Littleton, CO February 2026

Love Local

ARTS + CULTURE

ROX ARTS GALLERYLOVE LETTER PROJECT

EDUCATION

ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE - LOVING LOCAL THROUGH LEARNING

WELLNESS

ADVENTHEALTH

LITTLETON - HEART AND CARDIOVASCULAR CARE

LOCAL SERVICES

ELEVATED DERMATOLOGYLITTLETON LOCATION ELEVATES SKIN CARE

Love Littleton

When we take a moment and think about our local community, there is truly so much we should appreciate. Littleton is incredibly unique. The things I love - our vibrant arts and culture scene; access to parks, trails, and outdoor experiences; a thriving community of local business owners; and the availability of high quality education and world class health care.

This issue includes articles on the ROX Arts Gallery, Arapahoe Community College, Advent Health, and Elevated Dermatology. In honor of February, we've also included date night suggestions and a salad recipe that is easy to love.

At the heart of everything we do is the belief that together, we’re stronger. Every month, the stories shared within these pages prove that again and again.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of the life you’re building. Our greatest hope is that this issue helps you love it just a little more than before.

Here’s to a February filled with love!

ELIZABETH WATSON, PUBLISHER

@LITTLETON_CITY_LIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Elizabeth Watson | elizabeth.watson@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Elise Luter | elise.luter@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Joe Kroog | joe.kroog@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris W

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cassandra Green, Bailey Hall, Leslie Maddox Kinne, J.D. McCrumb

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amalia Loli, Coryn Nelson, Chris W

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6

DATE NIGHT IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LITTLETON

DINE - Savor candlelit dinners and seasonal menus at Littleton’s locally owned restaurants—perfect for Valentine’s Day and cozy winter date nights.

SHOP - Shop local boutiques and specialty stores for thoughtful gifts, flowers, and sweet treats.

STAY - Turn the evening into a getaway with a relaxing stay at a nearby hotel, all just steps from dining, shopping, and February events.

A LITTLE (TON) OF ROMANCE GOES A LONG WAY

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

MAKE MEMORIES IN LITTLETON

Catch a show at Town Hall Arts Center, mix up some magic in a love potion class, or unwind with a couples massage.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

Littleton’s ROX Arts Gallery brings together 40 local artists in a gallery that provides a diverse offering of quality original art. In February, the gallery sponsors the Love Letter project. A creative and meaningful project that supports our local community. 1: Art by Lena Owens, mixed media and painting artist. 2: Love Letter Project participants at the ROX Arts Gallery. 3: Christopher Schranck, local artist and ROX Arts Gallery exhibitor. 4: ROX Arts Gallery artists participating in the Love Letter Project. 5: Lora Witt, artist and ROX Arts Gallery exhibitor shown with her painting of the Mary Carter Greenway. 6: Glass hearts by Dianna Whitlock, glass and sculpture artist. 7: Art by Rob Davidson, architect-turned-watercolor artist specializing in landscapes and scenes inspired by outdoor life.

business monthly

Nominations Being Accepted for Littleton's 2026 Arts & Culture Award

Celebrate the arts in Littleton by submitting a nomination for the city's third annual Arts & Culture Award! This special award honors an individual, group, or organization that has made meaningful contributions to the Littleton community. Any current or former community member is eligible. Nominations are due by end of day February 15. The winner will be honored at the city's annual State of the Arts event. Nomination forms and additional information available at Museum.LittletonCO.gov. Enter “State of the Arts” in the search bar to be directed to the nomination form.

Bridget's Botanicals Date Night - Craft a Botanical Love Elixir

Bridget Molloy, MAT, is a Certified Herbalist and the owner of Bridget's Botanicals, an herbal apothecary in historic Downtown Littleton. This February join her for a special themed date night crafting a botanical love elixir or herbal tea blend. Dive into how these delicious herbs can add a spark to your relationship while also enhancing your overall health and well-being. 5733 S Prince St, Littleton. Information on classes, private events, and products available at BridgetsBotanicalWorld.com

Melting Pot Littleton Special Event - "Thursdate"

It's time for a date night! Set a regular "Thursdate" and reconnect over a delicious four-course dinner for two. You can choose the Thursdate option when you book a table online or mention the special when you call to book and your table will be pre-set with a blanket of gorgeous rose petals and candlelight. Let the romance begin! Details on each course offering and reservation options available at MeltingPot.com

The Love Letter Project - ROX Arts Gallery at Aspen Grove Shares the Love with Handcrafted Cards Created by the Community

Love Local, One Letter at a Time

Every winter, a mailbox at Aspen Grove becomes a small symbol of what it means to love local, by showing up for the neighbors who make our community whole.

The Love Letter Project, a collaboration between Aspen Grove and ROX Arts Gallery, started in 2020 to thank Littleton Hospital staff serving on the frontline of the pandemic. ROX Arts (Roxborough Arts Council) is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to promoting the culture of art through education and community service. Established in 2017, the ROX Arts Gallery at Aspen Grove showcases local artists and expands community partnerships.

In the past six years, the Love Letter Project has reached a variety of groups throughout the Littleton area, including Children’s Hospital, veterans’ organizations, and Nourish: Meals on Wheels. This season, handwritten notes will once again be delivered to neighbors served by Nourish: Meals on Wheels, many of whom are homebound. For recipients, a small message can mean a great deal, a reminder that someone is thinking of them.

Behind the scenes, ROX members spend hundreds of hours assembling thousands of free card-making kits to make participation easy and welcoming for all ages. Each kit includes a card and envelope along with craft supplies, a glue stick, markers, and stickers. ROX Arts Gallery funds the supplies, while Aspen Grove provides the cards and envelopes. Kits are available at ROX, though participants are always welcome to use their own supplies.

The kits are designed to travel into classrooms, book clubs, church groups, senior homes, and family gatherings. Several kindergarten and first-grade classes participate each year, creating cards together and returning them to ROX for delivery.

In a season that moves fast, the Love Letter Project offers a meaningful pause — a reminder that local love can be handwritten, personal, and deeply felt.

CONTINUED >

“For recipients, a small message can mean a great deal, a reminder that someone is thinking of them.”

ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE: Loving Local Through Learning

ACC Continues to Grow its Impact While Staying Rooted in Its Community-First Mission

ARTICLE BY J.D. MCCRUMB PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

For 60 years Arapahoe Community College (ACC) has helped shape the future of Littleton one student, one career, and one opportunity at a time. Founded in 1965, ACC was the first two-year college in the metro area, created through a grassroots effort by Littleton residents who wanted local access to affordable posthigh school education.

Today, ACC serves thousands of students each year through degree and certificate programs, workforce training, and transfer pathways that strengthen the region’s economy and expand opportunity for learners of all ages. Beyond traditional college coursework, ACC also offers range of non-degree community programs including noncredit classes, professional development, and lifelong-learning opportunities, helping residents build skills, explore interests, and stay connected to learning through every stage of life. With campuses and partnerships that reach beyond Littleton, ACC continues to grow its impact while staying rooted in its community-first mission.

ACC drives new and creative approaches to education, with a focus on building forward-thinking pathways to social and

economic mobility. Looking ahead, ACC’s 2025 - 30 Strategic Plan emphasizes innovation, workforce-aligned programs, and deepened community collaboration, ensuring students and employers have the skills and support needed for what’s next.

In a “Love Local” season, ACC stands as a reminder that investing in education is one of the most enduring ways a community can care for its people and its future.

Home Inspections in Colorado

Shawn@PineyPeakInspections.com

Call or Text: 303.916.8361 PineyPeakInspections.com

Date Night

AT HOME

THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

ROMANTIC PICNIC UNDER THE STARS

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries. Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

BREAKFAST IN BED

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

PAINT AND CREATE TOGETHER

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative painting - each person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.

Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at paintingit’s all about enjoying the process together.

Breathe Easy.

Duct

Indoor

A HEART FOR Littleton

INSIDE ADVENTHEALTH LITTLETON'S HEART AND CARDIOVASCULAR CARE

To love local is to know that the best things in life often live just down the road. Right here in Littleton, AdventHealth is redefining what it means to care for a community, offering exceptional heart and vascular care with a philosophy rooted in compassion and connection. Guided by the promise to Feel Whole, this is a place where advanced medicine meets genuine humanity. It is world class care delivered with hometown heart, proving that some of the most meaningful healing happens close to home.

For decades, AdventHealth Littleton has been a cornerstone of health for the south Denver metro area, caring for generations of families through life’s most vulnerable moments. While it is proudly local, its reach extends far beyond Colorado. Patients travel from across the nation to receive care here, drawn by leading cardiac specialists, advanced technology, and a reputation for excellence that continues to grow. At its core, however, the mission remains deeply personal. Every patient is treated as a whole person, not a diagnosis.

The AdventHealth Heart and Vascular Institute in Littleton represents a significant investment in both innovation and experience. Designed to streamline care, the institute brings together prevention, diagnostics, surgery, and recovery in one integrated space. This approach allows care teams to collaborate seamlessly while patients and families feel supported, informed, and never alone. From the first consultation through recovery, attention is given not only to physical outcomes

CONTINUED >

but also to emotional wellbeing. AdventHealth has a “Whole Person Care Team” consisting of chaplains and other individuals who offer mental, emotional, and spiritual support for patients, families, and physicians.

That focus makes a profound difference, as patients like Pam Hascall know firsthand.

“I have undergone two heart surgeries, and each experience taught me powerful lessons about preparation and recovery,” she shares. “After my first surgery, I realized that while I was medically prepared, I was not emotionally or mentally ready for what lay ahead. I underestimated the impact of heart surgery, not only on my body, but on my mindset and my family. The recovery felt overwhelming at times, and I learned the hard way that healing involves far more than physical repair.”

caregivers, and support systems in profound ways. Preparing patients mentally and emotionally helps foster confidence, resilience, and a sense of control that can shape recovery in meaningful ways.

That philosophy is evident throughout AdventHealth Littleton, from nationally recognized cardiac outcomes and award winning nursing care to the quieter moments of compassion that happen every day. It is seen in how families are welcomed, how questions are answered, and how healing is supported long after a patient leaves the hospital.

“Loving local means

celebrating

the institutions that care for us when it matters most.”

When Hascall later learned she needed a second surgery, she approached it with a new perspective. “I made intentional efforts to prepare myself and my family for the entire experience,” she says. “I focused on emotional readiness through mindfulness practices and made walking every day a priority to strengthen both my body and mind before surgery. We planned meals in advance, prepared our home to make recovery easier, and discussed expectations openly.”

Her experience reflects a truth AdventHealth embraces fully. Heart surgery is not just a medical event. It is a life event that impacts families,

Loving local means celebrating the institutions that care for us when it matters most. In Littleton, AdventHealth stands as a powerful reminder that exceptional care, deep compassion, and whole person healing can live right in our own backyard.

February is American Heart Month. This is to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S. We must all be mindful to eat healthy, exercise, and monitor our blood pressure. National Wear Red Day is Friday, February 6. Be sure to wear your red, brush up on your CPR, and adopt heart-healthy habits to prevent and manage heart conditions.

For those facing heart surgery or supporting a loved one through the journey, Pam Hascall offers guidance, resources, and encouragement through her consulting services, Cardiac Connections. Learn more at CardiacConnections.net

ELEVATE YOUR CONFIDENCE

THE TEAM AT ELEVATED DERMATOLOGY IS HERE TO HELP YOU FEEL CONFIDENT AND COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN SKIN

ARTICLE BY CASSANDRA GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY CORYN NELSON

“I actually had pretty significant acne as a teenager. More so on my chest and back, but it was to the point where I was choosing different clothing to cover to go to school. I was embarrassed by it and that was hard at such a monumental time of development. But I had an incredible dermatologist who changed my life with acne treatment and really gave me my confidence back. I kept this experience in mind as I went to med school,” Dr. Tesia Kolodziejczyk, DO, FAAD, at Elevated Dermatology shares her own experience and inspirations for why she became a dermatologist.

Founded in 2017 by Dr. Kate (DO, FAOCD, FAAD) and Christopher (DO, FAOCD, FAAD, ACMS) Messana, Elevated Dermatology has an office in Parker, along with a newly acquired location in Littleton. They provide all aspects of medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. This includes skin cancer screening, treatment for rashes and acne, removing skin cancers and other benign growths like cysts or lipomas, as well as injectables, lasers and skin care, all in-house.

“I chose this practice because it really is a family-type vibe. We’re all a team and our ultimate goal is to help patients and to help make them feel better, confident and comfortable in their skin. We get people in quickly for appointments and we see them in a timely manner as well,” Dr. Kolodziejczyk says.

Dr. Melanie Wolf, DO, FAAD, shares similar thoughts. “There is such a psychosocial component with dermatology where people see your skin. We can make a huge impact by treating rashes or other skin diseases. Mentally, it makes people so much better. I also love that we can treat patients of all ages. That was a huge thing for me. I like the variety of being able to see pediatric patients all the way to elderly patients.”

Trending right now, Dr. Wolf mentions, “People are looking for more natural-looking cosmetic procedures. That would include lasers that are going to really even out the complexion of your skin and improve the tone and texture, which also helps stimulate collagen over the long term, as well as biostimulatory fillers. Those aren’t going to give you this immediate plumping result; rather, they act as a sort

of fertilizer and scaffolding for your own skin’s ability to make new collagen that lasts over the years.”

Dr. Kolodziejczyk adds, “All my younger patients are really good with sunscreen, which I love to hear that as a dermatologist! But I do think a lot more people are becoming aware of utilizing SPF on their face daily and are more aware of the benefits as skin cancer prevention, but also anti-aging prevention too.”

Ironically enough, when asked what we need more of, Dr. Wolf and Dr. Kolodziejczyk both agree that sunscreen and UPF clothing are, without a doubt, the highest priorities. It doesn’t matter so much whether it’s chemical or mineral sunscreen; they just don’t want anyone to forget about their neck, chest and even hairline. A wide-brimmed hat is also a helpful companion.

To schedule an appointment, visit ElevatedDerm. com or call 720.851.5200. You can also follow their account on Instagram @ElevatedDermatology

Littleton Location: 8089 S Lincoln St, Suite 300 Littleton, CO 80122

A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E

A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH

PEAR, PROSCIUTTO , Burrata Salad

INGREDIENTS

• Ripe Pear

• Prosciutto

• Burrata

• Lemon Zest

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Dried Figs

• Red Pepper Flakes

DIRECTIONS

1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.

2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.

3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.

4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.

5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.

6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.

7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.

THROUGH APRIL 16TH

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Ending Soon - Kate Ferretti: The Life of a Colorado Hat Maker

Littleton Museum - 6028 S Gallup St, Littleton, CO 80120

The Littleton Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate, offers visitors a unique link between Littleton’s past and present. Located on 40 acres adjacent to Ketring Lake, it encompasses three exhibition galleries, a research center, gift shop, and two 19th-century living history farm sites. The current exhibit, Kate Ferretti: The Life of a Colorado Hat Maker, ends April 16, 2026. Information at Museum.LittletonCO.gov

VARIOUS TIMES THROUGHOUT THE MONTH

Indoor Ice Skating - Public Skate/Learn to Skate Opportunities

Edge Ice Arena - 6623 S Ward St, Littleton, CO 80127

Bundle up and enjoy public skate or learn to skate opportunities at Littleton's Edge Ice Arena. Public skate times are available most Friday and Saturday nights, and the Edge Skating Academy offers classes for ages three through adult. Registration required for all public skate times and classes. Find the schedule and registration requirements at iFoothills.org/Edge-Ice-Arena/

FEBRUARY 14TH

Galentine’s Book Party - Love Gone Right, Love Gone Wrong

Rocker Spirits - 5587 S Hill St, Littleton, CO 80120 / 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Rocker Spirits hosts a book party bringing all the fictional best book boyfriends and bad exes. Have a blast with books, make your own bookish wine charms, flash bookish tattoos, permanent jewelry, and of course delicious cocktails by @rockerspirits. Also blind date giveaways all night! Free event, no registration required!

FEBRUARY 14TH

Valentine's Day - Live Music at The Alley

The Alley - 2420 W Main St, Littleton, CO 80120 | 8:00 PM

Celebrate Valentine's Day in Littleton's charming Historic Downtown! Choose from a variety of dining options - from upscale to casual - and then don't let the evening end. The Alley has live music from 8 p.m. until midnight featuring Yarrow. Yarrow is a Colorado based acoustic duo playing creative covers and folksy originals. More information available at LittletonAlley.com

FEBRUARY 20TH

Award Winning Soprano Soloist Heidi Melton Performs with Littleton Symphony

Littleton United Methodist Church - 5894 S Datura, Littleton, CO 80120 | 7:00 PM

Heidi Melton is a Grammy Award winning American dramatic soprano. She will be joining the Littleton Symphony to perform Richard Strauss's  Vier Letze Lieder (Four Last Songs). The program also includes Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate, "The Indian Spirit at Mesa Falls " from Winter Moons, and Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 6 in F major, op. 68 ("Pastoral"). Visit LittletonSymphony.org/Concerts#2 to purchase tickets.

FEBRUARY 27TH

Season of Native Beauty at Chatfield Farms February Class

Chatfield Farms Botanic Gardens- 8500 W Deer Creek Canyon Rd, Littleton, CO 80128 | 10:00 AM

Explore the year-round beauty displayed in the many Chatfield Farms walkways and gardens. Learn how to use form, contrast, and texture to ensure your landscape remains engaging—even in its most restful season. This class will focus on how to create visual interest with evergreens, ornamental grasses, seed heads, and plants with unique bark or berries. Register at BotanicGardens.org/Programs/4-Seasons-Native-Beauty-Chatfield-Farms

Sylvaine’s French Antiques & Collectibles