Alamosa Ice Fest

Posted on January 2, 2025 by blogeditor

The Rio Frio Ice Fest in Alamosa, Colorado, is here! This festival transforms the San Luis Valley into a winter wonderland each January. It draws visitors from near and far to celebrate the beauty and thrill of the season. This year’s festival runs from Friday, January 24th, to Sunday, January 26th, 2025. Whether you’re seeking adventure, artistic inspiration, or simply looking to soak in the winter vibes, the Rio Frio Ice Fest has it all. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

The Alamos Ice Fest Awaits

The festivities kick off on Friday, January 24th, with the enchanting Luminaria Gathering at Cattails Golf Course. This serene evening event invites participants to glide along groomed cross-country skiing trails. You will also be surrounded by the majestic San Juans illuminated by glowing luminarias. Also, bring your own gear and immerse yourself in this magical experience. Saturday, January 25th, takes the excitement up a notch with the Rio Frio 5K. This is a one-of-a-kind race along the frozen Rio Grande River. It starts at 10 a.m. near Cole Park. Unquestionably, this snowy route ensures a safe and exhilarating challenge for runners of all levels. Later that day, head to Main Street to witness award-winning ice sculptors transform massive blocks of ice into stunning works of art, showcasing incredible talent and creativity.

The fun continues on Sunday, January 26th, with a thrilling Ice Climbing Trip hosted by Narrow Ridge Outdoors. This full-day adventure offers participants the chance to scale frozen walls of ice under expert guidance—a perfect way to round out the festival. Be sure to book your spot in advance to secure your place in this unforgettable experience. Whether you’re participating in events or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the Rio Frio Ice Fest is a must-visit celebration of winter in Colorado. For more information on this event, check out the Rio Races website.

Best Breweries in Golden

Posted on January 2, 2025 by blogeditor

Golden, Colorado, is not just famous for its stunning mountain views and outdoor adventures—it’s also a haven for beer lovers. This historic town is home to a thriving craft beer scene that offers something for every palate. From innovative brews to welcoming taprooms, Golden’s breweries provide the perfect blend of tradition and creativity. Continue to learn more about the top rated breweries in Golden Colorado. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Top Rated Breweries in Golden Colorado

Golden City Brewery, founded in 1993 by geologists Charlie and Janine Sturdavant, is a must-visit for its combination of historic charm and diverse beer offerings. Located in an old machine shop in historic Golden, this brewery holds the title of the second-largest in town. Its rotating beer lineup includes Clear Creek Helles, Tegridy Pale Ale, and Legendary Red Ale. They also feature a Coconut Ballistic Milkshake IPA and The Geologist Bock. Adventurous beer fans should try Hoop A Joop, a spontaneous Brett Sour with blackberry, boysenberry, blueberry, and Meyer lemon. Guests can enjoy their drinks in the inviting outdoor beer garden. Their beer garden is complete with food trucks serving delicious bites and a dog-friendly patio.

Holidaily Brewing Company stands out as a trailblazer in Golden’s craft beer scene, offering entirely gluten-free brews since its founding by Karen Hertz. With locations in both Golden and Denver, Holidaily caters to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor. Popular year-round offerings include Favorite Blonde Ale and Fat Randy’s IPA, while seasonal beers like Pumpkin Ale in the fall and Buckwit Belgian in the spring keep the menu exciting. The taproom features happy hour specials, customizable beer flights, and creative pre-designed selections like the Summer Vibes flight. Whether you’re gluten-free or just a fan of exceptional beer, Holidaily Brewing Company is well worth a visit.

National Western Stock Show 2025

Posted on December 31, 2024 by blogeditor

Photo by a Daniel Lloyd Blunk-Fernándeza on Unsplash.

The National Western Stock Show & Rodeo, taking place from January 11–26, 2025, is a time-honored Colorado tradition that celebrates Denver’s rich cowboy heritage. Held annually at the National Western Complex, this iconic event has been a staple of the state’s culture since 1906. Recognized as the nation’s premier livestock, rodeo, and horse show, it draws agricultural enthusiasts and consumers from around the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of thrilling activities, including rodeos with top bull riders, livestock competitions, and live auctions. It’s a true celebration of Western culture and a must-see for both locals and visitors. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

2025 National Western Stock Show

This year, the Stock Show will feature over 20 Pro Rodeos, marking the first major rodeo of the season. Top rodeo athletes from across the country will compete in exciting events. These include bull riding, barrel racing, and mutton busting, where young cowboys and cowgirls take part in an action-packed competition. One of the event’s highlights is the MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo, a crowd favorite celebrating the contributions of African Americans to rodeo history. On January 12, 2025, the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza will also take center stage, offering a unique cultural experience with Mexican-style bull riding, bareback riding, trick roping, and Mariachi music. The performance is choreographed by Jerry Diaz, a fourth-generation champion charro, bringing the essence of Mexican rodeo to life.

In addition to rodeo action, the Stock Show features an array of family-friendly events that promise fun for all ages. The Xtreme Dog Shows on January 20 and 21 will delight dog lovers with amazing tricks, aerial stunts, and comedic performances by talented canine athletes. Fans can also meet the stars of the show at the Pat & Chat following each performance. Also, the Olympics-style Horse Jumping Events on January 17 and 20 will showcase the skill and precision of top riders and horses in the Grand Prix and Gambler’s Choice competitions. These prestigious events are a thrilling display of teamwork and technique, attracting the nation’s best equine athletes. With something for everyone, the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo is the ultimate winter event in Denver.

Holiday Riding Trails

Posted on December 4, 2024 by blogeditor

Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes become even more magical during the holiday season. Colorado holiday riding trails offer equestrians a chance to ride through snow-dusted forests, serene meadows, and mountain trails. One must-visit destination is Staunton State Park near Pine, Colorado. This park boasts over 30 miles of multi-use trails, including options perfect for horseback riding. Trails like the Mason Creek Loop provide stunning views of frosty peaks and meandering streams surrounded by evergreens. With the crisp winter air and tranquil surroundings, it’s a peaceful retreat for both you and your horse. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Holiday Riding Trails in Colorado

Before we continue, remember that Colorado can be a snowy place during the winter. Therefore, always check for trail closures before starting your adventure. Are you seeking a high-altitude adventure? The Golden Gate Canyon State Park near Golden offers scenic winter trails with panoramic mountain views. Trails like the Mule Deer Loop take riders through snowy meadows and forests, offering opportunities to spot winter wildlife like deer or elk. Remember to bundle up and outfit your horse with winter gear, as temperatures can drop quickly in this area. The park also has designated equestrian parking, making it a convenient choice for holiday trail rides.

Closer to the Western Slope, Ridgway State Park provides a unique winter riding experience with views of the majestic San Juan Mountains. The park’s designated equestrian trails wind through a mix of open landscapes and woodlands, perfect for a quiet holiday ride. Trails near the Dallas Creek area are especially scenic, with the added bonus of fewer crowds during the winter season. Whether you’re exploring these trails for a peaceful ride or as part of your holiday traditions, the combination of Colorado’s natural beauty and the magic of the season will create memories to last a lifetime.

Decorating Your Barn for Christmas

Posted on December 4, 2024 by blogeditor

Transforming your barn into a winter wonderland is a delightful way to bring the holiday spirit to your equine companions. Start by adorning the entrance with a festive wreath made of natural materials like pine branches, berries, and horse-safe ribbon. String warm, white LED lights along the barn aisle. Also, put them along the stall fronts, and rafters to create a soft, inviting glow that’s both festive and safe. Opt for battery-operated or solar lights to avoid cords that could be hazardous to curious horses. Adding a touch of greenery, such as garlands or small potted evergreens, can enhance the cozy atmosphere. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Tips on Decorating Your Barn for Christmas

Here are some tips on decorating your barn for Christmas. Inside the stalls, focus on comfort and safety. Drape horse-safe decorations, like felt ornaments or burlap bows, on stall doors. Hang a festive stocking labeled with each horse’s name for a personal touch—perfect for stashing treats or small toys. Consider adding seasonal bedding colors like red or green to their stalls using mats or fleece blankets placed on non-chewable areas. Don’t forget to fill their feed buckets with an occasional holiday treat, such as apples or carrots, ensuring these remain healthy and in moderation.

Finally, bring the holiday cheer outside! Decorate fences with durable, weather-resistant garlands and hang bells or ornaments in areas out of reach of curious noses. If you have an outdoor arena or paddock, a small, decorated Christmas tree can become the centerpiece of the space, creating a festive scene for you and your horses. Whether it’s a quiet, snowy evening or a bustling barn gathering, these thoughtful decorations can make your barn feel magical while ensuring your horses are safe, happy, and ready to enjoy the season.

Colorado Christmas Horse Traditions

Posted on December 3, 2024 by blogeditor

Photo by Ezra Jeffrey-Comeau on Unsplash

In Colorado’s early days, horses played an integral role in shaping holiday traditions. They carried both settlers and their Christmas spirit across the rugged Rocky Mountain terrain. During the late 19th century, as mining towns sprang to life, horses were indispensable for many reasons. Horses helped with delivering mail, goods, and even the occasional Christmas tree to remote communities. With heavy snow, sleighs pulled by sturdy draft horses helped families eager to celebrate the season. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Christmas Horse Traditions in Colorado

Christmas horse traditions have become a part of parades and community gatherings that united small towns during the holidays. Towns like Durango and Breckenridge often featured horse-drawn wagons festooned with garlands and lights, delivering Santa Claus to eager crowds. These events brought a sense of nostalgia and warmth, creating memories that cemented the horse’s role in Colorado’s holiday culture. Horses pulled carriages through quaint downtown streets. They also participated in reenactments of historic Christmas celebrations, horses provided both practical utility and a touch of magic.

Today, the tradition continues with modern renditions of horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-dusted valleys. Also, there are festive parades that harken back to those earlier times. Farms and ranches across Colorado invite visitors to experience the timeless charm of holiday sleigh rides, complete with cozy blankets and steaming cups of hot cocoa. These experiences offer a unique way to connect with the past while celebrating the present, showcasing the enduring bond between horses and the holiday season in Colorado.

Horses at America’s First Thanksgiving

Posted on November 14, 2024 by blogeditor

Horses played a crucial role in the lives of both the Pilgrims and Native Americans. For the Pilgrims, horses were invaluable as draft animals for plowing fields and pulling wagons. However, unlike their European counterparts, the Pilgrims had few horses at their disposal. Horses were not as abundant in the early colonial settlements due to the harsh conditions and limited resources. Continue reading to learn more about America’s first Thanksgiving. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

America’s First Thanksgiving

For Native Americans, horses were far more prevalent. Horses played a central role in their daily lives long before the arrival of Europeans. Indigenous tribes such as the Wampanoag had access to horses through trade with other tribes. The Spanish introduced horses to the Americas in the early 16th century. By the time of the first Thanksgiving, horses had become essential to Native American culture, particularly in hunting and warfare. The Wampanoag people, for instance, used horses to increase their mobility, hunting buffalo, and moving between seasonal camps.

During the first Thanksgiving feast in 1621, while the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people may not have relied directly on horses in their shared celebration, the animals were still present in their world. The Wampanoag likely used horses to bring the tribe’s leaders to the gathering, and the Pilgrims may have seen the animals in use during their interactions. The mutual respect and cooperation between the two groups were based on the exchange of knowledge, food, and resources. In this sense, the role of horses was emblematic of the larger cultural exchanges occurring between the two peoples. While the Pilgrims relied on their limited resources, the Wampanoag had a deep connection with their horses. Thus, horses were more than just animals—they were symbols of the different ways of life each group brought to the New World.

Breckenridge Sleigh Rides

Posted on November 14, 2024 by blogeditor

Are you looking for a magical way to embrace the holiday season? There’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by taking a sleigh ride in Colorado. Breckenridge sleigh rides are fun for the entire family. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or a special someone, a sleigh ride in Breckenridge is wonderful. They offer a festive experience that feels straight out of a holiday card. You will create memories you’ll cherish for years to come. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Christmas Sleigh Rides in Breckenridge Colorado

Sleigh rides are a perfect way to make this Christmas season extra special while enjoying the charm and beauty of one of Colorado’s most beloved mountain towns. For example, there is the Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides in Breckenridge, Colorado. Here, you’ll find the best sleigh rides and dinner theater in Summit County, with something for everyone. You can experience a peaceful scenic sleigh ride with a cup of delicious hot cocoa made just for you. Alternatively, they offer a full sleigh ride dinner theater experience. This comes complete with a scenic ride, a fantastic dinner, and an old West theater show at their authentic mining camp.

With a variety of packages and price points, there’s an option for every type of guest. Choose from their Mining Camp Dinner Theater Sleigh Ride, the Hot Cocoa Scenic Sleigh Ride, or the Private Big Sleigh Ride for your family. They also boast an exclusive Private Romantic Sleigh Ride on their charming black sleigh. If you’re visiting in the fall or just before the snow settles in, don’t miss out on their Hay Wagon Rides for a fun, festive adventure for the kids. Making a reservation is quick and easy through the Golden Horseshoes website, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

Halloween Treats for Your Pets

Posted on October 4, 2024 by blogeditor

As Halloween approaches, many pet owners want to include their furry friends in the festivities without compromising their health. Fortunately, there are plenty of Halloween-themed treats that are both fun and safe for pets to enjoy. From pumpkin-flavored biscuits to spooky apple bites, these homemade goodies can satisfy your pet’s taste buds while keeping them away from harmful ingredients typically found in human candy. Continue reading to find out more about these Halloween treats for your pets. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Pet Safe Halloween Treats

During the Halloween season, many pet owners celebrate by dressing up their furry friends. Another great way to celebrate is by making them Halloween themed treats. One delightful option is pumpkin dog treats. Pumpkin is not only a seasonal favorite but also packed with vitamins and fiber that are great for digestion. Simply mix canned pure pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling) with whole wheat flour, oats, and a dash of cinnamon to create a dough. Cut it into fun Halloween shapes—like ghosts or bats—and bake until golden. These treats will not only be a hit with your pup, but they also add a festive flair to your Halloween celebrations.

But what about cat owners in Colorado that want to treat their pets for the holidays? For feline friends, consider making spooky apple bites. Slice apples into small, manageable pieces and remove any seeds, as they can be harmful to cats. You can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or a touch of peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free) on top for added flavor. These treats are healthy, crunchy, and provide a fun way for your cats to join in the Halloween fun. With these homemade treats, your pets can indulge in the spirit of the season while staying safe and healthy!

Amish Horsemanship

Posted on October 4, 2024 by blogeditor

Amish Horsemanship is great for Colorado. The Amish community in Colorado has found a unique synergy between their traditional lifestyle and the use of horses. This fosters not only agricultural productivity but also community cohesion and personal well-being. The world is increasingly dominated by technology and mechanization. The Amish prioritize sustainable practices that honor their heritage while meeting the needs of modern life. Horses play a central role in this approach. Horses are reliable work partners for plowing fields, transporting goods, and even participating in local events that reinforce community bonds. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Colorado Amish Horsemanship

Beyond agricultural tasks, horses contribute to the Amish community’s mental and emotional health. Many families engage in horseback riding as a form of leisure and bonding. This allows them to connect with nature and each other. This interaction with animals promotes mindfulness and stress relief, providing a welcome respite from the rigors of daily life. Moreover, caring for horses teaches valuable lessons in responsibility and empathy. It nurtures a deep respect for living beings that extends to their relationships within the community.

The positive growth fostered by horses in the Colorado Amish community extends beyond personal benefits to encompass economic sustainability. By integrating horses into their farming practices, Amish families reduce reliance on fossil fuels and expensive machinery, making their operations more resilient. Additionally, the labor-intensive methods associated with horse farming often yield high-quality produce, which can be sold at local markets. This not only supports the local economy but also preserves the Amish way of life, ensuring that future generations inherit a rich tradition rooted in respect for the land and its creatures. Through their harmonious relationship with horses, the Amish in Colorado exemplify a model of growth that prioritizes community, sustainability, and well-being.