Colorado Explorer

Activies

Linda DuVal

Photo: Brian Gadbery, CTO

O Sole Mio! The Central City Opera is celebrating its 75th anniversary this summer, presenting the world premiere of "Poet Li Bai" as well as perennial favorites "Cinderella" and "La Traviata." 303-292-6700.

And if opera is your passion, then check out Opera Colorado, too. It doesn't start until fall, but tickets can be ordered now for performances that range from the classic to the contemporary, with "Don Pasquale" and "Nixon in China" on its schedule. 303-468-2030.

There's big excitement in Colorado Springs with the extremely Grand Opening of the two-story, 48,000-square-foot expansion of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Aug. 2-5. It's being billed as the greatest art event in the history of the city. Headliners for various events include actor Joel Grey, filmmaker John Waters and New York museum director Thomas Hoving. 719-634-5581.

For 50 years, the annual Brush Rodeo was the world's largest open rodeo—meaning anyone could compete. Now it's a sanctioned PRCA event, which just takes it up a notch. Along with the rodeo, there'll be a parade, dance, barbecue, cowboy breakfast and fireworks. Events for kids include a balloon stomp and stick-horse race. Join the fun July 2-4 in Brush. 800-354-8659.

While you're out this way, stop by the Kit Carson County Carousel in Burlington and ride a pony of your own. OK, they're wooden animals, but this historic carousel with its 1912 Wurlitzer Monster Military Band organ will unleash a whole flood of memories. It's only 25 cents, and it's only open in summer. While you're there, check out the spanking new museum, too. 800-825-0208.

Linda DuVal is former travel editor of The Gazette in Colorado Springs and a freelance writer.