AURORA | And now, for something completely different. Hitch your wagon to the mild weather this weekend and roll across the prairie just like the settlers did. The Plains Conservation Center is giving horse-drawn wagon rides in the city’s green desert, providing unusual fun and an educational afternoon on a mild fall day.
Sound too weird? There are plenty of shows, exhibits and more in and near Aurora. Scroll down for more.
Wagon tours explore life on the prairie at Plains Conservation Center
A ride through the shortgrass prairie is slated for select Saturdays in October and November at the Plains Conservation Center in Aurora. Participants will travel by wagon across open plains, keeping an eye out for prairie dogs, pronghorn antelope and birds of prey beneath the wide Colorado sky. Along the way, naturalists will share insights into the prairie ecosystem.
The two-hour experience includes stops at “soddie” homes and a Cheyenne camp, giving visitors a glimpse of life for both homesteaders and Cheyenne people on the prairie during the 1800s. Tours are open to all ages but this fall’s sessions are geared toward adults. Organizers note that tours are weather dependent, with cancellations communicated directly to registrants.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Oct. 4, Oct. 18 and Nov. 8
Place: Plains Conservation Center, 21901 E. Hampden Ave.(entrance is at East Hampden Avenue and South Picadilly Road)
Tickets: $15. Registration required at botanicgardens.org
First Date’ musical comedy at the Vintage Theatre
A fast-paced romantic comedy with a musical twist is set to open on the Berg-Young Cabaret Stage at the Vintage Theatre.
First Date, with book by Austin Winsberg and music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, follows blind date newbie Aaron and serial-dater Casey as their casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a high-stakes evening.
As the date unfolds in real time, the couple’s inner voices come to life through the people around them. Other restaurant patrons morph into best friends, exes and parents, singing and dancing them through awkward ice-breakers, appetizers and conversational traps.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Through Oct. 23, 2025
Place: Berg-Young Cabaret Stage at the Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St.
Tickets: $24
Details: www.vintagetheatre.org
Aurora Fox brings ‘Schoolhouse Rock Live!’ to the stage on Colfax
The Aurora Fox Arts Center will bring Saturday morning memories to life with “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” running on the Fox Mainstage Theater. Directed by Kelly Van Oosbree, the high-energy musical is based on the animated series that taught generations grammar, math and history through catchy songs.
The show follows Tom, a nervous young teacher whose TV characters leap off the screen to show him how to inspire his students through music and imagination. Audience members can expect classic favorites like “Conjunction Junction,” “I’m Just a Bill” and “Three Is a Magic Number.”
“This production is pure joy,” said Rich Cowden, executive producer of the Aurora Fox. “It’s educational, it’s fun, and it connects generations through music and storytelling.”
In addition to evening and weekend shows, nine daytime student matinees are scheduled, making the production a back-to-school field trip opportunity for young audiences.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Through Oct. 18 Curtains vary greatly for day and night performances.
Venue: Aurora Fox Mainstage Theater, 9900 E. Colfax Ave.
Tickets: $17–$42
Details: aurorafoxartscenter.org
‘Merrily We Roll Along’ opens Sept. 12 at Vintage Theatre
The Tony Award-winning musical Merrily We Roll Along is set to open Sept. 12 at Vintage Theatre, bringing Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s acclaimed story of friendship, compromise and the cost of success to Aurora audiences. Directed by Bernie Cardell, the show plays through Oct. 19 in the Nickelson Auditorium.
Told in reverse, the musical traces the lives of three friends from adulthood back to their youthful idealism, blending the excitement of a backstage show with a poignant examination of staying true to one’s dreams. The production won the 2024 Tony Award for Best Revival.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Through Oct. 19
Venue: Nickelson Auditorium at Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St., Aurora
Tickets: $39 general admission, $33 seniors, $20 students/children (12 or younger)
Details: 303-856-7830 or VintageTheatre.org
‘Unapologetically Chicano’ art experience
A six-week immersive celebration of Chicano culture at CHAC Gallery @40 West in Lakewood. “Unapologetically Chicano” will showcase traditional and contemporary works of art alongside music, food and community connection.
Curated by Rob and Tammy Yancey, the exhibition highlights the resilience and creativity of Chicano identity across generations. The opening reception runs from 5 to 9 p.m. and will feature local and regional artists, live music, DJs, authentic food vendors, classic cars from Los Compas Car Club and handcrafted spirits served by The Good Ol’ Time Mobile Bar.
A second First Friday event on Oct. 3 offers another chance to meet the artists and experience the work. Organizers describe the show as a celebration of heritage, resistance and joy.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Through Oct. 24,
Opening reception: Sept. 5, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Venue: CHAC Gallery @40 West, 7060 W. 16th Ave.
Tickets: Free
Details: www.chacgallery.org/
Art in the Park food and market series at the Aurora Highlands
A fusion of art, shopping, food and community are slated for Sept. 18 at Winged Melody Park as part of a free market in the park series.
Participants are invited to explore other pieces in the huge, open-air gallery of large-art installations across the park, including “Broken but Together” by Michael Benisty and “The Only Way Out is Through” by Snyder and Olivia Steele.
“Pack your blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers,” organizers say. “Everyone is welcome to bring their own food and drinks, or get treats from nearby food trucks.” This week’s vendors include: The Progressive Pantry, Hooked by Shan, Korf Kreations, Mamas Money My Treats, La Bloom, Corf Coffee Mobile, StephanieH TupperAdvantage, Snowy Leopard Art, Natural Cottage Pantry, Blizzful Beech, Jordan Crafts Co, Mouna’s Boutique.
IF YOU GO:
Date: Oct. 4, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m..
Place: Winged Melody Park at Highlands Creek, 24495 E 35th Drive in the Aurora Highlands
Tickets: Free
Details: theaurorahighlands.com
Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra launches Latin Jazz series
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra’s Latin Jazz Ensemble will kick off a monthlong celebration of Latin music in Lafayette, blending Brazilian grooves and Central American rhythms with the soaring vocals of Marion Powers. The concerts are part of National Hispanic Heritage Month and feature some of the region’s top Latin jazz artists.
Led by Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, the ensemble includes Victor Mestas on keyboards, Gabriel Santiago on guitar, Bijoux Barbosa on bass, Alejandro Castaño on drums, and Leo Corona on percussion. Together, they bring a bold mix of rhythm and soul that CJRO organizers say will create an unforgettable experience.
The series will include four performances across the metro area: the Muse Performance Space in Lafayette, Dazzle Denver, The Schoolhouse in Parker, and the Lakewood Cultural Center.
Each concert will feature “high-energy music” that organizers describe as “a Latin Jazz Fiesta.”
IF YOU GO:
Times, tickets and Places:
• Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m., The Schoolhouse, 19650 E. Main Street in Parker. Tickets are $27–$32.
• Oct. 12, 3 p.m., Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway. Tickets are $36–$38.
More detail and tickets at: coloradojazz.org
Aurora Borealis Festival returns to illuminate Painted Prairie Oct. 10–Oct. 11
The Northern Lights will glow above Aurora this fall with a little help from technology. The Aurora Borealis Festival is set to return for its second year, transforming High Prairie Park in Painted Prairie into a celebration of culture, community and cosmic wonder.
At the heart of the festival is the Aurora Laser Show, a choreographed light and music experience designed to re-create the awe of the aurora borealis. Guests can also stroll through immersive installations created by local and national artists, blending art and technology in new and surprising ways.
“The Aurora Borealis Festival is more than just a light show,” said Bruce Dalton, president and CEO of Visit Aurora. “It’s a way to bring the community together and to celebrate the magic of everything that Aurora has to offer Colorado’s families.”
The festival’s main stage will feature a full lineup of live performances both nights. Friday’s roster includes DJ Polyphoni, Eye-Yoob, Kalpulli Mikakuikatl, Destiny Shynelle and Kayla Marque. Saturday will showcase DJ Rewild, Jade Oracle, Miss Flowers and The Milk Blossoms. For those who want to keep the party going, a silent disco will be available throughout the weekend.
Illuminated art installations will dot the festival grounds, with highlights including “Chameletuna and Hearthug” by Ilya Sobol, “Elemental Reverie and Draco’s Paw” by Scorched Steel, “Megalotorus” by Jillian S. Estrella and Sierra B. Estrella, and “The Solarium” by Cody Borst. Attendees can vote for their favorite pieces using the DEN Illumination Passport app, with winners announced on stage at 9 p.m. Oct. 11.
The festival also doubles as a showcase of Aurora’s culinary diversity. The Flavors of Aurora Food Court, presented by “Westword”, will feature a mix of food trucks and vendors such as Geisha Japanese Cuisine, Loma Bonita Kitchen, Mississippi Catfish & Ribs, Koco Street Food, Mukja, Now Pho, Sweet Rice Flour and Neveria La Unica.
Shopping will be part of the experience as well. The Global Gift Bazaar will highlight local artisans and businesses, with offerings ranging from jewelry and clothing to home décor. Vendors this year include Lola Severina, Cityscape Knits, KB Candies, Enlaces, Clari Designs, Old Soul Henna, Kahealani Lee Designs and many more.
Guests 21 and older can upgrade to the Peak Beverage VIP Lounge, which offers premium parking, catered snacks, complimentary drinks, LED wristbands, and exclusive views of the lighting displays.
IF YOU GO:
Dates: Oct. 10–Oct. 11,
Place: High Prairie Park, Painted Prairie East 60th Avenue and Lisbon Street
Tickets: $17 general admission, $83 VIP
Details: auroraborealisfestival.com