MUSIC

Dawn & Hawkes – October 12

Fronted by Miranda Dawn and Chris Hawkes, the couple formed Dawn & Hawkes in 2012 after a chance meeting on an Austin dance floor. Soon after meeting, the pair started scheduling songwriting sessions and eventually a tour that blossomed into a relationship. Join this dynamic pair for an evening of impeccable vocal and acoustic harmony heartfelt as they kick off our Community House Concert Series. Watch them perform “Right on Time” here. Friday, October 12. 7:30 PM. Chautauqua Community House. Buy tickets online.

FAMILY THEATER

Invaders from Planet 9 – October 13 – October 28

Get in the Halloween spirit with this classic science fiction inspired hiking play! Kids under 10 years of age receive 50% off!

They came from 5 billion miles away! The HORROR! The THRILLS! Prepare yourself for a fun, lively tale of adventure and extraterrestrials. Join a group of college students who find themselves in the middle of an alien invasion. Can a they work together to save the day? Or will our planet be lost to these ruthless invaders? Paying homage to science fiction stories from the 1950’s, this tale is sure to make you scream and laugh in equal measure. Catch a sneak-peek here.

Recommended for ages six (6) and older. Presented by Arts in the Open. Weekends, October 13 – October 28. Chautauqua Picnic Shelter. Buy tickets online.

EXPLORERS

Mara Abbott: Edge of Potential – October 18

The Olympics are thrilling to watch but rarely do we hear from the athletes on what their experiences are. What is it like to train to be the best in the world and what is it like to cross the finish line just missing a metal? Join former professional cyclist and Olympian Mara Abbott as she talks about the lessons of faith, risk and authenticity learned across a decade of racing against the best in the world. Thursday, October 18. 7:00 PM. Chautauqua Community House. Buy tickets online.

FILMS

Dirtbag – October 19

Hailed as one of the most prolific and influential climbers of all time, Fred Beckey has become a cult hero in the outdoor world. Eschewing fame, sponsors and family life so his only obligation would be the next summit, this rebel athlete conquered more unclimbed peaks than anyone in history during his 80-year career. “Dirtbag: The Legend of Fred Beckey” explores in cinematic rapture the unmatched drive, superhuman achievements and enigmatic genius of this man who set the bar for what is possible in an uncompromised existence. Watch the official trailer here. Friday, October 19. 7:00 PM. Chautauqua Community House. Buy tickets online.

LODGING

Enjoy a staycation and low, seasonal rates

Looking to unwind from the day-to-day routine? Take advantage of our seasonal rates* and enjoy a Chautauqua getaway in one of our cozy cottages. Available in studio, one, two or three-bedroom, each cottage features a full kitchen and screened-in front porch. Click here to view to learn more about our accommodations.

For reservations, book online here, or contact Chautauqua Lodging at lodging@chatuauqua.com or 303.952.1611.

*Restrictions: Offer valid on new reservations only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Two-night minimum stay maybe required over the weekends. Not valid February 13 – 15.

CHAUTAUQUA DINING HALL

Halloween Children’s Tea Party – October 27

With so many hauntingly fun festivities just around the corner, what better way to celebrate the season than a Halloween tea party? Dress up your little goblins, princesses and ghouls and enjoy an afternoon of fun with creative crafts and a photo area along with a premium pot of tea served with a tiered tray of sweet and savory treats. Saturday, October 27. 3:00 -5:00 p.m. Price is $25 per person, $3 additional for gluten free option. Space is limited.

Reservations with a credit card are required. For reservations, call 303.440.3776.

HISTORY

Chautauqua playground and wading pool

In 1913, the Boulder Parks Board installed playground equipment, and a wading pool in 1915. Swings, slides, teeters and more were enjoyed by Boulder and Chautauqua children, and the popularity was astounding. On one occasion, over 50 children were counted in line for the slide. Over the years, the equipment has been modernized to meet contemporary safety regulations.

The goals were always a minimum of danger and a maximum of freedom. The Chautauqua Bulletin said children should be “free to romp and play under sharp-eyed supervision.”

The Chautauqua wading pool and its happy occupants, circa April 1916.

Photo courtesy of Colorado Chautauqua Association Archives.