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- π€ Hayrides, Haunts & a Herd
π€ Hayrides, Haunts & a Herd
A real cattle drive, a haunted forest & a pumpkin race, all in this week's Roundup!
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Good Morning & Aloha. Fall's showing off this week: mild days in the upper 60s and low 70s carry us through Friday, a few morning showers Saturday knock the high down to a brisk 54Β°, and the sunshine's back for Sunday.
Good thing, because Halloween season hits full gallop on the Ranch. Dueling Pianos takes the stage in Highlands Ranch Wednesday, Friday night brings Haunted Hayrides, the Haunted Forest and a bonfire BBQ in Castle Pines, and Saturday is stacked: a real cattle drive through Sterling Ranch, a pumpkin race and Trick-or-Treat Street in Castle Pines, Boo Bash at the Outlets and a whiskey and BBQ tasting at Eastridge. Round up the family, there's plenty to see.
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In this week's Ranch Roundup:
This week's events
Fillin' Up Fast
Food Trucks South of 470
Weekly weather
And more!
Giddy up.
Most Wanted
ghoul's night out
ππΈ Mosey on over 10/31 after trick-or-treating for Last Stop Halloween at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, a free, outdoors-only bash for ghouls and goblins of all ages with a DJ spinning Halloween tunes, trick-or-treating at the front door and a cash bar pouring a signature spooky cocktail on the veranda. No reservations needed, but parking is tight (carpool if you can) and pets aren't allowed. Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E Gateway Drive, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. 6:30-9 PM More info.
walk the line
π¦πΈ Round up your crew 11/10 for the 10th Annual Turkeys for Our Troops, an afternoon of music from Johnny Cash tribute artist David Chapa that helps stock Thanksgiving tables for Fort Carson military families. Grocery gift cards or checks made out to Redistribution Center, Inc. are appreciated, and every bit goes to the Warriors Warehouse Redistribution Center. Tailgate Tavern, 19552 Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138. 3:30-6:30 PM More info.
star struck
ππ Giddy up 11/21 for the Castle Rock Starlighting, the Chamber's beloved kickoff to the holidays with vendor and nonprofit booths, a Kids Zone, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, complimentary hot chocolate and a beer, wine and spirits selection for the grown-ups. It all builds to the lighting of the iconic Star atop Castle Rock, followed by fireworks (weather and fire danger permitting). Downtown Castle Rock, CO 80104. 2-6 PM More info.
Sweet Treats & Sips β The Twisted Sugar Experience

Looking for a sweet escape from the everyday? Head over to Twisted Sugar, where we redefine indulgence! Whether it's our mouthwatering cookies, refreshing sodas (customized with a variety of fun add-ins like flavored syrups, fresh fruit, and creams), or our signature Twisters (smoothies with a twist), every bite and sip brings a new adventure. Treat yourself to a soda break, grab a snack, or share a box of our freshly baked cookies with friends and family. At Twisted Sugar, we're not just serving sweets β we're creating moments of joy. Stop by, savor the magic & tell us the Ranch Roundup sent you! Explore our menu and more at Twisted Sugar.
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Events
From Boot-Stompin' Beats to captivating arts & culture, here's what's happening in and around the Ranch this week.
Tuesday (10/20)
π§ββοΈπ Stretch out the week at Yin Yoga with Dayna Zielke of Yogi Colorado, a slow, floor-based class where each pose is held for several minutes with props for support. Made for beginners. Event Hall A, 20105 Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138. 2-3 PM More info.
π¦πΎ Play detective at Signs of Wildlife, a Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance presentation for all ages on the clues critters leave behind, from tracks and abandoned spider webs to owl pellets and weathered bones. Space is limited, so RSVP. Overlook Clubhouse, 7853 Piney River Avenue, Sterling Ranch, CO 80125. 6-7 PM More info.
Wednesday (10/21)
π³οΈπ Brush up before you vote at Active Minds' objective look at the initiatives and referenda on this fall's Colorado ballot, with the arguments on both sides of each one. Event Hall A, 9292 South Ridgeline Boulevard, Littleton, CO 80129. 2-3 PM More info.
π§π² Help cut the ribbon on Outcrop Park, Sterling Ranch's newest five-acre playground, starring a custom 12-foot climbing wall inspired by Colorado's rock formations, complete with a rockslide. Coffee and cocoa provided. Outcrop Park, Hooper St. south of Joy Seedum Ave., Littleton, CO 80125. 5-6:30 PM More info.
ππ Discover your next great read at Book Lovers, an evening of book talks with door prizes and refreshments. Registration required. Event Hall A & B, 20105 Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138. 6-7:45 PM More info.
πΉπ€ Saddle up for Dueling Pianos, where two talented pianists battle it out on stage in a night of music, comedy and quick wit. Tickets are $15, 18+, cash bar with IDs checked, and no food is served, so eat beforehand. Southridge Recreation Center, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd, Highlands Ranch, CO. 7-8:30 PM (doors at 6:30) More info.
Thursday (10/22)
π»π―οΈ Creep through downtown on Ghostly Stories & Tragic Tales of Castle Rock, a free walking tour of the town's spookiest history, from The Rock to the Old Stone Church. Can't make tonight? There's also a tour Wednesday (10/21) at 7 PM. Reservations required. Castle Rock Museum, 420 Elbert St., Castle Rock, CO 80104. 7-8 PM More info.
Friday (10/23)
ππ΄ Giddy up for the Haunted Hayrides, a 30-minute spine-tingling ramble down a spooky trail while storytellers spin an amusing tale, plus a petting zoo, games and 4-H grub in the barn. It's a fundraiser for the Cowboy 4-H Club, with rides every half hour Friday and Saturday, $16 per rider (2 and under ride free on a lap). Stockton's Plum Creek Stables, 7479 W. Titan Road, Littleton, CO 80125. 6-8:30 PM More info.
π₯π Toast some s'mores at Bonfire, BBQ, and Brews, Castle Pines' fall evening of fire pits, a BBQ meal, drinks for the 21+ crowd and live music from Darling Revival. Tickets are $42 for adults (21+) and $30 for under 21, and all sales are final. Village Square Shopping Area, 7437 Village Square Drive, Castle Pines, CO 80108. 6-9 PM More info.
π»π² Brave the Haunted Forest, a three-quarter-mile creep through the Backcountry Wilderness Area where nightmares lurk behind every tree and bush. Recommended for ages 10+ (heads up, there are strobe lights). Tickets are $15 or $25 for a fast pass, all benefiting the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund, and it's back Saturday from 7-10 PM. Parking at Rocky Heights Middle School, 11033 Monarch Blvd, Lone Tree, CO 80124. 6:30-9:30 PM More info.
Saturday (10/24)
ππ Round up the family for Castle Pines' Fall Festival, Trick-or-Treat Street, and Pumpkin Race, a free day with a farmers market, a petting zoo and, new this year, a chili cookoff. The pumpkin race revs up at 1 PM, so bring your gourd in its race car form. Village Square Shopping Area, 7437 Village Square Drive, Castle Pines, CO 80108. 10 AM-2 PM More info.
ππ€ Saddle up for Sterling Ranch's Cattle Drive, a hometown tradition where cowboys and cowgirls drive a real herd through Providence Gulch around 11 AM, followed by food trucks, live music and plenty of western spirit. Overlook Clubhouse, 7853 Piney River Avenue, Littleton, CO 80125. 10 AM-2 PM More info.
πβ»οΈ Clean out the medicine cabinet on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, with free, safe disposal of unused or expired prescription and over-the-counter meds. The Castle Rock Police Department (100 Perry St.) is collecting during the same hours. Douglas County Sheriff's Office Highlands Ranch Substation, 9250 Zotos Drive, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129. 10 AM-2 PM More info.
π§Άπ Get a head start on holiday shopping at the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center Fall Craft Fair, with handcrafted gifts and decor from more than 60 artisans, from jewelry and glassworks to weighted blankets and baked goods. Free admission. Highlands Ranch Senior Center, 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. 10 AM-3 PM More info.
πποΈ Mosey on over to Boo Bash at Outlets at Castle Rock for a petting zoo, face painting, stilt walkers, balloon twisters, caricatures and a 360Β° photo booth. Dress up for the costume contest from 12-1:30 PM, with categories for pets, kids, teens and groups. Free. 4th Street East Courtyard, Outlets at Castle Rock, 5050 Factory Shops Blvd., Castle Rock, CO 80108. 11 AM-2 PM More info.
π§πΊ Raise a pint to Hop Zombie, Lone Tree Brewing's one-day-only 9% Imperial Red IPA, on draft and in 6-packs while supplies last, with loot boxes up for grabs. Lone Tree Brewing Company, 8200 Park Meadows Drive Suite 8222, Lone Tree, CO 80124. 11 AM More info.
π¬π¦ Trick-or-treat among the red rocks at Roxborough State Park's Boo Trick Or Treat Event. Every vehicle needs a valid state parks pass (daily passes are sold at the entrance), and pets aren't allowed in the park. Roxborough State Park, 4751 E. Roxborough Dr., Roxborough, CO 80125. 12-4 PM More info.
ππ» Not ready for the full scare? Haunted Forest Fall Fest (1-4 PM, $10 kids, $5 adults) brings a bounce house, food truck treats, crafts and a not-as-scary trail walk, then Fright Lite (5-7 PM, $10) keeps the lights, music and spooky scenes but leaves out the live scare actors. Parking at Rocky Heights Middle School, 11033 Monarch Blvd, Lone Tree, CO 80124. 1-7 PM More info.
π₯π Sip into the season at Oaked and Smoked, HRCA and Davidson's Beer, Wine & Spirits' whiskey and BBQ tasting with unlimited 1 oz. samples in a souvenir cup. Tickets are $45 ($15 for designated drivers, BBQ only), 21+ with IDs checked. Eastridge, 9568 University Blvd., Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. 3-6 PM More info.
Sunday (10/25)
π₯π§Ί Fill your basket at the Highlands Ranch Farmers' Market with fresh, seasonal produce and locally made goods. Only one more Sunday after this one, since the season wraps 11/1. Highlands Ranch Town Center, 9288 Dorchester St., Highlands Ranch, CO. 10 AM-2 PM More info.
πͺπ‘οΈ Build some confidence at a Women's Self Defense Class, learning effective techniques and practical ways to stay safe. No experience needed, just RSVP. Great Hall, 7853 Piney River Avenue, Sterling Ranch, CO 80125. 12-1:30 PM More info.
Fillin' Up Fast
Thursday (11/19)
βπ Warm up with Booked for the Holidays: A Cup of Holiday Cheer, a festive tea tasting for adults led by Michele Lillie of Tea Journeys, with holiday-inspired teas and tips for brewing the perfect cup at home. Event Hall, 360 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines, CO 80108. 2-3:30 PM More info.
Friday (11/20)
π§π§ Find your focus at Attention and the Body: An Introduction to Somatic Meditation, as Dr. Sandeepa Sur explores body-based meditation and the science behind attention. Event Hall B, 20105 Mainstreet, Parker, CO 80138. 10-11:30 AM More info.
ποΈπͺΆ Explore Native Americans of Colorado with Active Minds, a look at the Ute, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Pueblo and other Native nations who called this region home long before statehood. Lockheed Martin Community Meeting Room, 8357 North Rampart Range Road, Littleton, CO. 2-3 PM More info.
Saturday (11/21)
π§Άπ Hook a decorative holiday garland at Crochet for Beginners: Stitch & Create, a class for adults and teens with kits included. Event Hall, 360 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines, CO 80108. 2-3:30 PM More info.
π¨οΈβοΈ Level up at 3D Printing 102: One Layer at a Time, as mechanical designer Jesse Butwinick helps new printer owners (and Black Friday shoppers) skip the beginner mistakes. For adults and teens. Event Hall A, 100 South Wilcox Street, Castle Rock, CO 80104. 2-3:30 PM More info.
Sunday (11/22)
πΆπ§ββοΈ Unwind at a 90-minute Sound Bath with crystal singing bowls and vocals from certified yoga practitioner Ellie Ferguson. Bring pillows, blankets and a yoga mat. Event Hall, 360 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines, CO 80108. 2-3:30 PM More info.
Wednesday (12/9)
πβ Curl up with Book Lovers: Afternoon Holiday Edition, an afternoon of book talks with door prizes and refreshments. Event Hall, 360 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines, CO 80108. 1-2:30 PM More info.

Food Trucks South of 470
They brave the journey, risking life and livelihood to venture this far south, and we tip our hats in salute! 5 convenient locations:
Living the Dream: 9150 Commerce Center Circle, Suite 300, Highlands Ranch CO 80129
Max Taps: 2680 E County Line Rd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
Sterling Ranch: 8155 Piney River Ave, Littleton, CO 80125
Lone Tree Brewing Company (LTBC) Main: 8200 Park Meadows Drive Suite 8222, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Lone Tree Brewing Company (LTBC) Parker: 18425 Pony Express Drive, Parker, CO 80134
Monday (10/19)
Living the Dream: Empanadas Peru Flavors (4-8 PM)
Max Taps: Philly Monday (2-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Krazy Thai (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Mediterranean Madness (4-8 PM)
Tuesday (10/20)
Living the Dream: Sizzle (4-8 PM)
Max Taps: Colorado Chile Co (4-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Loma Bonita (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Denver Doughboys Pizza (4-8 PM)
Wednesday (10/21)
Living the Dream: Big Belly Brothers BBQ (3-8 PM)
Max Taps: Bohemian Biergarden (4-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: The Burning Oven Pizza & Timberline Pastries (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Bald Man Burritos (4-8 PM)
LTBC Parker: Rustic Nomads (4-8 PM)
Thursday (10/22)
Living the Dream: Rustic Nomads (3-8 PM)
Max Taps: Denver Dough Boy (4-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Woodhill BBQ (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Ecos de Mexico (4-8 PM)
LTBC Parker: Tangos Pizza and Empanadas (4-8 PM)
Friday (10/23)
Living the Dream: The Burning Oven Pizza (1-8 PM)
Max Taps: On the Hook (11 AM-7:30 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Tula's Tapas (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Big Stuff Colorado (4-8 PM)
LTBC Parker: Eggroll Parker (4-8 PM)
Saturday (10/24)
Living the Dream: Big Stuff (12-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Lucky Bird (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Rustic Nomads (11 AM-8 PM)
LTBC Parker: Bailey's Bites (12-8 PM)
Sunday (10/25)
Living the Dream: Big Belly Brothers BBQ (12-7 PM)
Max Taps: Parkway Pizza (12-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Wheels on Fire Pizza (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Denver Doughboys Pizza (12-6 PM)
LTBC Parker: Mediterranean Madness (12-6 PM)
Monday (10/26)
Living the Dream: Pizza & Pints w/ Parkway Pizza (4-8 PM)
Max Taps: Philly Monday (2-8 PM)
Sterling Ranch: Philly On The Go & HipPOPs (4-8 PM)
LTBC Main: Tangos Pizza and Empanadas (4-8 PM)
LTBC Parker: Eggroll Parker (4-8 PM)
Weekly Weather
Mon 19 β
45Β° π‘οΈ 67Β° π§ 15% π¨ SE 9 mph
Tue 20 βοΈ 47Β° π‘οΈ 71Β° π§ 3% π¨ NE 9 mph
Wed 21 β
53Β° π‘οΈ 74Β° π§ 3% π¨ S 9 mph
Thu 22 βοΈ 54Β° π‘οΈ 71Β° π§ 17% π¨ S 14 mph
Fri 23 β
44Β° π‘οΈ 69Β° π§ 24% π¨ SW 12 mph
Sat 24 π¦οΈ 39Β° π‘οΈ 54Β° π§ 44% π¨ NNE 11 mph
Sun 25 π€οΈ 41Β° π‘οΈ 59Β° π§ 7% π¨ SSE 9 mph
Mon 26 β
44Β° π‘οΈ 62Β° π§ 2% π¨ SSE 9 mph
That's all for this week. Remember, don't line dance aloneβ¦share The Ranch Roundup!
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