When Painted Prairie welcomed its first residents in 2020, High Prairie Park was nearing completion and our builders were busy creating the first homes on the mostly undeveloped high prairie. Six years later, Painted Prairie has become a bustling connected neighborhood of more than 3,000 residents, 1,000+ homes, 15 parks, 4 community gardens, and a robust event series enjoyed by residents and the larger community alike. The series brings all kinds of people together to foster connection, inspire community and create shared traditions.
Always filled with laughter, fun and unexpected moments, this year’s event series was no exception. Here’s a little glimpse into our 2026 get togethers:
Prairie Harvest Fest: This 7th annual signature event drew nearly 5,000 residents and community members on Saturday, October 3. The free celebration of all things fall featured a pumpkin patch, hayrides, a costume contest, and an open-air market with more than 75 vendors. Our pumpkin patch (more than 20,000 pounds worth) sold out and collected donations for two deserving local charities: Judi’s House at JAG Institute and Project Angel Heart.
Open-Air Markets: The monthly markets have become a lucrative endeavor for vendors from across Denver and beyond, with art, fresh produce, jewelry, and handmade goods. Open to the community, attendees can browse and shop, while enjoying other free activities. This year, each month had its own theme, from summer kick-off to back-to-school to a health fair.
Color Run: Painted Prairie’s first-ever Color Run, held alongside the annual Painted Prairie Spirit Day, sent runners through High Prairie Park in a cloud of color bursts. The post-run photos speak for themselves— smiles all around. Spirit Day put a focus on the incredible diversity and kindness at Painted Prairie, with activities that helped residents celebrate the community and learn more about each other.
Spring Fling: The season kicked off with an egg hunt (with thousands of colorful eggs), plus photos with the bunny and the spring fairy. Kids of all ages filled their baskets with special treats during the High Prairie Park hunt.
Resident-focused events: Still ahead for Painted Prairie residents— the Pie & Chai Social, Prairie Holidays, and Wrap & Sip. Earlier this year, neighbors gathered for Neighbor Nights, Food Truck Nights, Board Game Nights, a Community Garage Sale, Saturday morning yoga, a Mad Hatter Tea Party, and Movies in the Park. There’s always something to do at Painted Prairie!
As we wrap up another successful event season, plans are already underway for 2027. The prairie will hum again next spring, so sign up for emails to stay in the loop.
Thank you to everyone who showed up, tried the new food truck, shopped the markets, wore a costume, shared a story, or made a new friend. These small moments are what makes Painted Prairie the inclusive, welcoming, and connected community our residents call home.
