THROUGH JAN. 1
The 35th local celebration of Kwanzaa, created by African Americans nationally to honor African culture, is a time “of family, community and culture.” Presented by Kuumba Cultural Collective of Southern Colorado at In-Balance Wellness Studio, 2820 E. Pikes Peak Ave., it begins Thursday and then nightly at 6 p.m., cospringskwanzaa.org. Seven theme candles to light: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination); Ujima (collective work and responsibility); Ujamaa (cooperative economics); Nia (purpose); Kuumba (creativity); and Imani (faith).
THROUGH JAN. 1
Skate in the Park is a special time for families including during holiday week and on New Year’s Eve in downtown Acacia Park. From 1 to 3 p.m.Saturday there’s even a Bisque & Bytes theme day with free grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato bisque soup for the first 200 skaters. Skating is $13 and includes skates, free for kiddos 4 and under with paying adult. Credit cards preferred. For times, go to downtowncs.com/event/skate,
NEW YEAR’S DAY
After the holiday celebrations, Jan. 1 First Day Hikes in state parks have become a national tradition and are so very Colorado. Starting the new year by enjoying the outdoors is the focus. All are free but state parks passes are required. Some parks have reservations. Participating in Colorado: Barr Lake, Boyd Lake, Castlewood Canyon, Cherry Creek, Cheyenne Mountain, Eldorado Canyon, Golden Gate Canyon, Highline Lake, James M. Robb Colorado River, Lake Pueblo, Lathrop, Mueller, Navajo, Rifle Gap, Roxborough, St Vrain, Stagecoach, State Forest, Staunton, Steamboat Lake, Sylvan Lake, Trinidad Lake, Vega. cpw.state.co.us/event/2025/01/first-day-hikes.
NEW YEAR’S DAY
A 46-year running tradition welcoming the new year, the Pikes Peak Road Runners Annual Rescue Run, a 5K and a 10K to benefit the nonprofit El Paso County Search and Rescue, the mountain search and rescue team. Runs start at 10 a.m. from Norris-Penrose Event Center and trails lead into Bear Creek Park. epcsar.org/event/46th-annual-rescue-run And as this rugged group says with a laugh: Rain, Snow or 20 below!