Good morning, Colorado Springs.

Southern Colorado artists will be honored with the Governor's Creative Leadership Awards at the CCI Summit in Trinidad on June 4.

The awards recognize civic leadership and creative impact from recipients in Colorado Springs, Walsenburg and Mancos.

A wide range of community events is planned from May 29 to early fall, featuring vintage market days, family adventure, museum activities, gem shows, and music festivals at local venues like Norris Penrose Event Center and Fine Arts Center.

Residents are invited to check online for ticket details + prices.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is unveiling its innovative giraffe exhibit this summer as part of its Centennial Celebration.

It expands indoor space by 12,000 sqft and outdoor area by 25 percent, with 11 hand-feeding stations and features natural daylight design (including six bronze giraffe sculptures celebrating its legacy).

More than 70 live music events are set from May 27 through early July at local venues (including The Black Sheep, Creekwalk Amphitheater and Pikes Peak Center) with ticket prices varying by show.

Vintage Market Days 'Life’s a Party' will run from Friday through Sunday, May 29-31 at Norris Penrose Event Center (1045 Lower Gold Camp Road) with 100+ vendors, live music, and food trucks.

Tickets cost $12 for a weekend pass and $17 for all three days.

Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs will host vibrant art events starting June 5 including First Friday walks and exhibitions at Cottonwood Center for the Arts + Auric Gallery, with more group shows and themed displays continuing through next year.

Colorado College Summer Music Festival returns for its 42nd season from June 6-26 as over 50 young musicians offer chamber and orchestral concerts on campus and across downtown venues (including free midday shows, a ticketed kids’ concert, and a new wine pairing event on June 22).

Kilroy’s Workshop in Colorado Springs is making ceremonial sabers for U.S. Air Force Academy cadets to be awarded at graduation today.

The company (previously handling repairs) now holds an exclusive contract to craft each saber that carries lasting meaning for cadets and their families.

Fort Carson and the 4th Infantry Division are conducting Ivy Mass training at Piñon Canyon Maneuver Site, testing NextGen C2 technology + live fire maneuvers to boost future readiness.

The month-long exercise began on May 1 and includes simulated enemy engagement and night drills.

Colorado officials warn that an early mosquito season raises health risks for people and pets, with West Nile virus cases and rising heartworm disease in animals; they urge residents to take precautions (wearing long sleeves, using repellent, and keeping pets on heartworm preventative).

Southern Colorado offers pet-friendly spots that extend beyond traditional parks with patios, dock-diving pools and specialized dog gyms.

Local favorites like Pub Dog Colorado—and Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar provide creative ways for pet owners to enjoy new adventures.

The Classical Academy baseball team will travel to Greeley on Friday to play a third-round consolation game at 10 a.m. as the Titans seek four straight wins to clinch the state title — coach Bart Jennings says they are taking it one game at a time.

Today, visitors can explore the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in downtown with guided tours of its updated Winter Games Gallery — featuring artifacts such as Eric Heiden’s gold medals.

The Olympic and Paralympic Training Center offers one-hour tours year-round.

DJ's World Latin Rave Fest

8-11 PM — Diamante Live — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night filled with rhythm and energy featuring top DJs.

Beers and Gear Outdoor Expo

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Bristol Brewing Company — Free entry — Connect with outdoor brands and gear up for adventure this season.

Lovely Sunflowers Painting Class

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40-$49 per person — Enjoy a creative painting class with unlimited mimosas and step-by-step guidance from an artist.

Arts Education Symposium: United by Creativity

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — The Penrose House Conference Center — Registration required — Engage in a day of inspiration and collaboration for arts educators in the Pikes Peak region.

D2 Summer Food Service Program

— Family Success Center - Pikes Peak United Way — Free meal program — Aimed at enhancing food accessibility during the summer months for children and families.

Collective Groove Concert

7-10 p.m. — Phil Long Music Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Ticket prices not listed — Experience high-energy grooves and vibrant horns from Collective Groove and The Martini Shot.

Hot Boots Band at Bloom's Mill Hill Saloon

7:45-11:45 p.m. — Bloom’s Mill Hill Saloon — Free admission — Enjoy a night of country music and dancing at your favorite Honky Tonk.

Next Stop Comedy!

8-10 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Tickets available — Experience a hilarious night of stand-up comedy featuring a fresh line-up of talented comedians.

Sunday Market in Acacia Park

9 AM – 2 PM — Acacia Park — Free entry — Explore fresh food and local goods while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere every Sunday.

Be^U's Legacy Chapter Network Meeting

9:30-11:30 a.m. — The Best Coffee & Lounge — Refreshments available — Connect with women entrepreneurs to share successes and set goals for the upcoming month.