Daily editionSaturday, April 4th, 2026
Good morning, Colorado Springs.
The Daily Colorado Springs Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 4th of April.
Community
Four former Fort Carson soldiers are converting a 1904 Westside church into a modern childcare center with secure safety features & engaging curriculum.
Enrollment is underway with 40 slots filled, and the center is set to open by September.
KOAA News5Read more
Hunt & Homestead reopened April 1 at 1099 US 24 in Woodland Park, featuring products from 80 local makers; ahead, timed-entry permits and shuttle tickets for Pikes Peak and a workshop on wildfire-ready landscapes in Green Mountain Falls are on sale and scheduled for April 1 and April 11, respectively.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Business
Poor Richard’s, a local staple, now operates under new ownership following an announcement Wednesday night; the change is effective immediately and may signal fresh ideas plus renewed quality for patrons.
11 NewsRead more
New owners Mike and Mary O’Neil have taken over Cogstone Brewing Co. in Village Seven following founding owner Robert Hemphill’s farewell tour in late March—Hemphill will work part time to train them as the brewpub keeps its menu, hours and award-winning beers.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Culture
The Fine Arts Center announced its 2026-2027 season featuring three musicals, starting with 'Come From Away' on Sept. 10, and including revamped seating in both theaters.
The museum will launch new exhibits, and a community kiln will open in fall — offering eco-friendly art sessions.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Pikes Peak State College’s theater program (in collaboration with Springs Ensemble Theatre) will present Eurydice; details on the performance time and location are forthcoming.
11 NewsRead more
Local author Mary Ellen Johnson will showcase her latest book, The Golden Promise of Cripple Creek, at the April 19 Chautauqua at 2 p.m. at Lake George Charter School (hosted by the Pikes Peak Historical Society); copies will be available for $20 after the free event.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Education
Rock Ledge Ranch is expanding its educational programs for children and families with events like Barnyard Buddies on the first Thursday (featuring local nature story times) to encourage active community engagement on the west side.
Visitors can check online for more details.
KOAA News5Read more
Environment
Due to an unusually warm and dry winter, pine beetle numbers rose along the Front Range, endangering trees and increasing wildfire risk; in December, Gov. Polis (the state leader) established a task force to help homeowners protect their property.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Government
Colorado Springs Fire Department discussed its new drone program in an interview on Friday, Apr. 3.
Officials said the initiative will boost efficiency in emergency aerial support + increase safety for fire crews.
11 NewsRead more
After removing over 130 traffic cameras last summer, CDOT has begun installing 66 new state-managed cameras at key intersections near Antero Junction, Manitou Springs and Cripple Creek + using public feedback to choose locations.
The cameras are expected to be live by fall.
KOAA News5Read more
Sports
Today, the Switchbacks host Lexington SC at 3 p.m. at Weidner Field—coach Alan McCann said players with repeated errors will be benched and goalkeeper Christian Herrera may start after his strong penalty performance as the team enters a bye week.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar faces steep pressure to win the Stanley Cup as his top-seeded team prepares for the playoffs — critics recall previous playoff losses.
Meanwhile, Colorado coach Deion Sanders contends with high expectations following his $54M contract extension as the Buffs look to prove their investment.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Colorado Springs Events
Blues Review
Sunday, April 5th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — Louie Louie's Piano Bar — $10 cover — Experience an exciting evening with live blues bands on the BIG stage.
Big Band Jazz & Dance Night
Monday, April 6th, 2026 · 6-8:30 p.m. — Louie Louie's Piano Bar — $10 cover — Experience an unforgettable big band jazz show with dance lessons during intermission.
Black Rose Acoustic Society Fundraiser: Bleating Heart Night
Tuesday, April 7th, 2026 · 5-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — $1 donation per pint — Enjoy live acoustic music while supporting a local nonprofit at a cozy brewery event.
Colorado College Music at Midday
Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 · 12:15-1:15 p.m. — Sperry S. And Ella Graber Packard Hall of Music and Art — Free entry — Experience the diverse musical talents of Colorado College students showcasing vocal and instrumental works.
Mom's Unhinged Standup Comedy Show
Thursday, April 9th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Loonees Comedy Corner — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of hilarious storytelling about motherhood, marriage, and the joys of life with special comedic guests.
2026 Brew Fest
Friday, April 10th, 2026 · 6-10 p.m. — Peterson SFB Hub Community Center — $25 per person — Enjoy craft brews and live music while sampling local flavors.
Dreamboat Annie Presents: Journey to the Heart of Zeppelin
Saturday, April 11th, 2026 · 7:30-10:30 p.m. — Phil Long Music Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Cost info not provided — Experience a night of rock classics as Dreamboat Annie pays tribute to Journey, Heart, and Led Zeppelin.
Date Night Painting Class with Free Drink
Sunday, April 12th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$48 per person — Enjoy an evening of creativity with your first drink on the house while you paint.
Just Between Friends Spring Sale
Friday, April 17th, 2026 · 11 AM – 1 PM — Colorado Springs Event Center — Check event page for entry fee — Spring sale event showcasing a variety of items for families.
Pikes Peak Herb Fest 22nd Annual
Saturday, April 18th, 2026 · 10 AM – 3 PM — Westside Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate herbalism, gardening, and community with vendors, education, and live music.