buttes provide a stark contrast to the prairie below. The western butte is accessible via an easy 2-mile, one-way trail, but the eastern butte is on private land.

From the buttes, it’s a straight shot 50 miles south to the eternal resting place of visionary sci-fi writer Philip K. Dick in Riverside Cemetery in Fort Morgan. Although he was born in Chicago and died in California, Dick is buried next to his twin, who died when she was just a few weeks old, near their grandparents’ place of residence in Colorado.

Take I-76 Business highway to Sterling, which is northeast of Fort Morgan. After checking out local sculptor Bradford Rhea’s masterworks in Pioneer Park and elsewhere, cap off your day at Parts & Labor Brewing Company, the first craft brewery on Colorado’s plains. The proprietors offer a nice variety of beer, seltzer and soda, as well as a menu that ranges from nachos to steaks. To spend the night, try the Crest Motel or one of the numerous chain properties along I-76.

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Sculpture by Bradford Rhea

Day 2

Sure, plenty of peakbaggers brag about their exploits to Colorado’s high points, but how many of them have seen the low point in the state? It’s the Arikaree River at 3,317 feet above sea level, which flows into Kansas southeast of Yuma. The spot is on private land, but you can at least get a glimpse of the river from nearby roads. While you’re in the neighborhood, hike to the three corners of the Colorado-Nebraska-Kansas Tri-point, a short stroll off of County Road 31.

About 60 miles south is the Kit Carson County Carousel on the county fairgrounds in Burlington. It’s a rare specimen, one of the 150 surviving wooden carousels carved between 1885 and the 1930s, and considered a standout due to its artful restoration and menagerie of different animals. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987, and is open for riding from late May to early September.

From Burlington, double back east on I-70 to Sand Creek Distillery (expected to reopen in early summer) in Hugo for a bottle of its signature American single malt whiskey. But don’t open it until you get to your room at Hotel Ordway, 79 miles south of Hugo in its namesake town. On the way, detour to the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, where you can pay respects to the more than 200 Native Americans murdered by U.S. soldiers in 1864.

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Photo by Eric Peterson Photo courtesy of Sand Creek Distillery Photo by Paulette Thompson

Day 3

Get an early start so you have plenty of time to explore Picket Wire Canyonlands. About an hour south of Ordway, a 17.6-mile trail takes you to a historic mission and cemetery that date back to when the area was part of Mexico. Further along is a prominent dinosaur tracksite along the Purgatoire River – Picket Wire is a bastardization of the French pronunciation of the river’s name – with more than 1,000 tracks from brontosaurus and allosaurus who wandered here millions of years ago. The canyon is accessible on foot, bike or horseback; guided auto tours are available by reservation for a fee, but you must provide a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.

Return the way you came to La Junta, where you can bunk at the Stagecoach Motel for the night after exploring Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, a trading post that was once the border of the U.S. and Mexico in the 1840s.

If you have time, drive 100 miles southeast to hike Picture Canyon, where sunlight illuminates ancient rock art in Crack Cave during the spring and fall equinoxes. Hiking is available year-round, but Crack Cave is only open on ranger-led tours in March and September.

Eric Peterson is a freelance writer who covers travel, business, and real estate, as well as Colorado’s craft beverage industry. Eric lives in Denver with his wife, Jamie, and their faithful mutts, Aoife and Ogma.

TRIP DETAILS

• Pawnee Buttes trailhead: off CR 112, about 16 miles southeast of Grover

• Riverside Cemetery: 601 W. 8th Ave., Fort Morgan

• Bradford Rhea sculptures: scattered around Sterling, thesculptor.net

• Parts & Labor Brewing Company: 402 Main St., Sterling, partsandlaborbrewing.com

• Crest Motel: 516 S. Division Ave., Sterling, the-crest-motel.business.site

• Colorado’s low point: off CR 31, about 16 miles southeast of Wray

• CO-NE-KS Tri-point trailhead: off CR 31, about 13 miles southeast of Wray

• Kit Carson County Carousel: 815 N. 15th St., Burlington, kitcarsoncountycarousel.com

• Sand Creek Distillery: 324 5th St., Suite A, Hugo, sandcreekdistillery.com

• Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site: 55411 CR W., Eads, nps.gov/sand

• Hotel Ordway: 132 Colorado Ave., Ordway, hotelordway.com

• Picket Wire Canyonlands: off David Canyon Rd., about 23 miles southeast of Timpas, fs.usda.gov/visit/destination/picket-wire-trail

• Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site: 35110 CO Hwy. 194, La Junta, nps.gov/beol

• Stagecoach Motel: 905 W. 3rd St., stagecoachmotel.business.site

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Slow down the hustle and bustle. Leave the city rush behind—swap for wild adventure in Cheyenne. Sit back by the reservoirs as the rainbow trout and kokanee salmon splash. Hike ‘til you find quartz-brilliant paradise. Enter the land where legendary cowboys found invigoration, calling a new age of adventure.

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MEET THE FLEET-FOOTED COMMUNITY The world of ultra running in Colorado’s high country

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Trail and ultra running has a rich history and a flourishing presence in Colorado. From the prestigious Leadville 100 Trail Run to smaller, yet equally impactful events like the Great Divide 50K, the state offers a diverse range of races spanning different distances and levels of difficulty. Whether we are running 50 kilometers, 100 miles, or even greater distances, runners undertake these challenges for a multitude of personal motivations.

As a runner, ultra running is an opportunity to test what I’m capable of, push my mental and physical limits and spend time with like minded people. Hitting the trail allows me to quiet my mind and gives me space from the world’s happenings.

“I believe running provides the potential for individuals to better understand themselves,” shares Jordan Ricks, owner and director of Revenant Running. “We live in a world of comfort. Ultra running is one of the places we get an authentic human experience. It forces us to experience feelings we often try to avoid.”

Ultra running is a family affair for Ricks. He assisted his brother with the Mad Moose Events for four years before launching his own race series, Revenant Running, with the goal of being close to his family and highlighting underrated spots in Woodland Park and the surrounding areas.

Additionally, Ricks’ dad was an ultra runner in the 1980s, when he would sign up for the Leadville 100 Trail Run (LT100) the night before the race—an act unheard of in today’s running culture, where the race now manages entries with a competitive lottery system.

The LT100 was founded by former Colorado legislator Ken Chlouber and Merilee Maupin in 1983. The race was started as a tactic to draw attention to Leadville after the closure of the Climax Mine.

“This town is built on the strong mining community,” shares Leadville race director Tamira Jenlink. “The trails we run are built on this community. You feel it when you’re out there. There’s a magic to Leadville.”

Jenlink has been involved with the Leadville events for the last 13 years as a racer, volunteer and now race director. Through the years, she has seen the race grow immensely in popularity. In fact, it’s considered one of the most well-known endurance running events in the world. So, what sets it apart?

“There are many fantastic races out there,” says Jenlink. “But at least for me as a trail runner, you can really lose yourself around here. The backdrop, the mountains, these hills, the elevation—it’s alluring.”

LT100 is an out-and-back course that starts and finishes in Leadville. Every year in August, runners take on the race that starts at over 10,000 feet. It comes with the technical terrain of the Colorado Trail, including the trek up to Hope Pass at 12,600 feet. Once the race is all said and done, runners will have conquered over 18,000 feet of elevation gain.

In addition to the incredible typography and immense challenge of the course, many runners are drawn to the community aspect of the LT100. According to Jenlink: “Ken (Chlouber) and Merilee (Maupin) decided the race was going to be focused around family. And by gosh, 40 years later, it really is about family. We all show up together. If you’re part of this event, you’re part of this family.”

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Photo courtesy of The Great Divide 50K

Jenlink recalls all the moments when she witnessed runners selflessly sacrificing their own race goals to aid someone in need, particularly during 2023’s LT100 when the weather was hot and relentless. She reflects on the heartwarming support that the final runners receive as they cross the finish line, just before the 30-hour cut off.

“We get the luxury to see people attempt this race two, three, four times,” she says. “We’ve been on a journey with some people for 10 years, making it even more special when they cross that finish line.”

The LT100 is undoubtedly iconic; it’s a dream and bucket list item for many runners. However, the entry fee and lottery system aren’t realistic for everyone. Luckily, there is no shortage of ultra options in this state.

My first ultra when I moved to Colorado was the Great Divide 50k, a Revenant Running event.

“We cap a lot of our races around 200-250 people,” Ricks says. “In bigger races, you really get lost in the hustle and bustle. In my interactions with people, they are hungry for a community. Of course, the running is important. But the community is arguably more important.”

The Revenant Race Series includes five races, four of which are located in Colorado.

“I’ve been raised in the community (Woodland Park),” Ricks shares. “For the longest time, there weren’t many runners or hikers. Even people from Colorado Springs don’t come up here. I want to introduce people to an area that wasn’t originally an outdoor community.”

In 2023, The Great Divide 50k introduced me to the vibrant, mountainous area of Divide, which is just under an hour from Colorado Springs. I had just moved to Colorado a few months prior. The race allowed me to explore the stunning landscape of Mueller State Park—a hidden gem that as a Minnesota native, I may have missed if not for this event.

The Great Divide 50k consists of two course loops within Mueller State Park, adding up to approximately 5,000 feet of

elevation gain. Runners start the first loop clockwise and run the consecutive loop in the opposite direction. The course features a mix of single and double track trails, offering a challenging, yet not-too-technical racing experience. Unlike many ultra races, all aid stations are crew accessible and allow for drop bags during the Great Divide events.

I remember chatting with Ricks around mile 15, right before starting my second and final loop. He asked me if I was enjoying the race and if I had any thoughts on how it could be improved. This brief interaction was a quick glimpse into the personalized experience of smaller races.

“With the Great Divide races being a looped course, I get to see runners coming in every 15 miles or so,” Ricks says. “I see excitement turn into great discomfort. I see runners thinking they can’t continue but then we get them back out on the course. They go to the darkest places but then they are able to recover.”

It doesn’t matter if the race is 50 kilometers or 100 miles, mental fortitude is a staple at any ultra event.

“We find that ultra running is not just about physical change, it’s also about how we can emotionally and spiritually change,” Jenlink shares. “Our brains are built to grow. It’s built on survival. Trail running pushes the edges of comfort. It makes you realize you can do more than you thought you could.”

Races like LT100 and the Great Divide 50K, prove that regardless of prestige or scale, the true essence of ultra running lies in the discipline, challenge, discomfort and community experienced on the trails. Whether you’re running a renowned race after securing a lottery spot or signing up for a smaller, more accessible event, there’s no “wrong way” to run an ultra. The true mistake would be denying yourself the chance to test your limits.

20 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
Malena Larsen is a writer and Minnesota transplant. In addition to writing, she spends her time running in the mountains, visiting local craft breweries, and avoiding aggressive geese. Photo courtesy of The Great Divide 50K Photo courtesy of The Leadville Trail 100
May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 21 Thirst Magazine Valid for dine-in or takeout only. Not available for online orders. Cannot be combined with other discounts or offers. Expires 6.30.24 $10 OFF YOUR TOTAL PURCHASE OF $35 OR MORE FOR A LIST OF LOCATIONS, PARRY’S EVENTS AND TAP LISTS, VISIT PARRYSPIZZA.COM. SIP, SAVOR, REPEAT! ������ The best rotating tap list in town! Thirst Magazine FREE PARRY’S PINT (PREMIUM CRAFT BEER) ID required. Valid for dine-in only. Cannot be combined with other discounts or offers. Expires 6.30.24. DAILY SPECIALS Available Every Day! THE ICONIC SPECIAL $26.99 Large one-topping pizza and 10 boneless wings THE FAMILY SPECIAL $27.99 Large one-topping pizza and a medium cheese pizza THE GAMETIME SPECIAL $29.99 Large one-topping pizza, Parm Bites or Fried Dough, and 10 boneless wings Pricing subject to change. Find us at your favorite retailer or online at woodsdistillery.com Tasting Room Open Daily Salida, Colorado

SETTING THE STAGE FOR ADVENTURE

Sunset Amphitheater adds to the allure of Colorado Springs

This summer, Colorado Springs adds to the state’s collection of picturesque music venues with the Sunset Amphitheater. The new venue “is the brainchild of (Notes Live) chairman and CEO JW Roth,” says Chloe Hoeft, Notes Live vice president of marketing & communications. “Recognizing the city’s lack of a large-scale outdoor venue, the project promises to take live music experiences to new heights.”

The amphitheater is projected to generate over $102 million annually, create over 500 jobs, and contribute $41 million in taxes in the next decade.

“The amphitheater will draw in residents from around the state,”

Colorado Springs economic development director, Jessie Kimber says. “Plus, it helps our residents stay local, improving their quality of life and allowing them to avoid long trips up I-25.”

According to Hoeft, the venue is a “music lover’s dream” equipped with state-of-the-art audio, visuals, and monitoring technology. The 8,000-capacity venue has luxury VIP fire pit suites, traditional seating, a self-draining grass berm with hydro-chill technology, and ample food and drink options.

While Sunset Amphitheater doesn’t open to the public until August 9, there is already a powerhouse lineup planned for the late summer season. The lineup includes both musical acts and comedians – look for OneRepublic, The Beach Boys, Jim Gaffigan and others.

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“The project offers a premium outlet for music fans to enjoy their favorite artist or band while watching the sun set over Pikes Peak, America’s Mountain,” Hoeft describes.

NEW VENUE ADDS TO THE ADVENTURE

“We are very excited to add (Sunset Amphitheater) to the repertoire of awesome things to do in Colorado Springs,” Kimber says.

Colorado Springs sprawls over 195-square miles, making it the largest city in Colorado by land area. Its attractions are scattered throughout the city and the surrounding areas, making it pretty easy to make a vacation or staycation out of exploring the area.

To find the new venue, visitors will head to the Polaris

Pointe development on the north end of Colorado Springs. It is neighbored by the United States Air Force Academy Stadium and the Air Force Glass Chapel.

“We’re growing into a cosmopolitan city. We have all the things that a big city has to offer with a small-town, community feel,” Kimber says. “People here bend over backwards to make people feel welcome. Not only will you have a great time, but you’ll enjoy the beautiful landscape and probably make a friend!”

“We are excited to show Colorado Springs all that we have been working on and really make our City of Champions proud,” Hoeft concludes. “This project is the blood, sweat, and tears of our team. Seeing all the smiling faces of music fans, shareholders, partners, friends and family is going to be very special.”

Rendering courtesy of Sunset Amphitheater
May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 23

MORE COLORADO SPRINGS HIGHLIGHTS

EAT DONUTS AT THE PIKES PEAK SUMMIT

Pikes Peak was dubbed America’s Mountain as its summit inspired the Katharine Lee Bates poem that later became the song “America the Beautiful.” It is the highest summit of the southern Front Range and is located about 12 miles west of Colorado Springs. There are a few different ways to access the summit of Pikes Peak, depending on the time of year. There’s a fully paved road, cog railway, shuttle tour, and a vast hiking and biking trail network. Once explorers are at the summit, they can visit the Pikes Peak Summit House, which has “scientifically crafted, fresh donuts.” A special recipe is used to fry their donuts, as the air is thinner and water has a lower boiling point at 14,115-feet.

CHEER ON THE SWITCHBACKS AT WEIDNER FIELD

Weidner Field is home to the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, who compete in the second level of U.S. men’s professional soccer. Since its opening in April of 2021, the field has become a focal point for soccer enthusiasts.

VISIT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WORLD WAR II AVIATION

EXPLORE GARDEN OF THE GODS

The National Museum of World War II Aviation showcases the story of the role that military aviation played in shaping our nation’s history. Both guided and self-guided tours are available for visitors.

Garden of the Gods was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1971 and is known for its iconic red rock formations. This free-to-visit park offers hiking, rock climbing, biking, horseback riding, trail running and more.

CLIMB THE MANITOU INCLINE

The Manitou Incline climbs 2,000 vertical feet in less than a mile and achieves grades as steep as 68 percent – making it to the top of the Manitou Incline is no small feat. Once hikers have climbed all of the 2,744 steps, they take the Barr Trail for three miles back down to the base.

TOUR THE OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER

The United States Olympic & Paralympic Training Centers are the only facilities for Olympic training in the world to offer public tours. Take a tour to experience the state-of-the-art facilities used by Olympic athletes.

Malena Larsen is a writer and Minnesota transplant. In addition to writing, she spends her time running in the mountains, visiting local craft breweries, and avoiding aggressive geese.

24 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
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Lost_in_the_Midwest - stock.adobe.com MichaelVi - stock.adobe.com Rendering courtesy of Lander Media Photo courtesy of Weidner Field Rendering courtesy of Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center Photo courtesy of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Training Centers

EVENTS GUIDE

MAY

SPACE EXPLORERS: THE INFINITE, Stanley Marketplace, Aurora, through May 5

“EMMA,” Buell Theatre, Denver, through May 5

“NOISES OFF,” Arvada Center, through May 5

“WHERE DID WE SIT ON THE BUS,” Singleton Theatre, Denver, through June 2

TWO FRIENDS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 1

MUSIC & BLOSSOM FEST, Cañon City, May 1-5

SERIESFEST, various locations, Denver, May 1-5

TREVOR NOAH, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 2

“SAM & DELILAH,” Wonderbound Dance Company, Denver, May 2-12

JASON ISBELL AND THE 400 UNIT, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 3

KNOWER, Fox Theatre, Boulder, May 3

AARON WATSON, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 3

SAM BUSH, Boulder Theater, May 3

“THE CHER SHOW,” Buell Theatre, Denver, May 3-5

“THE LEHMAN TRILOGY,” Kilstrom Theatre, Denver, May 3-June 2

LISTEN TO YOUR MOTHER, Boulder Theater, May 4

CANDY, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 4

MERSIV, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 4

START MAKING SENSE: TALKING HEADS TRIBUTE, Fox Theatre, Boulder, May 4

BALLET DURANGO, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, May 4

CINCO DE MAYO, Civic Center Park, Denver, May 4-5

OPERA COLORADO: “SAMSON AND DELILAH,” Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver, May 4-12

CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE WITH THE BOULDER PHILHARMONIC, Lone Tree Arts Center, May 5

MANNEQUIN PUSSY, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 5

YO-YO MA WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, May 5

HIPPO CAMPUS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 6

PAINT, SIP, SAFARI, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, May 7

SHANE SMITH & THE SAINTS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 7

HIPPIE SABOTAGE, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 8

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB, Boulder Theater, May 8

HAMI, Fox Theatre, Boulder, May 8

ADAM ANT, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 8

ALVVAYS, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 9

STEEL PULSE, Boulder Theater, May 9

FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC PRESENTS LES VIOLONS DU ROY WITH MILOŠ ON GUITAR, Newman Center, Denver, May 9

CLOSE TO YOU: THE MUSIC OF THE CARPENTERS, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, May 9

TASTE OF THE WEST

The Taste of the West culinary festival is coming to the Foothills Fieldhouse in west Denver on June 6. Attendees

SHEELA BRINGI, Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder, May 9

MARCHFOURTH WITH HIGH STEP SOCIETY, Animas City Theatre, Durango, May 9

TURNPIKE TROUBADOURS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 9-10

DOUBLE LEGENDS, Union Colony Civic Center, Greeley, May 10

BRUCE COCKBURN, Boulder Theater, May 10

STILL THE SAME: BOB SEGER TRIBUTE, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 10

OCTAVE CAT, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 10

THE MUSIC OF THE ROLLING STONES, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 10-11

COLORADO SYMPHONY: BRAHMS

SYMPHONY NO. 3, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, May 10-12

LONE TREE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS VIVA L'ITALIA!, Lone Tree Arts Center, May 10

MASON RAMSEY, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 11

12 HOURS OF MESA VERDE ENDURANCE

MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE, Montezuma County Fairgrounds, Cortez, May 11

VEGAN BREWFEST DENVER, 14er Brewing, Denver, May 11

BLACK COFFEE, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 11

TITO PUENTE, JR., Lone Tree Arts Center, May 11 FORT COLLINS SYMPHONY: RESPLENDENT

RACHMANINOFF — PIANO CONCERTO NO. 2, Lincoln Center, May 11

can sample food and drinks from more than 80 restaurants, breweries, distilleries, wineries and more westmetrochamber.org/tasteofthewest

SOLO: A SHOW ABOUT FRIENDSHIP, Bug Theatre, Denver, May 11

SOCO COLLAB FROST FEST, Bear Creek

Regional Park, Colorado Springs, May 11

“BLUEY’S BIG PLAY,” Buell Theatre, Denver, May 11-12

TITO PUENTE, JR., Wheeler Opera House, Aspen, May 12

SLEEP TOKEN, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 12

FRIENDS OF CHAMBER MUSIC PRESENTS MUSIC IN THE GALLERIES WITH GREGORY WALKER ON VIOLIN, Clyfford Still Museum, Denver, May 12

SAN JUAN SYMPHONY, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, May 12

GARY CLARK JR., Red Rocks, Morrison, May 13

THE PIANO GUYS, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 14

ILLENIUM, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 14

MAD CADDIES, Black Sheep, Colorado Springs, May 15

THE PIANO GUYS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 15

X AMBASSADORS, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 15

UTE MOUNTAIN MESA VERDE BIRDING FESTIVAL, Cortez, May 15-19

FOLSOM ‘68, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, May 16

THE 719 PLAYLIST, Pueblo Memorial Hall, May 17

SOFAKILLERS!, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 17

26 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
Photo courtesy of Taste of the West

LOCAL NATIVES, Boulder Theater, May 17

BIG BUBBLE RAVE, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 17

WALK MS, Acacia Park, Colorado Springs, May 18

GABRIEL IGLESIAS, Ball Arena, Denver, May 18

SAN JUAN SYMPHONY, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, May 18

BIG BUBBLE LOVE, Fox Theatre, Boulder, May 18

GREELEY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA, Union Colony Civic Center, Greeley, May 18

THE CJRO: “SWING, SWING, SWING: BENNY AND BEYOND,” Arvada Center, May 18

GANJA WHITE NIGHT, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 18

GRAND VALLEY RIVER FEST, Las Colonias Park, Grand Junction, May 18

COLORADO SPRINGS RECORD SHOW, Antlers Hotel, May 18

CHALK LINES AND VINES, Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, Aurora, May 18-19

NEW WORLD SYMPHONY, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 18-19

RUN TO THE SHRINE, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Fort Collins, May 18-19

SCHOOL OF ROCK: EQUINOX FEST, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 18-19

COLORADO SYMPHONY: A SEA SYMPHONY WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY

CHORUS, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, May 18-19

DENVER COLFAX MARATHON, Empower Field, May 18-19

GARDEN OF THE GODS, Rock Ledge Ranch, Colorado Springs, May 18-19

RICK SPRINGFIELD, Union Colony Civic Center, Greeley, May 19

IDLES, Boulder Theater, May 19

NEEDTOBREATHE, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 19

BLEACHERS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 20

MELANIE MARTINEZ, Ball Arena, Denver, May 21

RILEY GREEN, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 21

PAINT, SIP, SAFARI, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, May 22

MADBALL, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 22

DENVER BACON AND BEER CLASSIC, Kennedy Golf Course, Denver, May 22

THE POLISH AMBASSADOR, Animas City Theatre, Durango, May 22-23

“COMPANY,” Buell Theatre, Denver, May 22-June 2

HAVOC, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 23

SUBTRONICS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 23-24

THE LONG RUN, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 24

THE BUTTERTONES, Aggie, Fort Collins, May 24

DENVER ARTS FESTIVAL, Conservatory Green at Central Park, May 24-25

Email your upcoming event listings to joe@thirstcolorado.com. And check venue and event websites for updates.

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 27
Special ticketed craft beer event at the Arapahoe County Fair PARTICIPATING BREWERIES (subject to change) Join us for Craft Beer and Endless Summer FUN! COLORADO XPERIENCE 2024 SPONSORS AND PARTNERS : Add on a Fair ticket – think fireworks, funnel cakes, unlimited rides – and make it a whole night! 6:30–9:30 p.m. Friday, July 26, 2024
County Fairgrounds and Event Center 25690 E. Quincy Ave., Aurora 80016
will sell
1428 Miner St • Idaho Springs, CO 720-432-0133
winning, local mead in the heart of a delightful mountain town. Stop by our tasting room for samples or sip a glass in the mead garden. Enjoy the adjacent Miner Street Market and strains of live music. The Mead Garden is open May-October.
Arapahoe
Tickets: $25,
out fast www.arapahoecountyfair.com
slaymakercellars.com Award

COLORADO SYMPHONY: AN ALPINE SYMPHONY WITH PETER OUNDJIAN, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, May 24-26

VAIL COMEDY FESTIVAL, various locations, May 24-26

MEADOWGRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL, La Foret Conference & Retreat Center, Black Forest, May 24-26

SPRINGFREE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL, Vail Village, May 24-26

BOULDER CREEK FESTIVAL, downtown Boulder, May 24-27

GIRL IN RED, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 25

THE BUTTERTONES, Fox Theatre, Boulder, May 25

THE BUTTERTONES, Fox Theatre, Boulder, May 25

OPIE GONE BAD, Gothic Theatre, Englewood, May 25

CELTIC WOMAN, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 25

THE GRAWLIX, Bug Theatre, Denver, May 25

COLORADO FLOYD: PINK FLOYD TRIBUTE, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 25

THROUGH THE GARDEN GATES EXHIBIT, Lakewood Arts Gallery, May 25-June 28

PICKIN’ IN THE ROCKIES, Loma, May 26

A BOOGIE WIT DA HOODIE, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 26

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, May 26

FREAK TRAIN, Bug Theatre, Denver, May 27

MAGGIE ROGERS, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 27-28

WEDNESDAY, Gothic Theatre, Englewood, May 28

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD, Belly Up, Aspen, May 29

THE SADIES, Animas City Theatre, Durango, May 29

TESLA, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 29

LORD HURON, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 29-30

CEDRIC BURNSIDE, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 30

CREED FISHER, Boot Barn Hall, Colorado Springs, May 30

LAKEWOOD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, Lakewood Cultural Center, May 30

GOLDENGRASS, New Terrain Brewing, Golden, May 30-June 2

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD, Red Rocks, Morrison, May 31

LEANNE MORGAN, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, May 31

WHITEY MORGAN, Gothic Theatre, Englewood, May 31

ASH REDHORSE, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, May 31

GREELEY BLUES JAM, Island Grove Regional Park, Greeley, May 31-June 1

SALAMANDER FEST, Talking Rocks, Hesperus, May 31-June 2

TELLURIDE BALLOON FESTIVAL, Main Street, May 31-June 2

28 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
Featuring VIP Band

JUNE

MANITOU SPRINGS WINE FESTIVAL, Memorial Park, June 1

NO SENSE, NO SENSIBILITY, Henry Studio Theatre, Siverthorne, June 1

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD, Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder, June 1

JOE RUSSO’S ALMOST DEAD, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 1

OUTSIDE FESTIVAL, Civic Center Park, Denver, June 1-2

719 BATTLE OF THE FOOD TRUCKS, Meanwhile Block, Colorado Springs, June 2

JAMES TAYLOR AND HIS ALL-STAR BAND, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 2-3

SAN JUAN SYMPHONY, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, June 3-8

BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, June 4

ALL TIME LOW, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 4

IAN MUNSICK, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 5

TASTE OF THE WEST, Foothills Fieldhouse, Denver, June 6

BRIT FLOYD, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 6

UTE MOUNTAIN ROUNDUP PRCA RODEO, Cortez, June 6-8

MOUNTAINS OF MUSIC, various locations, Vail, June 6-9

SARAH MCLACHLAN, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 7

BRIAN REGAN, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 7

TREVOR HALL, Boulder Theater, June 7

JMSN, AGGIE THEATRE, FORT COLLINS, JUNE 7

REGENERATE FESTIVAL, Civic Center Park, Denver, June 7-8

“THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE,” Lakewood Cultural Center, June 7-23

THE WILD ANIMAL SANCTUARY’S INTO THE WILD RUNNING FESTIVAL, Kennesburg, June 8

PIKES PEAK PRIDE FESTIVAL, Alamo Square Park, Colorado Springs, June 8-9

DUDE DAD, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 8

MICHAEL PALASCAK, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, June 8

BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 8

NIKKI GLASER, Boulder Theater, June 8

FEAST OF SAINT ARNOLD, Chapel of Our Savior, Colorado Springs, June 8

SNOWMASS RENDEZVOUS, Snowmass, June 8

AN R-RATED MAGIC SHOW, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 9

“MACBETH” AT THE COLORADO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, Roe Green Theatre, June 8-Aug 11

TREVOR HALL WITH THE COLORADO

SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 9

DURANGO COWBOY GATHERING BARN

DANCE, River Bend Ranch, Durango, Jun 9

WHISKEY MYERS, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 12-13

“BROADWAY’S NEXT HIT MUSICAL,” Garner Galleria Theatre, Denver, June 12-30

RUNAWAY GIN - A TRIBUTE TO PHISH, Fox Theatre, Boulder, June 13

STEVE MARTIN AND MARTIN SHORT, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 14

PALISADE BLUEGRASS & ROOTS FESTIVAL, Riverbend Park, June 14-16

SOUTHERN COLORADO JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL, America the Beautiful Park, Colorado Springs, June 14-16

TELLURIDE FOOD + VINE, June 14-16

ASPEN FOOD & WINE CLASSIC, various locations, June 14-16

BELGIAN BREW FEST, Bruz Beers, Denver, June 15

SUMMER BREW FEST, Mile High Station, Denver, June 15

DYLAN KISHNER BAND, Fox Theatre, Boulder, June 15

AN EVENING WITH LEE HARRIS, Boulder Theater, June 15

CENTRAL PARK BEER FEST, South Green, Denver, June 15

MATT MAESON, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, June 15

UMPHREY’S MCGEE, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 15

LAKE DILLON BEER FESTIVAL, Lake Dillon Amphitheater, Jun 15

JUNETEENTH MUSIC FESTIVAL, Five Points neighborhood, Denver, June 15-16

KALEO, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 16

RUNAWAY GIN, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, June 16

PARCELS, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 17

KEVIN GATES, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 18

GOGO PENGUIN, Boulder Theater, June 19

CELTIC THRONE, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 19

DISNEY’S “FROZEN,” Buell Theatre, Denver, June 19-July 3

CAVETOWN AND MOTHER MOTHER, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 20

TOMMY EMMANUEL, Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder, June 20

before it's another sellout! Buy your tickets

ROLLING STONES, Empower Field, Denver, June 20

COUNTRY JAM, Grand Junction, June 20-22

TELLURIDE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL, Telluride Town Park, June 20-23

JAS JUNE EXPERIENCE, downtown Aspen, June 20-23

OURAY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, various locations, June 20-23

BRAVO! VAIL MUSIC FESTIVAL, various locations, Vail, June 20 to Aug 1

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY, Lone Tree Arts Center, June 21

WIDESPREAD PANIC, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 21-23

EDGEWATER MUSIC FESTIVAL, Citizens' Park, Edgewater, June 22 LAKEWOOD ARTS GARDEN TOUR, Lakewood Arts Gallery, June 22

30 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
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HIGHLANDS RANCH BEER FESTIVAL, Civic Green Park, June 22
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August 24, 2024 get $5 off Presenting Sponsors: Raising funds for Nederland Area Seniors
Saturday

STEPHEN WILSON JR., Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, June 22

DENVER PRIDE FESTIVAL, June 22-23

ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL, various locations, Aspen, June 26-Aug 18

BACON & BOURBON FESTIVAL, Warren Station, Keystone, June 22

RUMORS: FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 22

STRINGS MUSIC FESTIVAL, Steamboat Strings Music Pavilion, June 22-Aug 3

COLORADO WINE WALK, The Exchange, Fort Collins, June 23

THE REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, June 23

PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMB, Colorado Springs, June 23

MOUNTAINFILM DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL, various locations, Telluride, May 23-27

ASPEN IDEAS FESTIVAL, various locations, June 23-29

FREAK TRAIN, Bug Theatre, Denver, June 24

RYAN BINGHAM, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 25

DURANGO PLAYFEST, various locations, June 25-30

STOP LIGHT OBSERVATIONS, Fox Theatre, Boulder, June 26

THIRD EYE BLIND, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 26

ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL, various locations, June 26-Aug 18

GA-20, Animas City Theatre, Durango, June 27

KEVIN JAMES, PIKES PEAK CENTER, Colorado Springs, June 27

DIANA ROSS, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 27

THE MAGIC OF ADAM TRENT, Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder, June 27

TELLURIDE YOGA FESTIVAL, Mountain Village, June 27-30

DAMIAN “JR. GONG” MARLEY & STEPHEN MARLEY WITH THE COLORADO

SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 28

THE MAGIC OF ADAM TRENT, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 28

SESAME STREET LIVE, Pueblo Memorial Hall, June 28

YARMONY MUSIC FESTIVAL, Rancho Del Rio, Bond, June 28-29

BLUES FROM THE TOP FESTIVAL, Rendezvous Event Center, Winter Park, June 28- 30

STARS & GUITARS FESTIVAL, Keystone, June 29

COLORADO LAVENDER FESTIVAL, Riverbend Park, Palisade, June 29

TOMMY JAMES & THE SHONDELLS, Pikes Peak Center, Colorado Springs, June 29

THE GRAWLIX, Bug Theatre, Denver, June 29

ENDLESS SUNSHINE FESTIVAL, Civic Center Park, Denver, June 29

CENTRAL CITY OPERA FESTIVAL, Central City Opera House, June 29-Aug 4

NAS WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, June 30

ANDY FRASCO & THE U.N., Animas City Theatre, Durango, June 30

RIDGWAY FETE DE LA MUSIQUE, June 30

TELLURIDE PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL, various locations, June 30-July 6.

JULY

DEADROCKS X WITH ZEDS DEAD, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 2-3

BLUES TRAVELER, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 4

THE AVETT BROTHERS, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 5-7

COLORADO MUSIC FESTIVAL, Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder, July 5-Aug 4

COLORADO SYMPHONY: MOZART UNDER MOONLIGHT, Arvada Center Outdoor Amphitheatre, Arvada, July 6

DARK STAR ORCHESTRA, Boulder Theater, July 6

SPOON BENDERS, Aggie, Fort Collins, July 9

COLORADO SYMPHONY: MOZART AT MCGREGOR SQUARE, Denver, July 10

MOUNTAIN GRASS UNIT, Aggie Theatre, Fort Collins, July 10

“THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR” AT THE COLORADO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, Roe Green Theatre, July 6-Aug 11

OLD GODS OF APPALACHIA, Boulder Theater, July 11

MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College, Durango, July 11-Aug 4

COLORADO WHISKEY FESTIVAL, Douglas County Fairgrounds, Castle Rock, July 13

WINE & JAZZ FESTIVAL, River Run Village, Keystone, July 13

PALLBEARER, Gothic Theatre, Englewood, July 13

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 31

COLORADO SYMPHONY: BEETHOVEN AND BREWS AT THE ‘PLEX, Denver Performing Arts Complex, July 13

CASTLE ROCK WINEFEST, Bison Park, July 15

THE SECOND CITY: COMEDIAN RHAPSODY, Garner Galleria Theatre, July 17-Aug 11

TASTE OF PIKES PEAK, Park Union, Colorado Springs, July 18

YAMPA RIVER REGGAE FESTIVAL, Loudy-Simpson Park, Craig, July 20

STS9, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 20

PUNK IN DRUBLIC FEAT. NOFX, National Western Center, Denver, July 20-21

LAKE STREET DIVE WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 21

A DAY TO REMEMBER, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 22

JXDN, Gothic Theatre, Englewood, July 22

NORAH JONES, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 23

STICK FIGURE, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 24-25

“WICKED,” Buell Theatre, Denver, July 24-Aug 25

ARAPAHOE COUNTY FAIR, Aurora, July 25-28

RIVER RUN ART FESTIVAL, Warren Station, Keystone, July 26

COLORADO SYMPHONY, Arvada Center Outdoor Amphitheatre, Arvada, July 26

TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 26-27

ROCKYGRASS FESTIVAL 2024, Planet Bluegrass, Lyons, July 26-28

RIVER RUN VILLAGE ART FESTIVAL, Keystone, July 26-28

ORPHEUS MEADFEST, Jefferson Unitarian Church, Golden, July 27

CHEESMAN PARK ART FEST, Denver, July 27-28

JASON MRAZ WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 28

“ARDEN OF FAVERSHAM” AT THE COLORADO SHAKESPEARE

FESTIVAL, Roe Green Theatre, July 28

SANTANA & COUNTING CROWS, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 29-30

THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS, Red Rocks, Morrison, July 31

June 22, 2024

32 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
2pm - 10pm
May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 33 taste the best of the west! Thursday, June 6 | 5:00 - 8:00 PM Foothills Fieldhouse, 3606 S. Independence St., Denver at Taste of the West 2024 in partnership with Tickets on sale now! Use code THIRST2024 for $5 off GA tickets through May 10 westmetrochamber.org/tasteofthewest It’s free for food and beverage vendors to participate - Sign up online! Top Taste Sponsor

With warmer months ahead, we asked Colorado distilleries to share some delicious cocktail recipes using their handcrafted spirits. But these recipes take it a step further by also utilizing at least one other locally sourced ingredient, such as tea, honey, herbs or bitters.

ULTRA-LOCAL SUMMERTIME

Zest for Life

Talnua Distillery

2 oz Talnua Continuum Cask

Single Pot Still Whiskey

½ oz Pimm’s Liqueur

1 bar spoon Golden Moon Ex Gratia Liqueur

3 dashes Strongwater Aromatic Bitter

3/4 oz agave syrup*

1/8 wedge grapefruit

Sprig of rosemary

*To make agave syrup: Combine 2 parts agave nectar with 1 part water.

Muddle rosemary in the bottom of a shaker tin, squeeze in grapefruit (along with the wedge itself). Add whiskey, Pimm’s Liqueur and agave syrup. Shake for 20 seconds. Strain over a large ice cube and float the bar spoon of Golden Moon Ex Gratia over top. Garnish with a rosemary sprig.

Colorado Sunset Spritz

Root Shoot Spirits

1½ oz Root Shoot Single Malt Whiskey

3/4 oz Giffard Rhubarb Liqueur

3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

½ oz Local Hive honey simple syrup (1:1 water ratio)

4 dashes Strongwater orange bitters

2 oz Strongwater Indian Tonic Water

1 oz cranberry juice

Mix the spritz in a white wine glass. Muddle the mint leaves with the back of a bar spoon and add honey and simple syrup. Then add the orange bitters, fresh lemon juice, rhubarb liqueur and Root Shoot Whiskey. Stir with ice and tonic water and top it off with cranberry juice and garnish. (Recipe by Social in Fort Collins).

Spicy Green Goddess

Syntax Distillery and Cocktail Bar

½ inch thick slice of cucumber, diced (English variety is best)

Several sprigs of Colorado-grown fresh thyme

1 small (about ½ inch long) Thai pepper, thinly sliced

3/4 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice

3/4 oz simple syrup (can adjust to taste)

1½ oz Syntax Rose Gin

In a shaker, muddle cucumber, thyme and pepper. Add lemon juice, simple syrup (can adjust to taste) and gin. Shake with a scoop of crushed ice and pour into a tall glass. Fill with club soda and garnish with a slice of cucumber.

34 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
Photo by Jeff Copeland Photo by Chris Sage Photo courtesy of Root Shoot Malting

SUMMERTIME COCKTAILS

The Grey Lady Stranahan’s

1 ½ oz Stranahan’s Original

1 oz Lady Grey’s Garden Earl Grey Tea (from The Boulder Tea Company)

½ oz plum, cardamom or ginger syrup

½ oz lemon juice

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker and shake over ice.

Double strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass. Garnish with a dried lemon wheel and edible flowers.

Strawberry Fields

Breckenridge Distillery

1½ oz. Breckenridge Vodka

1 oz strawberry hibiscus syrup*

½ oz. lemon juice

Strongwater Grapefruit Soda Strawberry for garnish

*To make strawberry hibiscus syrup: Over medium heat, add 16 oz quartered strawberries, 3 Tbsp dried hibiscus, 2 cups water, ½ cup raw sugar and ½ cup monk fruit sweetener. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Muddle strawberries with all ingredients. Let cool, strain, bottle and refrigerate.

Shake vodka, strawberry hibiscus syrup and lemon juice with ice. Strain and serve over ice. Top with grapefruit soda and garnish with a strawberry.

Matcha Gin Sour

Spring44 Distilling

2 oz Spring44 Gin

1/4 tsp Happy Lucky’s Matcha Café

Blend powder

1 tbsp hot water

3/4 oz lemon juice

2 oz simple syrup

1 egg white

Whisk the matcha powder and water well, until smooth and let cool. Dry shake all ingredients for 30 seconds. Add ice and shake until chilled. Strain into a coupe glass, dust with matcha powder and enjoy.

The Vette

Copper Sky Distillery

2 oz Copper Sky Low Rye Bourbon

1 oz orange liqueur

1½ oz grapefruit juice

½ oz Bill’s Bees local honey

Orange peel for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously with ice, then double strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an expressed orange peel.

Photo by Lex Suiter Photo by Abbie Downes Photo courtesy of Stranahan’s Photo courtesy of Breckenridge Distillery
May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 35
Kristen Kuchar is a freelance writer covering food, libations, music and other Colorado gatherings.

AND THE LATIN GRAMMY GOES TO...

PUNKERS’ UNDER-THE-RADAR STUDIO

Most people think of Los Angeles, New York City or Nashville when it comes to Grammy award-winning recording studios. However, there is one such studio tucked away in an inauspicious building in Fort Collins. Just a couple miles from Old Town sits a small recording studio called The Blasting Room that is making a big name for itself.

The Blasting Room was started by members of the punk bands Descendents, ALL, and Black Flag to record their albums. But soon the word got out, and bands from all around the world started coming to Fort Collins to record.

Famed bands including NOFX, Alkaline Trio, Hot Water Music, The Lemonheads, A Day to Remember, Less than Jake, Rise Against, and many more have been through the halls of The Blasting Room.

Adding to the already sterling resume, recently Blasting Room co-owner and producer Jason Livermore won a Latin Grammy for his work on the Best Rock Album “Sólo D’Lira” by Mexico City band Molotov.

“The Blasting Room was started by musicians for musicians. Everyone here is either in a band or has played in bands,” said Livermore, a former drummer. “We understand the band dynamics and what people are looking for.”

Livermore and Descendents drummer Bill Stevenson launched The Blasting Room in 1994, which started as a one-room studio. Today it has grown to three full working rooms, a full mastering suite, and editing suites. The studio employs six engineers and a full-time technician.

The Blasting Room is a one-stop-shop for bands looking to record, as the studio has all the equipment a band needs including 10 drum sets, 20 guitar amps, and multiple guitars and basses. Bands can even stay at the studio when recording.

While Livermore has been working with top-tier bands for years, this is the first Grammy he has won, and it is garnering more business for the Colorado studio. The award was handed out in Seville, Spain, in November and while he was unable to attend the ceremony in person, Livermore watched online and was thrilled to see the album he helped bring to life win the prestigious award.

Livermore started playing drums at an early age. However, after going into the studio for the first time to record a demo, he fell in love with the recording process. He worked his way up from recording with a 4-track to an 8-track and eventually, he quit his day job as a beer salesman to start at The Blasting Room. His time behind the boards and working with Stevenson paid off with a Grammy.

“I have learned the world about music and recording from him. He is one of, if not the best punk rock drummer of all time, so it is always amazing getting to work on one of his projects,” Livermore said.

Livermore recently wrapped up working on an EP for the ska-punk band, Less Than Jake, and he has several other projects on the horizon.

David Young is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins who specializes in beer, whiskey and outdoor writing. David has been published in SKI Magazine, GearJunkie, 5280 Magazine, USA Today, and The Denver Post. Learn more at davidyoungcommunications.com.

36 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 37
Photos courtesy of The Blasting Room

Through the Garden Gate

Saturday, June 22, 2024

8:00 am to 2:30 pm

Advance Tickets on Sale

Monday, April 20, 2024: $25

Onsite Tickets June 22nd: $30

Juried Exhibit

May 25-June 28, 2024

38 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024 We’re here for you this season and all year long. Insect & disease treatment • Tree planting • Local mulch Tree and shrub pruning • Tree removal • Stump grinding • Tree preservation taddikentree.com 303.554.7035 hello@taddikentree.com Garden
Lakewood Arts Tour

725 MANITOU AVE | 719.282.7709 | MANITOU BREWING.COM

Osaic Institutions, Inc. located at Bellco Credit Union branches

Convenient access to a variety of investment services located right at your local branch.

Colfax & I-225 • Havana & Mississippi

9th & Colorado Blvd. • Grand Junction • Clifton 303-367-9768 Financial Clarity

Michael Mullen, CFP®, CRPS®, CRPC® Executive Financial Advisor Osaic Institutions, Inc. mmullen.bcufinancial@bellco.org

Justin Parks Financial Advisor Osaic Institutions, Inc. jparks.bcufinancial@bellco.org

Investment and insurance products and services are offered through OSAIC INSTITUTIONS, INC., Member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Institutions and Bellco Credit Union (“Bellco”) are not affiliated. Products and services made available through Osaic Institutions are not insured by the NCUA or any other agency of the United States and are not deposits or obligations of nor guaranteed or insured by any credit union or credit union affiliate. These products are subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of principal. The past performance of any investment product should not be considered an indication of future results. Insurance products may be purchased from a producer of your choice without affecting your relationship with Bellco. Bellco has contracted with Osaic Institutions to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members.

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 39
WINE • SPIRITS •
• SELTZER
BEER BREWED ON SITE 18 BEER TAPS
CIDER
ALL DAY FOOD MENU GLUTEN FREE & VEGETARIAN OPTIONS DOG FRIENDLY PATIO
& Direction FROM A TEAM YOU CAN TRUST

A TRAIL LIKE NO OTHER Wilderness on Wheels provides all abilities access to the backcountry

Colorado is known for its beautiful scenery and active people who enjoy the outdoors in multiple ways. While some of the most scenic regions of the state lie among rugged landscapes where access is limited to some folks, Wilderness on Wheels (WOW) offers an amazing outdoor experience for people of all ages and physical capabilities.

Located in the Pike National Forest near the town of Grant, Wilderness on Wheels is a non-profit organization that features an 8-foot-wide boardwalk that stretches nearly a mile and rises to more than 9,000 feet in elevation. Similar to other hiking hotspots in the national forest, visitors are treated to the fresh scent of pine and aspen trees, the peaceful trickle of a mountain stream and views of the valley and towering mountains at the boardwalk’s summit.

Everyone is welcome to visit Wilderness on Wheels, but as the name suggests, it was made especially for those using wheelchairs. Roger West envisioned the project more than three decades ago after seeing his father, an avid outdoorsman, become reliant on a wheelchair. West couldn’t stop wondering how outdoorsy people struck with a disability could continue to get out into the mountains and visit the places they love most.

So, with the help of thousands of volunteer hours of labor and donations to fund the project, construction on the boardwalk

began in 1986. Building the same structure on flat ground would have been a challenge, but going through the forest and up a mountainside made it a task that took years to finish.

Ever since its completion, the boardwalk has been visited by people of varying abilities along with their friends, family and caregivers year after year. Over time the site expanded to include a stocked fishing pond along with a campsite, huts and two cabins for visitors to reserve and spend the night if they choose. Despite only being open from Memorial Day until October, it’s estimated that more than 1,000 people visit each season and the joy that some of them experience is unparalleled.

“Hearing a 5-year-old girl squeal when she caught her first fish, a rainbow trout, is a sound I’ll never forget,” says Alison Kessler, president of Wilderness on Wheels. “We also had a 35-year-old come last summer that said it was her first night being independent away from her parents, but WOW provided all the safety and predictability she needed for that freedom.”

Kessler has served as the president for eight years and knows how difficult it can be to adjust to life using a wheelchair. When she was 26, she was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks nerves and can bring on a variety of severe symptoms including paralysis. Even though most people can make a full recovery, it caused Kessler to be temporarily reliant on a wheelchair, and she learned

40 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
Photos courtesy of Wilderness on Wheels

that many public places are not very accommodating. After the experience, she wanted to give back and Wilderness on Wheels was the perfect fit. This mountain getaway was created specifically with disabled needs in mind, and it’s a Colorado gem that Kessler is proud to be a part of.

For visitor Brian Davis, it’s a great escape. “Opportunities for disabled people to experience hiking, camping and fishing in the forest are few and far between,” Davis says. “WOW offers just that, and the caretakers are wonderful at making everyone feel at home in the process. Our favorite aspect of camping at WOW is the solitude and isolation from the hubbub of daily living. Without internet access, life can slow down and allow us to enjoy the flow of nature, as the wind, rain, sun and temperature vary in their unique ways. At different times of the summer season, we can experience the emergence of wildflowers, hawks, hummingbirds, deer, and other wildlife, as well.”

While the extreme accessibility of Wilderness on Wheels is special because it allows people to achieve some independence in the backcountry, there are also other ways that they can experience the outdoors in Colorado. For example, Staunton State Park has a track-chair program in which disabled visitors can ride a specialized wheelchair through some of the park’s trails.

Another option is the Lockwood Foundation – where those with limited mobility can traverse difficult trails – with the help

of technology and a little volunteer muscle. The foundation, established in 2018 by Jeffrey Lockwood, also hosts several hikes throughout the state, including a yearly extreme hike that has allowed disabled individuals to summit Mt. Elbert, Colorado’s highest peak.

It’s great to see organizations prioritizing accessibility regarding the outdoors. Roger West passed away in 2016, but Wilderness on Wheels has brought an unimaginable amount of joy to thousands of lives and will continue to do so.

Living in Colorado and being able to explore the outdoors is a luxury that everyone deserves access to. Those who are interested in helping Wilderness on Wheels can do so by donating or volunteering. Volunteers are vital to the organization and it’s a great way to give back to the community, spread joy and protect a mountain treasure.

Jay McKinney grew up in Sedalia and graduated from the Metropolitan State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications. During his free time, he enjoys playing golf, shooting pool and hiking throughout Colorado and neighboring Utah.

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 41

HERE’S WHY TOUCAN SAM WAS SECRETLY A GREAT POT SHAMAN Different types of cannabis suit different experiences and people. Here’s how to find your sweet spot

42 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024
Joshua Resnik - stock.adobe.com

For a three-year period of my life that was almost completely drama-free, I used to really enjoy a good, paranoid high. I would walk along the unlit, creekside walking paths that weaved through the neighborhood, take a few hits of Island Sweet Skunk, and try to tune in to my heartbeat, the muscles behind my eyes, and any prickling sensations of my scalp and hands. If you have both good mental health and comfortable circumstances, a paranoid high can be strangely pleasurable.

But most of the time, people want to avoid that. If you want a specific type of high, whether it’s relaxing, energizing, or serves a therapeutic purpose, it can be daunting to choose the right approach. Edible or smoke? Concentrate or flower? Indica or sativa? And so forth.

There are a couple of good, honest cannabis PR and marketing agencies out there, who see journalistic integrity as a part of marketing. But there’s also a lot of contradictory and misleading information from marketers and even seemingly objective sources.

What’s the best tool you have to navigate confusing and conflicting information about marijuana? Cross your eyes. Seriously, just take a moment to cross your eyes. Yep – there it is. Read on and I’ll tell ya how to use that nose.

WHY WE GET HIGH

When any intoxicating substance comes up, the quality of the user experience tends to take a back seat to how impaired it makes people. This brings up a point that is both philosophical and pragmatic: deep down, people care less about how high they get than about the quality of their experience. And we use substances, basically, for two reasons: levity and relief. We either want to subdue something unpleasant (rumination, anxiety, physical pain, etc.) or we want to elevate something pleasant, such as a recreational experience, creative pursuit, or social occasion.

This might seem academic, but there’s no getting around it if you want to …

GET HIGH LIKE A CHAMPION

The point of the “why” discussion is to make the case to check in with yourself before you get high. Checking in takes two forms.

Ask yourself why: “I’m getting high because I’m going to a concert and I think it will enhance the musical experience” is a very different answer than, “I’m getting high because I had a stressful week and need to mentally reset.”

This is why I opened up by discussing how I used to enjoy paranoid highs. What’s going to work best for you is situation specific. Indicas are generally relaxing; sativas are generally uplifting, but a little more likely to make you paranoid. This introspective check-in may also help you recognize if you’re just getting high for the wrong reasons and identify a better way of dealing with a situation.

Identify your bodily sensations, particularly where you’re holding tension and the quality of your breath. Basic mindfulness

techniques go beyond the scope of this discussion, but tuning in and naming your bodily sensations can be a very effective way to curb anxiety.

TRUST YOUR NOSE. LITERALLY

Trust your instincts, specifically your sense of smell.

As with food, your likelihood of having a positive experience is strongly related to whether you enjoy the smell of your weed.

This is not superficial or arbitrary. Terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its scent and flavor, have literal effects on the mind and body. Terpenes smell familiar to us because they’re common in nature: Think of lavender, citrus fruits, pine trees, and black pepper.

The terpenes that give those things their appealing odor are also common in weed. You may not specifically, consciously recognize these odors in cannabis, or how they affect your mood. But you’ve been exposed to them over your life, and your affinity for them is influenced by intuition.

This isn’t to say that your sense of smell should negate considerations like budtender advice, user reviews, THC potency, or category (sativa, indica, hybrid). Your nose might not help you distinguish a high-energy, creative strain from a sedating strain that will help you get eight hours of restorative sleep. But if you’re going to smoke something, it should smell good – not just objectively, but to you.

THERE’S NO PARTY LIKE A THIRD PARTY

Another way to get insights into strain characteristics that are (relatively) independent of marketing claims is to read Leafly reviews, which is basically Yelp for cannabis. While different factors, such as the reputation of the dispensary, influence whether the strain you’re buying is actually consistent with the label, Leafly reviews aggregate feedback from multiple users and provides you an educated guess about how a given strain will affect you.

There’s a lot of misinformation about cannabis’ therapeutic properties, including its impact on sleep, which is complex. For quick, accurate answers with little nuance, webmd.com is a better resource than your chiropractor’s blog. But informationisbeautiful.net has done better, compiling a lot of the research and presenting it in an appealing format with links to research papers.

Finally, some cliches are cliches for good reason: they’re valid and valuable. The golden rule of cannabis consumption is one such cliche: start low and go slow.

But if you think that’s no fun, now you know, it’s not the only mantra out there to get high like a champion. Let Toucan Sam be your pot shaman: Follow Your Nose!

John Garvey is a storyteller, freelance writer, illustrator, and nerd. You can see more of his creative ventures at clippings.me/johngarvey and CreativeFollies.com.

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 43

LIBATIONS LISTINGS

Crystal Springs Brewing Co

Gravity Brewing

Mother Tucker Brewery ●

S. FRONT RANGE

BierWerks Brewery - Woodland Park ● ●

Crafty Canary Brewery - Walsenburg

Florence Brewing - Florence

Iron Tree Restaurant and Funky Town

Brewing - Florissant ●

Manitou Brewing - Manitou Springs

Mountain Merman Brewing - La Veta

Paradox Beer Co - Divide

World’s End Brewing Co - Cañon City

COLORADO SPRINGS

Atrevida Beer Co ●

Batch Slapped Brewery / Cidery

Battle Mountain Brewing ●

Bell Brothers Brewing

BJ’s ●

Black Forest Brewing Co ●

Brass Brewing Co ●

Bristol Brewing

Cerberus Brewing Co ●

Cogstone Brewing Co

Colorado Mountain Brewery ●

Dueces Wild Brewery ●

Father & Sons Brewery ●

FH Beerworks ●

Fossil Craft Beer Co

Goat Patch Brewing Co

JAKs Brewing Co

Local Relic

Lost Friend Brewing

Mash Mechanix Brewing

Metric Brewing

Nano 108

OCC Brewing

Peaks N Pines Brewing Co

Phantom Canyon

Pikes Peak Brewing Co

Red Leg Brewing

Red Swing Brewhouse

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

Storybook Brewing

Trinity Brewing

Urban Animal Beer Co

Wackadoo Brewing

Whistle Pig Brewing Co

PUEBLO

Brues Alehouse Brewing Co

Reservoir Brewing Co ●

Shamrock Brewing

Walter’s Brewery & Taproom

N. FRONT RANGE

Bulzomi Brewing - Eaton

Timnath Beerwerks - Timnath

ESTES PARK

Avant Garde Aleworks

Estes Park Brewery

Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co

The Post Chicken and Beer

Rock Cut Brewing Co

FORT COLLINS

Anheuser-Busch

BJ’s

Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing

Crooked Stave Brewing

DC Oakes Brewhouse & Eatery

Equinox Brewing

Funkwerks

Gilded Goat Brewing Co

Hello Brewing Co

Horse & Dragon Brewing Co

Intersect Brewing

Jessup Farm Barrel House

Maxline Brewing

Mythmaker Brewing

New Belgium Brewing Co

Obstacle Brewing and Grill

Odell Brewing Co

Peculier Ales

Pitchers Brewery

The Post Chicken and Beer

Prost Brewing Co

Purpose Brewing

Rally King Brewing

Ramskeller Brewery

Salt Road Brewing

Snowbank Brewing

Stodgy Brewing Co

SweetWater Brewery

Zwei Brewing Co

GREELEY

Crabtree Brewing ● ●

Rule 105 Brewing Co ●

Tightknit Brewing Co ● ●

WeldWerks Brewing Co ●

Wiley Roots Brewing Co ●

Yetters Brewing

LOVELAND/BERTHOUD

Berthoud Brewing Co

Big Beaver Brewing Co

Big Thompson Brewery

City Star Brewing

Crooked Beech Brewing Co

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse

Loveland Aleworks

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery

Rock Coast Brewery

Sky Bear Brewery and Pub ●

Verboten Brewing Co

WELLINGTON

Old Colorado Brewing

Sparge Brewing

WINDSOR

High Hops Brewery

Mash Lab Brewing

Mighty River Brewing

Peculier Ales

CENTRAL COLORADO

Browns Canyon Brewing - Buena Vista

Eddyline Brewery - Buena Vista

Elevation Beer Co - Poncha Springs

HighSide Brewing - Fairplay

South Park Brewing Co - Fairplay

T-Road Brewing Company - Crestone

Two Mile Brewing Co - Leadville

SALIDA

Moonlight Pizza & Brewpub

Salida Brewing Co

Soulcraft Brewing

Tres Litros Beer Co

SOUTHWEST

Avalanche Brewing Co - Silverton

Bottom Shelf Brewery - Bayfield

Colorado Boy Brewery - Montrose, Ridgway

Dolores River Brewery - Dolores

Golden Block Brewery - Silverton

Horsefly Brewing Co - Montrose

Lake City Brewing Co - Lake City

Mancos Brewing Co - Mancos

Pomona Brewing Co - Montrose

Silver Basin Brewing - Montrose

Smuggler’s Union Brewpub - Telluride

Spare Keg Brewers - Creede

Stoik Beer Co - Delta

Stronghouse Brew Pub - Telluride

Telluride Brewing Co - Telluride

Three Barrel Brewing Co - Del Norte

CORTEZ

J. Fargo’s Family Dining & Micro Brewery

Main Street Brewery & Restaurant

WildEdge Brewing Collective

DURANGO

Anarchy Brewing

Animas Brewing Co

Carver Brewing Co

High Trestle Brewing

Ska Brewing Co

Steamworks Brewing Co

GUNNISON/CRESTED BUTTE

The Eldo Brewpub & Venue

High Alpine Brewing Co

Irwin Brewing Co

OURAY

Colorado Boy Southwest Pub ●

Ouray Brewery ●

PAGOSA SPRINGS

The Break Room Brewing Co

Riff Raff Brewing ● ●

ALAMOSA

The Colorado Farm Brewery

San Luis Valley Brewing ●

Spare Keg Brewers

PAONIA

Chrysalis Barrel Aged Beer

Paonia United Brewing Co ●

NORTHEAST

Parts & Labor Brewing Co - Sterling ●

Tumbleweed Brewing & Wine - Yuma ●

NORTHWEST

Camber Brewing Co - Fraser

Fraser River Beer Co - Fraser

Grand Adventure Brewing - Kremmling

Never Summer Brewing Co - Granby

Smoking River Brewing Co - Meeker

Vicious Cycle Brewing - Fraser ●

World’s End Brewpub - Grand Lake

Yampa Valley Brewing Co - Hayden

Yampa Valley Taproom - Craig

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill ●

Mountain Tap Brewery ●

Storm Peak Brewing Co

Yampa Valley Taproom

WINTER PARK

Big Trout Brewing ● ● bigtroutbrewing.com

970.363.7362

50 Vasquez Rd

Winter Park

Hideaway Park Brewery

The Noble Buck ●

I-70 CORRIDOR

ASPEN AREA

Aspen Brewing Co ●

Carbondale Beer Works ●

Capitol Creek Brewery ●

Mountain Heart Brewing - Carbondale

Westy's Tap & Tavern ●

CENTRAL CITY/GEORGETOWN/ IDAHO SPRINGS

Cabin Creek Brewing - Georgetown

Dostal Alley Saloon & Gambling

Emporium - Central City

Guanella Pass Brewing - Georgetown, Empire

Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub - Idaho Springs ●

Westbound & Down

Brewing Co - Idaho Springs

EAGLE COUNTY

Craftsman Brew Co- Edwards

Eagle County Brewing Co - Gypsum

Vail Brewing Co - Vail

EVERGREEN

Evergreen Brewery ●

Lariat Lodge Brewing ● ●

Pygmy Stallion Brewing at El Rancho ●

GLENWOOD SPRINGS AREA

Brewzone Rifle ●

Casey Brewing and Blending

Glenwood Canyon Brew Pub

GRAND JUNCTION

Base Camp Beer Works

Edgewater Brewery ●

Foam & Folly Brewing

Gemini Beer Co

Kannah Creek Brewing Co

Mama Ree’s Pizza and Brewhouse ●

Ramblebine Brewing Co ●

The Rockslide Restaurant and Brewery ●

Trail Life Brewing

GRAND MESA AREA

Base Camp Provisions - Fruita

Copper Club Brewing Co - Fruita

Palisade Brewing Co

Suds Brothers Brewery - Fruita

SUMMIT COUNTY

Angry James Brewing - Silverthorne

Breckenridge Brewery & Pub

Broken Compass Brewing - Breck.

Dillon Dam Brewery - Dillon

HighSide Brewing - Breckenridge, Frisco

Outer Range Brewing Co - Frisco

Pug Ryan’s Brewery - Dillon

Steep Brewing & Coffee - Keystone

Syndicate Brewing Co - Silverthorne

DISTRIBUTION ONLY

Backacre Beermakers

Ceria Brewing

Circular Beer

Crow Hop Brewing

Dive Bar Brewing Co

Mad Russian Brewing Co

New Planet Beer

Primitive Beer

Sleeping Giant Brewing

Soul Squared Brewing DISTILLERIES

DENVER/BOULDER

Abbott & Wallace - Longmont

Ballmer

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 45
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52Eighty Distilling - Littleton
Peak Distillery - Lakewood

Bear Creek Distillery - Denver

The Block Distilling Co - Denver

Boulder Spirits by Vapor DistilleryBoulder

Branch & Barrel Distilling - Centennial

Copper Sky Distillery - Longmont

Deki Distillery - Lafayette

Denver Distillery - Denver

Deviation Distilling - Denver

Downslope Distilling - Centennial

Dry Land Distillers - Longmont

DV8 Distillery - Boulder

The Family Jones Spirit House - Denver

Felene Vodka - Denver

Gold Dirt Distillery - Rollinsville

Golden Moon Distillery - Golden

Hogback Distillery - Boulder, Estes Park

J & L Distilling Co - Boulder

Ironton Distillery - Denver

Laws Whiskey House - Denver

Leopold Bros - Denver

Mad Rabbit Distillery - Westminster

Mile High Spirits - Denver

Molly Brown Spirits - Denver

Mystic Mountain Distillery - Littleton

Rising Sun Distillery - Denver

Rocker Spirits - Littleton

Spirit Hound Distillers - Lyons

State 38 Distilling - Golden

Stranahan’s - Denver

Strongwater Spirits & Botanicals - Denver

Talnua Distillery - Arvada

Tighe Brothers Distillery - Denver

Turnbuckle Distilling - Westminster

NORTHERN COLORADO

477 Distilling - Greeley

Coppermuse Distillery - Fort Collins

Elevation 5003 Distillery - Fort Collins

Elkins Distilling Co - Estes Park

Gnebriated Gnome Distillery - Fort

Collins

The Heart Distillery - Windsor

Mobb Mountain Distillers - Fort Collins

Mythology Distillery - Steamboat Springs

NOCO Distillery - Fort Collins

Old Elk Distillery - Fort Collins

Old Town Distilling - Fort Collins

Seed & Spirit Distilling - Fort Collins

Spring 44 Distilling - Loveland

Syntax Spirits - Greeley

SOUTHERN COLORADO

1874 Distilling - Del Norte

1350 Distilling - Colo. Springs

3 Hundred Days of Shine - Monument

Art of the Spirits - Colorado Springs

Axe and the Oak - Colo. Springs

Black Bear Distillery - Green Mountain Falls

Blackhat Distillery - Colo. Springs

Deerhammer Distilling Co - Buena Vista

Distillery 291 - Colo. Springs

Meridiem Spirits - Elizabeth

Snitching Lady Distillery - Fairplay

South Park Distilling - Fairplay Spirits of the Rockies - Pueblo

Woods High Mountain Distillery woodsdistillery.com

719.207.4315

144 W 1st

Salida

WESTERN SLOPE

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Co - Vail

39 North Spirits - Eagle

808 Distillery - Eagle

Archetype Distillery - Vail, Gypsum

Breckenridge Distillery - Breckenridge

Clarke & Co’s Distilling - Palisade

Durango Craft Spirits - Durango

Eagle River Whisky - Minturn

Fraser Valley Distilling fraservalleydistilling.com

970.363.7792

410 Zerex St Fraser

Highlands Distillery - Grand Junction

Honey House Distillery - Durango

Idlewild Spirits Distillery- Winter Park

KJ Wood Distillers - Ouray

Marble Distilling Co - Carbondale

Montanya Distillers - Crested Butte

Peach Street Distillers - Palisade

Peak Spirits - Hotchkiss

Pullman Distillery - Frisco

Stoneyard Distillery - Dotsero

Storm King Distilling - Montrose

Telluride Distilling Co - Telluride

Woody Creek Distillers - Basalt

DISTRIBUTION ONLY

American Woman Spirit Co.

Anders’ Vodka

Arta Tequila

Conflagration Distilling

Coyote Gold Margaritas

Dirty Dill

Kure’s Craft Beverage Co.

Locke & Co Distilling

Tincup Whiskey

Tingala

Vanjak Vodka

Western Medicine Spirits

WINERIES

GRAND JUNCTION AREA

Avant Vineyards - Palisade

The Blue Beryl Winery - Palisade

BookCliff Vineyards - Palisade

Carboy Winery - Palisade

Carlson Vineyards - Palisade

Carlson Tasting Room - Grand Junction

Centennial Cellars - Palisade

Colorado Cellars Winery - Palisade

Colorado Vintners Collective - Palisade

Colterris Winery - Palisade

Evolve Wines - Clifton

Grande River Vineyards - Palisade

Graystone Winery - Clifton

Gubbini Winery - Palisade

Hermosa Vineyards - Palisade

Maison la Belle Vie Winery & Amy’s Courtyard - Palisade

Mesa Park Vineyards - Palisade

The Ordinary Fellow- Palisade

Peachfork Orchards and VineyardsPalisade

Plum Creek Cellars - Palisade

Red Fox Cellars - Palisade

Restoration Vineyards - Palisade

Sauvage Spectrum - Palisade

Shiras Winery - Grand Junction

St. Kathryn Cellars Winery - Palisade

Talon Winery - Palisade

Two Rivers Winery - Grand Junction

Two Swedes Glögg - Grand Junction

TWP Winery & Farmhouse - Clifton

Varaison Vineyards and Winery - Palisade

Vines 79 Wine Barn - Palisade

Whitewater Hill Vineyards - Grand Junction

CENTRAL WEST AREA

5680' Vineyard - Paonia

Alfred Eames Cellars at Puesta del Sol Vineyards - Paonia

Aquila Cellars- Paonia

Azura Cellars - Paonia

Berkeley Estate Cellars - Paonia

Black Bridge Winery - Paonia

Chill Switch Wine - Cedaredge

Cottonwood Cellars / The Olathe Winery - Olathe

Jack Rabbit Hill - Hotchkiss

Lanoue DuBois Winery - Montrose

Leroux Creek Vineyards - Hotchkiss

Mesa Winds Farm and Winery - Hotchkiss

Mountain View Winery - Olathe

Qutori Wines - Paonia

Stone Cottage Cellars - Paonia

Stoney Mesa Winery - Cedaredge

Storm Cellar Winery - Hotchkiss

Williams Cellars - Cedaredge

SOUTH FRONT RANGE

Barn & Barrel - Florence

Brush Hollow Winery - Penrose

D’Vine Wine - Manitou Springs

Evergood Elixirs - Palmer Lake

Legatum Cellars - Canon City

Monte Cervino - Colorado Springs

Mountain Spirit Winery - Salida

Pop’s Vineyard - Penrose

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey - Canon City

Vino Colorado Winery - Colorado Springs

Vino Salida Wine Cellars - Poncha Springs

Western Skies Winery - Penrose

CENTRAL FRONT RANGE

Aspen Peak Cellars - Bailey

Attimo Wine - Denver

Avanti Winery - Littleton

Balistreri Vineyards - Denver

Bigsby’s Folly - Denver

Black Arts Cellars - Littleton

Blanchard Family Wines - Denver

Bonacquisti Wine Company - Denver

Carboy Winery - Denver, Littleton

Colorado Sake Co. - Denver

Creekside Cellars - Evergreen

Deep Roots Winery & Bistro - Denver

Gaijin 24886 Sake - Denver

The Infinite Monkey Theorem - Denver

InVINtions, A Creative Winery -

Greenwood Village

Kingman Estates Winery - Denver

Ladrón Cellars - Englewood

Leap of Faith Winery - Wheat Ridge

Monart Winery - Centennial

Purgatory Cellars Winery - Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Parker

Silver Vines Winery - Arvada

Spero Winery - Denver

Taboche Winery - Broomfield

Water 2 Wine - Centennial

The Wine Barrel - Parker

NORTHERN FRONT RANGE

Augustina’s Winery - Nederland

Bad Bitch Cellars - Eaton

Blue Mountain Vineyards - Berthoud

BookCliff Vineyards - Boulder

Hillside Vineyard - Fort Collins

Infinite Monkey Theorem Tasting Room

– Fort Collins

OBC Wine Project - Fort Collins

Settembre Cellars - Boulder

Snowy Peaks Winery - Estes Park

Sweet Heart Winery - Loveland

Ten Bears Winery - Laporte

Turquoise Mesa Winery - Broomfield

Vinnie Fera - Boulder

CENTRAL MOUNTAIN

Buckel Family Wine - Crested Butte

Carboy Winery - Breckenridge

Continental Divide WineryBreckenridge, Fairplay

Steamboat Winery - Steamboat Springs

Vines at Vail Winery - Wolcott

PLAINS

Claremont Inn & Winery - Stratton

Country Road Vines and Wines - Fort Morgan

Mummy Hill Winery - Holyoke

Reds Wine Boutique - Sterling

FOUR CORNERS

Durango Winery - Durango

Flying T Wine - Cortez

Four Leaves Winery - Durango

Fox Fire Farms - Ignacio

Sutcliffe Vineyards - Cortez

Yellow Car Country Wines - Cortez

CIDERIES

Apple Valley Cider Co

Big B’s Juices and Hard Cider - Hotchkiss ●

Boco Cider - Boulder ●

Boxing Brothers Cider - Colorado Springs

Branch Out Cider - Fort Collins

Brush Hollow Winery - Penrose

Clear Fork Cider - Denver

Climb Hard Cider Co - Loveland

Colorado Cider Co - Denver

Fenceline Cider - Mancos ●

Haykin Family Cider - Aurora

Locust Cider - Fort Collins

Locust Cider - Lakewood

Old Mine Cider Co - Erie

Red Fox Cellars - Palisade

Scrumpy’s Hard Cider - Fort Collins ●

Snow Capped Cider - Cedaredge

St. Vrain Cidery - Longmont

Stem Ciders - Denver ● ●

Stem Ciders Acreage- Lafayette ● ●

Summit Hard Cider - Fort Collins

Talbott’s Cider Co - Palisade ●

Teal Cider - Dolores

Waldschänke Ciders - Denver

Wild Cider - Firestone

MEADERIES

Antelope Ridge Mead - Colorado Springs

Brush Hollow Winery - Penrose

Dragon Meadery - Aurora

Drekar Meadery - Colorado Springs

Honnibrook MeaderyCastle Rock ● ●

Hunters Moon Meadery - Severance

Laughing Leprechaun MeaderyLoveland

Meadery of the Rockies - Palisade

Medovina - Niwot

Miracle Stag Meadery - Loveland

Queen Bee Brews - Denver

Redstone Meadery - Boulder

Slaymaker Cellars - Idaho Springs

Zanamiel Meadery - Centennial

46 ThirstColorado.com May-June 2024

Dragon Meadery is an Award-winning Craft Meadery that produces top shelf meads from high quality locally sourced honey.

GATHER DRINK WINE MAKE JEWELRY

Your design or ours, bring your friends and family for a unique creative experience in downtown Salida

Reservations preferred Please call Ahead 720.371.1970 dragonmeadery.com

@RivetingExperience RivetingExperienceJewelry.com

May-June 2024 ThirstColorado.com 47
Centennial Cuts centennialcuts.com High quality, delicious beef. It’s better when it’s local! Centennial Cuts is an ALL COLORADO, family owned company. Our retail beef stores are proud to offer beef born, raised, and harvested in Colorado. Visit us online and order for delivery to your home OR check out all the Denver restaurants serving our beef. centennialcuts.com We carry : • Ribeye Steaks • Prime Rib, • Beef Sticks, • Beef Jerky • Brisket • Ground Beef • Steak sauce • and more! Centennial Cuts MercantileBelmar 408 South Teller St. Lakewood, CO 80226 Open Daily 11am to 6pm (720) 627-5612 Centennial Cuts MercantileOld Colorado City 2520 1/2 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Open Daily 11am to 6pm (719) 394-4268 Centennial Cuts at Denver International Airport 8500 Peña Boulevard, Denver, CO 80249 Gate B29 and Gate A34 Open Sunday-Friday 7am to 9pm SHOP AT ONE OF OUR RETAIL LOCATIONS

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