Pale pink blossoms against a blue sky. Photo by Yan Liu on Unsplash.
Looking for inclusive events in Fort Collins? We’ve got you. Here are a few.
April 7 plus multiple dates. Group Coaching Workshop led by students on track to become national certified health and wellness coaches, at Front Range Community College. Free
April 10-11, 17-18 Fort Collins Book Fest at Foothills Mall kicks off with a special event at Visit Fort Collins Welcome Center, in Old Town, featuring poetry readings by local poets and opportunities to meet presenters and speakers. Visit website for schedule. Various ticket options are available, including pay what you can, $25 Supporter, $35 Champion.
April 10-12 Northern Colorado Intertribal Powwow Association (NCIPA) 32nd Annual Powwow and Art Market at Northside Aztlan Community Center, 112 Willow St. Theme: “Strength and Hope Through Community.” Visit website for schedule. Public welcome. Admission: Ages 13 and up, $6 per day or $15 for the weekend. Children ages 6 to 12, $3 per day or $7 for the weekend. Ages 5 and younger: Free
Reading and Q&A with author Nico Lang. American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era. Presented by PFLAG Fort Collins.
April 11 Nico Lang, longtime LGBTQ+ journalist and author of the groundbreaking new book, American Teenager will speak back to extreme anti-trans rhetoric about youth by showing trans young people as they actually are: powerfully human.
American Teenager documents the lives of trans kids and their loved ones in seven different states. Lang has toured the country for the past 18 months to bring their voices and stories to as many communities as possible. Reading begins at 3 p.m. followed by Q&A at the Fort Collins Senior Center, Twinberry Auditorium (1200 Raintree Dr.). Free
April 17 For The Love of Strangers: “A fun and dynamic community experience workshopping unique ideas for meaningfully connecting with others.” 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Visit Fort Collins Welcome Center, 7 Old Town Square, Suite 100. $10 suggested donation.
Symphony Sounds for Children flier: Join the Fort Collins Symphony for Beyond The Notes, a multi-sensory, interdisciplinary arts education time for kids in preschool through 5th grade. April 18 at 11 to 11:45 a.m. at Council Tree Library. Free. Registration required.
April 18Symphony Sounds for Children, Council Tree Library, Large Meeting Room, 11 to 11:45 a.m. Registration required. Free
Registration required for this free multi-generational event that is designed for children preschool age to 5th grade and their caregivers.
The Fort Collins Symphony community engagement program, Beyond The Notes, provides multi-sensory, interdisciplinary arts education for youth and their caring adults. Each session builds vocabulary, critical and creative thinking skills, and listening skills, and participants meet musicians and get a behind-the-scenes look at the symphony.
April 19 “Come As You Are: An Evening of Poetry and Performance.” Enjoy a short performance by Opposite of Blink, followed by poetry open mic by Lorrie Wolfe and Columbine Poets of Colorado. 5:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Council Tree Library, 2733 Council Tree Ave. Free
April 24-25 FoCoMX: Fort Collins Music Experiment. “Join us for Colorado’s largest live music event! We are grateful to have a vibrant music community supported by music lovers and filled with talented musicians! Thank you to everyone for supporting this unique showcase of Colorado artists for the past 17 years.
“FoCoMX is presented by the Fort Collins Musicians Association (FoCoMA), Fort Collins Connexion, and Odell Brewing Co. FoCoMA has showcased thousands of bands, helped grow new live music fans, garnered national media attention, and has earned the unofficial title of “The Biggest Little Festival in America.” Tickets: $50, $60, $75.
April 25 The NoCo Record Show. Live DJs. Dozens of awesome vendors. Over 40,000 records for sale, at Breckenridge Brewery, 1020 E. Lincoln Ave. Early bird $10 at 10. Free entry after 11 a.m. Free early bird entry with FoCoMx pass.
April 30 Wolverine Farm will announce the new Fort Collins Poet Laureate at 7 p.m. with a reunion of past poets laureates. Submit nominations and attend the celebration.
Nonprofit Spotlight
Northern Colorado Equality “seeks to empower the LGBTQ+ community and our allies through activities, programs, services and education. Honoring, promoting and celebrating our community’s diversity is our central organizing principle.”
Trans Lifeline is “a trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive.”
Check out these resources and nonprofits, and consider making a donation:
She Goes High community of women and non-binary humans
Business Spotlight
Cherry on Top Bookshop, Fort Collins’ first romance bookstore! 119 E. Mountain Ave. Open Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit the shop on Instagram.
EXCERPTS: Governor Polis and the Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced in January that Crisosto Apache has been selected as the new Colorado Poet Laureate, succeeding the late Andrea Gibson.
Apache, an indigenous poet and Associate Professor at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design, will serve in the role for two years with a special emphasis on honoring America 250 – Colorado 150 in 2026, a year-long commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood.
“We are thrilled to welcome Crisosto Apache as the new Colorado Poet Laureate. The Poets Laureate helps us remember the past, process the present, and inspire us to dream of the future we hope to create. We are fortunate to have Crisosto fill a role that is so vital in this current moment,” said Sarah Olivier, Executive Director of Colorado Humanities.
American flag and downtown Denver lights at night with protesters in foreground. Photo by Colin Lloyd on Unsplash
Protester wearing blue knit hat in a crowd holding a white sign with black lettering “DO NOT OBEY IN ADVANCE” during a nighttime rally in Denver.Photo by Colin Lloyd on Unsplash.
We are the ones we have been waiting for. — June Jordan
Nothing appears more surprising to those, who consider human affairs with a philosophical eye, than the easiness with which the many are governed by the few; and the implicit submission, with which men resign their own sentiments and passions to those of their rulers. When we enquire by what means this wonder is effected, we shall find, that, as Force is always on the side of the governed, the governors have nothing to support them but opinion. It is therefore, on opinion only that government is founded; and this maxim extends to the most despotic and most military governments, as well as to the most free and most popular. — David Hume (epigraph to Sunrise on the Reapingby Suzanne Collins)
Believe In Your Power
by Kat Valdez/Diverse Fort Collins
The first time I volunteered as a delegate to the Democratic State Assembly in March 2018, I was dazzled by the spectacle and cacophony at the events arena in Broomfield, Colorado.
It was like a scene out of a movie.
Banners decorated the concourse hallways, and volunteers handed out fliers encouraging votes for their candidate or cause.
Candidates for statewide office gave impassioned speeches in front of thousands of people about why they were running.
Young people — our future leaders — stood at the podium and gave us hope.
It was inspiring and educational, encouraging and heart-warming.
Earlier this month, I participated in the virtual caucus and volunteered to run as a delegate to the county assembly and help advance candidate nominations on the June ballot.
In my precinct breakout session, I was one of four delegates elected. We then headed to the county assembly on Saturday, March 7.
There, I and others volunteered to serve as delegates to our congressional district assemblies and state assembly later this month.
Were you one of the 1,200 or so Larimer County residents (and 13,000 Coloradans across the state!*) in caucus Zoom rooms proudly fulfilling your civic duty? Not surrendering your rights in advance? Not giving up?
If so, maybe I’ll see you again soon.
(Thanks to all Larimer County Democrats volunteers! I appreciate your cool heads during an intense day.)
Distressed about the state of our country? Research candidates for local and state-wide races, and prepare for the June primary election.
March 2026 Community Events
Looking for inclusive events in Fort Collins? We’ve got you. Here are a few.
March 15 Local Legislator Town Hall.Join Senator Cathy Kipp and Representatives Andrew Boesenecker (House District 53) & Yara Zokaie (House District 52) for an informative town hall at 3 to 4:30 p.m., Old Town Library, 201 Peterson St.
“The museum is featuring Installation Nation in the main gallery. Installation Nation highlights the work of five local and regional artists to explore the intersection of installation art, nature and our environment. Installation art moves beyond traditional art forms to incorporate sound, architecture, found objects to give an immersive experience to the viewer. Exhibiting artists are: Nicole Banowetz (Denver, CO), Ashley Hope Carlisle (Laramie, WY), Chelsea Gilmore (Fort Collins, CO), Katelynn Mai-Fusco (Greeley, CO), Abbie Powers (Loveland, CO). Read a thoughtful reviewof the exhibition from the Rocky Mountain Collegian.
“The second exhibition is A Pendulum Oscillates About Its Lowest Point. Featuring artists Derrick Velasquez and Gretchen Marie Schaefer and is curated by Jenny Nagashima and Ilan Gutin. This exhibition is organized by Dinghy Rig, which is a collaborative artist-run art production and exhibition program launched by CSU Professors Aitor Lajarin-Encina and Marius Lehene.
“Our third exhibition features landscape painter Gina Blickenstaff (Fort Collins, CO). Her striking and unique landscape paintings show nature in all of its glorious moods and textures. From close up views of grasses and leaves to far away vistas and changing light, Blickenstaff’s landscapes hone in on the elegant details and design of nature.”
Fort Stories: Happy (And Not-So-Happy) Trails. Sunday, March 22, 6:30-8 p.m at Visit Fort Collins Welcome Center, 7 Old Town Square. Sideporchstories.com
March 22Fort Stories. Theme: “Happy (and Not-So-Happy) Trails.” 6:30 p.m. at Visit Fort Collins Welcome Center, 7 Old Town Square. $5 suggested donation.
Stories from the paths we hike, the roads we choose, and the detours that change everything. True stories told by your Fort Collins neighbors. Any maybe you!
Come put your name in the hat — see what it feel like to share your story in front of a supportive and enthusiastic audience.
For more info, scan the QR code above or email or text mary@sideporchstories.com, (970) 227-9806.
Info from No Kings website: “On March 28, we show up together, and we say, loud and clear: No Kings.”
March 28No Kings protest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Civic Center Park, 201 Laporte Ave.
“Resistance is for everyone, everywhere. But showing up isn’t always easy. That’s why we created an accessible space that makes it possible for everyone to show up; however it works for you and fits your life. Protect our health. Defend our democracy. No Kings. ASL interpretation and live captioning will be provided.”
Can’t attend in person? Watch the No Kings Flagship Rally live at the Minnesota state capital.
March 29 Join Senator Cathy Kipp and Representatives Andy Boesenecker & Yara Zokaie for another Local Legislator Town Hall to stay updated on what’s happening at the state Capitol, at 3 to 4:30 p.m. Old Town Library, 201 Petersen St.
The Gadfly: True stories and stand-up philosophy with Dr. Cori Wong. 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Speak Cheesy Lounge in Slyce Pizza, 120 S. Mason St. $10 suggested donation.
March 29 Stand-up philosophy and true stories at The Gadfly with Dr. Cori Wong. “The point is to make telling the truth a good time.” “Expect room for questions, discussion and crowd work.” See details in flier and caption above.
“Last week, approximately 13,000 Coloradans showed up to Democratic precinct caucuses across the state: nearly double recent cycles.
“That’s not a typo. We doubled turnout. In 2022, about 6,390 Democrats caucused. In 2024, about 6,799. This year? 13,000.
“This is what grassroots organizing looks like: neighbors meeting in living rooms and community centers to elect precinct leaders, choose delegates, and shape the future of our party. And it’s just getting started.
“County assemblies are happening now through March 14. Then on March 28, Democrats from every corner of Colorado will gather in Pueblo for State Assembly to advance candidates to the primary ballot and organize for 2026.
“We’re breaking down barriers to entry and are better off when more people participate.
From National Public Radio (NPR) (Feb. 20): Theater: In the new off-Broadway comedy BigFoot! The Musical, the protagonist is really anyone who has ever been othered, co-producer Amber Ruffin tells NPR.
Excerpt: “Amber Ruffin’s joy is infectious. And she’s bringing that joy to her latest production, the original off-Broadway show Bigfoot! The Musical, co-written by Kevin Sciretta. The show’s plot involves a corrupt mayor, gullible townspeople and a kindhearted Bigfoot who longs for community. What evolves on stage takes on even more meaning in today’s political landscape.
“Ruffin started writing Bigfoot! in 2014. In an interview with NPR’s Michel Martin, she talked of how her protagonist is really anyone who has ever been othered — a detail that shifted over the years she was writing the musical. ‘Bigfoot, in my mind, is a Black woman,’ she said. ‘Bigfoot, in my mind, is a trans person. Then I was like, Bigfoot, in my mind, is just all LGBTQ. Then I was like, Bigfoot is an immigrant.’”
“…The Instagram stories on my feed were filled with Puerto Ricans and other Latines hosting watch parties, taking in this much-needed moment of sheer joy during a treacherous time when speaking in our native language, or being a brown-skinned person is enough of a risk factor in being abducted by ICE. Having had the privilege of seeing Bad Bunny at the Choliseo during his residency in San Juan last August, I knew this performance would not only be an impactful homage to my island, but the Super Bowl halftime show carried an underlying, defiant message, that no matter how much conservatives prop up hatred and fear-mongering toward Latines and immigrants, nothing will stop us from being proud of our roots…”
Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron took the stage during Friday’s opening ceremony to deliver a message of peace from the late leader and activist Nelson Mandela, who hailed from her home country of South Africa.
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict,” Theron quoted Mandela as having said. “Peace is the creation of an environment where all can flourish, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, class, caste or any other social markers of difference.”
Food for Thought
From John A. Powell of the Othering & Belonging Institute (March 9):
“We currently live in a world that is rapidly changing. And depending on where you stand, many would say it is for the worse. Long before the recent attacks on Iran, the prime minister of Canada, Mark Carney, made the observation at Davos in mid-January that we have moved beyond a transition to a “rupture,” suggesting that the old world order is gone or disintegrating, and it is time to think about a new one. Similarly, the writer Masha Gessen observed that for a long time we have been in decline, and recently have begun to “fall off a cliff.”
“For some time, many have wondered how to slow or hamper authoritarian impulses, and the incipient tyranny or established fascism that seems to be sweeping across the United States and the world. There is an emerging consensus, as reflected in these comments, that we have crossed that line, that we are no longer in an emerging, but in fact already within an authoritarian society.”
Read the rest of the essay on the Othering & Belonging Institute website.
Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this essay are not necessarily those of the Othering & Belonging Institute or UC Berkeley, but belong to the author.
My sister and I took swimming lessons when we were kids but I never became comfortable with it.
Despite growing up near the Pacific Ocean, I never swam in it. Never learned to surf.
So it was with determination that I, now in my 50s and celebrating nearly 25 years in Colorado, registered for the Adult Learn To Swim: Intro to Swimming class at the Fort Collins Senior Center last June.
Why? So I could be a guest paddler with my sister’s outrigger canoe club in our home town.
And finally get over the fear of putting my face in the water.
(My parents never learned to swim, but that’s another story for another time. Read about why people of color historically have low rates of swimming proficiency.)
There were three of us in the swim class: my friend Lore, who is in her 30s, and a lady—let’s call her Ann—in her 70s.
The teacher and assistant were kind and patient as we learned the basics of floating, kicking, front crawl, backstroke, and rotary breathing in Sunday morning weekly lessons.
Mystery solved. Essential life skill unlocked!
On a windy day in September, I did eventually paddle with my sister’s outrigger canoe club. How exhilarating to experience floating on the ocean!
I also registered for a two-day Learn To Row class this spring. The 6 a.m. start time might be the most challenging part of the entire experience. <Insert yawn>.
Lore was bold and took the rowing class the same month as the swimming lessons. She competed in her first regatta near Denver a few months later and has become an enthusiastic club member.
“You’ll love it,” she said.
I bet she’s right.
Learning something new expands your mind and your world. Introduces you to friends. Gives you a different perspective. And maybe a little hope as you navigate into the unknown future.
Time to be bold. What will you try for the first time this year?
Action is the Antidote to Despairby Kirsten Savage (Jan. 29) Excerpt: “This week, I’m turning the spotlight toward fellow artists who have responded to heartbreaking events in the news with bold, creative action.”
A Note From Chaniby Chani Nicholas (Jan. 28) Excerpt: “As we witness, organize, and resist against the descent into the hell and heartbreak that unfolds before us each and every day in Minneapolis, Iran, Palestine, Congo, Sudan, and beyond, it’s natural to want a simple directive — a “how to get out of this seemingly never-ending, evil dumpster fire” field guide. We want a step-by-step manual. We want to know when it will be over, and we want it to be soon.”
Belonging in a time of state violenceby John A. Powell/Othering & Belonging Institute (Jan. 29) Excerpt: “There are moments when a society must pause — not to look away, but to look more carefully. Moments when we are asked not simply to react, but to reflect. To ask what kind of people we are becoming, and what kind of world we are quietly consenting to build…
“The true measure of a democracy is not how it treats those who are familiar or favored, but how it treats those who are vulnerable, marginalized, or easily cast aside.”
Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (Jan. 31) “It’s important to remember that cynics and defeatists share the same story as authoritarians: That nothing is worth trying, the conclusion is foregone, hope is naive, and attempts to resist are too small or futile.
“That isn’t true, that’s just what authoritarians need us to believe. Don’t listen to them. Do not give up. Try.
“Because here is our story: A better world is possible. We will win. We must.”
White cup and saucer with green matcha latte and white heart in center from Lima Coffee Roasters – Old Town Coffee Shop: “Love People. Love Coffee.” Kat Valdez/Diverse Fort Collins.
Looking for inclusive community events and activities this month? You’ve come to the right place. Here are a few to consider.
February 2026 Community Events
“FoCo Fringe is back! FoCo Fringe is a multi-day festival for performing artists with bold creativity – professionals and amateurs alike – to share their art, inviting our community to experience the raw, the beautiful, and the unexpected.
“The Fringe will feature 50+ performances across multiple downtown venues, showcasing theater, dance, film, comedy, and more.
“The Fringe will take place June 11 – 14, 2026. The 2026 Artist Application is now open!”
Now through April 12:Andy Warhol’s legendary visit to CSU: How the pop art icon left a lasting legacy. Almost 45 years later, Warhol’s brief but electrifying time on campus continues to resonate with a new exhibition, “Revisited: Andy Warhol’s Social Media and Andy Warhol at Colorado State University,” on display through April 12 at the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art.
Black History Month events poster. Credit: Colorado State University Last year’s Black History Month fashion show at CSU. Credit: Colorado State University.
Excerpt: “Black History Month at Colorado State University features a host of events open to the entire campus community, ranging from a film screening and campus talks to culinary experiences and a fashion show.
“Hosted by CSU’s Black/African American Cultural Center, the month-long February celebration kicks off on Feb. 3 with learning stations on African Diasporic histories and cultures. This year’s theme – “Woven Roots: 100 Years of Commemoration, Lifetimes of the African Diaspora” – explores a century of lives, knowledges and cultures that extend beyond the borders of the United States.”
The Fox Den hosts Open Mic Night every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Credit: The Fox Den No Waste Cafe & Roastery
The Fox Den: No Waste Cafe & Roastery recurring events Open Mic Nights: Every Thursday (Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26) from 6–9 p.m. Come early to claim your spot! Mystery Book Club: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays (Feb 11. and 25) at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Movie Night: Every Wednesday (Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25) starting at 5 p.m.
Poster for “special table reading of the play Take a Giant Step by Louis Peterson, in the tradition of A Raisin in the Sun.
Feb. 6 Table reading of Louis Peterson’s groundbreaking play Take a Giant Step co-sponsored by Museum of Art Fort Collins, Louise Cutler Studio Community Art Projects, and others. 6 p.m. Open to the community. Free
“Join us for an exciting, hands-on celebration of innovation, creativity, and community! A World of Difference: Powered by People, Science, and Engineering brings together Colorado State University’s leading academic oprograms for a full day of interactive learning and exploration…”
Feb. 11 Ram Talks invites community to experience groundbreaking research and creative insights. Read the spring schedule, starting with “Are Insects Romantic? A Debate. Tristan Kubik, rare invertebrate biologist for the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, and Melissa Schreiner, CSU Extension entomology specialist.” Doors: 5 p.m. Event: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Free.
Graphic showing four people riding bicycles with foothills and Horsetooth Rock in background, and the words “Bike to Work Day. Friday, Feb. 13.” Credit: City of Fort Collins
From the City of Fort Collins:
“Fort Collins’ 19th Annual Winter Bike to Work (or Wherever) Day takes place on Thursday, Feb. 13, inviting riders of all experience levels to be part of the city’s biggest community ride. Swap a car trip for a bike ride, enjoy free breakfast along the way and connect with others who share Fort Collins’ trails and bikeways.
“Dozens of breakfast and refreshment stations will be available throughout the city (while supplies last), with free bike safety checks at select locations. Natural Areas will host a morning station, stop by for a tasty breakfast and some fun swag.
When: Thursday, Feb. 13 Morning stations: 7–9:30 a.m. Afternoon stations: 3:30–5:30 p.m. Where: Stations throughout Fort Collins
“Visit the Bike to Work Day page for additional details and the interactive station map.”
Feb. 14 Local Legislator Town Hall
From Sen. Cathy Kipp: “Our next Local Legislator Town Hall is happening the morning of Feb. 14, with Senator Cathy Kipp and Representatives Andy Boesenecker & Yara Zokaie. Please join us to learn about what is happening at the Capitol and have your questions answered. Please be aware that, due to occupancy capacity and fire codes, seats will be limited to the first 80 people. We are working on getting larger spaces.”
Feb. 22 The Human Library, Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. Free. Registration is required.
Excerpt: “Typical libraries offer print books and digital eBooks for check out, but The Human Library® allows participants – or Readers – to borrow a human Book and engage in conversations about their unique stories, particularly their experiences in Fort Collins regarding their identity/identities.”
Gaia Masala & Burger offers a blend of Indian, American, and Mediterranean flavors with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 AM, enjoy favorites like Tikka Masala, Cheesesteaks, Gyros, and Burgers anytime.
Business Spotlight Gaia Masala & Burger, 649 S. College Ave., open 10 a.m. to 3 a.m., new dining space with full menu that fuses Indian, Mediterranean and American flavors.
One Colorado “Working together for a fair and just Colorado” One Colorado is the state’s leading advocacy organization dedicated to advancing equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) Coloradans and their families. Donate to One Colorado
Take Action Today Participate in your caucus and county, district and state assemblies! Larimer Democrats: Take Action. The countdown to mid-term elections is on!
Photo: Tennis court with sunlight streaming through trees in background by Angela Bailey on Unsplash.
by Kat Valdez/Diverse Fort Collins
On a sunny afternoon a couple of months ago, I arrived early to tennis class and waited for the other class to finish.
One of the coaches came over to me with a smile, introduced herself, and proceeded to praise the skills and performance of one student. Apparently, Billie* was a superstar that day.
Why is she telling me this?
Oh. She thinks I’m the girl’s mother.
I looked at her quizzically, with a polite smile: “I don’t know who Billie is.”
I don’t know who Billie is but I’m glad she did well in class!
The coach, a young white woman, paused in surprise, then had the decency to be embarrassed: “Oh, I’m sorry!”
I wanted to say, “I know there aren’t many Asian Americans in Fort Collins and we all look alike to you. But she and I are not even the same kind of Asian.”
My mom is from the Philippines; Billie doesn’t look like me. At all.
I’m guessing Billie’s mother or guardian was the lady sitting waaaaay over at the end of the seating area, chatting with another parent. (Out of the coach’s line of sight.)
But I can’t assume that, otherwise I’m be engaging in the same unconscious bias as the coach.
Looks are deceiving. You can’t assume anything based on appearances.
Duh.
And yet. We all do it.
It’s like the opening scene in the Academy Award-nominated film Past Lives, written and directed by Celine Song, in which you hear a man and woman (presumably white) speculating about the three people across the bar: Who are they to each other? Are the Asian man and Asian woman a couple? Is the white man their friend?
Spoiler alert: They’re wrong.
I mentioned this tennis class incident to a new acquaintance who moved to Fort Collins several years ago from a diverse, metropolitan city in another state. Her parents are immigrants from India; she and her children were born in the U.S.
“The same thing happened to me!” she said. At her kids’ school.
We discussed identity and first generation and second generation Americans, then exchanged phone numbers with the intention to meet for coffee in the new year.
Have you ever witnessed or participated in this kind of conversation that ended up being a case of mistaken identity?
Did you shrug it off, not giving it a second thought? Or did you examine why it happened? Did you research unconscious bias and microaggressions?
Why or why not?
Discuss amongst yourselves. That’s your homework for the month.
(*Name changed to protect privacy.)
Bonus points for extra credit homework: Read Throwback by Maureen Goo, which offers myriad examples of the “colorblind” racism and casual racism in the 1990s that some of us grew up with.
It shows readers how far we’ve come. And how far we have yet to go.
From the publisher: Back to the Future meets Joy Luck Club in this fresh, funny novel about a Gen Z Korean American girl who gets stuck in the 90s with her teenaged mother, perfect for fans of Mary H.K. Choi, Morgan Matson, and Nicola Yoon.
“No one can blend family, humor, satire, and love into a single perfect story like Maureen Goo can.” —Marie Lu, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Skyhunter
Happy new year! Interested in community events this month? You’ve come to the right place.
Here are a few inclusive events and activities to kick off 2026, plus a list of community calendars to check out.
January 2026 Community Events
January, The Gardens on Spring Creek, Butterfly House, Children’s Garden and more, open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Thursdays.
January, The Lyric Cinema Cafe, movies, art, and community events such as open mic, trivia, storytelling, karaoke, and more.
January, Poudre Libraries, various events for adults, teens and children throughout the month
Jan. 2 “Coyote Pretty” Sapphic Show, R Bar Fort Collins, 9 p.m. $15, and various events throughout the month.
Jan. 2-30 Fort Collins Museum of Discoveryevents and films in the Otterbox Digital Dome Theater.
Through Jan. 4 Indigenous Voices: A Contemporary Art Exhibition, Museum of Art Fort Collins, see ticket prices on the website including free admission for: 18 and under, SNAP recipients with SNAP card, CSU students with ID, military veterans with ID, 50 percent discount for educators with ID, etc.
Jan. 4 Liberation Is Local, facilitated by Dr. Cori Wong. On hiatus after this date. Donations welcome. Free
Jan. 6-8 Registration opensfor City of Fort Collins Recreation programs and classes
Jan. 9 – Feb. 27 The Lincoln Center Art Gallery’s new exhibit Kristy Deetz: Disrupted Gardens features a series of large-scale, hyper-realistic acrylic paintings that imagine a future where nature and artificial intelligence respond to pollution and climate change by reshaping the Earth (our “Garden”) and populating it with new, often evolving creatures.
Jan. 15 & 16 Artist’s Visit, including Live Sculpting, Reception and Artist Talk The Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., Fort Collins, CO 80521 The Art Gallery Hours: Wednesday and Friday, 1–6 pm and before most performances, Free
Kristy will be visiting from Green Bay, Wisconsin. She will sculpt in the Art Gallery, demonstrating how she creates her Specimens, from 1 to 6 pm, Thursday, Jan. 15, and from 3 to 5 pm, Friday, Jan. 16. The sculptures she creates will remain on view for the duration of the exhibit. To end the day on Jan. 16, the Art Gallery will host an Artist Talk at 5:30 pm and celebrate Kristy’s visit with an Artist’s Reception at 6:30 pm.
Taryn Bushey (she/her) is the creator behind Dark Noodle Art. Taryn is a self-taught artist specializing in abstract and modern line art.
CC Stanhill (they/them) is an illustrator, animator, and inveterate punslinger living in Fort Collins. Their work explores queer themes of fluidity, freedom and connection; but mostly it’s about being colossally capricious. They were once described by a prominent person as “quite a lucid sort of fellow.”
Poster for “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, 2026, Jan. 19 at 10 a.m.: Missing Possible II.” Theme: “Building community. Uniting Fort Collins.” Image of Dr. King in profile, with a dove in flight above his head, against a photo of Horsetooth Rock in Fort Collins.
“Join your community for the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day event, honoring Dr. King’s legacy. This event brings together campus and community partners for a day of reflection, inspiration, and engagement featuring performances and opportunities to engage. Together, we celebrate the ongoing work of “Building Community, Uniting Fort Collins.'”
“Following the short program, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities from 10:45-12:45. Try them all!””
City of Fort Collins Natural Areas: more than 50 conserved natural areas and more than 100 miles of trails
City of Fort Collins Parks: more than 966 acres of developed parks
“You know, everything old can be made new again. Like democracy.” – Effie Trinket, Mockingjay Part I
Screenshot of Larimer County Democrats website: “While November 2026 is a long way off, the countdown has begun. Please note the following dates in your calendar as we go through our Party nominations process.” [Visit https://www.larimerdems.org/ ] Feb 11 is the last day to register as a Democrat if you want to attend caucuses.
Excerpt: “Representation matters. Giving any community an opportunity to see work from a community they may not know much about helps not only expand that understanding, but enrich the visual language that accompanies that community.
“Indigenous Voices is meant to be an exhibition that showcases local Colorado contemporary artists, their work and their voices, giving insight into the rich tapestry of ideas that comes through modern art by living artists that are also Indigenous.
“Political, cultural, social and artistically driven, Indigenous Voices showcases artists that embody possibility through the art they create.”
Curated by Gregg Deal
Northern Lights in NoCo
Did you miss seeing the Northern Lights in early November? Here are some photos by local media and community members:
“Downtown Fort Collins is the place to be for the holidays! Dine, shop, and explore under the twinkling of the holiday lights…
“Bonus, shop at Old Town Spree participating businesses for a chance to win a $100 Downtown Fort Collins Gift Card. Need some family activities? Visit with Santa or play at the skate rink in Old Town Square.
“As a reminder – parking in the parking structures is always free on Sundays and City holidays. On all other days, parking is free for the first hour and $1 each hour after; in all three parking structures. A parking session must be initiated regardless of duration of stay.
City of Fort Collins Recreation Department special events
Old Town Spree: “This November and December, locally owned and operated businesses in Downtown Fort Collins invite shoppers and diners to enter to win thousands of dollars in Downtown Fort Collins Gift Card* prizes!
“Participating is as simple as shopping or dining at any official Old Town Spree businesses to receive a card with your unique code to enter to win. You could win one of four $100 Downtown Gift Cards drawn weekly. You also have a shot at winning one of five $250 Downtown Gift Card Grand Prizes to be drawn on Jan. 5, 2026! Be sure to enter your codes early and often for your chance to win!”
Dec. 5 and 6Student recitals at the University Center for the Arts, Colorado State University. Free
–Friday, Dec. 5 5 p.m., Organ Recital Hall, Bryson Hodges, Piano 7 p.m., Organ Recital Hall, Russell Wolfe, Violin
-Saturday, Dec. 6: 6 p.m., Griffin Concert Hall, Colin Ferry, Percussion 8 p.m., Griffin Concert Hall, Brian Tremper, Percussion
Dec. 9 Colorado Gives Day. “Join the wave of generosity. All donations made online now through Dec. 9 count toward Colorado Gives Day and the $1 million+ Incentive Fund. It’s easily the best day to give.” Support your favorite nonprofits, including museums, theater companies, radio stations, and more.
Flier promoting “For The Love of Strangers” designed and facilitated by Dr. Cori Wong, Positive Philosophy Consulting @myphilifesophy coriwong.com. Dec. 12 at Visit Fort Collins welcome center, Mountain and Remington. 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Arrive at 6:45 p.m. “A fun and dynamic community experience workshopping unique ideas for meaningfully connecting with others. Bring a friend. Attend on your own. Explore some of my Best Worst Ideas. Experience the finale!!”
Dec. 12 For The Love of Strangers,7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Visit Fort Collins (Mountain and Remington) Final date! Theme: “Love, An Artist.” “A fun and dynamic community experience workshopping unique ideas for meaningfully connecting with others. Bring a friend. Attend on your own. Explore some of my Best Worst Ideas. Experience the finale!!” Suggested donation: $10.
Dec. 13 Tuba Christmas, 2 to 3 p.m. Oak Street Plaza, 148 W. Oak St. Free
Poster for Merrily We Roll Along. “Only in theaters December 5.”
Dec. 13-17 Merrily We Roll Along. The Tony-Award winning Broadway musical comes to Cinemark Fort Collins on Timberline via Fathom Entertainment. $15
Dec. 12-28 Garden of Lights at The Gardens on Spring Creek. Nightly. Admission: 4 and under, free. Children ( 5-11) $8-10; General (14+} $12-14. Members receive a 20% discount. “This timed admission event runs nightly (except Dec. 24 & 25) with entry from 5 to 8 p.m. Grounds will be cleared at 9 p.m. Purchase tickets early for best prices and to ensure your preferred date and time!”
“…Explore our beautifully transformed botanic gardens as you stroll along a whimsical half-mile loop, glowing with colorful grapevines, towering flowerbeds, dancing blossoms, and vibrant displays.
“Visit with Santa (onsite nightly through Dec. 23) and enjoy other live entertainers while you warm up with a hot cocoa or beverage from our full bar. New this year, don’t miss our Ice Forest, where you may catch a glimpse of the magical Ice Queen herself on select nights.”
Brocken Spectre and Glory: Portrait of Temple Grandin” by David Lenz, oil on canvas, 2022. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; acquired through the Marc Pachter Commissioning Fund and an anonymous donor.
“…The portrait of Grandin joins three others in the Portrait of a Nation program this year. The others depict Joy Harjo, the 23rd U.S. poet laureate and the first Native American to hold the role; Steven Spielberg, the Oscar-winning filmmaker; and Jamie Dimon, chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase….”
“…The Grandin portrait features an atmospheric phenomenon known as a “brocken spectre and glory,” or colored rings around a shadow. According to the Smithsonian, “the viewer’s projected shadow in the center symbolizes Grandin’s belief that every person is important and can contribute to society in unique ways.”
“The portraits will be on view on the National Portrait Gallery’s first floor Nov. 14, 2025, to Oct. 25, 2026, then will become part of the museum’s permanent collections.”
Read the Town & Country article announcing the portraits of Grandin, Joy Harjo and Steven Spielberg.
Joy Harjo by Joel Daniel Phillips. Charcoal, graphite, and ink on paper, 2022. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution.
Excerpts from Town & Country: “…Harjo, a poet, musician, playwright, and author of the Mvskoke/Muscogee (Creek) Nation, served as the 23rd U.S. Poet Laureate. She was the first Native American to hold the role. In the portrait, which was created by contemporary artist Joel Daniel Phillips, Harjo wears a traditional native skirt and holds a saxophone as a tribute to her heritage….”
Members of a youth orchestra outside of Kyiv. Hanna Palamatenko/NPR
From NPR’s Today’s Listen, Oct. 24: “The lives of Ukrainians have changed in many ways since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, including the way nighttime sounds. Since the start of the war, the country has been hit with over 50,000 drone strikes. Members of a youth orchestra outside of Kyiv know the new sounds of their country well and are working on a sonic poem about it. The sound of the piece begins as a peaceful night or an ordinary day in an ordinary city, until chaos rocks the city. The orchestra members use their instruments to mimic the sounds they hear at night, from drones flying around to the emergency vehicles that pass by their homes. Listen to this State of the World From NPR episode to hear how the orchestra is channeling their daily reality into this composition.”
…We believe that the animals we consume should be treated humanely, raised using sustainable methods that has minimal impact on the environment, and generally cared about and respected for what they provide us.
We believe that everyone should have access to high quality meat and the customers should be offered an opportunity to talk one on one with an educated butcher that has their best interest in mind and can provide tips and advice that surpasses their expectations.
Our core values can best be summed up like this: We desire to provide our employees, our animals, and our customers with a higher standard of living.
Excerpt: “Over the years, our members received requests for holiday donations from other communities, and many did what they could in helping others. In 2006, we recognized that our local Native American community needed help too.
“If you would like to help brighten the holidays for others in need, please contact us: ncipa.pw@gmail.com
“Suggestions for donations:
Dry goods like flour, cake mixes, rice, beans, stuffing, mashed potatoes; Canned fruit and vegetables
Diapers and wipes, shampoo, soap, toilet tissue
Turkeys, hams, roasts
Gift cards; Sponsor a family or a single gift – any donation is very much appreciated!”
Excerpt: “Everyone should have the chance to experience life changes through music. Come see how we make music a real possibility for everyone regardless of their age, ability, or income. Our scholarship program makes music affordable for all and our non-profit status means we have a sincere heart for our community.”
“We work in Northern Colorado to excite, enlighten, and educate young people through the arts.”
“You know, everything old can be made new again. Like democracy.” – Effie Trinket, Mockingjay Part I
Screenshot of Larimer County Democrats website: “Democracy is not a spectator sport. 2026 Midterm Election. Count down to 2026! 339 days. While November 2026 is a long way off, the countdown has begun. Please note the following dates in your calendar as we go through our Party nominations process.” [Visit https://www.larimerdems.org/ ]
Día de los muertos and other community events abound in November! Here are a few.
Oct. 28-Nov. 4 Día de Muertos celebration. Monarch butterflies in the Butterfly House, ofrendas (altars) in the Community Room, and Nov. 1 family memory workshop ($35) (see details below) at the Gardens on Spring Creek. Admission $10.50-$12.50 or free for members.
“Visit the Butterfly House at The Gardens to enjoy hundreds of monarch butterflies (mariposas) and cempazúchitl – Mexican marigold flowers. It is believed that the scent and color of marigold petals help guide the spirits of the departed back to the world of the living during Día de Muertos.”
“In this reflective workshop, participants will respond to themed prompts inspired by the Mexican celebration of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), exploring personal stories centered on family, tradition, food, celebration, and memory. You’ll have the opportunity to write, share stories in community, and honor your loved ones by contributing to a mini altar (ofrenda).“
“KRFC 88.9 FM invites you to an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and local flair—infused with the comedy and charisma of Saturday Night Live. Join us for “Live from Fort Collins, It’s KRFC!” as we celebrate Halloween Eve with a costume-filled party blending live entertainment and radio charm.”
Oct. 31 “In advance of the annual AISES Powwow, there will be a preview on the Lory Student Center Plaza [at Colorado State University] from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31. The public event will feature drumming and dancers in powwow regalia. Frybread will also be available for purchase on LSC Plaza.”
Nov. 1AISES Powwow at CSU in honor of Native American Heritage Month
“Native American Heritage Month at Colorado State University starts in November with the AISES Powwow, a long-standing public celebration that brings together Indigenous and campus communities.
“Throughout the month, the celebration – open to everyone – will feature a keynote talk by a world champion Native American hoop dancer, a movie screening and culinary experiences.
“The AISES Powwow – set for 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1 – will feature powwow dancers, drumming, food, vendors and more. The social and cultural gathering brings together Indigenous people as well as non-Indigenous guests to honor Native cultures and traditions.
“The powwow is organized by the CSU student chapter of AISES – Advancing Indigenous Peoples in STEM – a national group focused on increasing the representation of Indigenous peoples in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.”
Nov. 1 BIPOC Alliance Día de Muertos Community Celebration in Old Town Square, Noon to 6 p.m. “Celebrate Día de Muertos in Old Town Square in Fort Collins. We transform the stage into a giant Altar to honor those who have passed.” Free
Nov. 1 Black Footed Ferret Feeding, Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. “Come see our very own wild black-footed ferrets, the most endangered mammal in North America! Join us in the Natural Areas Exhibit to learn about the conservation work being done to return black-footed ferrets to the wild, from the national captive breeding program to new advances in cloning from our partners at US Fish and Wildlife. They will also feed the black-footed ferrets their weekend meal during this presentation. Parental discretion is advised. Museum admission is not required to attend this event, but space is limited.”
The Comedy Fort marquee reads “COMING SOON: Nov. 1 Ali Sultan, Nov. 6 Phil Hanley, Nov. 9 Moms Unhinged. Tix @ ComedyFortCollins.com”
“Ali Sultan saw his first stand up comedian when he moved to America from Yemen at the age of 15. He grew the desire to go on stage, but first he needed to learn English. Ali is the first professional Yemeni American comedian to be featured on Television when Kevin Hart hand picked him to perform on Comedy Central’s Hart of The City. His album “happy to be here” debuted at #2 on iTunes and can be heard on iTunes, Spotify, Sirius Xm and has over 700k streams on Pandora.”
Instragram abuelita_guille “This year at our annual Dia de Muertos at @stodgybrewing we’re going to make things extra traditional: Our first Calaverita Literaria poetry contest!”
Nov. 1 Dia de Muertos Ofrenda Comunitaria (Community Altar) and Spiced Stout Release, by Stodgy Brewing in collaboration with Abuelita Guille Hot Sauce. Free event, beer and food available for purchase.
Enjoy a traditional Day of the Dead event with a community altar and free sugar skull face painting. Bring images of your loved ones (family, friends, pets, etc.) that have passed on, a sample of their favorite foods, and/or marigolds to place on the community altar. Las Catrinas food truck will serve food for purchase from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Concurso de Calaveritas Literarias: write a witty, funny poem about a person and their encounter with death. Requirements: Must rhyme, funny not cruel, Spanish or English, No AI. Due Oct 29 to bebo@abuelitaguille.org or @abuelita_guille (Instagram). Will be shared publicly Nov. 1 at the Stodgy Brewing event.
Example: Mike’s always with his coffee, never stopping for a rest, La Catrina came to take him, but he stayed to chat, no less.
“We Were Never Meant to Disappear is a 21-year retrospective and deeply personal solo exhibition by Liz Ortiz, founder of Mad Hare Press. Spanning two decades of previously unseen artwork, across graphite, ink, paint, photography, and printmaking. This exhibition becomes both archive and altar. It offers viewers an intimate journey through memory, resilience, and reclamation.
“With quiet strength and fierce clarity, Ortiz’s work confronts cultural invisibility, generational disconnection, and the lived complexity of navigating a predominantly white community as an Indigenous Latina woman. Each piece, whether old or newly created, honors her heritage, affirms the worth of her existence, and disrupts the comfort of erasure with presence.”
“Enjoy a morning of food, song and patriotism to celebrate those who have honorably served our country. Presented by the Kiwanis Poudre Golden K Club of Fort Collins and the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department. Posting of the colors begins at 8 a.m. with service songs to follow.”
The Thanksgiving Play event flier. Scan QR code for tickets.
(POSTPONED due to illness) Nov. 14 and 15The Thanksgiving Play by Larissa FastHorse, presented by In Living Colored at FoCo Cultural Enrichment Center. Talkback after each performance. All voices heard. Complimentary snacks and beverages. Children welcome. Scan QR code for tickets. $15
“Good intentions collide with absurd assumptions in Larissa FastHorse’s wickedly funny satire, as a troupe of terminally “woke” teaching artists scrambles to create a pageant that somehow manages to celebrate both Turkey Day and Native American Heritage Month.” – Samuel French
Nov. 14 For The Love of Strangers variety show emceed by Dr. Cori Wong. Theme: “On Failure.” 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Visit Fort Collins. $10 suggested donation. Only two more shows! Nov. 14 and Dec. 12. See list of events at Dr. Cori Wong’s calendar.
Nov. 14-15The Wizard of Oz at The Lincoln Center, presented by Fort Collins Children’s Theatre. $24-$35.
“Join FCCT’s multigenerational cast as they follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. In this tale, young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the Land of Oz to discover the magic of knowing the power of home! Friday night’s show will include an ASL interpreter.“
Through Jan. 24 “Clay Metamorphosis: From Mud to Modern,” Global Village Museum. “The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures welcomes you to explore, learn, and connect with world cultures. Whether you’re planning your visit, have a question, or want to get involved, we’re here to help!” $3-$7.
WE ARE FORT COLLINS display for Día de Muertos at Old Town Library, Poudre River Public Library District. Visit poudrelibraries.org for event calendar. Kat Valdez/Diverse Fort CollinsGroom and bride stand atop the Día de Muertos altar at Old Town Library, Poudre River Public Library District. Visit poudrelibraries.org for event calendar. Katherine Valdez/Diverse Fort CollinsFirst Fridays 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays 2 to 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. Learn more at focomasonic.com/cornerstone-galleryFree and open to the public. Learn more at focomasonic.com/cornerstone-gallery
In addition to the powwow, CSU’s Native American Cultural Center will be hosting a keynote conversation with Tony Duncan, a five-time world champion hoop dancer ranked among the top 10 in the world. This conversation is in collaboration with RamEvents.
The keynote and performance is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, in the Lory Student Center Theatre.
Native American hoop dancing is a traditional and symbolic dance form that serves as a cultural expression and storytelling art. It is often performed at powwows, festivals and cultural gatherings.
Duncan received the Native American Music Award for Artist of the year in 2013. He also has toured nationally and internationally with pop-star Nelly Furtado.
There’s nothing subtle about Good Fortune, written and directed by Aziz Ansari, starring Keanu Reeves, Keke Palmer, Keanu Reeves, Sandra Oh, Seth Rogen, and Ansari himself.
And that’s part of the charm.
In this Los Angeles-based social satire, “a well-meaning but rather inept angel named Gabriel meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy venture capitalist. (IMDb)
The film hits you over the head with its message: Not everyone is thriving in this capitalist society of ours; we need to remember our humanity, have compassion for one another, and work to change things. Ansari captures perfectly the plight of Arj, an out-of-work documentary filmmaker who takes odd jobs through a handyman app and sleeps in his car: “I did everything I was supposed to do, and nothing’s working out.”
Reeves is delightful as a naive, low-level angel who becomes bored with his assignment: “Texting and Driving.” He’s saving hundreds of lives but yearns to tackle bigger projects, like helping desperate souls find an appreciation for life.
He has some of the film’s best lines, like “I used to be a celestial being, and now I’m a chain-smoker” after his boss, Martha (Sandra Oh), demotes him from angel to human and he ends up as a restaurant dishwasher, living from paycheck to paycheck.
Keke Palmer and Seth Rogen round out the pitch-perfect quad of lead actors. Rogen’s character is a more calm (and financially successful) version of his character Will on the hilarious series Plantonic.
Palmer’s Elena is particularly compelling; she works at a big box hardware store and tries to organize coworkers to unionize for safer working conditions and better pay and benefits.
Carla Hay, a reviewer featured on The Cherry Picks, said, “There’s some salty comedy, but the core of Good Fortune is sweet sentimentality. The movie takes a broader sociopolitical look at economic inequalities than the more individual-oriented Trading Places.”
If you’re in the mood for laugh therapy as well as deep thoughts, Good Fortune is a great way to spend 1 hour and 37 minutes at the cinema. Playing now at The Lyric.
Another film with a diverse cast that is also highly recommended:
One Battle After Another. “When their evil enemy resurfaces after 16 years, a group of ex-revolutionaries reunite to rescue the daughter of one of their own.” (IMDb)
In a Cherry Picks highlighted review Christina Newland writes, “One Battle After Another is a film about legacy, about fathers and daughters, about the fight against an all-too-real American government hellbent on white supremacy, militarism and oppression.”
Sign on Walnut Street in downtown Fort Collins: “The moment in between what you once were and who you are now becoming is where the dance of life really takes place.” – Barbara De Angelis
Oct. 3 Linden Street Block Party & First Friday The City of Fort Collins will close the 200 block of Linden Street (between Walnut Street and Jefferson Street) to vehicle traffic on Friday, Oct. 3 from 5 to 9 p.m. for First Friday activities including live music, sidewalk vendors, family friendly activities and a skateboard expo.
Corgi-themed Pianos About Town painted by Ben Hatcher.Detail of piano at Old Town Library. Kat Valdez/Diverse Fort Collins
Oct 4 Annual Tour de Corgi The Tour de Corgi is a Corgi Meet-Up and carnival parade of corgis through Old Town Fort Collins. Civic Center Park and Old Town Fort Collins. Proceeds benefit 4 Paws Pet Pantry, Colorado Corgis and Friends Rescue, Wyoming Dachshund and Corgi Rescue, and Bandit’s K9Care. For up-to-the-minute information, join our Facebook Page and Facebook Group.
Excerpt: Fort Collins is the home of Bikes, Beers, Bands…and Butts! That’s right — fluffy corgi butts, to be exact! The beloved Tour de Corgi is back for its 11th year, and it’s bringing the cutest parade in the country back to the streets of Old Town Fort Collins.
This year’s theme? “Rock On!” Get ready for a full-on festival of short legs, big personalities, and rockstar vibes as corgis from across the country strut their stuff in costumes worthy of the main stage.
Join us for the 11th Annual Tour de Corgi and enjoy: -A lively parade through Old Town -A hilarious costume contest -Dozens of local vendors -And plenty of fluffy, frolicking fun!
Explore your past. Shape your story. Inspire your community.
Presented by story coach and author, Mary Roberts, this four-week course is for anyone who wants to tell true stories that matter—whether on the stage, on the page, in conversation, or in circles they create themselves. Through skill-building, guided reflection, story practice, and a toolkit for leading story circles, participants will leave with confidence in their voice and the power to help others share theirs.
No writing or performance experience needed—just a willingness to show up with curiosity and a little courage!
You will come away with:
· A personal story crafted and practiced · A solid understanding of storytelling elements · Confidence in giving and receiving story feedback| · A toolkit to start their own community story circle · A deeper connection to themselves and others
Mary Roberts is a storyteller, story coach, and author with an M.A. in Creative Nonfiction Writing. With over a decade of experience on storytelling stages and in classrooms, she helps individuals shape true stories with heart, clarity, and purpose. Mary is passionate about using personal narrative to build connection, heal old narratives, and spark change—one story at a time.
Additional Information: Registration is required. Register on the library website, in person at any library, or by calling our Answer Center at 970-221-6740.
Oct. 10 For The Love of Strangers, emceed by Dr. Cori Wong. Doors: 6:30 p.m. Show: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Visit Fort Collins Welcome Center, 7 Old Town Square, Suite 100 (north side of Mountain Avenue). $10 suggested donation.
For the Love of Strangers is an innovative and highly-interactive community experience. It animates possibilities for being with others by building a hyper-local culture of connection. Each show focuses on a theme and runs about 90 minutes; a story-sharing space blended with small group think tanks.
Oct. 26“The Gadfly: True Stories and Stand-Up Philosophy” is for thoughtful people who love to laugh, especially as we grapple with the complex conditions of our existence. While not exactly lectures or improv, my shows leave room for questions and crowd work. Far from a “tight five”, the main goal isn’t punchlines to get big laughs. The goal is to make telling the truth a good time.”
More Details: Where: Speak Cheesy Lounge (below Slyce Pizza on 120 Mason St.) When: 5:30-7 p.m. Stand-Up Philosophy (All-Night Happy Hour starts at 5 p.m.) Cost: $10 suggested donation
Spotlight: New Community Resource
All photos by Kat Valdez/Diverse Fort Collins
We spotted The Stained Page Project Free Book Trailer at City Park during the FoCo Food Truck Rally on Sept. 9.
What a wonderful way to spread joy throughout the community: the gift of reading. Owner and artist Esmé told us it’s a way of bringing more love into the world. We couldn’t agree more.
Do you ever feel like you are walking on eggshells around someone who is supposed to love you? Crossroads Safehouse is here to help. Domestic violence includes many forms of abuse, not just physical.
Crossroads Safehouse first opened its doors to the Northern Colorado community in 1980 when it offered four rooms to victims of domestic violence. Crossroads is now housed in a 29,000 square foot facility with 31 rooms serving victims and their children every day of the year. Our team of 35 dedicated staff members works hard to provide wrap-around services to victims of domestic violence and interpersonal abuse, including access to our emergency shelter with therapy, advocacy, legal advice, food, clothing and much more.
Nonprofit Spotlight
Fuerza Latina Fuerza Latina es una organización de inmigrantes y aliados dedicada a educar, informar, organizar y promover el cambio para facilitar una mejor calidad de vida a los inmigrantes en nuestra comunidad.
Fuerza Latina Fuerza Latina is an organization of immigrants and allies dedicated to educating, informing, organizing and promoting change to facilitate an improved quality of life for immigrants in our community.
The Cultural Enrichment Center is designed to address the cultural, academic, career, and social needs of middle school and high school African American students in Fort Collins. The enrichment center is crafted in an academic cultural framework for the purpose of connecting participants with history, literature, arts, music, dance, traditions, and folklore of the African American experience.
Business Spotlight
Black Sparrow Media Black Sparrow Media creates a wide variety of entertainment content, and commercial productions. From conception to execution, we look for the beauty in all stories and find creative ways to express it to a large audience.
Golden Poppy Herbal Apothecary Herbalism is for everyone. We make it right for you. Whether you’re seeking guidance to re-weave your health, looking for all-natural skin and body care, or simply curious about herbs, Golden Poppy Herbal Apothecary and Clinic is here to serve on your plant journey.
Multicultural Business & Entrepreneur Center The Multicultural Business & Entrepreneur Center (MBEC) is a free bilingual (English & Spanish) center that provides business owners and entrepreneurs easy access to business service providers, resources, mentorship and specialty training. It also connects them with critical resources to create, launch and grow a business in Fort Collins. All services at the MBEC are free.
NoCo Latino Chamber of Commerce The voice of the Latino Business Community in Northern Colorado and the Front Range area. We’re in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, and surrounding cities working for you! Started in 2021 by Fort Collins and Greeley business owners.
The Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy—a national pulse point for multiracial democracy and cross-racial solidarity—is back! Across cities, towns, and virtual spaces, communities will come alive through music, storytelling, movement, and collective learning. It’s a time to shift the narrative, reclaim the deeper meaning of democracy, and elevate the power of culture to shape what comes next.
Strategic in its approach of meeting people where they are, moving them emotionally, and inviting them into collective action, the Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy provides a range of opportunities and events—some curated and some for you to design on your own.
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Diverse Fort Collins is a website connecting people with resources and each other.
Check out our Resource Guide to contact nonprofits, groups, and local businesses.
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This event is free, all ages, and open to the public.RSVP
Sept. 4 The final Thursday Night Live concert in Old Town Square: Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts, 7 p.m. Free.
Storytelling coach Mary Roberts taught the free Sept. 7 class “Tell It Like It Was” at Old Town Library.
Sept. 7 “Tell It Like It Was”: A personal storytelling class for the brave, not-so-brave, and everyone in between. 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Old Town Library. Registration now open. Free.
Sept. 10 Mayoral Forum. 6 p.m. at The Lyric. Free. Donations welcome.
Fort Collins community joined local first responders during the inaugural stair climb on Sept. 11, 2024. Photo from video by The Coloradoan.
Sept. 11 A Free Professional Development Workshop Series for Artists and Arts Organizations. Creative Foundation Workshops is a new, ongoing workshop series designed to support Northern Colorado artists and arts organizations in building strong, sustainable creative practices. Workshops will take place bimonthly beginning in September and will focus on essential skill development topics such as marketing, budgeting, grant writing, portfolio development, and more.
Each session is free to attend, features experienced facilitators, and is structured to provide both practical tools and opportunities for connection within the local arts community. Workshops are open to all and geared toward both individual artists and representatives of arts-focused nonprofits, with content that applies to a variety of disciplines and experience levels.
Join the first workshop in the series: Shout it Out! Workshop for Making Effective Marketing Plans Date: Thursday, Sept. 11 Time: 4 – 6 p.m. Location: The Lincoln Center, Columbine Room
This free hands-on session will walk participants through the process of building a simple and effective marketing plan, with guidance on designing promotional materials, using social media and email tools, and identifying core marketing goals. Light refreshments. Provided by the City of Fort Collins in collaboration with the Downtown Fort Collins Creative District.
Sept. 12 For The Love of Strangers is an experiential variety show emceed by Dr. Cori Wong on 2nd Fridays through December. 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Visit Fort Collins. $10 suggested donation.
Celebrate The Farm’s 40th Anniversary Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Speaking remarks at 11:00 a.m. Where: The Farm at Lee Martinez Park (600 N Sherwood St.) Note – Parking may be limited during the event.
For 40 years, The Farm at Lee Martinez Park has been a beloved part of Fort Collins, offering hands-on connection to our agricultural heritage. Purchased by the City in 1985, this special place honors the land’s legacy – from its early days as a dairy farm to its transformation into a community treasure. Tucked along the banks of the Cache la Poudre River, The Farm is a celebration of resilience, education and the deep roots that shaped Fort Collins.
You’re invited to celebrate The Farm’s 40th anniversary milestone with the City of Fort Collins this fall! Enjoy a special day of free admission featuring food trucks, farm games, live music, animal visits and line dancing. Explore the history of agriculture in Fort Collins through Art’s Toolshed, The Farm Museum and The Ross Proving-up House. Come help honor four decades of memories, learning and community at The Farm.
Sept. 13 HeroFest at Front Range Village, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free.
Sept. 14 Fort Stories: True Stories. Brave Voices. Strong Communities emceed by Mary Roberts. Theme: “River.” At Visit Fort Collins. $10.
One unforgettable night in Fort Collins. Welcome to Fort Stories—a live storytelling event where community, courage, and connection come together for an unexpected evening. This isn’t a performance. It’s a gathering. A night to share and hear true, personal stories told live by everyday people—maybe even you.
The Family Center/La Familia has had the honor to serve our community for over 25 years. We celebrate our impact with supporters and guests at our annual Fiesta Party fundraising event!
This is a lively event filled with delicious Mexican food, margaritas, dancing, auctioned prizes, and more dancing! Our venue host, The Lyric, is the perfect setting, offering ideal open event space. Come dance with us!
This event is a way for our families, donors, board, and supporters to celebrate the impact we make in our community and the good work we do for our future: our youth.
Workshop
3rd Annual Creative Colorado Writers Retreat, Sept. 20-21 in Lakewood. Fort Collins Poet Laureate Melissa Mitchell will facilitate a workshop at the Twenty Bellows writers retreat. Two full days of creativity, craft and connection. This year’s retreat features: dedicated poetry, fiction and hybrid workshop tracks; plenty of open writing time in a welcoming, creative space; keynote address from poet Brice Maiurro; a vibrant book fair with regional indie presses; open mic opportunities and community networking. Register before Sept. 1 to receive complimentary lunches on the days for which you sign up.
Art Exhibit
Sept. 6 through Nov. 15
Opening reception: Sept. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. Exhibition dates: Sept. 6 through Nov. 15 Cornerstone Gallery at The Masonic Events Center
“We Were Never Meant to Disappear” is a 21-year retrospective and deeply personal solo exhibition by Liz Ortiz, founder of Mad Hare Press.
Spanning two decades of previously unseen artwork, across graphite, ink, paint, photography, and printmaking. This exhibition becomes both archive and altar. It offers viewers an intimate journey through memory, resilience, and reclamation.
With quiet strength and fierce clarity, Ortiz’s work confronts cultural invisibility, generational disconnection, and the lived complexity of navigating a predominantly white community as an Indigenous Latina woman. Each piece, whether old or newly created, honors her heritage, affirms the worth of her existence, and disrupts the comfort of erasure with presence.
This exhibition becomes a living dialogue between time, identity, and place, drawing lines from survival to self-recognition, and from lineage to legacy. Through it, Ortiz invites viewers to witness what has long gone unseen: the joy, pain, and power of holding onto oneself in a world that too often turns away.
Artist bio: Liz Ortiz is a multidisciplinary artist, printmaker, and cultural strategist based in Fort Collins, Colorado. She is the founder of Mad Hare Press, a mobile micro-studio and community arts initiative centered on accessibility, education, and ancestral connection through printmaking.
Drawing from over two decades of creative work, Ortiz’s practice weaves together personal narrative, archival memory, and traditional techniques across media, including lino block and intaglio printmaking, drawing, painting, and analog photography. Her work is grounded in the exploration of identity, cultural survival, and reclaiming space as an Indigenous Latina woman raised on the front range of Colorado.
Ortiz holds a BFA in Printmaking and Photography and an MBA in Marketing Data Analytics, which she uses to inform her art practice, consulting work, and community engagement. Her exhibitions and workshops create spaces where tradition and experimentation meet, spaces rooted in story, reflection, and collective healing.
Persimmon’s menu has something for everyone. Try this refreshing, fizzy raspberry beverage with one of many tasty bites. Katherine Valdez/Diverse Fort Collins
Business Spotlight
Bookstore On The Square, 113 Linden St., Old Town Square. 🏳️🌈LGBTQ & woman-owned indie bookstore hosting book groups, buy-back-used-book days, and more.
Persimmon, 251 Jefferson St., is a place for your morning coffee, lunch dates, evening dining, and all-day cocktails enjoyed with real food made by great people. Persimmon is the playful culmination of decades of hospitality hustling. Inspired to bring together his favorite things, founder Raffi Jergerian led the creation of the café and lounge. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Comedy Fort Ali Sultan: Special Taping, Nov. 1, 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., $20 Ali Sultan returns to film his special in Fort Collins! He saw his first stand up comedian when he moved to America from Yemen at the age of 15. He grew the desire to go on stage, but first he needed to learn English.
Ali is the first professional Yemeni American comedian to be featured on television when Kevin Hart hand picked him to perform on Comedy Central’s Hart of The City. He filmed his half-hour comedy special in Dubai for Comedy Central Arabia. He was named both Best Local Comic and artist of the year by City Pages. He represented Minnesota and won the Best in The Midwest competition at Gilda’s LaughFest. His album happy to be here debuted at #2 on iTunes and can be heard on iTunes, Spotify, Sirius Xm and has over 700k streams on Pandora.
Poudre RiverFest is free and open to all community members. This year’s event is more inclusive and welcoming to Spanish-speaking communities across Northern Colorado: Exhibitor booths with Spanish-speaking team members identified with signage, event materials and signage translated into Spanish, and Spanish-speaking volunteers on site.
“For The Love of Strangers” interactive variety show emceed by Dr. Cori Wong at Visit Fort Collins, Friday, Aug. 8, at 7 p.m. and second Fridays in 2025. (Free. $10 suggested donation.)
I didn’t know what to expect when I attended Dr. Cori Wong’s Feb. 14 debut of the monthly show “For The Love of Strangers: Exploring the Best Worst Ideas for Meaningfully Connecting With Others” at Visit Fort Collins in Old Town Square.
Was it performance art and storytelling featuring diversity, equity, and inclusion stand-up comedy? A one-person variety show plus interactive workshop? A Valentine’s Day immersive dance party?
Turns out it was all of that and more.
Dr. Cori Wong told the Feb. 14 audience how to continue the dialogue and when we could meet again.
“…an eccentric, experimental, experiential variety show…” – Dr. Cori Wong
The format was roughly a humorous, personal anecdote by the emcee, followed by an interactive activity that helped you become acquainted with other folks in the room, but on a deeper level than you’d expect. These weren’t speed-dating questions.
Among the 40 or so attendees, we were young and not-so-young, introverted and extroverted, white and people of color, straight and queer, but we all had one thing in common.
We yearned for community.
In these Orwellian times, it’s what will save us. What will encourage us to keep going. What will inspire us to work toward changing our world for the better.
At one point, I had an engaging conversation with a young therapist. They’re so passionate about improving their skills and serving others that they’re taking a pay cut and moving to Denver to gain more experience serving a different population.
During another activity, we exchanged squares of paper on which we had scribbled something we wish we’d realized sooner.
I struggled to remember any recent epiphanies. I finally settled on, “You’re exactly where you need to be right now” before wandering among the crowd, exchanging smiles.
Cori invited volunteers to read the message they received if it resonated with them. Someone read mine. Connection!
The message I received said, “You’ll reach a place in life where you will feel fulfilled.” It’s now on my refrigerator. Comforting words from an individual whom I don’t know, whom I may never meet but who felt — at one time — what I’m feeling.
A message from a kind stranger exchanged during a group activity at “For The Love of Strangers” variety show emceed by Dr. Cori Wong (she/her) on Feb. 14. Photo by Katherine Valdez
It made me feel less alone.
Time for reflection and discussion followed each segment. We learned a lot about ourselves and each other.
One more surprise awaited us near the end of the evening: a sing-a-long dance party to Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
It was as fun and inspiring as you can imagine. We boogied, we sang (off-key, on-key…doesn’t matter), we laughed.
My mood lifted and my faith in humanity restored, I headed home, vowing to participate again.
Epilogue
I checked in with Cori a few weeks later, before publishing this post, and she reiterated her goal of building community:
“My dream is to build this out so that we have an even more visible network of spaces that feel rich, safe, supportive, and meaningful for building this local culture of connection.” – Dr. Cori Wong
Considering that one of the main questions she asks in many of her workshops and gatherings is “What does liberation look and feel like?” her dream is in perfect alignment with this question and this work.
About 40 community members attended the Feb. 14 debut of “For The Love of Strangers” variety show emceed by Dr.Cori Wong at Visit Fort Collins in Old Town Square.
“For The Love of Strangers” is on second Fridays. The next one is March 14!
Sponsorships and other opportunities are available. Read details in the flier below.
** DETAILS AND MORE INFORMATION ONLINE
For those who need a bit more information about what to expect, here’s how Dr. Wong described it to her followers on BuyMeACoffee.com/CoriWong, where you can download free PDFs about the monthly For The Love of Strangers event series and the weekly Liberation Is Local in-person (Sunday) and online (Wednesday) meetings:
“At the surface, “For the Love of Strangers: Exploring the Best Worst Ideas for Meaningfully Connecting with Others” looks like an eccentric, experimental, experiential variety show that closely resembles the most exciting facilitated workshop for like-minded people in our community you’ve never (yet) seen.“But it’s soooo much more than that.
“It’s a uniquely fun and highly engaging way to meet and interact with other inclusive adults in Northern Colorado through humorous story sharing, thoughtful dialogue, and practical activities.
Diverse Fort Collins 