The holiday season is upon us! As we welcome this festive season filled with pumpkins, candles, ornaments, and more, our homes are a big part of dressing for the occasion. Thanksgiving turkeys roast, Hanukkah menorahs flicker, Christmas trees twinkle, and Kwanzaa mkekas brim with fruit. These gatherings are not just about the holidays they represent; they’re celebrations of home and everything it stands for.
Each of us has a unique definition of what home means. For some, it’s a haven of peace after a long day, for others, it’s a space to express creativity through décor, and for many, it embodies a sense of belonging, where traditions are kept alive, and new ones are created.
We often underestimate the role our homes play during festive moments. Think about how the whiff of a familiar family recipe brings back memories or how a certain corner of your living room becomes the perfect place for the Christmas tree year after year. These seemingly small details engrain themselves into our stories, forming a collage of experiences that are often tied to this special time of year.
Did you know that holiday seasons are prime opportunities for homeownership as well? The thought of setting the dining room for Thanksgiving dinner, sitting by a cozy fireplace on Christmas morning, or beautifying the patio for Hanukkah gatherings in a new home, builds memories and provides a sense of place for your families and friends.
Owning your home sends roots into the community, provides stability, and grants the freedom to make the space truly your own. Remember that homeownership is not just about four walls and a roof; it’s about the rhythm of life that unfolds within.
This holiday season, as your home takes center stage, consider the priceless value of creating these memories in a place you can call your own. Take a moment to recognize the empowerment, equity, and personal wealth that homeownership can offer. Let your celebrations bring you closer to the understanding that home isn’t just where the heart is, it’s where your story begins.
Recently, KB Home partnered with Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors – along with its trade partners – to build a brand-new, energy-efficient, and mortgage-free home for a deserving U.S. Army veteran in Painted Prairie.
During a ceremony held at Painted Prairie in early October, U.S. Army veteran Dan Rose and his family accepted the keys to their brand-new home on 61st Avenue. The home is built for wheelchair accessibility and features many touches to enhance Dan’s mobility throughout the home.
Dan was a U.S. Army Engineer in charge of clearing explosives from roads. In 2011, he was wounded when his truck drove over an IED in Afghanistan, sending him and his vehicle flying into the air. The blast broke his pelvis and multiple vertebrae. Dan was flown to Germany and then to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. for spinal fusion surgery. His injuries left him paralyzed from the chest down.
Five years after his injury, Dan found new hope through the use of an exoskeleton suit that allowed him to walk. Soon after, he met his wife, Lisa, got married, and had their daughter.
Since his accident, Dan has been a role model for his wife and daughter by participating in sports, traveling, and being a husband and father. The family’s last home was not wheelchair accessible and was difficult to navigate with his chair.
We are proud to welcome SGT Dan Rose and his family to the Painted Prairie community and wish them nothing but the best memories in their new home.
For a list of corporate sponsors, trade partners, and vendors who worked with KB Home to complete the home, click here.
About Jared Allen’s Homes 4 Wounded Warriors (JAH4WW)
JAH4WW has built homes for 29 veterans nationwide, and it hopes to raise that number to 35 by the end of 2024. Allen is a former NFL defensive end and founded the nonprofit in 2009 after visiting several U.S. bases in Iraq during a USO tour. The organization is committed to building mortgage-free, accessible homes tailored to the needs of each veteran, recognizing their sacrifices and enhancing their quality of life.
About KB Home
KB Home is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders. Founded in 1957 as Kaufman & Broad in Detroit, Michigan. It was the first company to be traded on the NYSE as a home builder. Its headquarters are in Los Angeles, California. The company has built 600,000 homes since its founding.
Get into the Prairie Harvest Fest spirit with our exclusive new Painted Prairie-only mocktails! Perfect for celebrating during Prairie Harvest Fest and all season long.
Our mocktail classes will run every 30 minutes from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm on October 5th at High Prairie Park.
Here’s what you’ll be crafting in the class:
Feeling a little spooky? Then you’ll love the Midnight Mocktail, inspired by My Sweet Apetite’s recipe. This refreshingly dark drink uses blackberries for a sweet, tart blend that instantly puts you in a hauntingly good mood.
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This recipe isn’t just convenient (you can use fresh or frozen berries), it’s also flexible. For those wanting an alcoholic kick in their drink, you can easily transform this into a cocktail. Simply add 1.5 oz of vodka or rum to your shaker, and adjust the lemon-lime soda accordingly to your cup size!
Looking for something with an apple-orchard-picking vibe? You’ll love our Apple Ginger Fizz, inspired by My Bartender’s recipe, and perfect for sipping under a cozy fall blanket.
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With this drink, you can adjust the sweetness by choosing different types of apple cider – unfiltered or fresh-pressed cider will give you a richer flavor. If you like your spices, add a pinch of ground cloves. For those wanting an alcoholic kick in their drink, you can easily transform this into a cocktail. Simply add 1.5 oz of bourbon, rum, or caramel-flavored vodka to your shaker, and adjust the ginger ale accordingly to your cup size!
We’re super excited for you to join us at Prairie Harvest Fest and fall in love with the flavors of the season. Cheers!
This fall, Painted Prairie is thrilled to announce an exciting expansion with the addition of new model homes from world-class builders McStain Neighborhoods, Pulte Homes, Tri Pointe Homes, and Toll Brothers.
We’re so glad you asked! The new models will be located near the future intersection of 56th Ave. and N. Lisbon St., within the new Rose and Violet Park Neighborhoods. Here, you can explore the stunning single-family and townhome collections showcased by Tri Pointe Homes, McStain Neighborhoods, and Pulte Homes. Toll Brothers’ new models will be located in the future Town Center.
McStain Neighborhoods is currently accepting pre-sale offers on its Parkway Collection. These solar-ready two-story townhomes offer energy savings, comfort, peace of mind, and stunning exteriors, and modern finishes for active lifestyles. To stay up-to-date on the latest from McStain at Painted Prairie, visit the website.As the fall season approaches, keep your eyes peeled for more updates regarding these new models and builders at Painted Prairie. This is an excellent opportunity for prospective homeowners to find their dream home in one of the best master-planned communities in Colorado! Sign up for our emails to be one of the first to know when these new models open.
Tri Pointe Homes’ newest models are currently under construction at Painted Prairie just in time for the holidays. This collection promises to deliver modern and innovative housing designs that cater to the lifestyles of today’s homeowners. Information on pricing and floorplans coming soon. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated.
Pulte Homes’ new single-family homes at Painted Prairie will offer modern architecture with quality features already built in. This builder prides itself on ensuring new homes are pre-wired for connectivity and come with several smart home products and features. From doorbell cameras to convenient electric car charging stations, you have plenty of options for simple living. To learn more about Pulte Homes, visit the website.
Toll Brothers will begin building homes in the future Painted Prairie Town Center in late winter/early spring of 2025. For anyone wanting a more urban feel, these townhomes and rowhomes are the perfect fit for walkability and easy access to convenient amenities within the Town Center. To learn more about Toll Brothers, visit the website.
As the air gets a wee bit crisp and the autumn season approaches, Aurora is gearing up for a series of exciting events that will bring the community together to celebrate culture, food, fun, and creativity. Here’s a summary of the must-attend happenings for September and October 2024.
Vail Octoberfest Lionshead • September 6-8 • Lionshead, Vail
Nestled in the European-inspired town of Vail and taking place over two weekends in Lionshead Village and Vail Village, the Vail Oktoberfest brings an international audience together to celebrate an authentic Bavarian festival. Clad in dirndls and lederhosen, Vail Oktoberfest attendees prost, polka dance and eat all weekend long.
Open-Air Market at Painted Prairie • September 7 • High Prairie Park
Discover some of Denver’s best crafters at our Saturday market in High Prairie Park. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, soaps, crafts, and much more. Grab breakfast at our on-site food and coffee trucks, browse the market for unique finds, and enjoy a relaxing summer morning at Painted Prairie. (Food trucks available 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
Wine Walk • September 12 • Southlands
Indulge in a delightful evening featuring local wineries showcasing their best selections. Stroll through Southlands as you sip and savor exquisite wines paired with delicious bites from nearby restaurants.
Movie in the Park at Painted Prairie • September 13 • High Prairie Park
Bring your chairs and blankets to High Prairie Park and catch a two-fer featuring a couple of our favorite empowering icons. Encanto will start after sunset at 7 p.m., and Barbie will follow immediately after at 9 p.m. Come early starting at 6 p.m., and grab something to eat and drink from K’s Concessions and Mac ‘N Noodles food trucks!
Breckenridge Oktoberfest • September 13-15 • Downtown Breckenridge Colorado
The 28th annual Breckenridge Oktoberfest, presented by Breckenridge Brewery, will blend cherished traditions with exclusive collectible steins and the distinct flavors of Breckenridge Brewery.
Agricultural Festival • September 14 • Plains Conservation Center
Celebrate Aurora’s rich agricultural heritage at the Agricultural Festival. Families can enjoy educational activities, live demonstrations, farm animals, and local produce, making it a perfect day out for everyone.
Colfax Canvas • September 14 • Fletcher Plaza
Explore creative expressions at Colfax Canvas, where local artists showcase their talent through murals and street art. This festival celebrates the arts with interactive installations and performances highlighting Aurora’s cultural diversity.
A Taste of Home: Open House Tours • September 21 • Painted Prairie Models
Join us in our kitchens (and all of the other rooms) for a tasty tour of Painted Prairie’s 11 delectable models. Sample free bites at each builder, explore all they have to offer, and experience the true flavor of our discovery meets diversity community.
Aurora Mini-Con • September 23 • Aurora Municipal Center
A must for comic book lovers and pop culture enthusiasts! Aurora Mini-Con offers panels, vendors, cosplay contests, and guest appearances. Join fellow fans for a fantastic day filled with all things geeky.
Havana Street Global Night Market • September 28 • Leezakaya – Parking Lot
Dive into the flavors of the world at the Havana Street Global Night Market! This lively event features a variety of international food stalls, local artisans, and live entertainment. It’s a perfect way to experience global cultures without leaving Aurora.
Prairie Harvest Fest • October 5 • High Prairie Park at Painted Prairie
It’s our fifth year of celebrating all things fall at Painted Prairie. This year’s Prairie Harvest Fest is gearing up to be the biggest and best yet! Join in the fun with hayrides, a pumpkin patch, an open-air market, a ton of kids’ activities, and plenty of fun for adults and pets too!
Enter to win our Costume Contest and see if you will land some sweet prizes from the Gaylord of the Rockies. Don’t forget the food trucks are back bringing local favorite flavors from in and around Aurora. Prairie Harvest Fest is a perfect family outing to get you in the mood for fall family fun.
Freefall Bluegrass Festival • October 11-13 • International Bridge Vail Village
The 2nd annual Bluegrass Fest is a two-day family-friendly free event in the streets of Vail Village with food, drinks, kid activities, and all-day bluegrass music.
Treat Street • October 19 – 20 • Arapahoe County Fairgrounds
This family-friendly event is all about candy and fun! Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating in a safe environment, with a variety of booths and activities.
Fall-O-Ween • October 19 • Southlands
Combine the best of fall and Halloween in this fun-filled event packed with activities, games, and seasonal treats. Dress up in your favorite costume and join the celebration!
Fall Into Fun Festival • October 19 • Aurora Municipal Center
Families will love the wide array of activities at Fall Into Fun Festival, from arts and crafts to live entertainment. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your autumn days!
Boo N’ Brew Candy Crawl • October 26 • Town Center at Aurora
Sip on some craft brews while enjoying an evening of candy crawling! Perfect for adults looking to celebrate Halloween with a twist.
2024 Halloween on Havana Street • October 26 • Gardens on Havana
Get ready for a spooktacular evening filled with costume contests, trick-or-treating, and festive activities. This event is perfect for family fun and getting into the Halloween spirit!
Havana Street Global Night Market • October 26 • Leezakaya – Parking Lot
Missed it in September? Here’s another chance! The Havana Street Global Night Market returns for another round of global cuisine and cultural experiences.
Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on the fun throughout Colorado this September and October! Whether you love food and culture or just want to enjoy a beautiful fall day, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Special thanks to Visit Aurora, GoBreck.com, and On Havana Street for assistance.
While we continue to make progress on the future Town Center at Painted Prairie, we are excited to see the growth and addition of services, retail, businesses, and restaurants popping up nearby. Take a look at our ultimate guide to “What’s Around Painted Prairie?” below.
From large grocery store chains to small specialty markets, there’s no one-size-fits-all-way to shop for food and sundries near Painted Prairie. Here you will find independently-owned international markets like Lagos International Market and Sisters Mart, and bigger stores like Natural Grocers, King Soopers, and Costco. Check out our interactive Google Map for more information on grocery stores nearby.
Aurora is well known for its diverse population. With this amazing blend of cultures comes an array of international cuisines unmatched in other parts of Colorado. With easy access to Downtown Aurora, Downtown Denver, and all the places in between, you don’t have to go far to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Head over to Danico Brewing for a beer with neighbors, dive into some delicious Chinese cuisine at Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings on Havana Street, or grab some dessert at Sweet Cow Ice Cream on Dallas Street. More restaurants like Chipotle Mexican Grill, breweries, and locally owned eateries are popping up all over Aurora. Take a look at this map to find everything from fast food to authentic Vietnamese pho around Painted Prairie.
Looking for a unique gift for someone special? Or is a caffeine-fueled Target run on your to-do list? Whatever type of retail therapy you’re looking for, Aurora has it. Take a stroll through The The Shops at Northfield for places like Bass Pro Shops, H&M, Lane Bryant, P.F. Chang’s, and Starbucks. For a unique shopping and dining experience, head over to Stanley Marketplace, where an eclectic collection of small shops and boutiques offers a unique shopping experience. A short drive to Havana Street offers a mix of dining, and retail stores like Monkey Paw Toys, Epic Mountain Gear, and K-Town Imports. Search for more retail options on our Google Map.
There’s a lot to do (and more coming) as our corner of Aurora grows. To learn more about the job growth and what the future holds for the Platinum Triangle, click here to read our blog post about what’s in store for Painted Prairie and our community.
On Saturday, July 6th, 2024, our community came together for a day full of delicious food trucks, vibrant world music, and talented artists like face painters and caricature artists. Residents engaged in fun, crafty activities that highlighted the diversity and inclusivity of our neighborhood.
Take a peek at a few of our most cherished memories from our first-ever Painted Prairie Spirit Day. We’re thankful for the overwhelming support and participation from our community. See you all next year!
Did you know that Colorado boasts the second-largest aerospace economy in the United States, home to over 300 aerospace companies?
According to the Aurora Economic Development Council (AEDC), the aerospace and defense sectors are pivotal drivers of our local and state economies. With five military commands and three Air Force bases—highlighted by Buckley Air Force Base—these facilities attract top talent and foster ancillary industries within Aurora.
Private companies specializing in aerospace, cybersecurity, and space missions have positioned our city as a premier destination for industry leaders nationwide, solidifying Colorado’s status as a leader in aerospace employment. With an easy commute (in some cases – less than 20 minutes) to the Buckley Air Force Base, the U.S. Space Port, and many local aerospace and defense companies, Painted Prairie is the perfect location for civilians and military personnel to make a home in our community.
Located approximately 10 miles from Painted Prairie, the U.S. Space Port is a key aerospace facility aiming to establish Colorado as a central hub for commercial space activities. Its mission includes supporting both government and private sector space missions, from satellite launches to potential space tourism ventures.
This initiative leverages Colorado’s robust aerospace infrastructure and expertise, complementing the state’s existing network of aerospace companies and research institutions.
Buckley Air Force Base plays a crucial role in national defense as home to the 460th Space Wing, which oversees global missile warning and space surveillance systems. The base supports over 93,000 active duty, National Guard, Reserve, and retired personnel, along with their families. Its strategic location in Aurora and Colorado’s thriving aerospace community makes it a cornerstone for critical operations.
Buckley Air Force Base alone employs over 12,000 personnel, stimulating local industries like healthcare, retail, housing, and education. The base’s contracts with local businesses further bolster the regional economy, extending its impact beyond direct employment.
The Denver Metro area benefits from a highly educated workforce from local universities, specializing in aerospace, engineering, and technology. These institutions collaborate with aerospace and defense contractors on research projects, offering students real-world training. This synergy between public, private, and academic sectors drives innovation, contributes billions to Colorado’s economy, and supports tens of thousands of high-paying jobs.
Painted Prairie’s location within Aurora’s Platinum Triangle offers numerous benefits, including proximity to many of the high-paying jobs and employers in engineering, administration, research, manufacturing, and bioscience. The area boasts top-tier educational institutions like Colorado State University and the University of Colorado, providing students with opportunities to learn alongside industry experts.
Whether you’re part of the aerospace and defense industries or not, Aurora’s robust economic landscape makes it an ideal place to settle down and thrive. With the region poised for growth, Painted Prairie stands at the heart of this emerging community.
To discover more about the area and Painted Prairie, reach out to our Relocation Expert, Michelle Tripp, at [email protected].
