by Valley Gadfly | Aug 20, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
The mornings finally begin to cool down, the afternoons are still warm enough for a patio, football returns, school is back in session, and before long the mountains will begin putting on the annual fall-color show that reminds us why people keep moving here despite our repeated requests that they stop.
Around the Cherry Creek Valley, September also brings something else: a return to the rhythm of community life.
Summer vacations are ending. Business groups are gathering again. Arts organizations are launching their fall seasons. Restaurants and shops are preparing for a busy final stretch of the year. And local governments, never known for taking an extended vacation, have plenty on their agendas as well.
Cherry Creek Keeps Growing
The latest State of Cherry Creek numbers provide some perspective on just how significant the area has become. Cherry Creek now attracts more than 16.8 million visitors annually, is home to 1,694 businesses, and supports more than 16,800 workers.
The district also generated more than $119 million in tax revenue for Denver during 2025, including retail sales, property and lodging taxes, and parking revenue.
And the building cranes aren’t disappearing anytime soon. Eight projects were reported under construction with another eight announced, including major developments such as Cherry Creek West, the Waldorf Astoria Residences, and Cherry Lane.
All of that development naturally produces debate about traffic, parking, density and what Cherry Creek should look like 10 or 20 years from now.
Those are worthwhile discussions. But amid all the arguments over growth, it is worth remembering that thousands of small and locally owned businesses are part of the Cherry Creek economy. The State of Cherry Creek report counted more than 462 ground-level retail and service businesses, with 87% qualifying as small businesses.
So this September, perhaps buy lunch from somebody who knows your name.
Amazon will survive.
The Arts Wake Up For Fall
September also means Denver’s cultural calendar starts getting serious again.
The Denver Center for the Performing Arts begins its 2026-27 Theatre Company season with Destiny of Desire, opening September 11 at the Wolf Theatre and running through October 4. The production is a telenovela-inspired play with music by Karen Zacarías, directed by Marcela Lorca.
After a summer of concerts, festivals, and outdoor entertainment, September is the month when Denver’s theaters, galleries, and performance spaces begin filling their calendars again. The Gadfly recommends taking advantage. There are only so many evenings one can spend watching television while scrolling through a telephone and simultaneously complaining that nobody does anything interesting anymore.
Colorado Boulevard Remains A Conversation
One subject that will continue well beyond September is the future of Colorado Boulevard. The proposed Bus Rapid Transit project has generated substantial discussion over dedicated transit lanes, automobile capacity, pedestrian safety, neighborhood traffic, and how construction could affect businesses along the corridor.
At an April stakeholder meeting, participants expressed strong interest in safety improvements and more reliable transit, while also asking for additional technical information about traffic modeling and raising concerns about vehicles being diverted onto residential streets. Businesses and residents have also asked planners to consider construction impacts and access. Those aren’t unreasonable questions.
Colorado Boulevard is one of the region’s most important north-south corridors, and improving transit and pedestrian safety while keeping businesses accessible and neighborhoods livable is a balancing act worth getting right.
The Gadfly’s contribution to the planning process remains simple:
Anyone making a major decision about Colorado Boulevard should first be required to drive it during rush hour. Call it field research.
Enjoy September While It Lasts
Colorado September never seems long enough.
Soon enough we’ll be scraping windshields, arguing about snowplows, and watching television meteorologists stand beside Interstate 70 explaining that driving into the mountains during a blizzard might involve delays.
For now, however, we have cool mornings, warm afternoons, football weekends, community gatherings, theater openings, busy patios, and the beginning of fall in the Rockies.
Get outside. Visit a local business. Attend an event. Meet somebody new. Take in a show. Spend an afternoon in the neighborhood.
And sometime this month, look west. The leaves will soon begin changing.
For once, that’s a change everyone around here can probably agree on.
by Valley Gadfly | Jul 23, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
Valley Gadfly
August arrives wrapped in golden sunshine, lazy afternoons, and lingering laughter. Summer doesn’t end with a bang. It slowly slips away with backyard barbecues, baseball under brilliant blue skies, mountain escapes, and evenings made for patios and peaceful strolls.
The season’s final full month reminds us to savor every sunset, every scoop of ice cream, every concert under the stars, and every adventure before autumn comes calling.
As students sharpen pencils and athletes lace up their shoes, here are our sizzling selections for shopping, dining, and entertainment throughout the Cherry Creek Valley:
Experience the dazzling Bright Nights at Four Mile Historic Park, where immersive light displays transform Denver’s oldest standing structure into a magical evening adventure for the entire family. Information: fourmilepark.org.
Catch Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire together at Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre on Aug. 17 for one of summer’s biggest concert events. Information: fiddlersgreenamp.com.
Laugh the night away with nationally touring comedians appearing throughout August at Comedy Works South in the Landmark district.
Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the boutiques, galleries, and outdoor cafés throughout Cherry Creek North, one of Colorado’s premier shopping destinations.
Beat the heat with handcrafted frozen custard or gourmet ice cream before enjoying an evening walk through one of the Valley’s beautiful parks and trails.
Take the family aboard the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad, where spectacular mountain scenery and vintage steam locomotives create unforgettable Colorado memories.
August is the bridge between carefree summer days and the excitement of a new season. School buses return to neighborhood streets, football fields come alive, and community calendars quickly fill with festivals, fundraisers, and fall traditions. It’s a wonderful time to rediscover the businesses, restaurants, and attractions that make our Valley such a remarkable place to call home.
Expect warm afternoons reaching the mid to upper 80s, cool evenings perfect for outdoor dining, brilliant sunsets, and the occasional late-day thunderstorm rolling across Colorado’s Front Range. Before long, leaves will begin changing colors and pumpkin patches will replace swimming pools.
Until then, soak up every glorious August moment.
Why is August so optimistic?
Because it’s always looking forward to fall without forgetting how much fun summer has been.
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com.
by Valley Gadfly | Jun 30, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
Valley Gadfly
Take time to unwind, summer will flash by as quickly as fireworks as we celebrate Colorado’s 150 years of statehood. In patriotic spirit, own each day like it’s the Fourth of July.
July’s glorious roar of fireworks plus summer thunderstorms are a dazzling reminder of the sounds, color and beauty of summertime throughout Cherry Creek Valley neighborhoods.
As new life bursts forth, and birds chirp and sing in patriotic spirit, celebrate Independence Day with these rapid-fire choices for shopping, dining and entertainment blasts:
- Don’t miss Treaty Oak Revival playing at Red Rocks Amphitheatre June 3, 7:30 p.m. The Odessa, Texas rock group have self-released three studio albums and five singles since 2018. Information: 720-865-2494.
- Brooklyn singer, DJ, and producer Yaeji blends hip hop with mellow vocals at The Church, July 4, 10 p.m. Information: 720-604-0604.
- Catch English singer, and musician Jon Anderson playing in the Paramount Theatre, July 8, 7:30 p. m. Information: 303-623-0106.
- Want comfort dishes with seasonal ingredients inside a compact neighborhood setting? Try South Pearl Steet’s Florence Supper Club featuring spicy rigatoni, plus chicken or veal parm and tasty cheesecake. Information: 303-483-7684.
- Whether remodeling or new construction, look to the skilled electricians at Welsh Electric for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Smart, sustainable solar energy solutions also offered. Information: 720-476-7780.
- Texas singer, and producer Chance Pena plays the Ogden Theater, July 13, 8 p. m. Information: 303-832-1874.
- Country music singer-songwriter Lee Brice entertains at the Fillmore Auditorium July 16, 8 p.m. Information:303-837-0360.
- Folk and roots duo the Okee Dokee Brothers plays at the Federal Theatre, July 19, 8 p.m. Information:com
- Attend the Summer Garden Party Fundraise in the Cableland Mansion on Saturday, July 11, 3 to 6 p.m. Event has hand-passed hors d’oeuvres, coffee bistro, plus live poolside entertainment from Skylark Jazz. Silent auction will feature an array of unique items up for bid. Information: 720-837-1501.
This year’s holiday Drone Show is at Sculpture Park July 3 following the free Sunset Cinema outdoor movie that is screening “National Treasure.” Pre-show entertainment at 6 p.m.
Expect warm, sunny days paired with dry heat, and afternoon thunderstorms as July gets underway. Daytime highs are in the upper 80s to low 90s, with cool, comfortable evening 50s.
Catch the free Independence Eve concert in the Buell Theater in the DCPA complex at 6 p.m. What did the lightning say about the fireworks show? “You stole my thunder!”
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com
by Valley Gadfly | May 19, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
Valley Gadfly
June is the month of leaves and roses. Thirty days when pleasant sights salute the eyes, and sweet scents the noses. Cheers to the scent of change with lazy days and sunshine rays.
Known as the start of summer, it is characterized by the summer solstice and the peak of the wedding season. It is celebrated as Dairy Month, and the month of the Strawberry Moon.
As the days grow longer and we look forward to what’s ahead, here are our choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment, for a month filled with sunshine, fun, and laughter:
Don’t miss the extraordinary opportunity to see and hear world-renowned Chinese American cellist Yo-Yo Ma performing with the Colorado Symphony under the stars at Red Rocks Amphitheatre June 3, 7:30 p.m. Information: 720-865-2494.
Manhattan ska band The Slackers play reggae, garage rock, and jazz at the Bluebird Theater June 7, 8 p.m. Information: 303-377-1666.
Catch the Canadian indie rock band from Toronto, the Metric, playing at the Fillmore Auditorium June 11, 6:30 p. m. Information: 303-837-0360.
Try newly opened Waldo’s Chicken & Beer located in the former Panera space in Glendale’s CitySet. It’s the third Colorado site for the Nashville chain. Eatery serves both Southern fried and rotisserie chicken. Information: 720-263-4007.
Thinking of summer camp for your school-aged kids? With more than 60 years of nurturing children, consider Iliff Preschool. Youngsters will love the school’s dynamic and playful setting. Information: 303-757-3551.
Texas piano man, saxophonist, and singer Nik Par plays the Marquis Theater, June 13, 7 p. m. Information: 303-487-0111.
American rapper and record producer Earl Sweatshirt entertains at the Mission Ballroom June 16, 7 p.m. Information: 720-577-6884.
Edwin McCain, singer, guitarist known for soulful ballads, plays at the Paramount Theatre, June 30, 7:30 p.m. Information: 303-623-0106.
Attend the Rendezvous Gala at Four Mile Park to fund the preservation of Four Mile House at Four Mile Park, June 13, 6:30 p.m. Dinner and auction will help fund the preservation of Denver’s oldest standing structure. Event will be a rip-roaring evening of revelry and Old West charm. Information: 720-865-0810.
June is when a simple scent can transform our mood, revive a memory, or sooth our emotions. The month boasts longer days, outdoor activities, and historic milestones like D-Day.
The Mile High City features warm, sunny days — with highs hitting 80s°F — most days, making it ideal for exploring city parks, hiking, and outdoor dining. Expect late day rain, hail.
Catch the first soapbox races in 24 years at Mile High Stadium starting at noon on June 13. Playing hide and seek with clouds, June is like a glass of lemonade, sweet and refreshing.
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com.
by Valley Gadfly | Apr 17, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
Valley Gadfly
There will be not one, but two, Full Moons over the Mile High City in May! The first moon, the Full Flower Moon, reaches its peak over Denver on Friday, May 1 at 11:23 a.m.
The second full moon, the Blue Moon, occurs on May 31 at 2:45 a.m. local time. Once in a Blue Moon is an idiom that refers to an event that happens vary rarely, or almost never.
With Earth precisely sandwiched between the Sun and the Moon this month, here are our choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment, so you will enjoy brighter days ahead:
Kevin John Edusei conducts Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, and Jess Gillam plays the saxophone for the concerto. The program, The Rite of Spring, is in DCPA’s Buell Theatre May 1, 7:30 p.m. Information: 720-865-4220.
Don’t miss multiple Grammy-winning singer Alejandro Fernandez entertaining at Red Rocks May 7, 8 p.m. Information: 720-865-2494.
Catch Swedish indie folk singer, guitarist Jose Gonzalez playing at the Mission Ballroom May 11, 8 p. m. Information: 720-577-6884.
Try the recently opened Chicken Riot located in the former Truffle cheese shop on E. 6th Ave. Eatery marries Texas barbecue’s bold techniques with the tasty traditions of Northern Mexico. Information: 720-967-7678.
Freshen up your home for spring with interior plaster and drywall repair by The Wall Rebuilders. They will repair any age house, old or new. Phone for free estimates. Information: 303-698-1057.
The 16- to 18-piece Count Basie Orchestra entertains at the Lone Tree Arts Center, May 13, 1:30 p. m. Information: 720-509-1000.
Pianist, vocalist, and composer Dawn Clement plays at Dazzle Denver in the DCPA complex, May 17, 5 p.m. Information: 303-839-5100.
Grammy-nominated musician Jontavious Willis plays in Swallow Hill’s Tuft Theatre, May 22, 8 p.m. Information: 303-777-1003.
Support Ronald McDonald House Charities by attending the Storybook Ball at Wings Over the Rockies, May 8, 6 p.m. The Snoopy fundraiser takes you into a world where doghouses become airplanes, scarves flutter in the wind, and guests become part of a soaring story of help and hope. Information: 303-832-2667.
May is the time when the flowers bloom, the birds sing, and the Cherry Creek Valley awakens from its winter slumber. Lawns along neighborhood streets are turning green.
The merry month of May in Denver brings a mix of warm temperatures, occasional rain, and beautiful sunny days. It is an ideal time to explore the Mile High City’s natural surroundings.
Allow the Full Moons in May to be a symbol of calm, consistency, and a guiding light this month. Do you know who conducts the spring orchestra this month? The May-stro.
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com.
by Valley Gadfly | Apr 1, 2026 | Valley Gadfly
Valley Gadfly
Welcome to April, the first full month of spring! No-fooling, despite starting with April Fool’s Day, this month features 30 days of blooming flowers, patio dining, and April showers.
April in Denver brings a distinct charm as the city awakens from winter. The weather can be quite variable, ranging from pleasant 70-degree sunny days to an occasional snowstorm.
With the soft laughter of April suns and the shadow of April showers, here are our choices for shopping, dining, and entertainment, so spring and happiness will come:
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera is back to thrill Denver audiences featuring Maria Bjornson’s original design. The beautiful, spectacular production is in DCPA’s Buell Theatre April 1, 7:30 p.m. Information: 720-865-4220.
Don’t miss the Los Angeles-based pop rock band Lany entertaining in the Mission Ballroom April 7, 7:30 p.m. Information: 720-577-6884.
Catch comedian, writer, and podcaster Charlie Berens playing at the Paramount Theatre April 11, 5 p. m. Information: 303-623-0106.
After a four-year wait, Uchiko has finally opened in Cherry Creek’s Ginny Williams space, featuring lunch and happy hour specials. Standout space has sunlit dining room, sushi bar, plus lively front bar. Information: 303-444-1922.
Looking for a special space for your special occasion? With an 8,600 sq. ft. ballroom, plus 360 degrees of high-definition screens Infinity Park Event Center will make your event distinctive. Information: 303-248-7100.
Chicago Indie rock band Ratboys and violinist Julia Steiner entertain at the Bluebird Theatre, April 13, 8 p. m. Information: 303-377-1666.
Hip hop duo Black Violin plays the violin and viola at the Paramount Theatre April 21, 7:30 p.m. Information: 303-623-0106.
Vocalist Lucia from Veracruz, Mexico, sings jazz, Latin, and pop at Dazzle, April 28, 8:30 p.m. Information: 303-839-5200.
Hear New York fashion designer Zang Toi at the Brass Ring Luncheon & Fashion Show. Event raises funds for The Guild of the Children’s Diabetes Foundation as it honors type 1 heroes at the in the Sheraton Denver downtown hotel April 7, 11:30 a.m. Information: 303-863-1200.
April is the angel of months, the young love of the new year. It marks the transitional period when the Mile High City shakes off its winter slumber and slowly bursts into bloom.
The days grow warmer, the flowers start to blossom, and the promise of sunny afternoons fill the air. It’s a time to admire the majesty – and quirkiness – of Mother Nature.
Winter’s done, and April’s in the skies. A time for new hope. And of new energy to go after your goals and your dreams. Haven’t you heard the joke about April? April-ly not.
— Glen Richardson
The Valley Gadfly can be reached at newspaper@glendalecherrycreek.com.
