City launches 100-day countdown to America 250 – Colorado 150 celebration

The City of Colorado Springs today kicked off the 100-day countdown to Colorado's 150th anniversary of statehood on Aug. 1 and the United States' 250th anniversary on July 4, unveiling a series of signature events and community programming that will take place across the Pikes Peak region this summer.

Announced during a media event at North Catamount Reservoir overlooking Pikes Peak - America's Mountain, the next 100 days will feature celebrations, cultural programming and community events designed to honor the region's history while bringing residents and visitors together.

As part of the kickoff event, Phil Long Dealerships also announced a $25,000 donation to support the statewide America 250 - Colorado 150 programming efforts, reinforcing the role of private-sector partnerships in bringing these celebrations to life.

"Today, we begin the 100-day countdown to Colorado's 150th birthday of statehood, while also looking ahead to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "Over the next 100 days, our community will come together; on America's Mountain, at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, and across our neighborhoods.

"More importantly, we will reconnect with what has always made this country special: freedom, opportunity, and the belief that everyone has a place, that everyone belongs. This moment invites us to recommit to one another and remember that we are part of the same story - a complete story of red, white, and blue."

"Colorado holds a unique place in this moment as we celebrate both our state's 150th anniversary and our nation's 250th," said Nathan Richie, co-chair of the America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission. "Through this effort, we are working to encourage communities across Colorado to engage with the commemoration in ways that are meaningful for them. Colorado Springs has been inspiring and thoughtful in their planning and efforts to bring these milestones to life in ways that reflect both its shared history and its future."

Signature events and programming

Over the next 100 days, the City of Colorado Springs will lead major events tied to the America 250 - Colorado 150 celebration, including:

Pikes Peak - America's Mountain

Pikes Peak - America's Mountain will host programming throughout the day on both July 4 and Aug. 1, including first-ever sunset experiences from the summit, alongside the return of sunrise experiences. These will include timed-entry and shuttle bus ticket options and are available for sale now. Capacity is limited, and tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis at drivepikespeak.com.

The mountain will also host additional programming throughout the day on both July 4 and Aug. 1, offering visitors a range of summit experiences tied to the celebration. On Colorado Day, Aug. 1, a special program will recognize local, state, federal and tribal partners who support the mountain and its operations, as well as the many organizations who utilize the mountain throughout the year. The day will also feature a planned Guinness World Record attempt from atop the summit, with additional details to be announced at a later date.

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum will celebrate Colorado Day on Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., with a family-friendly event marking 150 years of statehood. The free event will feature live music, food trucks, hands-on activities for all ages, and birthday cake.

The museum will also debut a new exhibit, "Freedom to Thrive: The American Experiment in Colorado Springs," later this year. The exhibit explores the local story within the broader American experiment and serves as a centerpiece of the community's commemorative programming.

Additionally, the museum will offer year-round programming tied to the America 250 - Colorado 150 commemoration. The "We the People: Colorado at 150" lecture series will highlight diverse perspectives and stories from across the state, with free admission and registration required. For younger audiences, the Little Learners: Pikes Peak Wonders Series will provide hands-on activities for children ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers, combining games, crafts, and history-based learning throughout the year. To see all the museum's upcoming commemorative programs and events, visit CSPM's website [cspm.org/am250co150]cspm.org/am250co150.

Lastly, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (CSPM) and Visit Colorado Springs (VCOS) are proud to present the COS Culture Passport. The community is invited to join CSPM and VCOS on Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., for the official launch of this digital passport program inspired by the America 250 - Colorado 150 commemorations. Kick-off your summer history & cultural adventure at this special event featuring family-friendly activities presented by the regional passport sites.

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site will host a unique, one-of-a-kind event called "United We Rock" on Aug. 1 from 2 to 8 p.m. The special America 250 - Colorado 150 event will feature live music, interactive experiences and activities that highlight the region's history and culture and include a beer and whiskey tasting festival. Admission details include $25 tickets with a whiskey/beer punch card and $5 entry for non-drinkers and those under 21, with food available for purchase onsite. Tickets are on sale now.

Additional community and statewide events

Residents and visitors can explore additional events and activities happening across the community by visiting PeakRadar.com. The site is curating a comprehensive calendar of programs and events from local organizations and partners in celebration of America 250 - Colorado 150. A full list of events is available at PeakRadar.com/categories/am250co150/.

Residents and visitors can also explore events happening across Colorado through the official statewide calendar at [Am250CO150.org]Am250CO150.org.