Special to the HT
In the past few weeks, there has been a lot of discussion about the events that will take place during the sesquisemiquincentennial year and how we can participate. The fact that we are living in this nation at this time in history is memorable on its own. The AM250/CO150 Commission is taking that a step further by providing us with more opportunities to create a lasting legacy.
Community members, organizations and local stakeholders are coming together in regions across Colorado to form local organizing committees. As part of the Great West region, Meeker has a local organizing committee within the Main Street program at the Meeker Chamber of Commerce, but driven by the Rio Blanco County Historical Society. Together, they are planning exciting programs and events for the 2026 commemoration. The commission has provided a community toolkit with all the information we need. I am serving as a regional advisory panel member to make sure the Great West region is in the game.
Historic Signage: History Where It Happened
History Colorado will leverage the moment of Colorado’s 150th to launch a historic marker program for the state of Colorado that is sustainable, well-maintained, inclusive and addresses the inventory of current signs that are outdated, inaccurate or in poor condition.
Currently, 392 historic markers in Colorado span 100 years, from the 1920s to the early 2000s. Each batch involves specific materials such as brass plaques, large wooden signs and acrylic information panels. As a whole, the markers are in varying degrees of deterioration, and many of the acrylic signs are sun-damaged and illegible.
There are also stories missing from the collective history shared by these markers. To create a lasting legacy, History Colorado has launched a program that could add 150 markers. History Colorado is planning and managing the program. Communities from across the state are invited to propose new or revised markers. A formal review process will involve a board of experts who will approve markers and the rights to standard designs and logos.
What does that mean for the citizens of Rio Blanco County? What bits of history are on your property? The bridge that followed along the Ute Trail, the schoolhouse that once served a rural section of the county, or that barn that once stood as a stage stop, might be a great place for historic signage. That sign down on the corner that used to tell a story of an event that happened there, but is less than legible now, might be ready for an upgrade. If you are aware of a location, marker, or structure that needs attention, let the historical society know or contact History Colorado.
14er Climb: Summit 2026
In 2026, as the nation commemorates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Colorado invites you to reach new heights! We’re reimagining the spirit of the 1976 Bicentennial with a breathtaking challenge. The American 250 – Colorado 150 Commission, in partnership with the Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry, is orchestrating a once-in-a-lifetime “14er” climb during the summer of 2026.
Colorado’s majestic “14ers”—those awe-inspiring peaks soaring over 14,000 feet—are not just mountains; they’re symbols of resilience and ambition. This event will unite outdoor enthusiasts to summit these peaks. Aspiring climbing teams will apply for a chance to be part of this historic moment, with peak assignments tailored to experience levels. We encourage every Coloradan to “find their 14er,” whether by joining an organized ascent or by embracing the spirit of outdoor exploration in their own way.
There aren’t any “14ers” in Rio Blanco County, but if climbing is your thing, there are a number of them in the state, and you can join an organized ascent. The best way to find out when and where they are is by checking the AM250/CO150 site. If you have never made a climb but always wanted to, this might be a great time to learn about it.
Climbing events will be conducted in collaboration with local nonprofits and outdoor recreation businesses, all while prioritizing the preservation of our natural landscapes, the well-being of our communities and people and the readiness of our search and rescue teams. Educational and safety measures will be essential in this campaign, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for all.
Drone Shows: Stories in the Sky
The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission is taking its milestone celebrations to new heights with Stories in the Sky, a series of nearly 150 community drone shows lighting up Colorado’s skies from September 2025 through December 2026, creating unforgettable moments for millions of Coloradans and visitors alike. This sweeping effort was developed in partnership with the Commission, Colorado Tourism Office and Visit Denver, and is built on two major programs working in concert through the end of 2026.
The Stories in the Sky Statewide Series is sponsored by Chevron, Tallgrass and UCHealth, and will bring dazzling drone shows to communities across Colorado. The tour kicked off on Sept. 27, 2025, at the University of Colorado football game in Boulder and will travel across the state, from the Eastern Plains to the Western Slope, throughout 2026.
The second program, Mile High Holidays Nightly Drone Spectacular, is hosted by Visit Denver. This beloved annual celebration will serve as a cornerstone of the anniversary festivities. The 40-night extravaganza lit up the Denver skyline nightly from Nov. 21, 2025, and throughout the 2025 holiday season, and will return for an encore in 2026.
Check out the list of scheduled drone shows below or check the website. Scheduled dates and locations are still being added.
Jan. 22, 2026, Ouray – Ouray Ice Festival
Jan. 30, 2026, Durango – Snowdown Light Parade
Feb. 7, 2026, Steamboat Springs – Steamboat Winter Carnival
April 25, 2026, Grand Junction – Southwest Arbor Days
May 1, 2026, Estes Park – The Great Estes Park Duck Race
May 2, 2026, Canon City – Music & Blossom Festival
May 16, 2026, Lamar – Lamar Days
May 29, 2026, Denver – Outside Festival
If you are interested in hosting an additional show or know a group or organization that might want to, there is a link on the www.AM250/CO150 Website to apply. In areas where the risk of forest fires is high, this might be a great way to celebrate from the sky.
By TERESIA RUCKMAN-REED