COURIER VOLUME: 04
FIRST QUARTER
ISSUE: 01
AN EL PASO COUNTY PUBLICATION
El Paso County Celebrates Historic Anniversaries This year marks a rare and meaningful moment in history as the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence and the State of Colorado celebrates 150 years of statehood. In El Paso County, these intertwined milestones—part of the America 250 Colorado 150 celebration- offer an opportunity for reflection, community connection, and shared learning about our region’s past and future. As April also marks National County Government Month, it is a fitting time to highlight the role counties play in preserving history, delivering essential services, and strengthening communities. El Paso County has launched a series of activities and community events tied to this once-in-a-generation commemoration. The County’s America 250 – Colorado 150 webpage offers links, calendars, and stories that invite residents to engage in celebrations that reflect local heritage, shared values, and civic life—reinforcing the County’s ongoing commitment to serving, informing, and connecting the community. One highlight of the summer will be the El Paso County Fair, running July 11 through 18, 2026, at the fairgrounds in Calhan. With the theme of United We Celebrate, this tradition, now more than 120 years old, brings families together for agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, rides, entertainment, food, and special educational displays that celebrate how history, hard work, and community spirit have shaped life in El Paso County and beyond. In keeping with the anniversary spirit, fair organizers are incorporating a special 250/150 Experience: Moments That Made Us exhibit. This interactive journey invites
SCAN CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION
MOMENTS THAT MADE US fairgoers of all ages to explore key moments in national, state, and local history, connecting El Paso County’s story to the broader American narrative. Before the Fair, residents are invited to attend the 2026 El Paso County Veterans Expo on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Colorado Springs. This free, full-day event connects local Veterans and their families with valuable resources, support services, and community partners. With more than 60 service organizations participating, the Expo offers Veterans opportunities to learn about healthcare, benefits, housing, employment, and more, honoring service while strengthening community support. El Paso County’s natural spaces are part of the celebration, too. Bear Creek Nature dfdadfa
Center, Colorado’s first nature center and a beloved community resource, is marking its 50th anniversary in 2026 with special programming throughout the year. The festivities will culminate in a community “Bear-thday Party” on Saturday, August 22, 2026, featuring food, games, and activities that invite families and friends to connect with the outdoors and celebrate the center’s legacy of conservation, education, and accessibility. Beyond these marquee events, El Paso County encourages residents to take part in the Moments That Made Us social media campaign by sharing photos and stories that reflect personal memories, traditions, or milestones. Submitted entries may be featured online and during the El Paso County Fair, helping to capture the rich mosaic of community experience that defines who we are today.
REGION
9 TO 5
VIEWPOINT
CONNECT
PAGE 3
PAGE 4
PAGE 6
PAGE 8
EL PASO COUNTY www.ElPasoCo.com
-FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL-
SCAN CODE www.elpasoco.com/communications