Hello, Estes Park! It’s the first full weekend of November, and there’s no shortage of art, music, film, and community happenings to enjoy around town. Whether you’re catching the final days of “Reflections of the West,” sampling chocolate pairings, taking in live acoustic sets, or joining the monthly Art Groove, this weekend offers plenty of ways to embrace the season and connect with your neighbors. Here’s what’s happening this weekend in Estes Park.
Last Week to See ‘Reflections of the West‘
If you have been putting off seeing the member show “Reflections of the West” at the Art Center of Estes Park, this weekend is your last chance. The free exhibit runs daily through Nov. 10, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 517 Big Thompson Ave. The show features watercolor works by Connie Schmidt and pastel and oil pieces by Pat Sebern.
‘Springsteen’ Movie Opens at the Historic Park Theatre
This week, the Historic Park Theatre opens a new film, “Springsteen: Deliver ME From Nowhere,” starring Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen as he developed his 1982 album, “Nebraska.” Haunted Ghost Tours and History Tours are scheduled for Friday, Nov. 7, and Saturday, Nov. 8. On Saturday, Nov. 8, there will be a free screening of “Forrest Gump” at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. On Sunday, Nov. 9, “Rocky IV Director Cut” screens at 7 p.m.
FIRST FRIDAY! Art Groove
Explore Estes Park’s creative side during the monthly FIRST FRIDAY! Art Groove, happening this Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Local galleries, studios, and maker spaces open their doors for art shows, live music, demos, and community gatherings throughout town. This month’s highlights include hands-on open studio time at Driftwood Tattoo Studio, live looping music at Aspen & Evergreen Gallery, and live jazz at Earthwood Collections. Plus, several tasting rooms and breweries along the route are offering art displays and sips to enjoy. Free to attend. Just pick your starting point and groove through the night. Learn more at www.estesartsdistrict.org/first-friday.html.
Jon Pickett (Chain Station) Acoustic at The Rock Inn
Settle in for a free evening of genre-blending acoustic music with Jon Pickett of Chain Station at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66), performing Friday, Nov. 7, from 5 to 8 p.m. A born entertainer and multi-instrumentalist, Pickett pulls from bluegrass, folk, Motown, jazz, and even the occasional curveball, from Paul Simon to Kermit the Frog and Black Sabbath.
Sip & Savor: Chocolate, Boozy Nuts & Liquor Pairing
Indulge in an immersive tasting experience at the Estes Valley Community Center (660 Community Dr.) on Friday, Nov. 7, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Hosted by Adams Chocolate Factory, this guided pairing event features handcrafted chocolates, “Boozy Nuts,” and curated wine and spirit selections designed to highlight bold flavor combinations. Guests will also explore the cacao process from pod to bar and take home their own cacao seedling. Tickets are $52.
Friday Night Live Music at the Legion
Enjoy free live music at American Legion Post 119 (850 N. St. Vrain) on Friday, Nov. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. This week, Nick Wagner & The Rabble Rousers bring their blues-based band to the stage. The Tavern menu will be available from 3 to 8:30 p.m., with happy hour running 3 to 6 p.m., and the Queen of Hearts drawing at 7 p.m.
Karaoke Night at Lonigans
Take the stage at Lonigans (106 W. Elkhorn Ave.) for Karaoke Night, happening every Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to midnight. It’s free to join, making it the perfect late-night outing with friends, family, and plenty of sing-along fun.
Wellness Fair at the Estes Valley Community Center
Start your Saturday with a focus on health and well-being at the Wellness Fair on Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Estes Valley Community Center (660 Community Dr.). Explore local vendors, resources, and services that support personal wellness. Free and open to all, it’s a great chance to connect with community organizations and discover new ways to feel your best heading into the winter season.
Author Event with Eddie Ahn
Join author and illustrator Eddie Ahn at the YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park Center (2515 Tunnel Rd.) on Saturday, Nov. 8, for two free community events. From 10 a.m. to noon, Ahn will lead a hands-on Graphic Novel Making Workshop at the Mootz Family Craft & Design Center. Then at 7 p.m., head to the Maude Jellison Library for a talk and Q&A on his graphic memoir “Advocate,” exploring art, activism, and storytelling. Both events are free and open to the public.
Jason Hicks (Blue Canyon Boys) Acoustic at The Rock Inn
Settle in for an evening of acoustic bluegrass with guitarist and vocalist Jason Hicks of the Blue Canyon Boys, performing at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66) on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. Known for his distinctive playing style inspired by early bluegrass pioneers like Don Reno and Norman Blake, Hicks blends raw emotion with thoughtful musicianship. No cover.
Morrígan at The Rock Inn
Enjoy a cozy evening of live music at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66) on Sunday, Nov. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. Local folk singer-songwriter Morrígan brings warm vocals and thoughtful songwriting to the stage, making this a relaxed and atmospheric way to wind down the weekend. No cover.
Sunday Dinner Live Music at Lonigans
Wrap up the weekend with good food, craft cocktails, and live tunes at Lonigans (106 W. Elkhorn Ave.). Every Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m., the pub hosts free live music in a family-friendly setting.