Crystal Valley Blog

From twilight concerts under the stars to vintage markets, moonlit hikes, and one last hoorah at the Douglas County Fair, the Castle Rock area is buzzing with ways to savor the final days of summer. Whether you’re catching live music in a local park or browsing booths at a community market, now’s the time to soak up the sunshine and make a few more memories. In Crystal Valley, summer ends the way it should — with connection, community, and plenty of fresh air.

TODAY/TONIGHT, Thursday, July 31

DOUGLAS COUNTY FAIR & RODEO
Saddle up for one more weekend of Castle Rock’s biggest summer traditions! The Douglas County Fair & Rodeo continues with a full lineup of rodeo thrills, carnival rides, concerts, 4-H events, and delicious fair food. With something for every age and interest, this 10-day celebration of Western heritage is a must for families, rodeo fans, and anyone looking to make summer memories.

Douglas County Fairgrounds and Events Center, 500 Fairgrounds Rd., Castle Rock
Continues July 31-Aug 3
Tickets: Prices vary by event

SUNSET CONCERT SERIES AT THE CITYCENTER AMPHITHEATER
Soak up the sounds of summer at Englewood’s SunSET Concert Series! Bring your crew, grab a bite from a food truck, and enjoy live music under the open sky.

CityCenter Amphitheater, 1000 Englewood Pkwy, Englewood
5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission · Food available for purchase

DISCOVERY PARK CONCERT SERIES: “MAKE ME SMILE” — A TRIBUTE TO CHICAGO
 Parker Arts wraps up its July concert series with Groove ’N Motion performing “Make Me Smile,” a high-energy tribute to Chicago. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and summer spirit for a free night of classic hits under the stars.

Discovery Park, 20115 E. Mainstreet, Parker
6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

HRCA SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: PHILLIP LAMAR & PAIZLEY PARK
Wrap up July with a night of funk, soul, and sunshine as Phillip Lamar & Paizley Park bring the groove to Highlands Ranch. Grab your picnic gear or hit the food trucks and enjoy this free, family-friendly concert with the mountains as your backdrop.

Highland Heritage Regional Park, 9651 S. Quebec St., Highlands Ranch
6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission (vendors vary)

BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOUR MILE HISTORIC PARK
Wander through a world of light and wonder at Bright Nights — Denver’s one-of-a-kind lantern festival. In partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, this dazzling display of illuminated sculptures transforms Four Mile Historic Park into a magical experience for all ages. Come for the art, stay for the glow.

Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest St., Denver
7:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. (Open Wednesday–Sunday through October 5)
Tickets: $19–$48

TOMORROW, Friday, August 1

COLORADO DAY AT THE CAPITOL
Celebrate Colorado’s 149th birthday with a day of festivities at the State Capitol! This year’s theme, penULTIMATE, sets the stage for next year’s 150th anniversary celebration. Enjoy live entertainment, educational booths, and community fun in the heart of Denver.

State Capitol Building, 200 E Colfax Ave., Denver
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

FIRST FRIDAYS CONCERT & 5K–DISCO REVUE
Lace up your sneakers and grab your glow sticks — Castle Rock’s First Fridays series wraps up the summer with Disco Revue! Start with a free 5K at 5:30 p.m., then stick around for a high-energy disco tribute featuring hits from ABBA, Donna Summer, Diana Ross, the Bee Gees, and more. With live music, kids’ activities, food trucks, and cocktails, it’s a full evening of fun for the whole family.

Festival Park, 300 Second St., Castle Rock
5:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (waiver required for 5K)

KIDSTAGE & MOVIES IN THE PARK: WICKED
Enjoy family-friendly entertainment and a community movie night under the stars!

Kick things off with interactive activities and live performances starting at 6 p.m., then stick around for a showing of Wicked at dusk.

Englewood Civic Center, 1000 Englewood Pkwy, Englewood
6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

MUSIC ON THE PATIO–SMUGGLERS UNION
Soak up the summer vibes at Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel’s Music on the Patio series! Enjoy live music from local favorite Smugglers Union alongside food and drink specials. With scenic views, laid-back tunes, and first-come-first-served seating, it’s the perfect way to unwind on a Friday night.

Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel, 9808 Sunningdale Blvd., Lone Tree
6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free (space is limited)

Saturday, August 2

ROCK THE MOUNTAIN SUMMER CONCERT SERIES–D’LOVELIES
Summer’s still heating up at the Outlets at Castle Rock! Head to the East 4th Street Courtyard (next to H&M) for Rock the Mountain, a free concert series featuring live local music, tasty food trucks, and a whole lot of good vibes with the D’Lovelies live.

Outlets at Castle Rock, 5050 Factory Shops Blvd., Castle Rock
3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

Saturday-Sunday,, August 2–3

COLORADO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL: TIME TRAVELERS WEEKEND & FINAL HUZZAH

Step into the past for one last weekend of revelry at the Colorado Renaissance Festival! Dress up, feast on turkey legges, cheer for jousters, and celebrate the end of the season with Time Travelers Weekend. Expect nonstop entertainment, handmade artisan goods, and merrymakers galore across the 16th-century village.

Renaissance Festival Grounds, 650 W. Perry Park Ave., Larkspur
Sat./Sun., 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tickets: Adults from $29 · Kids 5–12 from $14 · Under 5: Free

Monday, August 4

COLORADO DAY–FREE ENTRANCE TO ALL STATE PARKS
Celebrate Colorado Day with free admission to every Colorado State Park! Whether you’re hiking, biking, fishing, or just soaking in the views, it’s the perfect chance to explore the natural beauty our state has to offer — without spending a dime.

All Colorado State Parks
All Day
Tickets: FREE

FREE ENTRANCE AT ALL NATIONAL PARKS
Celebrate the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act with free admission to all U.S. National Parks, monuments, and historic sites. Whether you’re heading to a Colorado favorite or exploring a new destination, it’s the perfect time to connect with nature and history — without the entrance fee.

All National Parks (including 15 in Colorado!)
All Day
Tickets: FREE (some locations may require reservations)

Tuesday, August 5

CONCERTS AT THE CRESCENT: KNOT ROCK BAND
Soft rock from the ’70s and ’80s? Say less. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy a summer evening of live music with Knot Rock Band. Part of a free 10-concert summer series in a smoke-free, pet-free outdoor amphitheater.

Crescent Amphitheater, 8392 E. Crescent Pkwy, Greenwood Village
Tuesday, August 5 · 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

Wednesday, August 6

JAZZ IN THE PARK
Unwind midweek with smooth jazz in the heart of Castle Rock. Bring a blanket, relax, and enjoy the laid-back charm of Festival Park  —  no stage, no vendors, just great music and small-town vibes.

Festival Park, 300 2nd St., Castle Rock
6:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: FREE

Thursday, August 7 

PIRATES COVE ADULT NIGHT: VINYL NATION
No kids, no chaos — just grown-up waterpark fun. Float, swim, and splash to live music from Vinyl Nation during this 18+ after-hours event at Pirates Cove.

Pirates Cove Water Park, 1225 W. Belleview Ave, Englewood
6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tickets: $12

MUSIC IN THE MEADOWS: RED MOUNTAIN HIGHWAY
The summer soundtrack continues in a brand-new location — Mercantile Park! Grab your blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for a golden-hour performance by Red Mountain Highway. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a Thursday night in Castle Rock.

Mercantile Park, 3955 Bilberry St., Castle Rock
6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Tickets: FREE

CURTAIN CALL AT THE MANSION: MIGUEL ESPINOZA FUSION
Spend a summer evening wrapped in the rich sounds of Miguel Espinoza Fusion, known for their genre-blending musical style. This special performance takes place in the stunning setting of the Highlands Ranch Mansion — perfect for music lovers seeking something a little more refined.

Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Dr., Highlands Ranch
6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Tickets: $24

RICK SPRINGFIELD 80s TOUR
Over the past four decades, Rick Springfield has worn many hats as an entertainer and performer. The creator of some of the finest power-pop of the ’80s, a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold 25 million albums and scored 17 U.S. Top 40 hits, including “Jessie’s Girl,” “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” “I’ve Done Everything for You,” “Love Somebody,” and “Human Touch.”

He’s an accomplished actor who starred opposite Meryl Streep in the feature film Ricki and the Flash and gave a chameleonic performance as the creepy Dr. Irving Pitlor in HBO’s prestige drama True Detective, earned great reviews for his portrayal of Lucifer on the CW hit Supernatural and  most recently played the insane Pastor Charles on FX’s worldwide hit series American Horror Story. Joining Springfield will be John Waite, Wang Chung and Paul Young.

Fiddler’s Green, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd, Greenwood Village
7:00 p.m.
Tickets: Start at $64

Friday, August 8

FULL MOON HIKE
Leave your flashlight behind and let the moonlight lead the way through the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Guided by a naturalist, you’ll learn how humans and animals adapt to the dark while tuning into the nighttime sights and sounds.

Backcountry Wilderness Area, 6005 Ron King Trail, Highlands Ranch
8:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
Tickets: Free · Registration Required (Register under Nature Programs → Adult and Family Programs)

Saturday, August 9 

GLUTEN FREE FARMER’S MARKET
Shop, snack, and stroll through this all-gluten-free farmer’s market, hosted by Denver Celiacs.

Expect everything from food trucks and fresh produce to handmade crafts, beauty products, dog treats, and more!

Chase Tower Parking Lot, 333 W Hampden Ave, Englewood
9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission · Vendor prices vary

BREAKFAST FLY-IN
Start your Saturday with planes, pilots, and pancakes! Explore aircraft displays, simulators, and interactive exhibits while enjoying breakfast from a local food truck at this monthly event.

Wings Over the Rockies–Exploration of Flight, 13005 Wings Way, Englewood
9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Tickets: $7–$13

SECOND SATURDAY VINTAGE MARKETS
Curated vintage, quirky collectibles, and upcycled fashion — find your next favorite thing while supporting sustainability and local vendors. Held monthly August through November.

Festival Street, South Broadway & W. Hampden Ave, Englewood
10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission · Prices vary by vendor

CENTENNIAL UNDER THE STARS
Celebrate summer at this beloved community event with live music, tasty food trucks, and local vendors.

Bring a blanket, catch some rays, and stay for the stars.

Centennial Center Park, 13050 E. Peakview Dr., Centennial
5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission · Prices vary by vendor

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES  —  CHRIS LANE WITH SPECIAL GUEST CHASE MCDANIEL
Country star Chris Lane takes the stage at the scenic Amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park, joined by rising artist Chase McDaniel. With hits like “Big, Big Plans” and “I Don’t Know About You,” Lane brings his signature sound to Castle Rock for a night of unforgettable live music.

Amphitheater at Philip S. Miller Park, 1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy., Castle Rock
7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
Tickets: $40–$65

CASTLE ROCK BAND FREE FAMILY CONCERT
Bring a blanket, a chair, and your love of live music! Enjoy a free summer evening performance from the Castle Rock Band, a local favorite known for their spirited community concerts.

Festival Park, 300 2nd St., Castle Rock
7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free

Saturday–Sunday, August 9-10

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE™: GLOW-N-FIRE
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks are lighting up Ball Arena with fire and thrills in this all-ages spectacle! Watch favorites like Mega Wrex™, Bone Shaker™, and Bigfoot® tear up the track — plus a transforming robot and high-flying motocross stunts.

Don’t miss the debut of Skelesaurus™ and special kids’ pricing for the whole crew!

Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Circle, Denver
Sat., 12:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m.
Tickets: Prices vary; kids’ pricing available

Wednesday, August 13

SCFD FREE DAY AT MARJORIE PARK
Enjoy a whimsical day among the sculptures at Marjorie Park with free admission courtesy of SCFD. Stroll the art-filled grounds between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. — just don’t forget to register in advance!

Marjorie Park, 6331 S. Fiddlers Green Cir., Greenwood Village
10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Tickets: Free · Registration required

Savor Summer in Crystal Valley!

As summer winds down, there’s still time to soak up the sunshine in Crystal Valley. From outdoor concerts and fair festivities to golden-hour walks along scenic trails, this vibrant Castle Rock community offers the perfect setting to make the most of the season’s final moments. Discover beautifully crafted ranch-style and two-story homes by D.R. Horton, Richmond American, and Taylor Morrison (final opportunity!) starting from the $600s — where late-summer fun and everyday comfort go hand in hand.