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Things To Do in Parker

Parker Recreation Center and Pool – Most Restrictions Lifted

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Aside from Day Camp, masks are not required in Parker Recreation facilities. If you feel more comfortable wearing a face covering, please continue to do so. Refer to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) for further guidelines. Douglas County has eliminated reduced capacity limitations. Parker Parks and Recreation will continue to use thorough cleaning and sanitization procedures and ask that staff and patrons continue to follow good hygiene practices and stay home if feeling ill.

Recreation Center Hours

Monday – Friday
5 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The pool closes at 9 p.m.		Saturday – Sunday
7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The pool closes at 4:30 p.m.

Recreation Facility Updates

For the foreseeable future, Group Fitness participants, including Aqua Aerobics, will continue to register for classes and all guests check-in with a valid ACTIVENet (Parker Rec) account and ID. Click here to create an account. If you have a Parker Recreation membership, passes, or have registered for an activity or league, you already have an account. 

The Recreation Center Indoor Pool has a capacity limit and there may be wait times during peak hours. 

Visit the Parker Recreation memberships and passes page for costs associated with daily, 10-visit, and 20-visit passes and memberships.  

Child Care

Recreation Center Child Care hours are Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and evening hours Monday through Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Daily time limits are 75 minutes for ages 3 to 18 months and two hours for children over 18 months. Child Care follows the Douglas County School District’s closure and delayed schedule policy. During DCSD delayed start or snow day, Child Care will open at 10 a.m. Click here for additional Child Care information.

Please adhere to the Patron Code of Conduct (PDF).

Saint Patrick’s Day things to do in Parker CO

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Town of Parker offering St. Patrick’s Day Activities

saint patricks day fun in parker colorado

The Town of Parker is excited to welcome Lucky the Leprechaun back to our community this year for his second annual appearance around St. Patrick’s Day!  

Lucky will be strolling (and hiding) around Mainstreet the Saturdays before and after St. Patrick’s Day (March 12 and 19) from noon to 4 p.m. While Lucky is in Town, residents and visitors are invited to participate in a game of “Seek Out the Shamrocks,” as our favorite Leprechaun will be hiding 17 shamrocks throughout the community.

Can you spot Lucky and find the shamrocks? If so, you might win a prize! Just post a photo of either a hidden shamrock or Lucky himself on the Town’s Facebook page @TownOfParkerCO) by 10 a.m. Monday, March 21 to be entered into a drawing for a prize basket. Community members are eligible to enter multiple times as long as they spot Lucky the Leprechaun on different days and seek out multiple shamrocks!

For more information, about this fun St. Patrick’s Day activity, visit www.ParkerOnline.org/Events or call 303.805.3253.

There are a couple of local bars that are having green festivities in honor of St Paddy’s Day in Parker… take a look below!

Saint Patrick’s Weekend Bash at B

18425 Pony Express Dr, Parker, CO 80134

March 17, 18 & 19 3-9 p.m.

St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Thursday this year, which was all the motivation Barnett & Son needed to host a 3-day celebration to showcase some of their favorite Irish and Scottish-inspired beer styles. Usual suspects Saoirse Irish Red, and Falling Skye Scottish Ale will join a batch of Mo Chroi Irish Black Ale made for the holiday, with a green beer on tap for good measure. The long weekend will include daily performances by the Celtic Steps dance group and Centennial’s Reed School of Irish Dance, and live music by Juice O’ The Barley on Friday and Saturday.

Mo Chroi Irish Black Ale gets its color and full body from the unplanned addition of Roast instead of Special Roast malt to a batch of wheat. The final beer struck a balance between deep malt flavor upfront and clean, subtle bitterness on the finish that characterizes many Irish-style ales, so it earned a place in the annual St. Patrick’s Day lineup.

Keep the specialty glass while supplies last, buy a special t-shirt made for the occasion, and come hungry for Irish-inspired eats prepared by three food trucks: The Family Meal will serve on Thursday, Schnitzelwirt on Friday, and Uncle Tapas on Saturday.

Celtic Pub Goes Green

The Celtic House Pub is located at 16522 Keystone Blvd., Parker, CO.
They don’t have any events listed on their socials or website but we assume they’ll have green beer & Guinness on St Paddy’s Day

Downhill Brewing

2022 DOWNHILL BREWING ST. PADDY’S DAY PARTY!

ood ole St. Paddy’s Day shenanigans!!! We will have all the green beer for your drinking pleasure, a 2022 Limited Edition T-shirt (while supplies last), and Irish Dancers at 2:00 pm. Gather up all your Irish drinking gear and get on down to the taproom, it’s going to be a good time……CHEERS!!

18921 Plaza Drive, Unit 104
Parker, CO 80134

Takoda Tavern

THU, MAR 176:00pm-7:00pm  Celtic Steps Dancer

12365 Pine Bluffs Way
Parker, Colorado 80134
(720) 851-5302

Welcome Home Brewery

We’re celebrating a little early….

We are honored to host the Castlewood Lion Bag Pipe Band. Please come show some support and enjoy some traditional and not-so-traditional music.

Followed by Irish Dancers from Reeds School of Irish Dancing (around 4 pm)

We will have beer, snacks and plenty of entertainment. Wear your green and join us for a fun St Patty’s celebration!

Irish Recipes

Shepherds Pie

An Irish friend of mine (Lorna O’Brien) let it be known that Corned Beef and Cabbage is NOT a traditional Irish meal, but Shepherds Pie is.

Handheld Shepherds Pie
Handheld Shepherds Pie

These handheld individual shepherds pies look great and I love the Cilantro Clover accents on the top.

Cream Cheese Crust

Ingredients
4 oz. cold butter (1 stick)
4 oz. cream cheese
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 cup whole milk, plus 2-3 tablespoons

Shepherd’s Pie Filling

Ingredients
1 large onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 lb. ground lamb
2 medium carrots, diced
1 medium Yukon gold potato, diced (or 1/2 cup leftover mashed potatoes)
1/2 cup frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon flour
1 can dark beer (such as Guinness)
Splash heavy cream

CLICK FOR SHEPHERDS PIE DIRECTIONS

Gluten-Free Saint Patrick’s Day Recipes

Looking for traditional Saint Patrick’s Day fare? You’re in luck! Soda bread, corned beef, shepherds pie – oh my! See the full gluten-free menu below.

Irish Soda Bread
Authentic Irish Colcannon
Traditional Shepherd’s Pie
Slow Cooker Corned Beef & Cabbage
Irish Cream Macarons 

Tips for Saint Patricks Day from the Parker PD

Saint Patrick’s Day in Denver

Denver’s Saint Patricks Day Parade is March 12, 2022


Summer Events in Parker

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Annual Favorites for Locals

These events are planned by various organizations. If you would like to participate or volunteer, please contact them directly.

Parker Farmers Market 

Held weekly Mother’s Day through October, the 60-booth Parker Farmers Market fills Mainstreet on Summer Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market sells fresh produce, bakery goods, and other food products along with many handcrafted items and ready-to-eat food. Venture out and enjoy the atmosphere of downtown Parker, local shops, and the great Farmer’s market fare. Mainstreet will be closed on Sundays during the market.

Parker Wine Walk

On the last Friday of each month you can join the Parker Chamber on Mainstreet for a fun evening of wine sampling, meeting the shopkeepers on Mainstreet and getting to know your neighbors.

Movies in the Park 

The Parker Chamber’s FREE Movies in the Park series kicks off in July at O’Brien Park. Movies are rated G and open to the public. Entertainment begins at 6:30 p.m., with the movie beginning at dusk.

Free Concerts at Discovery Park 

A new venue for the free summer concerts sponsored by Parker Arts. This new park located at the Library is host to the concerts in the park this year. Parking is available at the library and across the street at the PACE Center.

Parker Days Festival

Parker Days runs Thursday sneak-peek through Sunday the 2nd weekend of June.

July 4th Stars & Stripes Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day with the Town of Parker at Salisbury Park on July 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. Come and enjoy family fun including live music and free children’s games and activities. Live music and festive concessions will be available and the grand fireworks display will begin at 9:30 p.m. The event is free and on-site parking will be available for $5, cash only. For more information about the event, parking, maps, event programs and suggestions on fireworks-viewing locations

Parker Brewfest Parker Co August 2017

Parker Brewfest SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 2022 AT 1 PM – 5 PM

Downtown Parker, Colorado
O’Brien Park

Hosted by the Cherry Creek Valley Rotary Club of Parker, this is their largest fundraiser where 100% proceeds go to various charities.

With admission, you enjoy unlimited sample-sized pours!

Disclaimers:

* This is a 21+ Event only; no children are allowed
* No Smoking Please
* No Pets Please
* This is a rain or shine event and all sales are final
* Tickets most likely going on sale June 3rd 2022.

Art in the Park

Come downtown to O’Brien Park for the Parker Artists Guild’s Art in the Park event in August 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. At Art in the Park, you’ll enjoy entries from more than 100 local and regional artists with a variety of works, including photography, pottery, glass, wood, jewelry, all painting media and much more. Admission is free and there will be an art station for kids, food, and entertainment. More information on the guild can be found here.

Fun Runs Year Round

Easter Fun in Parker Colorado

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Easter Egg Hunt in the Pool!

That’s what’s happening this year at the Parker Recreation Center.

Egg Splash and Dash 

This year, the Easter Bunny is going swimmin’! Enjoy this twist on the traditional egg hunt as kiddos splash and dash for tons of plastic, fun-filled eggs in the Activity Pool. There may even be an appearance by a special some-bunny!

Date:  Sat., April 8, 2023
Time: 9, 10 or 11 a.m.
Location:  Parker Recreation Center, 17301 E. Lincoln Dr.
Ages: 15 years and younger
Cost: $24 per Parker resident child, $26 per non-resident child*; register each child in attendance

*Space is limited. Walk-up registrations will be taken on a space-available basis and will cost an additional $5 per participant.

Egg hunts will take place at the beginning of each 50-minute session. Children of all swimming abilities are welcome. Each child 5 and under and non-swimmers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in the water. 

Click here to Register

BEST EASTER BRUNCH SPOTS

Both Parker Garage & Black Haus have a fabulous Easter Brunch. If you know of others contact us to add them to this post.

For Easter Breakfast/Brunch

Bunny Tail Cinnamon Twists
Bunny Tail Cinnamon Twist Buns
  •  Bunny Tail Buns, a playful cinnamon and sugar bread twisted up into a bunny shape with a cottontail

For Easter Lunch/Dinner

For a playful twist on the standard dinner roll, they could also shape bread dough into festive flowers with this Flower Buns recipe  

To give dinner guests a unique sweet treat at each table setting, here is a recipe for edible Easter Basket Cookies.  Fill with jelly beans and shredded coconut with a touch of neon food coloring.

As a snack for any younger dinner guests, your readers could create these Cheesy Easter Shapes, baked fast with refrigerated pizza dough.

Easter Leftovers

Using any leftover ham from Easter dinner you and the kids could make:

Fun and Easy!

Holiday Home Decorating Contest Parker

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Wednesday, Dec. 13 through Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023

Entries Open Friday, Dec. 1 

‘Tis the season to spread some holiday cheer! The Parker Holidays Home Decorating Contest, formerly the Porch Parade Series, returns to light up the Town this December. The community is invited to celebrate with the Town of Parker and activity sponsor Rocky Mountain Real Estate Advisors by decorating your home for the holidays season. Unleash your creativity, bring some seasonal joy to your friends and neighbors, and enter to be named one of the best decorated homes in Parker!

Participants, which must have a Parker mailing address in the 80134 or 80138 ZIP codes, will be able to enter one of three judged categories: 

• Light Up The Town – Best lights or light show

• Deck The Yard – Best yard display

• Best Decorated Porch, Patio or Balcony – A great option for townhome and apartment residents.

All entries will also compete in the following contests:

• Elected Choice Award – Mayor and Town Council Favorite

• People’s Choice Award – Community Favorite as Voted on the Town Facebook Page (@TownOfParkerCO) 

Entries will be accepted online from Friday, Dec. 1 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12. Judging and voting will take place Dec. 13 to 18. Once the entry deadline has closed, the Town will share a virtual map of all registered homes, so the community can plan a walk or drive around Parker to see the decorations and share in the celebration.

The top three homes in the three judged categories, plus the Elected Choice and People’s Choice awards will be announced on the Town’s Facebook page Wednesday, Dec. 20, with each first-place winner receiving a commemorative yard sign. 

Contest Details and Rules

1. Contestants must have a Parker mailing address in the 80134 or 80138 ZIP codes and submit an online entry form and a picture (online form will be published on this page Friday, Dec. 1) by 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12.

2. Contest is for residential properties only (businesses that wish to join in on the fun, please contact Community Events Manager Brooke Spain for sponsorship opportunities).

3. Contestants will pick one themed category to be judged in (1 winner per category).

  • Light Up The Town – Best lights or light show
  • Deck The Yard – Best yard display
  • Best Decorated Porch, Patio or Balcony – A great option for townhome and apartment residents.

4. Contestants must have decorations up and ready by Wednesday, Dec. 13, and keep them up through Monday, Dec. 25, 2023.

5. All entries will also be entered into the following contests:

  • The Elected Choice Award – Mayor and Town Council Favorite
  • The People’s Choice Award– Community Social Media Favorite 

6. Contestants are required to follow all Town of Parker Municipal Code, HOA, apartment or Townhome rules and regulations with your decorations.

7. Hanging lights and/or decorations across a public roadway or putting any decorations in the public right-of-way is not allowed. 

8. Themed category on-site judging will begin Wednesday, Dec. 13 and will run through Monday night, Dec. 18.  

9. Onsite themed category judging will be based on “curb appeal” as viewed from the street only. Therefore, only those decorations located on the street side of the property will be judged (corner lots will be judged from the front of the house view). Judges will not enter the property to view back or side yards. Each registered home will receive a small participation gift that will be left at the front door following judging.  

10. The People’s Choice voting will begin Wednesday, Dec. 13 via electronic entry photos only on the Town’s Facebook page and will conclude at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19.

11. The Elected Choice voting will be based on the electronic entry photos submitted.

12. Participants agree to have one or more photos and/or videos of their decorated residence exterior posted on the Town of Parker’s website and/or Facebook page as well as used in future promotional publications. Winners will also be recognized, with photos, in a social media post on the Town’s Facebook page. Participant agrees there will be no compensation of any kind for said posting or publication.

13. Judging criteria will include: 

  • Overall Presentation: Curb appeal and total quality of the display (50%) 
  • Creativity: How creative is the entry in using the decorations, props, lights, etc.? (25%) 
  • Originality: How unique is the design? (25%)

14. The winners of the three judged categories, Elected Choice and People’s Choice awards will be notified, by phone and email, Tuesday, Dec. 19 close of business. First-place winners will receive a commemorative winner yard sign. Signs must be picked up from Parker Town Hall. 

15. The top three participants in each contest category will be announced and recognized on the Town’s Facebook page on Wednesday, Dec. 20. 

16. A contestant is eligible to win up to three times: one individual themed category, the Elected Choice and the People’s Choice awards. 

santa claus is coming to town
There’s Santa & Mrs. Clause Copyright ParkerColorado.net

2021 Parker Holiday Events

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Milk & Cookies with Santa

Date: Dec. 12, 2021
Time: 12:45 to 1:30 p.m. or 1:45 to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Parker Fieldhouse, 18700 E. Plaza Dr.
Ages: 1 month to 9 years with an adult
Cost: $15 R/ $18 NR

Don’t miss this opportunity to spend some time with the jolly man in the bright red suit. It is a great beginning to the Ho Ho Holiday season with crafts, light refreshments and more! Children will be able to sit on Santa’s lap for parents to take photos. Two sessions are offered. Please register early, space is limited.

Click here to register for Milk and Cookies with Santa. For additional event information, email Diane at dlange@parkeronline.org or call at 303.805.3281.

Holiday Events in or near Parker Colorado

Santa Photos in Parker CO

Holiday Events at Tagawa Gardens

1st Annual Caddyshack “Be the Ball” Golf Tournament

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Parker Colorado Chamber of Commerce

1st Annual Caddyshack “Be the Ball” Golf Tournament

A Parker Chamber of Commerce Event

Register online at parkerchamber.com. 

May 24, 2021 – Shot Gun 8 a.m.
BlackBear Golf Club

Title Sponsor- $5000
• Includes 2 foursomes ($1200 value)
• 1 year of Chamber Membership or Upgrade ($400 Value)
• Signage at hole (provided by sponsor)
• Banner at Club House (provided by sponsor)
• Provide goodie bags with logo to all golfers (provided by sponsor)
• Recognition at Awards Ceremony
• Logo on Website Golf Event Announcement and Social Media promotions
• First Right of Refusal Next Year’s Event
• Name on Sponsor list
• Includes Breakfast & Lunch
• Includes Appetizers at Award Ceremony

Hole Sponsor- $1000 (18 available)
• Includes 4 players in the tournament ($600 value)
• Includes Breakfast & Lunch
• Signage at the hole (provided by sponsor)
• Table to showcase your product or business
• Banner at the hole (provided by sponsor)
• Banner at Club House (provided by sponsor)
• Name on the Sponsor List
• Marketing Material in 100 Goodie Bags
• Website and Social Media promotions

Breakfast Sponsor- $1500
• Includes 4 players in the tournament ($600 value)
• Set up table at check in
• Provides Breakfast Burritos
• Includes Breakfast & Lunch
• Banner and Marketing Material at Check in (provided by sponsor)
• Marketing Material in 100 Goodie Bags
• Website and Social Media Promotions

Lunch Sponsor- $1500
• Includes 4 players in the tournament ($600 value)
• Includes Breakfast & Lunch
• Cart with Your Banner display (banner provided by sponsor)
• Distribution of Sack Lunches to all Participants
• Banner on Beverage Cart (banner provided by sponsor)
• Marketing Material in 100 Goodie Bags
• Website and Social Media Promotions

Award Ceremony Sponsor ($1500)
• Includes 4 players in the tournament ($600 value)
• Includes Breakfast & Lunch
• Provides Appetizers at Award Ceremony
• Marketing Material in 100 Goodie Bags
• Website and Social Media Promotions

One Foursome – $600 for Chamber Members
One Foursome – $640 for Chamber Members

Name_______________________________________________Phone_________________
Business__________________________________ Name of Sponsorship______________
Check# Total _ Parker Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit
501(c)6organization. (Federal tax ID 84-0721419). A receipt of your donation will be provided via email.
NOTE: Please provide your JPEG logo. You may send the JPEG logo to kara@parkerchamber.com
Parker Chamber Mission: Promote, advocate for, and provide a platform for connection for
businesses in the Parker area. You can help by participating in the Chamber’s 1st Annual
Summer Kickoff Golf Tournament, Monday May 24th at 8am at Black Bear Golf Club.
Cost is $150 per player. Includes Breakfast, Lunch, Awards and

Top things to see and do in Denver. What’s on YOUR Denver Bucket List?

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Denver is such a wonderful city to live in with a rich heritage and culture, amazing views, fantastic weather and some of the warmest people you will ever meet.

What’s really interesting about this list is that many of the things are FREE or very inexpensive to do.

We asked several Facebook groups to let us know what was on their Denver Bucket List and here were some of the answers we received. We will continue to add to this list based on our reader’s feedback.

If you’ve done all of these or have your own to offer up, please let us know in the comments!

Denver Bucket List: Things to do in Denver (or around) before you kick the bucket

  1. A summer concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater
  2. Climb a 14er
  3. Watch Cliff Diving at Casa Bonita
  4. Paddle Boats at Washington Park
  5. Eat a Rocky Mountain Oyster
  6. Sled down Ruby Hill
  7. Go to the Botanic gardens when the lilacs are in bloom
  8. Go to a Rockies game on a perfect summer evening
  9. Kayak the Platte River in the Summer
  10. Run the Furry Scurry with your best 4 legged friend
  11. Attend a Broncos home game against the Raiders
  12. Have a Burger at the Cherry Cricket in Cherry Creek
  13. Visit Buffalo Bill’s grave at the top of Lookout Mountain
  14. Climb Devils Head Canyon with a picnic
  15. Go on a Brewery Tour
  16. Go on a Winery Tour
  17. Go to the Coors plant in Golden
  18. Mile High Music Festival
  19. Taste of Colorado Festival Labor Day Weekend
  20. Ride the Pedicab on the 16th Street Mall
  21. Go to the Denver Aquarium
  22. Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
  23. Visit the Mercury Cafe for some Swing Dancing
  24. People Watch on the 16th Street Mall
  25. Oktoberfest at Larimer Square
  26. Make sandwiches to give to the homeless in Capital Hill
  27. Go to a CU Buffs football game
  28. Bungee Jump off the Royal Gorge Bridge
  29. The Elizabeth Stampede
  30. Gamble at Blackhawk
  31. Go to Beau Joe’s in Idaho Springs (The real Beau Joe’s!)
  32. Hot Air Balloon Ride
  33. Go to DIA
  34. Denver BrewFest
  35. Pearl Street Mall when the street performers are out
  36. Serve Thanksgiving dinner at a shelter
  37. Watch the sunrise from Red Rock Amphitheater
  38. Attend a Film Festival
  39. Rocky Mountain National Park aka see the Elk in Estes Park
  40. See the Civic Center lit up for Christmas
  41. Stand at 5280 on the Capitol Building Steps
  42. Ride the 16th Street Mall Shuttle
  43. Tour Coors in Golden
  44. Rescue an animal from the Denver Dumb Friends League
  45. ?? What’s on your list??
Red Rocks Amphitheater Morrison Colorado Easter Sunrise Service
Photo Courtesy Steve Crecelius at VISIT DENVER

Did we miss some of your favorite things? Contact us to let us know what’s on your Denver Bucket List.  We’ll add it!

Parker Library Updates 2021

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DCL summer camps help kids make up for lost social, learning time

Summer camp is the perfect place for kids to be kids, especially after the last year of evolving school schedules and modified activities. Douglas County Libraries is excited to offer an array of in-person summer camps for kids ages 4-11 at Camp DCL, June 7-August 6. Kids can connect with peers, have fun, and expand their skills and knowledge through interactive, hands-on activities, with precautions in place for health and safety.

“It’s been a year of back and forth for our kids, shuffling between in-person and remote learning and missing friends and activities that help them thrive,” said Kristen Kallio, Special Events Supervisor at DCL. “We’re excited about our Camp DCL options this summer, and we want every camper to have a great experience.”

DCL’s summer camps are available at six locations—Castle Pines, Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker, and Roxborough. Registration for the weeklong camps is open at DCL.org/camp-dcl. There are also a few spots remaining for DCL’s spring break camps in Lone Tree and Parker, March 15-19.

At DCL, campers can explore cooking, coding, robotics, art, engineering, science, and LEGO adventures. Some of the summer camps offered include:

  • Rollercoaster Science Camp
  • Kinderbots Robotics Camp
  • Mission to Mars and Adventures in Space Science Camps
  • We Love Pets! and There’s No Place Like Space! Art Camps
  • Castles, Kingdoms & Wizards and Basics of Minecraft LEGO Camps
  • High-Flying Catapults Engineering Camp
  • Kids’ Cooking Network and Cameras, Cooks & Kids Film Camps
  • Gaming With Scratch Coding Camp
  • And many others

Visit DCL.org/camp-dcl for the full list of summer camps as well as spring break camp openings.

Parents can choose from half-day camps or full-day camps (at select DCL locations, at a 10% discount). All camps are facilitated by subject matter experts and are supported by trained DCL staff and volunteers.

DCL adheres to all state and local health department guidelines for operations and events.

While Camp DCL is budget-friendly for families, scholarships may be available from the Douglas County Libraries Foundation for qualified campers.

To register for Camp DCL or to learn more about the camps and scholarship opportunities, visit DCL.org/camp-dcl.

Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.

Library’s HistoryGeo launch aids genealogical and local history research

The Archives & Local History department at Douglas County Libraries (DCL) is excited to launch HistoryGeo, an interactive database for mapping land patent recipients, Douglas County historic sites, and other resources that can aid genealogical and local history research. HistoryGeo is conveniently available to customers remotely as well as from any DCL location with the use of a library card.

Through HistoryGeo, users can search by surnames, geographical features, place names, or latitude and longitude. Search results are displayed on interactive maps with modern street overlays, and results are linked to Bureau of Land Management records, Google maps, and DCL Archives & Local History materials. A growing list of local history markers are available to aid research into Douglas County historical sites.

Visit DCL.org/research/all-databases to connect to this unique and free resource.

For more information, call DCL’s Archives & Local History department at (303) 688-7730 or email localhistory@dclibraries.org.

Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.

All Douglas County Libraries locations are open and operating under state and local health department guidelines for operations and events.

Masks are required at all times in the library, and we recommend that customers wash hands frequently, especially after handling materials and/or touching surfaces. Disposable masks are available for customers.

All in-person public events and space reservations remain unavailable at this time. Our digital library remains open, and there are many virtual family and community resources available to you, as well as virtual events.

LIBRARY OPERATIONS

Hours

Modified services are available at all DCL locations during our current operating hours:

  • Monday-Thursday, 9AM-7PM
  • Friday-Saturday, 9AM-5PM
  • Sunday, 12-5PM
  • Louviers only: Tuesday, 3-7PM & Saturday 9AM-12PM

Archives & Local History services are available by appointment only; call (303) 688-7730.

Borrowing, Holds & Fines

Standard borrowing timelines and fines on late returns apply. Materials Request and Interlibrary Loan (ILL) are available. Learn more about fines, fees and borrowing.

Book Drops & Donations

All DCL book drops are open and accepting returns of checked-out items. Book donations are important to us. Due to current restrictions and fewer volunteers to process donations, we’ve implemented some temporary changes. Book donations are accepted on a limited basis at our Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, and Parker locations during the times listed below. We are currently accepting donations of only two 18”x14”x12” boxes or less per household.

  • Castle Rock: Wednesdays, 3-7PM
  • Highlands Ranch: Saturdays, 10AM-2PM
  • Lone Tree: Mondays, 10AM-2PM
  • Parker: Thursdays, 10AM-2PM

Storytime, Events & Playscapes

In-person Storytimes and other library events remain unavailable.Virtual Storytime will continue with Storytime fun and activities each weekday at 10:30AM. Library staff will lead songs, rhymes, reading and fingerplays to keep nurturing those all-important emerging reading skills. Virtual Storytime also is available through Storyblocks, a project of Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy (CLEL).Playscapes and other interactive features at all libraries remain closed, including Little Letters Post Office at Castle Pines, The Market at Highlands Ranch, Playful Pets at Lone Tree, the Dino Wall at Parker, and Mission Control at Roxborough.

Spaces

Meeting rooms are available for public use at 50% of room capacity, not to exceed 100 people. Study rooms are available by reservation only. Drop-in use of empty meeting and study rooms is not permitted. Other personal gatherings are limited to 10 people.Contact Event & Hospitality Services at (303) 688-7605 for guidelines specific to DCL meeting rooms.

LIBRARY SERVICES

Park & Pick-Up Holds Service

Pick-Up Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9AM-5PM & Sunday, 12-5PM.Use our curbside service to pick up holds at your preferred DCL location*, following these instructions. Book Club Express kits may also be picked up using this service:

  1. Look for the flag denoting parking spaces set aside for this service. Note that the service location in our parking lots has changed, and there may be a longer wait for delivery to your car. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
  2. If all marked spots are full, please wait in your car for a space to become available. We will work as quickly as possible to serve you, but there may be a wait during busy times. Please be prepared.
  3. Keep your phone handy. Once you are parked in a numbered space, call or text the number on the sign with the required information.
  4. Health regulations prevent us from touching your vehicle. Please be prepared to open and close your own trunk for delivery of held items.

*Not available at Louviers.

Our Digital Library is Open

Our digital library is always open—and it’s been enhanced to accommodate more digital checkouts (now up to 12 borrows per month) and less wait time (decreased ratio of holds to copies, now just 3:1). You may Skip the Line on OverDrive and through the Libby app for instant checkout of items, similar to Your Lucky Day items in our branches. And you’ll see that familiar shamrock.Access a variety of digital library perks, from crafting classes to online learning and more.Check out DCL Connect for a digital world of Family & Community resources.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Protect Yourself & Others

Masks are required at all times in the library, and we recommend that customers wash hands frequently, especially after handling materials and/or touching surfaces. Disposable masks are available for customers.Hand sanitizer stations are set up at library entrances, public service desks, cash-handling points, and other heavily used areas.

Safety Precautions & Protocols

Enhanced in-library cleaning and disinfecting procedures are ongoing using EPA-registered disinfectants. Common areas; hard surfaces such as stair rails, door handles, and elevator buttons; reserved rooms; and restrooms are cleaned at least four times a day. Hard flooring is thoroughly cleaned once each day. The Holds section in each library closes for 15 minutes at the top of each hour to allow social distancing for DCL staff as they shelve. In-library modifications facilitate social distancing. Tables and individual seating are spaced at least 6 feet apart. Plexiglass partitions are in place at public service desks. Increased signage throughout all libraries encourages social distancing and hand hygiene. Protocols and systems are in place to increase air circulation in library buildings.

Our Digital Library is Open

  • Our digital library is always open—and it’s been enhanced to accommodate more digital checkouts (now up to 12 borrows per month) and less wait time (decreased ratio of holds to copies, now just 3:1).
  • You may Skip the Line on OverDrive and through the Libby app for instant checkout of items, similar to Your Lucky Day items in our branches. And you’ll see that familiar shamrock.
  • You may also access a variety of digital library perks, from audio-guided workouts, to crafting classes, to online learning and more.
  • Those who do not currently have a DCL library card can get instant access to our digital collection with a digital library card through OverDrive’s Instant Digital Card and Hoopla’s Engage.
  • Virtual Storytime is available through Storyblocks, a project of Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy (CLEL).
  • Access to PebbleGo K-3 databases is free at www.pebblego.com, providing expertly leveled text and navigation for beginning researchers. Sign in using the username engaged and password learning.
  • Access to Capstone interactive e-books for older kids is also free at www.mycapstonelibrary.com. Sign in using the username continue and password reading.

Douglas County Libraries are closed due to Covid-19

Douglas County Libraries (DCL) has been closely monitoring information from local, state and federal authorities about the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its impact on our communities. At this time, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to close all of our libraries until further notice, in addition to canceling, postponing and/or rescheduling all public events and space reservations.

We are so grateful to be part of a community that loves and supports its libraries. And while we take great pride in being open to all and being a place where you can explore, learn, gather and celebrate, we also want to ensure that our staff and community remain safe and well.

While our physical libraries are closed:

  • Our digital library is always open—and it’s been enhanced to accommodate more digital checkouts (now up to 12 borrows per month) and less wait time (decreased ratio of holds to copies, now just 3:1). Check out e-books; audiobooks; downloadable magazines; movies, TV and kids videos; and music. 
  • You may Skip the Line on OverDrive and through the Libby app for instant checkout of items, similar to Your Lucky Day items in our branches. And you’ll see that familiar shamrock. 
  • You may also access a variety of digital library perks, from audio-guided workouts, to crafting classes, to online learning and more. 
  • Those who do not currently have a DCL library card can get instant access to our digital collection with a digital library card through OverDrive’s Instant Digital Card and Hoopla’s Engage. 
  • Virtual Storytime is available through Storyblocks, a project of Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy (CLEL). 
  • Access to PebbleGo K-3 databases is free at www.pebblego.com, providing expertly leveled text and navigation for beginning researchers. Sign in using the username engaged and password learning. 
  • Access to Capstone interactive e-books for older kids is also free at www.mycapstonelibrary.com. Sign in using the username continue and password reading.

What else you should know:

  • We will waive fines and/or extend due dates on physical items checked out.
  • Book donations will not be accepted during the closure.
  • Prospector and Interlibrary Loan will be unavailable as most other library systems are also closed.
  • All DCL book drops are closed. Hold onto your library materials. No current checkouts will come due, and no fines will accrue during the closure.
  • Current holds in our system will not expire.
  • Materials Request and Book Club Express kits will be unavailable. Current items/kits that are checked out will not come due or accrue fines during the closure. Groups with kits reserved during the closure can arrange for a different borrowing period by emailing bce@dclibraries.org.
  • We have increased cleaning and disinfection throughout our libraries, which will continue until we are advised that COVID-19 is no longer a potential threat.

As the situation surrounding COVID-19 changes, we will continue to communicate with you via email and will post ongoing updates to our Community Safety Notice online and through our social media channels. To check the status of rescheduled events, please see our online Events Calendar.

The closure of our libraries is based on guidance from health officials about limiting gatherings and employing social distancing. For more information, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment or call (303) 389-1687.

We’re doing all we can to ensure the safety and health of DCL staff and our community. Thank you for your support and understanding as we navigate this situation together. Stay safe. We wish you and your loved ones good health.

Warm regards,
Douglas County Libraries

New Year, New Ways to Use Your Library

Douglas County Libraries Introduces Aaptiv Audio-Guided Workouts

The new year brings new active workout options for Douglas County Libraries cardholders. Through Douglas County Libraries’ new partnership with Aaptiv, the #1 audio-based fitness app on the Apple App Store, cardholders can now access trainer-led, music-driven audio workouts for free. Douglas County Libraries is currently the only library in the nation to offer Aaptiv.

Patrons look to public libraries to meet a variety of needs, including entertainment and informational fulfillment. With Aaptiv, Douglas County Libraries gives patrons one more way to use their library, especially at a time when resolutions are made to save money and get fit.

“Douglas County Libraries is about giving the community free access to premium products and services that enhance their lives,” said Collection Development Librarian Andrea Wyant. “The county is full of active people who have access to some of the most beautiful outdoor surroundings in the nation, as well as top-notch rec centers and fitness clubs. This 100-percent audio product complements all of that.”

Aaptiv provides audio fitness classes, guided by expert trainers, that let people make the most of their workouts—at home, the gym, or outdoors. Membership provides unlimited access to more than 2,500 workouts in 13 categories, including running, strength, boxing, yoga, indoor cycling, cardio machines, and meditation.

Every class features inspiring music by well-known artists, so members can move to the music they love. Programs help members prepare for races from 5K to marathon, improve strength or flexibility, lose weight, or reduce stress, while powerful filters let them find perfect workouts by trainer, duration, music genre, or intensity.

Wyant said she was looking to add a fitness app to the library’s digital collection and liked the ratings and reviews Aaptiv received. After trying out the product herself, she reached out to the company. “They were really responsive to our needs as a library, like authentication with library cards,” she said.

Douglas County Libraries cardholders get unlimited access to Aaptiv for three months, for free. Subscriptions are limited.

To learn more or to get started with Aaptiv, visit DCL.org/library-perks or call 303-791-7323.

Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery, and connection.

Parker Library Event Calendar

Parker Library Events Currently CLOSED

Parker Storytime

Monday – Friday

  • 9:30 a.m. Baby
  • 10:15 a.m. Toddler
  • 11:15 a.m. Preschool

Saturday

  • 10:15 a.m. All Ages

Reading to Dogs Builds Confidence and Self-Esteem

Volunteers and their trained therapy dogs give budding and struggling readers an opportunity to read out loud without the stress of being judged.

Register for a specific appointment time at one of the libraries listed below.

James H. LaRue Library in Highlands Ranch
Second Saturday of each month beginning at 12pm
Fourth Tuesday of each month beginning at 3:45pm

Parker Library
Fourth Wednesday of each month beginning at 4:00pm
Second Thursday of each month beginning at 4:00pm

Philip S. Miller Library in Castle Rock
First and Third Wednesdays of each month beginning at 4pm
Fourth Tuesday of each month beginning at 4pm

Roxborough Library
Second Tuesday of each month beginning at 4:30pm
Fourth Saturday of each month beginning at 10:30am

 Click here to reserve a meeting room at the Parker Library

Parker Chess Club

  • PRIMARY AGE GROUP: All Ages
  • GENRE: Games
  • TIME OF DAY: Evening
  • DAY & TIME: Thursdays, 7-9PM
  • Friendly drop-in competition for all ages and abilities.NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Adult Coloring Groups in Colorado

Have you heard? Adult coloring books are all the rage! Month after month, adult coloring books are topping Amazon’s bestseller lists and more and more adults are finding their zen in between the lines of a coloring page. If you are already a Colorist check out the latest adult coloring books, supplies and tips here at ColoringBookAddict.com. Need more info about supplies to buy or tips and tricks? Check out the Coloring Book Addicts site.  So far this event has attracted guys and gals from 19 – 89 so grab your book and head over to make some new friends.

Unfortunately, the Parker Library has stopped hosting the coloring group but the links below will help you find a new one.

If you live outside the Parker area, check this list from Cleverpedia to see the coloring group nearest you.

Movie & A Martini Lineup CU South – Christmas Vacation 2019

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MOVIE & A MARTINI

Movie and a Martini

CU South Denver / aka Wildlife Experience continues their popular movie nights dubbed Movie & a Martini. We have attended several of these events and even if it’s a movie you’ve seen on tv a million times, it’s way more fun when it’s on the huge screen.  You are treated to a great cocktail hour with 2 tickets each and Appetizers & Dinner. You are then ushered past a large display of popcorn boxes free for the taking to the Imax theater to watch the movie.

Please join with your friends for an evening of fun at Movie and a Martini!

Guests enjoy two drinks, hors-d’oeuvres, popcorn, access to the museum exhibits and the feature presentation all included in the $45 ticket price, $35 for designated drivers. There are trivia and prizes before the movie and special presentations throughout the year.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Chevy Chase and company are back in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Take a break from your frenzied holiday preparations to enjoy the chaos of Clark Griswold and family. Don that festive sweater or dress up like Cousin Eddie and join this adults-only roller coaster of a Christmas ride. This modern classic keeps you laughing and fills your holiday with cheer.
Enjoy an all-inclusive night out!

ADMISSION INCLUDES:

  • Your choice of two specialty drinks (holiday-themed cocktails, house wine or domestic beer)
  • Appetizers and dinner
  • Popcorn
  • “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on the Giant Screen!

FEATURED MENU:

Chopped Caesar Salad
With croutons and parmesan cheese

Smoked Baron of Beef
with roasted potato & winter vegetable hash
A mix of heirloom potatoes, Brussel sprouts, carrots, and caramelized onions, served with a rosemary demi

White Cheddar Mac & Cheese Station
Toppings include crispy bacon, green onions, and fried jalapeños

Mini Pretzel Bites
With chili con queso dip

Movie Theater Popcorn with specialty seasonings

CHRISTMAS VACATION EVENT DETAILS

CU South Denver

Sunday, December 8
Sunday, December 15 (SOLD OUT)
Appetizers – 5:30 p.m.
Feature Presentation – 7 p.m.

BUY TICKETS

10035 S Peoria St, Parker, CO 80134
303-315-9444

CU South Denver has a no-refund, no-exchange policy. All sales are final. Refunds are given only in the event that CU South Denver cancels a program.ID’s are required and will be checked at the door. Children of any age are not permitted at this event. Thank you for your cooperation

PRICES:
General Admission$45
Designated Driver$35
AGE RESTRICTION:

21+

Milk & Cookies with Santa

Oktoberfest in Parker CO – Sept. 13-15

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Parker Oktoberfest 2021

Admission to this family-friendly German-themed festival is FREE and the event includes a number of fun activities for children and adults. Come watch vignettes of the Grimm Brother’s tale spin-offs on our kid’s stage, or let the kiddos run loose in our kid’s area where vendors and sponsors will be providing activities and games to keep them entertained. Catch one of our several authentic German bands play on the main stage, sign up to compete in beer-relay games, or simply relax and play some lawn games while enjoying a  Schnitzel and a cold brew. We will be hosting dachshund races and a Parker Oktoberfest pageant, so come participate or come watch the fun – either way you’ll have a great time.

octoberfest parker co

Celebrating German Culture in Parker for the 14th Year!

Volunteer – It’s FUN!

As a non-profit fundraiser, the Parker Oktoberfest is run by volunteers. From board members and officers to beer servers, to game hosts, greeters, set-up, take down, grounds crews, ticket sellers, ambassadors, parking attendants we value the commitment of volunteers to be successful. Please consider helping out. Contact them here to volunteer.