St. Pat’s in the Springs.
On Mar. 12, Colorado Springs will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with its 28th annual parade and 5K race. More than 100 parade entries, including bands and floats, flags and leprechauns, will highlight one of the biggest events in Colorado Springs. Prior to the parade, the 5K Race and the Leprechaun Fun Run for the “wee ones,” (10 and under) will take place. or 719-635-8803
Irish food and whiskey.
The Cherokee Ranch and Castle in Sedalia offers two St. Patrick’s Day events for visitors. The Taste of the Emerald Isle Irish Single Malt Whiskey Celebration takes place Mar. 16, 6:30-9:30 p.m. It includes a castle tour, Irish supper buffet, cash bar, whiskey presentation and tasting, and a dessert and coffee reception. The cost is $65. There will also be a St. Patrick’s Day Mid-afternoon Tea on Mar. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. Enjoy scones with clotted cream and jam, a sampling of finger sandwiches, pastries and sweets, and a tour of the castle. The cost is $45. or 303-688-4600
Backcountry ski race.
The Elk Mountains Grand Traverse is one of the most rugged backcountry ski races. On Mar. 25-26, competitors will follow historic mail routes that once connected the Colorado mining towns of Crested Butte and Aspen along a 40-mile course. The race begins at midnight on the 25th at 9,000 feet at the Crested Butte Community School. After trekking across two mountain passes, teams finish at the base of Aspen Mountain ski area. This race requires avalanche awareness, backcountry athleticism, winter camping knowledge and map reading skills. or 970-596-6383
Tom’s Terrific race.
The 20th annual Tom’s Terrific Cross-Country Downhill race will take place in Winter Park on Apr. 16. This 5K “mostly downhill” fun race benefits junior skiers in the resort’s Competition Center. The race begins at 5 p.m. outside the Lodge at Sunspot atop Winter Park Mountain. The course always involves some uphill sections and follows mostly green terrain. Waves of 10 racers start every minute on the equipment of their choice.
or 970-726-1590
Compiled by Anya Semenoff
