Daily editionThursday, July 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Colorado Springs.
The Daily Colorado Springs Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of July.
Community
Colorado’s aviation community will host events this summer, starting with the Colorado250 Flyover on July 4 and the Colorado 150 Centennial Flyover on Aug. 1, featuring coordinated pilot formations across the region.
The Division of Aeronautics announced additional fly-ins and airshows — a busy season celebrating aviation history.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Business
Local hospitality and entertainment company VENU joined the Russell 3000 Index in the 2026 semiannual reconstitution.
Finalized after the market closed on June 26 — with changes effective from June 29 — the move boosts its visibility with institutional investors and is set to support future growth.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Culture
Country artist Tyler Hubbard will headline Front Range Freedom Fest at Fort Carson on Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Iron Horse Park, joining pop rock band X Ambassadors and rapper Bryce Vine; the free event marks the US 250th and Colorado 150th anniversaries.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Many art exhibits open this First Friday under free receptions starting today.
Cottonwood Center for the Arts features 'Margins of Mercy' (5 to 8 p.m., through July 27), Auric Gallery debuts 'Nate Travis – Left to Write' this Friday, and visitors can also explore shows at Manitou Springs Heritage Museum, Miramont Castle and Hunter-Wolff Gallery.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Environment
Rocky Mountain Field Institute volunteers work on a new Devils Playground trail on Pikes Peak, adding three miles of blueprinted path and planning a half-mile extension this summer despite a dry base camp + Colorado Fourteeners Initiative will finish three miles of trail on Mount Shavano by summer’s end.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Government
Fire Chief Randy Royal (citing safety risks) announced extra staffing for professional fireworks shows on the July 4 weekend after wildfires and burn restrictions prompted strict enforcement of the fireworks ban; eight police officers will handle calls, and officials may cancel events if red flag warnings occur.
Colorado Public RadioRead more
After nearly a month of repairs from storm damage on June 6, North Cheyenne Canyon Road reopened Wednesday and Gold Camp Road will reopen Thursday — city officials also plan temporary restrictions on Saturday to manage holiday crowds.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Pikes Peak United Way and the city took over the regional homeless services system on July 1 with plans to boost outreach and case management; the new team added five staff (to manage expanded services) and is applying for about $5 million in HUD funds to strengthen support.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Sports
On Wednesday, the Avalanche signed Jaden Schwartz (34) to a three-year contract ($3.25m cap hit) as he returns to Colorado to add depth following recent player trades.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Colorado Springs Events
Live Music: School of Rock Performance
Friday, July 3rd, 2026 · 5-8 p.m. — Red Leg Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy live music from School of Rock students at a local brewery this summer.
Star Spangled Symphony & Grand Fireworks Show
Saturday, July 4th, 2026 · 6:30-8:30 p.m. — Ford Amphitheater — Free entry — Celebrate America's 250th birthday with a spectacular symphonic performance and dazzling fireworks.
LIVE at the Lodge - 4 Peace Man & Good Grub Food Truck
Sunday, July 5th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort — Free entry — Enjoy a free public concert on the Party Patio with local brews and a vibrant atmosphere.
Mellow Mondays Coloring Night
Monday, July 6th, 2026 · 4-9 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxed evening of coloring with various themed pages and a pint in hand.
OCC Summer Concert Series featuring John Long
Tuesday, July 7th, 2026 · 6-8 p.m. — Bancroft Park — Free entry — Enjoy free live blues music by John Long in a charming park setting.
PPMA Jazz Orchestra Performs The Planets: Reimagined
Wednesday, July 8th, 2026 · 6:30-7:30 p.m. — Louie Louie's Piano Bar — Free entry — Experience the Pikes Peak Music Association Jazz Orchestra's reimagining of Holst's classic work.
2026 Taste of Pikes Peak
Thursday, July 9th, 2026 · 6-9 p.m. — Hillside Gardens & Event Center — Admission fee TBA — Celebrate 28 years of culinary excellence with top regional restaurants and breweries.
Mt. Carmel Food Distribution
Friday, July 10th, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Norris Penrose Event Center — Free — Offering essential food supplies to community members in need, including veterans.
Live Music: SofaKillers
Saturday, July 11th, 2026 · 4-7 p.m. — Red Leg Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy the SofaKillers performing live and catch the summer vibes at this local brewery.
Macrame Coasters Workshop
Sunday, July 12th, 2026 · 12-2 p.m. — Goat Patch Brewing Company — Ticket required — Create unique macrame coasters while enjoying craft beer in a beginner-friendly setting.