Happy birthday, Colorado! Our state turns 141 years old on Tuesday, August 1, and we've got some great ideas for celebrating Colorado Day!
Long before we enjoyed our state's gorgeous scenery and climate -- before we transplanted, before we were born, before our parents or grandparents were born or moved here -- there were Coloradans. And as they worked to make Colorado a state, they, too, must have known there was something special about this magical place with wild purple mountains, crisp air, and abundant silver and gold. [gallery size="full" ids="20450,20451,20449"] On August 1, 1876 -- not even a month after the United States celebrated its 100th birthday -- President Ulysses S. Grant welcomed Colorado as the 38th state. As a result, it was nicknamed the "Centennial State." Can you imagine what those original Coloradans would think if they could see our state now? Despite its rapid growth, Colorado is still arguably one of our country's best-kept secrets! Looking for ways to celebrate Colorado Day? We've got you covered! First, stop at Dunkin' Donuts. From Monday, July 31, through Sunday, August 6, Dunkin' Donuts customers will receive a free “Colorado donut” when they purchase a cold coffee of any size.
Then, head to one of eight museums across Colorado that are offering FREE admission on Tuesday, August 1! The History Colorado Center is my personal favorite, and they'll be offering live performances, demonstrations, and celebratory activities all day long, as well as a birthday cake ceremony at 11:15 a.m.
Other museums with free admission on Colorado Day include:
- Byers-Evans House in Denver
- El Pueblo History Museum in Pueblo
- Fort Garland Museum in Fort Garland
- Fort Vasquez Museum in Platteville
- Healy House & Dexter Cabin in Leadville
- Trinidad History Museum in Trinidad
- Ute Indian Museum in Montrose