Whether you’re new to the Pikes Peak region or you just don’t feel “plugged in” to the local arts community, it may be hard to find a place to start. We hope to give you a good jumping off point so you can immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene!
Get Out There!
One of the best ways to support our local arts community is to go out with your friends, family, and/or co-workers and actually experience the local arts & cultural scene first-hand.
Without an active and engaged audience, it will be next to impossible to sustain and grow our creative community. If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend a visit to PeakRadar.com – our community’s most comprehensive, online calendar of cultural events and activities.
Local Galleries
There are over 60 art galleries located in the Pikes Peak region. Explore them all with Peak Radar’s Gallery Guide!
Whether you’re looking to decorate your home, buy unique gifts for loved ones, or just admire something beautiful, local galleries are a great place to start. Boost your local creative economy, and find something one-of-a-kind!
Stunning Theatrics
The Pikes Peak region is home to over 30 fabulous theatre companies! From performances in intimate black boxes to huge musical productions: you’re guaranteed to find something to make you laugh, cry, and cheer!
You can explore these companies with Peak Radar’s Theatre Guide.
Photo Courtesy of Jennifer McGlinchey Sexton of ZoneFIVE
Classes & Workshops
Getting inspired? Start creating for yourself! Our Classes & Workshops Directory will help connect you with a variety of organizations where you can learn to oil paint, swing dance, cook, and so much more!
Learning new creative skills isn’t just exciting, it’s a great way to meet other creatives and support our local arts educators.
First Friday Art Walks
On the first Friday of the month, art galleries keep their doors open late into the evening. Typically, this will be the first night of a new exhibit, during which galleries will have artists present to discuss their work, wine, live music, and more!
Venues across the region participate in First Friday, but there is an especially high concentration in the Avenue Creative Circuit (consisting of Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs). Each part of the Avenue Creative Circuit is vibrant and walkable, with fabulous restaurants and gorgeous public art to enjoy between galleries!
Participating in First Friday Art Walks is the perfect way to support the arts, explore the creative community, and enjoy an inspiring night out!
Arts Month
October is International Arts & Humanities Month!
Arts Month elevates the visibility of arts & culture across El Paso and Teller Counties by showcasing local talent, providing opportunities for arts advocacy, supporting innovative cross-sector community collaborations, and creating new avenues for arts engagement and cultural enrichment.
To learn more about the program and how to get involved, visit ArtsOctober.com!
If you're a creative...
You may be looking for ways to connect with people like you!
Creative Alliance of Manitou Springs (CRANE) elevates and promotes Manitou Springs creatives to lift artistic and economic vitality.
Non Book Club Book Club is a meetup for creatives of all kinds! The group gathers monthly to discuss a certain topic.
Palmer Lake Arts Council (PLAC) Established in 2021, the Palmer Lake Arts Council is a non-profit, citizen’s initiative organized to support and vitalize the local arts in Palmer Lake.
The Pikes Peak Arts Council (PPAC) offers educational programming, exhibition spaces, funding for artists, curation services, networking events, and more!
There are also dozens of both national and regional Facebook groups dedicated to helping artists connect, promote their work, and find paid opportunities!
If you still have questions, please reach out to the Cultural Office directly at 719-634-2204, or by emailing info@CulturalOffice.org.
