Summer Events in Summit County, Colorado

Arapahoe Basin's Full Moon Snowshoe Dinner Series has expanded to include a New Year's Eve dinner and an uphill event.

With the first of Arapahoe Basin’s five dinner events behind us, I figured it was about time to post the dates of the remaining four. Really, I was just procrastinating on registering for the January event and wanted to secure our spots before I shared with the rest of the world. And with the March 19 Dolomites dinner already sold out, I had good reason to wait.

2011 Arapahoe Basin Full Moon Dinner Snowshoe Series

We're no strangers to skinning at the Basin. But usually there isn't meat, cheese and Riesling waiting at Black Mountain Lodge.

January 19, 2011: Dynafit Nachtspektakel, German Feast & Randonee
Nothing like meat, cheese and Riesling to top off a skin. The only non-lift serviced event in the series, the “earn your turns” dinner is new this season.

February 19, 2011: Evening in the Andes
February features food from Argentina and Chile, with influence from the Mediterranean.

March 19, 2011: Evening in the Dolomites (Already sold out!)
What are you missing? Italian-themed cuisine with accompanying wine.

April 16, 2011: Evening in the Pyrenees
Think Spain for the spring installment of the snowshoe dinner series.

Read last year’s post on the event or read on for more on the Arapahoe Basin Dinner Snowshoe Series, as published January 2010 at goColorado.com.

If you ask typical Coloradans what’s changed at Arapahoe Basin in the last few seasons, a mention of the Montezuma Bowl expansion is probably the first thing to leave their mouths. But for the locals who ski the Basin regularly, they might also give a nod to Black Mountain Lodge and some of the exciting new culinary additions.

Introduced in the 2008-2009 season to a sellout crowd, the Black Mountain Lodge Full Moon Snowshoe Dinner Series is one of those offerings. Equipped with snowshoes and headlamps, dinner guests ride the Exhibition Lift from the base to Black Mountain Lodge, Arapahoe Basin’s newest on-mountain restaurant.

Live music begins and, as dusk turns to night, diners settle in for a spread of gourmet cuisine prepared by A-Basin chef Christopher Rybak. When the food is gone and the music quiets, guests snowshoe or hike down the mountain under the light of the full (or nearly full) moon.

“Number one, I like doing nice food,” Rybak says “Number two, I really think that when you provide a special thing for the guest it makes a big difference. What a great experience if they get to ride a chairlift and go to dinner. It’s that wow factor.”

As the chef who opened the Alpenglow Stube, Keystone’s four-diamond, signature restaurant, Rybak knows a thing or two about wow factor.

He began upping the ante at A-Basin with super-yummy barbecue and bison stew at the Black Mountain Lodge, and now visitors can indulge in crepes on the weekends. You also can expect to find the burgers standing tall and the onion rings hot and crispy.

“With everything I try to incorporate value,” Rybak says. “You can walk away saying ‘Maybe I paid $8.95 for a burger, but it was well worth it.’”

Like the burgers, the Full Moon Snowshoe Dinner Series will be totally worth it. Themed dinners include Asian samplings such as dim sum and soba noodles as well as a night of French fare that incorporates fine cheeses and delicate sweets.

In the summer, look for the Alpenglow Dinner and Wildflower Hike, a similar affair that involves a chairlift ride, gourmet cuisine inspired by local ingredients and a post-dinner wildflower hike back to the base area.

Though the installation of a new, high-speed quad means the summer dinners will skip a season, it’s not too late for the spring snowshoe series. All previous dinners sold out, a sign that guests should plan to buy tickets well in advance.

Anyone who travels in the backcountry should think about attending the CAIC Benefit Bash on Saturday, Nov. 13 at the Breckenridge Riverwalk Center.

What: CAIC Benefit Bash
When: Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010
Where: Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge, Colorado
Cost: $25/person includes entry, food, two drink tickets and a door prize ticket

Just last Friday, the Summit Daily News ran a photo of a longtime local catching early season turns on Loveland Pass. It’s a slim start to what becomes an extremely popular backcountry spot, one that’s several times slid enough to cover Highway 6. Once the snow really flies, backcountry junkies begin hiking Summit County’s big peaks in search of powder.

Colorado and Summit County see large numbers of winter backcountry users and according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), avalanche deaths in our state account for one-third of all avalanche deaths in the United States. The CAIC began as an avalanche forecast and warning center and today they focus on “minimizing the economic and human impact of snow avalanches on recreation, tourism, commerce, industry and the citizens of Colorado.”

In addition to working to keep roads open and providing backcountry forecasts and observations, the CAIC offers educational seminars, classes and workshops. Nonprofit organization Friends of the CAIC produces events and initiatives to support the CAIC’s backcountry program and overall avalanche awareness and education. The end result? Friends of the CAIC Benefit Bash. It’s a great party for a great cause. http://friendsofcaic.org

So I can’t take credit for a really sweet 24 Hours in the Sage course preview video. But I had to post, because it’s pretty great.

And here’s another of a townie cruising down the Notch.

The Notch, a technical section along the 24 Hours in the Sage Course, claims another bike and its rider.

In honor of our friends that competed October 9/10 (the weekend before last) at 24 Hours of Moab and 24 Hours of Adrenalin (the 24 hour solo world championships), I’m finally posting my race report on 24 Hours in the Sage. A very grassroots event, 24 Hours in the Sage takes over the Gunnison KOA for a full weekend of racing on the amazing trails of Hartman Rocks.

The whole thing is pretty darn plush for a bike race. Hot showers, electricity, washing machines and all the amenities (thanks KOA Dave!) make 24 Hours in the Sage pretty much the best 24 hour race around.

Not the first person to walk the Notch, a rider makes way along the course.

I’ll admit. I’m biased. After all, Eric and I both work the event. My favorite part? Timing through the wee hours.

That’s not to say I’m not a fan of the non-stop BBQ and beer offerings, on-course Popsicle handouts, great people and sweet riding. But timing through the night, even when the sounds of music and announcing are long gone, is definitely fun. And, when I see pictures of myself after no rest all night, it makes me feel better about enjoying sleep. Because I look like death (or a crackhead!) after staying awake with the abandon of an 18-year-old.

Anyhow, to catch the details of the race report, read on!

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Riders on course at the eighth annual 24 Hours in the Sage were treated, sometime around 10:30 a.m., to grilled hamburgers handed out by mountain bike superstar Dave Wiens. Equipped with a backpack stocked full of classic American grub, the Gunnison, Colo. local set out to treat athletes and log a lap for the KOA corporate team.

Eric prepares to lead out the 2007 24 Hours in the Sage.

Nearly 250 athletes (plus support crews) took over the local KOA Kampground, which served as race headquarters for the August 21-22 event, unofficially donned the 24 Hour Townie World Championships.

“The Sage is one of the funnest races I’ve ever been to. The atmosphere was great and the campground was convenient,” said 15-year-old Noah Talley (Racer’s Cycle Service). The Utah wonderkid broke a course record with a fast lap time of 50:15 and his four-man team went on to win the event with a total of 25 laps in 23:48:57, also a course record.

“[The 24 hour format] is tough because you basically do a cross country race and your body shuts down. And then you rest and get back on your bike and do it again seven more times,” said Talley. “It’s really tough on your body and it’s hard mentally, too.”

Steamboat, Colo. rider Kris Cannon (Honey Stinger/Trek) rode straight through the night to secure her fourth solo women’s title with 17 laps in 23:26:31.

“I’m pretty excited about this year,” said Cannon. “[The Sage] was my first race [this year] so I wasn’t sure where I would stand. I just wanted to see if I could go out harder this year and keep it up.”

The nearly 13-plus-mile course snakes through the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area and delivers smooth singletrack separated by technical sections. The 2010 event benefitted the Challenged Athletes Foundation’s Operation Rebound, which provides sports opportunities for American troops, veterans and first responders who have suffered permanent physical injuries in the line of duty.

Kids rally for 24 Minutes in the Sage, and for good reason. The winner receives 24 crisp one dollar bills.

Beyond encouraging costumed townie riders to descend technical trails on 30-pound cruisers, the Sage is truly one-of-a-kind: in 2010, KOA team riders delivered Popsicles to on-course athletes in the 80-degree-plus heat; kids of various ages lapped the paddle boat pond in contention for the 24 crisp one-dollar bills awarded to the to top rider in 24 Minutes in the Sage; and support crews watched as KOA staffers lassoed an escaped pet yak.

Event organizers won’t promise yak sightings and Popsicle deliveries for 2011, but one thing remained consistent in 2010. KOA owner Dave Taylor, with the help of an amazing staff, slung free grilled food late into the evening. Free beer flowed through the morning hours.

For results and race info visit http://24hoursinthesage.com.

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There are plenty of great sites online that reference the Sage. I like these best: The Sage Facebook page has tons of great rider photos and comments. Addicted to Bicycles gave us some love. And, Xavier Fane, along with official race photogs About the Shot, took some amazing photos.

The annual rubber duck races in Breckenridge are one of many events happening over the Labor Day weekend in Summit County, Colorado.

Just as Memorial Day is often considered the unofficial start to summer, Labor Day can be considered the unofficial close. The aspen in my neighborhood are already beginning to turn yellow, despite Denver temperatures climbing into the 90s.

While many of Summit County’s towns offer events into the fall, the non-stop, free event summer circus is nearing its end. So this will be the last of the weekly event posts until next summer. That said, I can’t stay away from Oktoberfest and the other Summit County events that continue through the fall. So you may get some photos from those. Besides, the approach of fall is an excellent time for backpacking and biking. So I’ll likely be posting those exploits as well. Until next summer, here’s your top events for August 30 – September 6 in Summit County, Colorado: Breckenridge, Copper, Dillon, Frisco and Keystone.

Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Breckenridge Wine Festival
Saturday, September 4: noon-5pm
Main Street Station Plaza, Breckenridge
Just one of many activities happening over Labor Day weekend in Breckenridge, the Wine Festival highlights wines from across the globe. Proceeds benefit the Breckenridge Film Festival and the Summit Foundation. Add free live music, the annual rubber duck races and outdoor food vendors, and you’ve got a reason to stay the weekend.

Copper, Colorado Event Pick: Copper Country
Friday – Sunday, September 3-5: all day events
Copper Mountain Resort
This Labor Day tradition features live music all weekend as well as a boatload of family activities, including an outdoor screening of “Where the Wild Things Are”, pancake breakfasts, face painting, a petting zoo and more. For the grownups, big name musicians light up the stage. As a NOLA native, I’m looking forward to Dr. John.

Dillon, Colorado Event Pick: Dillon Craft Fair
Friday – Sunday, September 3-5: all day events
Downtown Dillon
This inaugural craft fair features over 65 artists from around the state. The weekend is punctuated with free live music at the Amphitheatre on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Frisco, Colorado Event Pick: Oktoberfest
Saturday & Sunday, September 4-5: 11am-5pm both days
Frisco Nordic Center
I’ve never understood why Oktoberfest celebrations often happen in September, but who am I to question when the event involves plenty of tasty beer? Frisco’s Oktoberfest offers plenty of beer and live music, as well as leg wrestling. I’m not sure what leg wrestling is, but I bet it’s fun to watch after you’ve put away a few steins of brew.

Keystone, Colorado Event Pick: Taste of Keystone
Saturday, September 4: 11am-3pm
Keystone, Colorado
Stuff your belly and support Summit County’s Mountain Mentors, a community-based mentor program for youth ages 6-16. Live music all day sets the scene for Keystone’s many restaurants, which will each offer samplings from their menus.

Wine and food are the highlights of summer events this week in Breckenridge, Keystone and Dillon.

With school in session and Labor Day swiftly approaching, we’re nearing the end of summer events season. Still, there’s plenty happening as we approach fall. This week? The summer event focus is food and drink.

Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Wit, Wine and Dine for Timberline
Saturday, August 28: 6-9:30pm
Breckenridge Riverwalk Center, $75/person
This evening of food, sparkling wine and comedy benefits the Breckenridge-based Timberline Learning Center. Food and sparkling wine pairings will be prepared by Harvest Catering and the entertainment lineup, presented by Denver’s Comedy Works, features comedian Chris Voth.

Keystone, Colorado Event Pick: Sunshine and Wine at Ski Tip Lodge
Friday, August 27: 3:30-5:30pm
Keystone’s Ski Tip Lodge
This weekly happy-hour tasting (on Fridays through September 3) features samples of 4-5 wines selected by the in-house sommelier. A light menu is available with the $2o tasting and reservations are recommended.

Dillon, Colorado Event Pick: Friday Evening Concert with Randall McKinnon
Friday, August 27: 7-9pm
Dillon Amphitheatre
This weekly free Friday night concert (on Fridays through September 3) features Randall McKinnon and his Roadhouse Band, which tends to cover old country and folk favorites including Johnny Cash, John Prine, Hank Williams and others. The best way to indulge is by bringing a blanket and picnic spread. Wine and beer are available for purchase and proceeds benefit the Dillon Business Association.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Saturday, August 21- Friday, August 27: Breck Epic
Wednesday, August 25: Frisco’s Historic Lunchtime Lectures
Friday, August 27: Fridays at Copper
Friday, August 27: Dillon Farmers’ Market
Saturday, August 28: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon
Sunday, August 29: US Open Tennis Party and Clinic in Breckenridge

Summit County has some cool events this week, but we're headed to Gunnison's 24 Hours in the Sage. Don't worry, the Le Mans start is a thing of the past.

Not surprisingly, bikes and outdoor events are the subject of the moment this week in Summit County. And beyond. Despite all the great things happening throughout Summit over the weekend, I’m headed to Gunnison for 24 Hours in the Sage, simply the best 24-hour mountain bike race around. Think singletrack, pancakes and a seemingly endless flow of beer. Don’t worry, we take race-day registration. So gather your friends, create a team and head to Gunnison, Colorado. Heck, do it solo. Or on a townie.

And for those of you that refuse to head to Gunnison for a weekend, here are my event picks for Summit County, Colorado for August 16 – August 22:

Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Breck Epic
Saturday-Friday, August 21-27
throughout Breckenridge and surrounding areas
The Breck Epic mostly takes place next week. But it’s such a cool event and it does, technically, begin this week. So I’ve decided to include it here. Stunning scenery, riding consistently above 10,000 feet and amazing trails draw folks from all over the country to this premier mountain bike stage race. Head out on the course well before all the racers (which means you’ll need to rise early) and find a good spot for spectating.

Keystone, Colorado Event Pick: Blue River Century and the Blues Festival / Art Show
Saturday & Sunday, August 21-22
River Run Village, Keystone
The 6th Annual Blues Festival and Art Show kicks off in Keystone’s River Run Village with a variety of bands and plenty of food. Kids activities and a juried art show mean all ages are welcome. On Sunday, the Blue River Century (and metric century) allows folks to earn their calories with 100+- and 60+-mile options.

Copper Mountain, Colorado Event Pick: Warrior Dash
Saturday & Sunday, August 21-22
Copper Mountain Resort
Registration may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t head to Copper, swill some beer and watch mud-covered mobs don viking hats and run through streams. It’s an obstacle course for adults and it should be fun to watch.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Thursday, August 19: Frisco Concert in the Park
Friday, August 20: Fridays at Copper
Friday, August 20: Dillon Farmers’ Market and Friday night concert
Saturday, August 21: Breckenridge Music Festival Orchestra Concert
Saturday, August 21: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon
Sunday, August 22: Race for the Mountains 10k/5k in Breckenridge

Live music is the big story this week in Summit County, Colorado.

Ok, so working Dillon’s BBQ Challenge and having family in town at the same time wasted me. So your events this week are a bit late. Still, there’s plenty happening this weekend throughout Summit County. Think live music, and plenty of it.

Top events in Summit County, Colorado for August 12 – August 15:

Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Breckenridge Music Festival’s Blue River Series Presents Marc Cohn
Sunday, August 15, 7:30pm
Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge
Singer-songwriter, pianist and acoustic and electric guitarist, Cohn is often described as one of the most personal, most introspective lyricists of his generation. With many hits including “Walking in Memphis”, “Dig Down Deep” and “True Companion”, expect to see more with a brand new album being released just two weeks prior to this concert.

Dillon, Colorado event pick: Dillon Bluegrass Festival featuring Peter Rowan and the Spring Creek Bluegrass Band
Friday, August 13, 5:00pm-10:00pm
Dillon Amphitheatre
Make way for five hours of bluegrass at the Dillon Amphitheatre this Friday.

Frisco, Colorado event pick: Music on Main
Saturday, August 14, 4:00pm
Main Street Frisco
The 20th Annual Music on Main is a free concert in downtown Frisco. This year brings Grammy winner Booker T to headline the show. As a New Orleans native, I’m always pleased to see notorious NOLA performers at the annual event.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Friday, July 30: Fridays at Copper
Friday, July 30: Dillon Farmers’ Market and Friday night concert
Saturday, July 31: Breckenridge Music Festival Orchestra Concert
Saturday, July 31: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon

BBQ at the Summit hits Dillon, Colorado on August 6th and 7th.

As an employee of the Town of Dillon’s event department, I’ll be speaking barbeque for the entire week. I’ll just be thankful that speaking doesn’t equal the same calories as eating.

There’s plenty happening this week in the county in addition to BBQ at the Summit. Here goes:Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Friends of Breckenridge Trails Lower Flume Trailbuilding
Saturday, August 7: 8:00am-2:00pm
Meet behind Breckenridge Town Hall
Another great volunteer opportunity with Friends of Breckenridge Trails. I’ve enjoyed these projects in the past, but since they’re usually on weekends, many folks in the county (including me) can’t make it. Head out if you can. It’s the perfect opportunity to give back to the trails that we love so much here in Summit County, Colorado.

Copper Mountain, Colorado Event Pick: Copper Triangle
Saturday, August 7
Copper Mountain, Colorado
Registration may be closed, but you can sip beer in the square and cheer on the riders as they return from their 78-mile journey over three Colorado passes.

Dillon, Colorado Event Pick: BBQ at the Summit
Friday & Saturday, August 6-7
Downtown Dillon
Half the streets will close to vehicles and give way to tasty, tasty Kansas City BBQ. Live music sets the scene for all to grub on grilled meats.

Frisco, Colorado Event Pick: Art on Main
Saturday & Sunday, August 7-8
Main Street Frisco
Plenty of pieces in a variety of mediums line Frisco’s Main Street for this annual art festival.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Wednesday, August 4: Frisco Historic Park Lunchtime Lectures
Wednesday, August 4: Keystone County Dance and BBQ night
Friday, August 6: Fridays at Copper
Saturday, August 7: Breckenridge Music Festival Orchestra Concert
Saturday, August 7: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon

Two regattas will take place this weekend on Lake Dillon in Summit County, Colorado.

Top events in Summit County, Colorado for the week of July 26 – August 1

Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Breckenridge Antiques Show and Sale
Friday-Sunday, July 30 – August 1, 10am-6pm (4pm on Sunday)
Wellington Lot on Main Street in Breckenridge
Expect plenty of old wooden skis and other antiques at the annual show and sale.

Dillon, Colorado event pick: Dillon Open Regatta
Saturday and Sunday, July 31 and August 1
Dillon Amphitheatre
Watch the competition from the shores of Lake Dillon.

Keystone, Colorado event pick: Keystone Bluegrass and Beer Festival
Friday and Saturday, July 31 and August 1, noon-5pm
River Run
The 14th annual festival showcases over 25 Colorado microbreweries and features music beginning at 1pm both days.

Frisco, Colorado event pick: Lake Dillon Challenge (Rowing Regatta)
Sunday, August 1, 7:30am
Frisco Bay Marina
Summit County’s rowing community gathers for the Lake Dillon Challenge.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado
Wednesday, July 281: Frisco Historic Park Lunchtime Lectures
Wednesday, July 28: Keystone County Dance and BBQ night
Friday, July 30: Fridays at Copper
Friday, July 30: Dillon Farmers’ Market and Friday night concert
Saturday, July 31: Breckenridge Music Festival Orchestra Concert
Saturday, July 31: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon

Expect a variety of mediums at the Breckenridge Main Street Art Festival.

Top events in Summit County, Colorado for the week of July 19-25

Breckenridge, Colorado Event Pick: Breckenridge Main Street Art Festival
Friday-Sunday, July 23-25, 10am-6pm
Wellington Lot on Main Street in Breckenridge
Brought to you by the same folks who present the Dillon arts festival (and several other art festivals throughout the Colorado Mountains), the Breckenridge Main Street Art Festival features over 100 artists from around the country. Expect ceramics, mixed media, fiber, jewelry, painting, wood, glass, sculpture and more.

Dillon, Colorado event pick: John Adams and Friends Present the Music of John Denver
Wednesday, July 21, 6-8pm
Dillon Amphitheatre
John Adams and Friends perform a free summer concert featuring the music of John Denver.

Copper Mountain, Colorado event pick: Shawn Colvin Concert
Saturday, July 24 8-10pm
Copper Pavilion
One of many Saturday concerts at Copper Mountain, this weekend’s event brings a big name to the Copper Pavilion. $15

Silverthorne, Colorado event pick: Ice Cream Social and Summit Concert Band
Thursday, July 22 6:30pm
Silverthorne Pavilion
Soak in the sounds of the Summit Concert Band and wrap up the evening with ice cream sundaes.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Wednesday, July 21: Frisco Historic Park Lunchtime Lectures
Wednesday, July 21: Keystone County Dance and BBQ night
Friday, July 23: Fridays at Copper
Friday, July 23: Dillon Farmers’ Market and Friday night concert
Saturday, July 24: Breckenridge Music Festival Orchestra Concert
Saturday, July 24: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon

When you ride slow, you're never too tired to goof around. Even if you're summiting Loveland Pass during Colorado's Triple Bypass.

For the second year in a row I went online at exactly noon on exactly the right date to secure entry for myself, my husband and my dad in the Triple Bypass. Put on by Team Evergreen, this 120-mile supported, organized road bike ride summits three well-known mountain passes in one day.

This year, it was rumored that the 3500 entries sold out in 35 minutes. So if you call riding 12,000+ vertical feet over 120 miles on your bike fun, then I guess you could call us lucky for getting in on the party.

As always, the volunteers and staff were amazing. This year, we got a full-zip jersey, which sounds minor but is a huge deal for any woman committed to wearing bib shorts. I am one of those women. The post-ride grub (and grub-slinging staff) was excellent, and I’ve probably never been so excited to eat chicken in my life.

The weather cleared in time for the summit of Vail Pass during Colorado's Triple Bypass.

As for the ride, the weather never fully cooperates. It’s easy to identify those who are aware of this fact by the fullness of their pockets, backpacks and/or rear racks. 2010 was no exception.

We were greeted with wind and rain around Loveland Pass and again at the end in Avon.  Those who didn’t move quite so slowly as us probably dodged a bit more of the weather. We did luck out and miss out on a downpour by taking a detour to walk the dog.

Overall, the ride was as fun as ever. I can never help thinking that the guys who race in the Tour de France not only do this kind of mileage every day for some three weeks, they RACE it. We just finish.

Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately for those hoping to get entry for next year’s event), we’re done with the Triple. I think I’m over organized rides entirely at this point. I don’t enjoy descending passes with 3,499 other people, I really don’t appreciate folks attempting to form pacelines on community bike paths and I guess I’m just not all that interested in paying money for something I can do for free.

The folks at Team Evergreen do an amazing job of wrangling 3500 cyclists. But I’m ready to take a different fork. That doesn’t mean I won’t do the occasional race or fundraiser ride. It just means someone else can sit at a computer at exactly noon on exactly the right date to get entry to the Triple Bypass.

The Breckenridge Beer Festival rolls into town on July 17 with live music and tastings from over 20 breweries.

Top events in Summit County, Colorado for the week of July 12-18

Breckenridge, Colorado event pick: Breckenridge Beer Festival
Saturday, July 17
VIP tasting begins at 1pm
Main Street Station in Breckenridge
KSMT’s Breckenridge Beer Festival features tastings from 26 breweries and live music from Kinetix, Funkiphino, and WhiteWater Ramble.

Dillon, Colorado event pick: Dillon Art Festival
Friday, July 16 – Sunday, July 18, all day
Downtown Dillon
The Dillon Art Festival will feature over 50 juried artists showing off their best works in downtown Dillon.

Frisco, Colorado event pick: Music on Main Street with the Rob Drabkin Band
Thursday, July 15, 5:30-7:30pm
Downtown Frisco
Frisco’s Thursday night town concerts each benefit a different organization. This week? Concessions sold at the Rob Drabkin show benefit the Summit Nordic Ski Club.

Silverthorne, Colorado event pick: SK8 over 8000’ Skateboard Competition
Saturday, July 17 10am-3pm
Silverthorne Skate Park
All ages and abilities are welcome to compete in Silverthorne’s 10^th annual skateboard competition, which is part of the Mountain Madness Skateboard Series.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Wednesday, July 14: Frisco Historic Park Lunchtime Lectures
Wednesday, July 14: Keystone County Dance and BBQ night
Friday, July 15: Fridays at Copper
Friday, July 15: Dillon Farmers’ Market and Friday night concert
Saturday, July 17: Breckenridge 100 mountain bike race
Saturday, July 17: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon

Breck Bike Week brings a variety of bicycle-related events to Breckenridge, Colorado.

Fourth of July weekend brought a huge array of events in all the towns of Summit County. Now that summer is officially underway, expect plenty of free concerts, arts events and festivals throughout the rest of summer.

Breckenridge, Colorado event pick: Breck Bike Week
all week in downtown Breckenridge
Breck Bike Week may have officially started with the Firecracker 50 on July Fourth, but this week brings a slew of bike-related events, including morning live viewing of the Tour de France, bike-in movie nights, a trials show, trailbuilding opportunities and more. If you click on the link, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page for a Breck Bike week schedule.

Dillon, Colorado event pick: East Coast Swing Dancing and Lessons
Thursday, July 8, 6-8pm
Dillon Amphitheatre
On select Thursdays throughout summer Dillon offers up free east coast swing dancing on the Amphitheatre stage. The first half hour includes instruction.

Frisco, Colorado event pick: Concert in the Park with Angie Stevens
Thursday, July 8, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Main Street Frisco
One of the many free concerts in Summit County this summer, Frisco’s Music on Main serves up a variety of performers throughout the summer.

Keystone, Colorado event pick: Keystone JazzFest
Saturday-Sunday, July 10-11
Keystone Resort

Presented by the Keystone Neighbuorhood Company, the Keystone JazzFest includes a weekend of live music, food demos and art shows.

Other events this week in Summit County, Colorado

Wednesday, July 7: Frisco Historic Park Lunchtime Lectures
Wednesday, July 7: Keystone County Dance and BBQ night
Friday, July 9: Fridays at Copper
Friday, July 9: Dillon Farmers’ Market and Friday night concert
Saturday, July 10: State-wide weed pull, contact your local town hall
Saturday, July 10: Breckenridge Second Saturdays public art reception
Saturday, July 10: Sunset at the Summit free concert in Dillon
Sunday, July 11: Dillon Sunday afternoon concert

Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition. In Summit County, you can see fireworks in Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon and Keystone over July 4th weekend.

We’re approaching 4th of July weekend, and there’s plenty happening here in Summit County, Colorado. In fact, most towns in Summit County, Colorado have a full day of activities scheduled for July 4th. Below is a rundown of Fourth of July activities and events in Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco and Keystone.

Breckenridge Fourth of July Event: Main Street Parade and Day-Long Activities

There’s nothing like a parade on the Fourth of July, so why not do it Breckenridge style? Firecracker 50 racers, who are competing in a championship mountain bike marathon race, lead out the parade.  A free concert by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy takes place at the Riverwalk Center at 2 and the National Repertory Orchestra performs (w/free lawn seating) at 8. Fireworks follow.

Dillon Fourth of July Event: Old Fashioned Fourth and Day-Long Activities

The National Repertory Orchestra begins the day with a free concert by the lake at 10am. A family-oriented old-fashioned Fourth of July follows in town park. At 3, a boat parade can be seen from the shores of Lake Dillon. And to cap off the evening, a free concert by the Walker Williams Band begins at 7. The Frisco fireworks can be seen from the shores of Lake Dillon.

Frisco Fourth of July Event: Frisco’s Fantastic Fourth of July

Think live entertainment all day long at Frisco’s fourth of July street parade. A kids’ fishing derby starts the day and the Downtown Green Art Festival gives visitors something to peruse while taking in the music. A parade down Main Street begins at 12:30 and the evening finishes with a fireworks display over Lake Dillon.

Keystone Fourth of July Event: Outdoor BBQ and Fireworks

A 10am bike parade and block party kicks off the Fourth of July celebration in Keystone. At 5, live music and an outdoor BBQ provide the entertainment while waiting for the sun to go down and the fireworks to start.

Other Events Over Fourth of July Weekend in Summit County, Colorado
July 4th isn’t the only day to celebrate the holiday in Summit County. Most towns have activities beginning on Friday, July 2. Here’s a rundown:

Thursday, July 1: Frisco’s Free Concert in the Park
Friday, July 2: Dillon Farmers’ Market
Friday, July 2: Never Forget Military Recognition at the Dillon Amphitheatre
Friday, July 2: Free concert by the U.S. Air Force Academy Band and fireworks at the Dillon Amphitheatre
Friday, July 2-Sunday, July 4: 27th Annual Breckenridge July Arts Festival
Friday, July 3-Sunday, July 4: Downtown Frisco Green Art Festival

Lake Dillon is the setting for the Timberline Regatta, one of many events this week in Summit County, Colorado.

Top events in Summit County, Colorado for the week of June 21-27

Dillon, Colorado Event: Broncos Country Caravan
Wednesday, June 23
1pm-3:30pm and 5pm-7pm, Dillon Town Park
Meet the Broncos, their cheerleaders and Miles the mascot. Autograph signings with the cheerleaders and Miles will take place at Wendy’s in Silverthorne and US Bank in Dillon. From 5-7, meet in Dillon’s town park for a community celebration.

Frisco, Colorado Event: Timberline Regatta
Friday – Saturday, June 25-26
Frisco Bay Marina
When something is sponsored by New Belgium Brewing, you know it’s going to be fun. Sailors of al abilities don their favorite costumes and race it out on the water., followed by indulgence in good food and drink.

Breckenridge, Colorado Event: Breckenridge Sidewalk Sale Weekend
Friday – Sunday, June 25-27
all day, Downtown Breckenridge
It’s that time of year. The shops on Main Street in Breckenridge need to clear out for the summer inventory and thus, a massive sale at many local retailers. Don’t be surprised to see folks toting new skis and snowboards down Main Street Breckenridge in June; deals are plentiful.

Silverthorne, Colorado Event: Summer Flea Market
Saturday, June 26
Silverthorne Rec Center Parking Lot
‘Tis the weekend of sidewalk sales. The Silverthorne version is more a collection of locals looking to clean out their basements and storage sheds. Come ready to bargain.

Other events in Summit County for the week of June 21-27
Wednesday, June 23: Frisco Bike to Work Day
Friday, June 25: Dillon Farmers Market
Friday, June 25: Dillon Friday night concert at the Amphitheatre
Saturday – Sunday, June 26-27: Friends of Breckenridge Trails/IMBA volunteer and ride weekend
Saturday – Sunday, June 26-27: Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

Top events in Summit County, Colorado for the week of June 14-20

Breckenridge Event: Summit Trail Running Series #2
Wednesday, June 16
5:45 p.m. Flumes Trails, Breckenridge
The Summit Trail Running Series has proven a fantastic way to get in shape, and the second event in the series takes place on the Flumes Trails in Breckenridge. I love the Flumes Trails as a running trail because of the distance, gradual/minimal elevation gain and non-technical footwork. Thus, it also makes for a great short mountain bike ride.

Frisco Event: BBQ Challenge
Thursday-Saturday, June 17-19
Downtown Frisco
The 14th annual Frisco BBQ Challenge is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and over 60 teams will be competing for top BBQ honors. The feast kicks off with a Thursday evening free concert with New Orleans staple, The Radiators. Expect more music throughout the weekend, chef demos, kids events and, of course, plenty of barbeque.

Silverthorne Event: Josh Blue Comedy Show
Thursday, June 17
7:00 p.m. Silverthorne Pavilion
Made famous by winning the fourth season of Last Comic Standing, Josh Blue brings his unique style of comedy to the Silverthorne Pavilion for the reasonable price of $20.

Dillon Event: Let’s Go Boating
Saturday and Sunday, June 19-20
10:00 a.m. Dillon Marina
A fundraiser for the League for Animals and People of the Summit, this weekend of boating includes tours of Lake Dillon and opportunities for adults and children to learn about sailing.

Eric , far right, tackled the modified Le Mans start and rode our team's first lap at 24 Hours of eRock.

I suppose I could find a few people to blame. First, my husband Eric for introducing me to the 24-hour bike race format when we began dating. (He and a friend put on the 24-hour mountain bike race 24 Hours in the Sage.) Second, a family I met at 24 Hours in the Sage. Sometimes everyone races, sometimes parents support the daughter for a solo effort and sometimes they go for a father/daughter duo. After meeting the bunch I thought, “My dad and I like to ride bikes; maybe we should do a 24 hour race … “

With 24 Hours of eRock's 6:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. schedule, there's still plenty of riding to do after the night laps.

Whoever’s fault it is for giving me the idea that I could be part of a 24 hour mountain bike race … I thank them.  Because it was a blast.

Let’ face it. I’ve heard from many that 24 Hours of eRock isn’t really mountain biking, that it’s boring, it’s all dirt roads and so on. Sure, that could be true for seasoned mountain bikers.

But for me, a beginner, 24 Hours of eRock was an excellent introduction to riding at night and a good realization that if I ever do want to tackle a solo effort in a more technical environment (which I do), I really need more technical skills and more confidence in the skills I already possess.

Dad gets ready to head out on three night laps at 24 Hours of eRock.

My husband, my dad and I competed as a trio with the goal of riding through the night with no breaks. We accomplished this, along with a total of 248 miles and no sunburns. Not too bad, considering that we rode more in the last 24 hours than we have since last summer/fall. (Consistently slathering on the sunscreen certainly didn’t hurt, either.)

As far as the course, the folks who speak of dirt roads and no trails are definitely on target. The roads are practically groomed paths, which explains why so many people showed up on cyclocross bikes.

Since 24 Hours of eRock ran on a 6:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. schedule, I only got one lap in before the absolute blackness of night and thus found a bit of sand on the pedaling downhill section. As a beginner, I had to slow down considerably but the sandy sections were short, so it never came down to walking. And in daylight, sand was easy to avoid. 24 Hours of eRock was perfect for my first time riding at night. And I’m sure it’d be perfect for anyone looking to clock a lot of time (and miles) in a 24-hour bike race.

For now, I’m looking forward to sleep, more riding, improving my technical skills and attempting a solo effort on trails. Any suggestions?

Thanks to Eric, here’s some video of the RMD mogul competition in Breckenridge, Colorado. Or, read about the mogul event — Rocky Mountain Division Moguls: Breckenridge, Colorado

Read about the mogul event — Rocky Mountain Division Moguls: Breckenridge, Colorado

Rocky Mountain Division Mogul Compeition (duals) in Breckenridge, Colorado

“I’m too old for that.”

I heard it a lot this weekend at the Rocky Mountain Division Mogul Competition in Breckenridge, Colorado. Friday, January 29 through Sunday, January 31, parents and spectators looked on as folks waist-high to full-grown launched down the moguls of Mach 1 and gracefully flipped themselves off two kickers. All this on Peak 8 in Breckenridge, Colorado.

As easy as some make it look, watching a few of the mogul runs did inspire thoughts of knee and back pain. Add the jumps and all sorts of possible outcomes flashed before the eyes.

Headed into this event in Breckenridge, Colorado with the task of helping mostly with fencing and materials, I didn’t really know what to expect. What I discovered was a talented bunch of skiers with a great attitude to boot.

A skier hits the bottom jump at the RMD Mogul event in Breckenridge, Colorado.

As a very new skier, I’m constantly amazed by watching others. (And sometimes infuriated when those I’m watching are half my size and ten times my ability level … ) One of my favorite things about watching the mogul skiers this weekend in Breckenridge, Colorado was how well and how quickly they often recover.

It wasn’t an unusual sight for one of the mogul skiers to blow out of the course just 20 feet from the bottom jump, pause for less than a moment and throw a (to the uneducated eye) perfect back flip. If only I could recover from irritation, terrible news or a bad attitude so easily. I’ll never be too old to stop working on that.

For an excellent page on FIS mogul scoring and judging, check out FISwiki: http://wiki.fisski.com/index.php/Mogul_Judging_And_Scoring

Watch Video of the RMD Moguls in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Preparation for Breckenridge, Colorado's Ullr Parade involves tiki torches and viking hats. What parade would be complete without a pink feather boa dangling from an upper-level window?

As a Louisiana native, I have memories of Mardi Gras and parades that date from early childhood. And I’ve seen Mardi Gras pictures of our entire family dressed as clowns, costumes hand-made by Mom, that date back before my memory developed.

Now that I live in Colorado, I’m a little suspicious when folks get excited about parades. A line of pick-up trucks is not a parade (unless you’re in grammar school). It’s kind of laughable, like when the air here holds 10% humidity and folks say, “What a humid day.”

But on January 14, 2010, Eric braved the crowds in downtown Breckenridge, Colorado and got a few pictures. Suspicious as I was, the floats looked pretty cool. Maybe next year you’ll find me running around in my underwear and a viking hat, saluting my PBR to the snow gods. More likely? I’ll be the one snapping the photos of such salutations.

Turn a crank, the dogs hump, thanks to Good Times, the local outfitter that offers snowmobile and dogsled tours. Hurray snow and Ullr.

PBR might as well be the official beverage of the Ullr Parade in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Snowcats cruising down Main Street in Breckenridge, Colorado. That certainly makes us seem like country folk. So come on, Ullr. Where's the snow?

The classic Ullr viking and dragon float in Breckenridge, Colorado, thanks to the long-time local ski shop Lone Star Sports.

The Winter Dew Tour descended on Breckenridge, Colorado December 18-20.

Yes, we need snow, but I won’t argue with the sunshine we had toady. Not so during the recent holiday season …

December 25: As a hefty breeze whips white stuff from the trees and the wind chill hovers something around -30, I rejoice that such weather waited until Christmas to show its blustery face. After all, the Breckenridge winter Dew Tour wrapped Sunday, December 20 with the first stop of the season at Breckenridge Ski Resort (Dec 18-20).

Fans watch the screen as Mike Riddle gets a score during the Breckenridge stop of the Winter Dew Tour.

And as the volunteer coordinator (or cat herder, as my boss refers to it) for Breckenridge’s competition department, the winter Dew Tour is by far our largest event of the season, which means a lot of time hanging banners and setting up fencing along the decks of the halfpipe.

Shay Williams of Freeskier Magazine called the evening of the men’s ski halfpipe final a cold and chillly night. But she must have missed out on last season’s winter Dew Tour at Breckenridge b/c it was REALLY cold in 08 … the turn-your-toes-black kind of cold.

Anyhow, for the second year in a row, Breckenridge’s winter Dew Tour men’s ski halfpipe final took place under the stars and the bright lights. Canadian Mike Riddle, a 23-year-old based out of Whistler, took first with big moves on his second run. (Riddle fell on his first run.)

Smiling through the long work hours of the 2009 Winter Dew Tour in Breckenridge, Colorado

Sure, I’m happy the winter Dew Tour is over. Between that and a hectic holiday season, I needed some time to sleep. Now that things are back to normal in Breckenridge, Colorado (and all of Summit County), I’ll have time for skinning, snowshoeing, running and all those other activities that occupy our time throughout the Colorado winter.

Loving A-Basin so much we took engagement photos there. Photo Courtesy David Watson, see below for link to watsonphoto.com

I enjoy skiing and snowboarding at A-Basin so much I bought a hat. So it’s no surprise that on an early-season weeknight, bored out of my mind, I would cruise arapahoebasin.com searching for any info on when new terrain will open.

Knowing full well that winter needs to really arrive in order for more of Arapahoe Basin to open, I piddled around and instead came across information on the Black Mountain Lodge Full Moon Snowshoe Dinner Series.

Enjoying a beautiful day on the patio at the Black Mountain Lodge, Arapahoe Basin, Colorado. Photo courtesy David Watson. See below for link to watsonphoto.com

Once a month in February, March and April (of 2010), Black Mountain Lodge will open its doors after dusk for themed cuisine, booze to match and live entertainment. I’m always a fan of earning my burgers, chocolate and cheese with runs and other types of aerobic activity, but the Snowshoe Dinner Series holds a different magic.

Snowshoes in hand, diners ride the Exhibition Lift to the Black Mountain Lodge. After an evening of music and fine cuisine, the whole lot snowshoes dinner away with a hike to the base (under a nearly full moon, of course).

A similar summer affair, with a sunset wildflower hike and gourmet cuisine, took place in July after last winter’s snowshoe dinner sold out. We’ll be buying our tickets early and taking pictures. What’s in the queue?

February 27, 2010: Dinner in the Dolomites, featuring food from Northern Italy

March 27, 2010: Under a Fiji Full Moon, showcasing Asian flavors

April 24, 2010: A Night in the French Alps with classic French entrees and cheeses

For more info, visit the Arapahoe Basin Dinner Snowshoe Series page.

Photos in this post courtesy David Watson. http://watsonphoto.com

For a mere $20 get food, 3 beer tickets and a door prize ticket. But we heard the stories from last year’s inaugural event, which apparently involved plenty of swag flying from the stage. Expect Breckenridge and Summit County residents as well as supporters from across the state.

Colorado Avalanche Information Center Benefit Bash
Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge, Colorado
tickets include food, 3 beer tickets and a door prize ticket
5pm-10pm
$20

Friends of the CAIC is a non-profit organization that was developed to both support the CAIC and increase avalanche awareness and education throughout the state of Colorado. As the main force behind the Benefit Bash, Friends of the CAIC relies on community donations and major sponsors to host the event, which includes a silent auction. Last year, Friends of the CAIC raised over $26,000 and hosted nearly 800 people. http://friendsofcaic.org

The CAIC, based in Boulder, Colo., began in 1973 as the Colorado Avalanche Warning Center and is said to be the oldest avalanche warning center in the country. Today, the center runs its main office as well as three field locations (Breckenridge, Aspen and the northern San Juans) throughout the Colorado mountains.

The staff works to “minimize the economic and human impact of snow avalanches on recreation, tourism, commerce, industry and the citizens of Colorado.” They work closely with both the Crested Butte Avalanche Center as well as the Department of Transportation. http://avalanche.state.co.us

We had a HEAP of excess bike gear that had gone untouched, taking up space in the closet for some two years. What’s a pair of Colorado bike enthusiasts to do? Sell it at all Veloswap, reported by some to be the world’s largest consumer bicycle expo.

Some cool facts from veloswap.com:

• Attendees withdraw some $175,000 annually in cash from the on-site ATMs
• Fire marshals have previously threatened to stop entry to the event, due to nearing max capacity of the roughly 140,000-square-foot venue
• The event expects around 12,000 attendees annually. And at $6-$8 a head … somebody’s making some major cash (though I’m sure the location fee for the National Western Complex isn’t cheap)

We sat at our booth all day, so I can’t attest to the exhibits and clinics and etc. But after all the fuss about eco-friendliess and recycling, I was surprised to see what appeared to be Vitamin Cottage reps handing out plastic bags en-masse.

Anyhow, the day proved profitable, we saw some super-cool vintage bikes and though we couldn’t convince anyone to buy the dirt jumper, we inadvertently managed to sell a size medium skinsuit to a size large guy. I suppose on Monday, bike shops were full of folks looking to put their brand new, “I-got-this-killer-deal” derailleur onto a bike on which it wouldn’t fit.

My goal starting the day: practice tunnel vision; don’t come home with more stuff than we brought. Overall, mission accomplished.