Performing arts festivals begin, Independence Day celebrations abound

By the Thirst Team

Get Out of Town is our weekly roundup of recommended events across Colorado. For the 4th of July, we lassoed some small-town Western fun. But first, we spotlight a pair of great music and theater series opening this week. For even more happenings, check out our events calendar.

Colorado Music Festival opens

Renowned conductor Peter Oundjian returns to the Chautauqua Auditorium this summer as music director of the Colorado Music Festival. The orchestra for this world-class classical music series includes musicians from 23 states, 4 provinces, and 3 countries. They open the festival Thursday with a Brahms showcase spotlighting pianist Hélène Grimaud. Concerts continue through Aug. 3, and include world premieres, acclaimed guest musicians and many of the greatest works in the history of music.

“Richard II” begins

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival at CU Boulder continues Saturday with the opening performance of “Richard II.” The historic play began Shakespeare’s four-part “game of thrones” series and its dark commentary on politics remains relevant today. Shakespeare Festival performances of “Richard II” and “The Tempest” continue through Aug. 10 at the Roe Green Theatre.

Old-fashioned 4th celebrations

There are plenty of big-city Independence Day celebrations, including a drone show and classical concert at Denver’s Civic Center Park, and what is promoted as the state’s largest fireworks show after the Colorado Rapids game in Commerce City.

But it’s hard to beat small-town Western parades, rodeos, music and, of course, fireworks on the 4th of July. Here are our three picks for America’s big day.

The Brush Rodeo runs today through Friday in the small northeast Colorado town, starting at 7 each night. The festivities also include a Western art show and trick riders, as well as a pancake breakfast, live music and fireworks on Friday.
Creede’s 4th of July celebration runs all weekend, and includes live music, a parade, mining competitions, various performances at the Creede Repertory Theatre, the ChuteOut Rodeo at 6 p.m., fireworks and more.
Just 30 minutes from Creede is South Park, where Independence Day arrives on Thursday, with an afternoon fish fry, parade and live auction, evening rodeo and a bonus fireworks display.

Save the date: Estes Park Wine Festival

The 10th annual Estes Park Wine Festival comes to Bond Park in Estes on Aug. 9 and 10. Tickets include a wine glass, wine tote and unlimited tastings, along with live music, food and vendors. The music lineup includes Wendy Woo and Iconix on Saturday, and Billy Bower, Nick Critchlow and Rusty 44 on Sunday.

As always, please send us your events and announcements. We’re happy to share them. If they don’t fit in the Get Out of Town column, we will add them to our events calendar.