Sweeney’s, the maker of mole-control products, has launched its second annual “I hate moles because . . .” contest. By Aug. 31, consumers are asked to impart their most frustrating mole and gopher stories. Last year, more than 250 people penned their worst “mole woe” stories, sharing tales of strategic campaigns designed to preserve their lawns and landscapes. This year, one winner will receive a $500 gift card to Lowe’s, and 10 runners-up will receive gift baskets filled with an arsenal of mole-, vole- and gopher-fighting products. For contest rules or to enter, visit .
Pond lovers’ paradise
The 10th anniversary Colorado Parade of Ponds is Saturday and Sunday. The event will feature 50 stylized ponds throughout the Denver area, half of which were not on previous tours. This self-guided pond tour is the fifth largest in the nation and will benefit Children’s Hospital, the Denver Botanic Gardens, the American Cancer Society and Hudson Gardens. Tickets are $15 at one of the following vendors: Hudson Gardens, Arapahoe Acres Nursery & Garden Center, Denver Botanic Gardens, Big Tool Box/Highlands Garden Center, True Pump & Equipment, Tagawa Garden Center & Florist, Nick’s Garden Center, Paradise Ponds, Timberline Gardens and Enery Water Gardens or online at ColoradoParadeOfPonds . Children 15 and younger free. A bus tour is available Saturday; boxed lunch will be served. Bus tickets are $20.
Victorian valor
This weekend’s Georgetown Victorian House Tour is a chance to catch a glimpse of life and design in the 19th century as private residents and museums open their doors to the public and share anecdotes and architectural examples. The event includes live entertainment and a market at Strousse Park in downtown Georgetown. There are 14 stops on this year’s tour, which is located throughout the town’s National Historic Landmark District. Houses on the tour were built between the 1860s and the 1890s, and showcase the lifestyles of the wealthy mine owners and investors to the humblest miners and trappers. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $15-$20, and are available through Historic Georgetown Inc., 303-569-2840 or .
House proud in Boulder
On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Boulder County Home & Garden Magazine and the Twenty Ninth Street Retail District host the Boulder Home & Garden Fair, a family-friendly event in which home improvement, outdoor and green companies showcase their wares. The events boasts numerous activities, workshops and demonstrations, along with discount services. Parking and admission are free. Details at .
