Howdy, Estes Park! Spring weekends in Estes Park are picking up steam, and this one offers plenty of ways to get out of the house, just bundle up as the weekend temps look to be a bit frosty. You can catch a big-screen adventure at the Historic Park Theatre, explore Cheryl Gratias’ luminous watercolor exhibit at the Art Center, or make a night of it with live music across town. Here’s a look at what’s happening around Estes Park this weekend, April 17-19:
‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ at the Historic Park Theatre
The Historic Park Theatre is holding onto “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” the animated sequel to “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” from 2023, for another weekend. “Galaxy” follows Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and dozens of other Nitendo characters as they do battle against Bowser Jr. The venue is also hosting a history and haunted ghost tour on Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19.
‘Reflections on Light and Color’ at the Art Center
The Art Center of Estes Park welcomes spring with “Reflections on Light and Color,” a new exhibit featuring watercolor work by artist member Cheryl Gratias. On view through April 27, the show highlights Gratias’ eye for atmosphere, color and natural beauty. Gallery hours are Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday Live Music at Snowy Peaks Winery
Unwind with musician Andrew Tuszynski as he performs live in the tasting room at Snowy Peaks Winery on Friday, April 17, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The show is free to attend, but seats in the tasting room fill up quickly, so reservations are advised. Call 970-586-2099 to save your table for an early evening of music, wine, and relaxed mountain-town vibes.
Jon Pickett at The Rock Inn
Kick off your weekend with a set from musician Jon Pickett at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern. Pickett, a skilled bluegrass singer-songwriter, will perform on Friday, April 17, from 5 to 8 p.m., playing everything from Paul Simon to Black Sabbath. His solo set is free to attend, and it’s a relaxed way to spend an evening with great music and a mountain-tavern atmosphere.
Sound Bath Meditation
Unwind and reset during Sound Bath Meditation on Friday, April 17, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Estes Valley Community Center, 660 Community Drive. This 50-minute guided session surrounds participants with the soothing tones of chimes, singing bowls and gongs, creating a calming soundscape designed to melt away tension and quiet the mind. The $15 class offers a peaceful way to end the week while promoting relaxation, mental clarity and better sleep
James Davis at Twin Owls
Add an elegant soundtrack to your evening at Twin Owls Steakhouse with live classical and Spanish guitar by James Davis. Performing Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Davis brings a refined, atmospheric style that pairs seamlessly with Twin Owls’ fine dining experience. Live music is offered for dining guests only, so reservations are recommended.
Poudre Valley Playboys at American Legion Post 119
Enjoy Friday evening with live music by the Poudre Valley Playboys at American Legion Post 119 on Friday, April 17, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is free and family-friendly, and The Tavern will serve its full food and bar menu from 3 to 8 p.m. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m., and the Queen of Hearts drawing takes place at 7 p.m.
Xtreme Bar Bingo
Friday nights get a competitive twist at Xtreme Bar Bingo at Bogey’s Sports Bar, running weekly from 8 to 9:30 p.m. This high-energy spin on the classic game offers big incentives: the main jackpot starts at $5,000 and grows by $1,000 each week until it hits $15,000, while the Jr. Jackpot begins at $500 and climbs by $50 weekly. Along the way, players can also win prizes like TVs, sports tickets, and gift cards. Best of all, it’s free to play, so you can just show up and see if your numbers hit.
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.
The Coldies at American Legion Post 119
Celebrate an evening of live music — and Keeley’s birthday — when The Coldies take the stage at the Tavern at the Legion on Saturday, April 18, from 4 to 7 p.m. The local band will bring their lively sound to American Legion Post 119 for a relaxed Saturday gathering with music, food and drinks. Stop by to enjoy the tunes, raise a glass and join the birthday festivities with friends and neighbors.
Accessible Art Gala and Auction
Support spinal cord injury research at the Accessible Art Gala and Auction on Saturday, April 18, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Bird’s Nest. Hosted by Unite 2 Fight Paralysis, the evening fundraiser features a silent auction of artwork and unique experiences, including handmade pottery, framed paintings, guided trips, AirBnB stays and outdoor gear. Proceeds help advance research and clinical trials aimed at improving outcomes for people living with spinal cord injuries.
Glentucky Funkdown Reunion
Catch a blast from the past when Glentucky Funkdown returns to The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern on Saturday, April 18, from 8:30 to 11 p.m. The reunion performance brings together Jon Pickett, Alex Thoele, Tom Nugent and Jill Schladweiler to celebrate 20 years since the band first started jamming at the venue. A $5 suggested donation at the door helps keep the music going, making this late-night show a lively way to revisit a piece of the local music scene’s history.
Sunday Fun-day at Snowy Peaks Winery
Round out the weekend with Sunday Fun-day at Snowy Peaks Winery on Sunday, April 19. The venue is offering Date Night Specials from 4 to 7 p.m.: enjoy any entrée paired with a bottle of wine for $40, or choose 10% off a charcuterie board and 25% off a bottle to match. Reservations are recommended—call 970-586-2099 to save your spot.
Rock Cut Bingo Night
Test your luck at Rock Cut Bingo Night on Sunday, April 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rock Cut Brewing Company. Held on the first and third Sundays of the month, the free event invites guests to gather in the taproom for a few lively rounds of bingo, with prizes awarded each round. Bring some friends, grab a pint and enjoy a relaxed evening of games and friendly competition.
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.
Do you have any suggestions for upcoming or recurring A&E events in or around Estes Park? Please send information to Toni Tresca (tonitresca@estesvalleyvoice.com) by the Wednesday before the event to be included in the A&E roundup.