by Jessica Hughes | May 16, 2025 | Glendale City News
by Jessica Hughes
At California Closets with Mary Gelwick, Alexandra Sandberg, Kristin Becker, and Jena Brenneman (from left to right).
Cherry Creek Design Collective event at TOWNhouse.
Element Home hosted Jarred de Palo aka Mr Depalakua at their Cherry Creek store.
Just in time for the annual spring refresh we all look forward to in our homes, the Cherry Creek North neighborhood held its first ever Cherry Creek Design Day. Hosted by the Cherry Creek Design Collective, the inaugural event brought together the area’s top design retailers for a full day of networking, hands-on experiences, and inspiration from Cherry Creek’s design community.
Event organizers, Kristin Brown of Rocky Mountain Shutters and Kristine Vanacker of Ann Sacks, are also the brains behind the newly-formed Cherry Creek Design Collective — a group that aims to unite the neighborhood’s top design retailers that have flocked to the high-end Denver neighborhood over the last few years.
The idea came shortly after Vanacker moved her tile and stone showroom from Denver’s Design District to Cherry Creek, “She asked if there was a design group in Cherry Creek of like businesses and I said no but there should be,” says Brown. “Ever since that first meeting, we have been working with the Cherry Creek Chamber to build this group. This idea truly was to bring awareness to the public and professionals the great design and home furnishings offerings in Cherry Creek.”
Ann Sacks Tile & Stone showroom finds itself in good company with newer high-end design retailers moving into the Cherry Creek North shopping area in the past few years, including TOWNhouse and Joybird. As Cherry Creek North continues to expand its offerings of design retailers, Brown and Vanacker felt inspired to create a central event that highlighted these industry experts that reside in their backyard.
“We wanted to host an event that brought professionals into the neighborhood and got them exposure to the wonderful design and home furnishing offerings in Cherry Creek North,” says B
Attendees visit Ann Sacks Tile + Stone at the first annual Cherry Creek Design Collective.
rown. “This first event was focused on providing an introduction to the businesses a part of the collective, while our next event we plan to have a consumer day as well.”
Brown says the collective includes members from the Cherry Creek Chamber, members that work in the design and home furnishings in the Cherry Creek area, which can be retail locations in the neighborhood or professionals who want to work in the area.
Attendees began their journey at Rocky Mountain Shutters, Shades & Closets, where they enjoyed mimosas and breakfast treats, and explored offerings from Hunter Douglas Window Fashions and The Designery. The day continued with visits to various showrooms opening their doors, including organizing tips and tricks at California Closets, non-toxic interior design at Interior Define, with Uniquely You Decor, on-Budget Design Service at The Brass Bed, and more.
“The idea is that as a group we can get our individual businesses in front of the eyes of our consumers whether for professionals or direct to homeowners, and bring awareness to the wonderful home furnishing and design options in Cherry Creek North,” says Brown.
The Collective also commissioned local artist Michael Dowling to conclude the event with a meet-and-greet happy hour at TOWNhouse. “A wonderful addition to the event was from artist Michael Dowling. He donated a beautiful design featured on our swag bags, which he signed for each participant.”
As the Cherry Creek Design Collective looks to the future, they are excited to have the event grow in the number of businesses participating as well as people attending. “We hope to have a professional and a consumer day next year and we are excited to have this continue to be an annual event,” says Brown. “As a collective we will also be hosting more events throughout the year, including a walk with the owners and managers of these businesses this summer for the Cherry Creek Summer concert series, as well as a CEU day for design professionals and many more!”
To learn more about the Cherry Creek Design Collective follow them on Instagram @cherrycreekdesigncollective.
Photos provided by Cherry Creek Design Collective.
by Valley Gadfly | Mar 28, 2025 | Glendale City News
Join The Good Eggs For Easter Services April 20 Amidst Bunnies, Bonnets, And Baskets
by Glen Richardson
Red Rocks Sunrise: Gates at Red Rocks Amphitheatre open at 4:45 a.m. on Easter morning. Services are timed so that those attending will see the sunrise.
Easter takes place on a Sunday each year following the Lenten season. This year Easter isn’t until April 20, nevertheless now is the time to plan for worship services, holiday dining, and spring celebrations.
From scattered stately cathedrals to small churches tucked in neighborhoods, the sound of gospel music will again spill into the streets. Some dress to the nines, while other families enjoy a leisurely drive after church.
To many, Easter signifies the beginning of spring and the start of warmer weather. Over the years, Easter services have been packed in all corners of the city. Whethe
All Together Now: Easter services at the Greek Orthodox Assumption of Theotokos in Glendale and Protestant churches are the same date in 2025.
r you’re looking for a place to worship, brunch options, or family getaways, here are Easter events and specials that are just a hop, skip, and a jump away:
Church Turnout Soars
More than half of Denver’s Protestant pastors say Easter is their best-attended service of the year, and that figure grows to 90% if you included the pastors who say it’s their second- or third-best attended.
Normally Greek Orthodox Easter falls on a different day than Protestant Easter Sunday. They do coincide every four years, and Easter 2025 is one of those years. Services at the Assumption of Theotokos located on E. Alameda Ave. in Glendale will be at 8 and 9:30 a.m.
As for the number of the Mile High City’s religious followers, the latest data was in 2020. The population of Denver County in 2020 was 715,522. The number of Denver Christian believers-followers in 2020 totaled 306,191, or 42.8% of the total population.
Easter Sunrise Services
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
On April 20, gates at Red Rocks will o
Tasty Consumption: Keeping up with the Joneses this Easter is as easy as doing brunch at Local Jones in Cherry Creek’s Halcyon Hotel.
pen at 4:45 a.m. Musical worship begins at 5:30 a.m. and the worship service starts a half-hour later at 6 a.m.
It is, of course, an outdoor service so be sure to dress warmly. Monitor weather broadcasts for possible cancellations.
Admittance and parking are free and available on a first-come basis. Canned goods donations will not be collected this year. The early morning start is timed so that those attending will see the sun rise during the service.
Masonic Denver Consistory
The Knights Templar’s Assn. of Colorado is hosting its 100th Easter Sunrise Service in the Masonic Denver Consistory (1370 Grant St.) from 5:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Pre-worship music will start at approximately 6 a.m.
Worship service will begin a half-hour later at 6:30 a.m. and will last until approximately 7:45 a.m. Plan to arrive no later than 6 a.m. to provide time to park and get seated in the 500-seat auditorium.
Hoppy Easter: Sending you Easter wishes, and a basket full of joy: Ears to a great Easter.
Parking in the Denver Consistory parking garage is free (other than the 1st floor). The garage is right next to the Consistory Building, and will be opening at 4:45 a.m. Following service, you are invited to enjoy a hot breakfast in the Consistory’s dining room. Tickets are recommended, and can be purchased online.
Area Easter Services
Assumption of the Theotokos
4550 E. Alameda Ave.
Orthos 8 a.m., Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m.
303-388-9314
Augustana Lutheran Church
5000 E. Alameda Ave.
Services, 8, 9:30, & 11 a.m.
303-388-4678
Thrill Of The Hunt: Easter Egg Hunts are at Infinity Park in Glendale on April 12, followed a week later on April 19 at Four Mile Historic Park.
Catholic Basilica of the
Immaculate Conception
1530 Logan St.
Easter Sunday Masses:
8:30 & 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., & 6:30 p. m.
Archbishop Chaput celebrates mass
303-831-7010
The Pearl Church
200 S. University Blvd.
Services 9:15 a.m. & 12 p.m.
Egg Hunt 11:15 a.m. & 2:15 p.m.
303-744-7213
St. John’s Cathedral
1350 N. Washington St.
Services 7:30, 9, & 11 a.m.
Egg Hunt After 9 a.m. service
303-831-7115
Trinity United Methodist Church,
1820 Broadway
Breakfast, 7 to 11 a.m.;
Services 8, 9:30, & 11 a.m.
303-829-1403
University Park United Methodist Church
2180 S. University Blvd.
Easter Sunrise Services 6:30 a.m.
Pancake Breakfast 7 to 10:30 a.m.
Easter Service 9 & 11 a.m.
303-722-5736
Wellshire Presbyterian Church
2999 S. Colorado Blvd.
Service with band in Chapel 8 a.m.;
9:30 & 11 a.m.
Service with orchestra
in the Sanctuary 9:30 & 11 a.m.
303-758-2233
Easter Egg Hunts
Follow the bunny trail to the two major Easter Egg Hunts taking place this year. One is on the turf field at Infinity Park in Glendale on April 12. The other, a week later, ends the holiday at Four Mile Historic Park. Both promise to be thrilling adventures in which you and your little ones can participate.
Infinity Park
Sponsored by the YMCA of Denver, the Infinity Park hunt is set to begin at 10 a.m. for kids from 0 to 12 years of age. Event is on the Turf Field located at 4599 E. Tennessee Ave. in Glendale. Parking is at the NE corner of Kentucky & Cherry. Information: 303-639-4711.
Four Mile Park
One of the largest and most egg-citing hunts, the Four Mile Park’s April 19 hunt will have more than 20,000 eggs ready to be discovered. Kids try to find the “golden eggs,” filled with special prizes throughout the 12-acre park. Hunts are at 8:30 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m.
This year features three egg scrambles for kids of all ages. Little ones — age 3 and under — search the “kiddie corral.” Those in the age bracket 4 to 7, along with ages 8-plus take part in their own egg hunts.
Following the hunts, there’s more activities for kids and their family. Options includes tractor hayrides, photos with the Easter Bunny, plus spring-themed crafts. Kids can test their skills in the “Victorian Egg Rolling” contests plus Croquet. Meanwhile adults attending can sip on mimosas or Bloody Marys at the Four Mile Bar. There are food trucks plus the Spring Marketplace for snacks. Information: 729-865-0800.
Easter Brunch
Edge Restaurant
Hop over to the Edge Restaurant & Bar in the Four Seasons Hotel downtown April 20, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Featuring a raw bar, appetizers, salads, several entrée options, plus a carving station. Information: 303-389-3050.
Fire Restaurant
Experience brunch in one of the most desirable indoor-outdoor Easter settings at the ART Hotel on Broadway, expected to again be 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bunny Menu for the kids. Information: 720-709-4431.
Local Jones
Do brunch at this classic bistro in Cherry Creek’s Halcyon Hotel. Featuring cinnamon rolls, roasted lamb shank, and more. Information: 720-772-5022.
by Jessica Hughes | Nov 15, 2024 | Glendale City News
by Jessica Hughes
Hotel Clio in Cherry Creek North makes the perfect staycation this holiday season. Photo by Hotel Clio
Cherry Creek North Lights Up as Colorado’s largest free lights display. Photo provided by Cherry Creek North
Cherry Creek North illuminates the Mile High City with this year’s Winter Wanderland and Holiday Market. The experience begins with the Million Light Plug-in event that lights up the entire 16-block area of Cherry Creek North with a million twinkling lights — making it Colorado’s largest free lights display.
Soon to follow will be the opening of the Holiday Market on Fillmore Plaza, plus a whole host of festive events and activities to round out the holiday season.
“This holiday season we are excited to offer our local community and visitors alike, a full and festive holiday experience that captures the season’s essence,” said Lisa Voss, Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District’s VP of Marketing. “Whether it’s shopping locally during Small Business Weekend, staying in one of our award-winning hotels, strolling during Saturday Night Lights, having a festive dinner with friends, or giving back to the community, there is something for everyone in Cherry Creek North to enjoy this holiday season.”
The Cherry Creek Holiday Market returns for a fifth season, from November 21 through December 24. The market features 40+ rotating vendor booths lining Fillmore Plaza, with a curated selection of Colorado-based companies and artisans. Check everyone off your list while enjoying live entertainment and sipping on your favorite cup of hot cocoa.
Four holiday-giving machines will be available at the entrance to the Holiday Market. Photo provided by Cherry Creek North
The best way to shop local is during the three-day Small Business Weekend, November 24 – 26, with giveaways and deals from 175+ local businesses. It’s the perfect chance to shop small and support local businesses during the holiday season.
The Holiday Market isn’t just about shopping, it’s also about enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season. So, this year the market brings back the Mistletoe Lounge. Located next door to the market in Fillmore Plaza, the upgraded two-story holiday pop-up bar features a highly decorated atmosphere, a themed seasonal drink menu, and live music from local acts.
Cherry Creek North Holiday Market celebrates its fifth year. Photo by: Fetch Concepts
Also returning this year are the Giving Machines. The pop-up features 30 donation options for five local and two international charities. It’s an easy way to tap into the true meaning of the season and give back to your community.
Mark your calendars for December 7, 14, and 21 when Cherry Creek North comes alive with Saturday Night Lights. Cozy up with a cup of complimentary hot chocolate and tasty treats while wandering under one million dazzling lights throughout Cherry Creek North. Beyond the lights, dance on a light-up dance floor with live DJs and stroll through a 40-foot tunnel of lights for an immersive holiday experience.
Snow or sun, the Holiday Market is the place to be this holiday season. Photo by: Fetch Concepts
You’ll also have a chance to return to the classics with ice skating at the Halcyon Hotel. Returning for its second year as a completely revamped experience in the clouds, Halcyon on Ice is the quintessential holiday experience. During the holiday season, the hotel’s rooftop lounge transforms into a dreamy winter wonderland with an ice skating rink, cozy holiday cocktails, a specialty food and drink menu, and beautiful city-to-mountain views. This year, Halcyon on Ice is free to attend, and food, drinks, and ice skate rentals are available for purchase.
Make it a staycation and book an overnight at one of Cherry Creek’s award-winning hotels; the Hotel Clio. Recently named, as one of the top 15 hotels in Colorado by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Hotel Clio is a hospitality highlight in Cherry Creek. And this holiday season, Hotel Clio gets festive with its wreath-making class and carolers throughout the month of December. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy all the festivities right from your doorstep with its location next to Fillmore Plaza.
by Mark Smiley | Oct 18, 2024 | Glendale City News
Popular Event: Over 1,710 guests came to enjoy the perfect day for Trunk or Treat complete with a bouncy castle, haunted house, and food trucks.
Dedicated Performer: Lynn Taylor, Experience Director for the Glendale Sports Center, performed as Taylor Swift for the entire two hours.
The annual Trunk or Treat hosted by the City of Glendale and Glendale Sports Center was held on the festival plaza of Infinity Park for the second time on Monday, October 14, 2024. Denver Public Schools and Cherry Creek Schools children were on Fall break so there was a record turnout for this event. Plus, the weather was perfect as attendees were able to wander the plaza in comfort. Over 1,710 kids came to trick or treat and acquire over 37,000 pieces of candy, bounced in the bouncy castle, and walked through the haunted house.
“Trunk or Treat was a gigantic success with a new record breaking number thanks to the hard work of City of Glendale staff, YMCA staff, volunteers, and vendors,” said Kelly Legler, Program Manager, Glendale Sports Center. “The successful event exceeded our expectations and we’re excited to offer more fun opportunities in the future.”
In years past, the event was held in the P1 parking lot of Infinity Park. Again this year, the City of Glendale offered the festival plaza and played the movie Halloween Town on the big screen inside the rugby stadium to add extra flare to the event. “The event was a huge success thanks to the partnership between the YMCA, City of Glendale, and community partners,” said Legler.
One of those community partners was the Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Barret O’Brien and Mark Smiley from the Greater Glendale Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors volunteered for the event. “The turnout was outstanding,” said Barret O’Brien, Chamber Board Member. “It’s great to see the community get so involved. I have volunteered for this event the last seven years and this is the most interactive and lively one to date.”
Attendees voted for the best decorated trunk as they went through the lines. There were eleven to choose from and the winning trunk was decorated by Infinity Park Event Center Facilities department with a Cars theme. For more information on the Glendale Sports Center, visit www.sportscenterglendale.com.
by Mark Smiley | Aug 23, 2024 | Glendale City News
by Mark Smiley
Glendale Mayor Mike Dunafon (left), and Central Street Capital President Isiah Salazar proudly display the shovel that officially broke ground on the Four Mile District. Photo courtesy of Iris Miceli Photography
On July 25, 2024, Glendale officials and Central Street Capital break ground on Glendale’s new Four Mile District. Photo courtesy of Iris Miceli Photography
The much-anticipated groundbreaking ceremony for the Four Mile District was held on July 25, 2024, for a 10-acre entertainment district in Glendale. With a few stops and starts and obstacles over the last decade, forward progress is happening, and the $150 million project is underway.
In 2020, it appeared that Lincoln Property Company, a Dallas based international real estate firm, would develop the district and plans seemed to be moving forward on what was then known as Glendale 180.
The project is now being developed by Central Street Capital, a family office founded by health care entrepreneur Rob Salazar. Central Street Capital has been investing in projects for 25 years including the Assembly Student Living on the Auraria Campus.
The Four Mile District is a nod to the Four Mile Historic Park, which is home to one of Colorado’s oldest standing structures, the Four Mile House Museum. The development site is along Glendale’s popular Virginia Avenue which many know it as home to the nation’s busiest Target and the popular gentleman’s club, Shotgun Willie’s.
In order to make room for the 10-acre entertainment district, the wastewater treatment facility, was decommissioned and demolished in 2006. The land and office building formerly occupied by Gamma Construction was purchased by the City of Glendale and also demolished.
One confirmed tenant, Alamo Drafthouse, a movie theatre, will have nine screens and consume approximately 40,000 square feet. A groundbreaking is scheduled for next year with an anticipated grand opening
of late 2026 or early 2027.
The rest of the space will be occupied by retail, restaurants, parking garages, and outdoor plazas. There are also plans for a hotel but it is unclear how that will co-exist with Staybridge Suites which is already next to the yet to be built district.
This district will be classified as a common consumption area, allowing visitors to walk around with alcoholic beverages, and bars to serve until 4 a.m. The City of Glendale owns the land where the entertainment district will be built. However, a 2021 development agreement that Central Street and the city reached allows Central Street to purchase it for $1 when a certain amount of progress is completed.
Mayor Mike Dunafon called Glendale “the Vatica
n of liberty and Luxemburg of freedom,” and said Glendale “had the No. 1 entertainment district in Colorado before LoDo” while addressing the attendees at the groundbreaking ceremony. Dunafon indicated it was undone by state regulation, but Four Mile District will hopefully return Glendale to the entertainment hub it once was.
During the 1960s and 1970s, the city was home to a variety of now well-known establishments that attracted visitors from across metro Denver. Colorado Mine Company (home of the “Fool’s Gold” which was Elvis’ favorite sandwich), Cork ’N Cleaver, Celebrity Sports Center (owned by Disney), Cooper Theater, The Riviera (The Riv), Soda Straw, Sportspage, The Lift, and Tommy Wong’s Island are long gone but fondly remembered. Additionally, Andy’s Smorgasbord became Shotgun Willie’s Country Western Bar which is now Shotgun Willie’s Show Club and, almost five decades later, Bull & Bush Brewery is still a favorite.
The start of the construction will be the not so glamourous improvements to 7-acres of the property. It will include the creation of a private road, and stormwater and power infrastructure. The parking garage will be the next item to construct and work on that will begin November 2024.
With a fence surrounding the former Creekside Park and markers placed all over the property, it appears the project is moving full steam ahead. More updates in this publication will be forthcoming.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Glendale City News
Resort’s Summer Festivities Continue Through September 2
by Mark Smiley
Lazy River: Gaylord Rockies features a 720-foot-long lazy river with waterfalls, water jets, and bubblers.
Event Space: The addition of an event lawn with 10,000-square-feet of artificial turf area, four fire pits, and two natural boulder fire features, were part of a $22 million exterior enhancement project. Adjacent to the Grand Lodge lawn is a games lawn featuring artificial turf, family-friendly games such as bocce ball, corn hole, and giant chess, as well as three firepits where guests can roast s’mores.
Gaylord Rockies Resort is in the midst of their fifth annual summer celebration that continues through September 2, 2024. The itinerary of summer entertainment also includes the resort’s exclusive waterpark Arapahoe Springs, with slides and a 720-foot winding lazy river, 10,000-square-foot Grand Lodge Lawn and Games Lawn, a wide variety of culinary cuisine, and experiential classes, and relaxation in a full-service spa.
Dining
Throughout the resort, there are dining options, including steaks and an impressive wine list at Old Hickory Steakhouse, casual American fare in front of a 75-foot flat-panel TV at Mountain Pass Sports Bar, and experiential and new dining options, including: Old Hickory Master Cocktail Classes and Master French Wine Classes, British Beer Tastings, as well as the launch of two new outlets, The Fortunate Prospector and Embers Lodge Bar.
The Old Hickory Master French Wine Class ($50 per person) is a new offering at the resort. During t
Resort: Gaylord Rockies is a resort that features 1,501 rooms, a 720-foot winding lazy river, and a 10,000-square-foot grand lodge lawn and games lawn.
his one-hour adults-only experience, wine experts at the resort will guide guests as they explore a variety of wines paired with cheese. They are available on the following Saturdays: July 13, July 27, August 10, August 24 at 3 p.m.
Another new offering is the British Beer Tasting ($25 per person). Guests will sample three classic British-inspired beer cocktails — Half and Half, Snake Bite, and Shandy — and learn the history of these unique British drinks. These are offered on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; 4-5 p.m.
The Old Hickory Master Cocktail Class ($50 per person) is a one hour tour of expert guidance delving into the world of mixology capped off by crafting two cocktails alongside master bartenders. These are offered on select Saturdays; July 6, July 20, August 3, August 17, August 31 at 3 p.m.
Activities
One of the newest activities at the Gaylord Rockies Resort is the Topgolf Suite. The Topgolf Swing Suite features two simulator bays and a variety of virtual games — including signature Topgolf target games, Zombie Dodgeball, Hockey, Baseball, Football, Carnival games, and more — paired with comfortable lounge seating, HDTVs, and food and beverage service.
“As Colorado’s largest combined resort and convention center, we are experts in providing extraordinary spaces for gatherings. Our partnership with Topgolf allows us to offer another fun and unique experience for quests,” said Suzy Hart, general manager of the 1,501-room resort. “Since Full Swing simulators come with games tailored for both novices and experienced golfers, all participants can enjoy themselves.”
Up to eight people can play, eat, drink, and hang out in each bay. The space will be available to rent for business and social gatherings, including birthday and bachelorette/bachelor parties, team building events, corporate meetings, and more.
Also new this year is a hidden treasure hunt for the kids. Guests can join the Gaylord Hotels Adventure Kids on an interactive quest to fin
Room: The Deluxe Family Suite features a separate area with bunk beds along with a king-sized bed in the other room.
d a lost treasure map using detective skills to uncover hidden gems.
The resort also features some complimentary activities, including a virtual safari at the resort , animal encounters, sunrise yoga, live music in the evenings, and campfire & s’mores.
Thrills
An exclusive amenity for overnight guests, Arapahoe Springs Water Park features both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, water slides, lap pool, outdoor hot tub, and a 720-foot-long lazy river with waterfalls, water jets, and bubblers. Guests can reserve private poolside cabanas.
Relaxation
Guests visiting Relâche Spa can enjoy a full array of summer massage, facial, and nail treatments. July features Desert Revival and Prickly Pear inspired services, with anti-aging and detoxing benefits, while August showcases cooling and hydrating Avocado treatments.
Reservations at Relâche Spa grant access to Arapahoe Springs Water Park, free parking, the resort’s full-service gym, and spa amenities.
To book rooms, packages, spa treatments, and buy event tickets, visit GaylordRockies.com.
