...Tom Dr. Colorado Noel, Sunday, April 25, 2004...

Join Rocky Mountain News columnist Tom 'Dr. Colorado' Noel on The South Platte Renaissance in our heated canopy. A professor of history at CU-Denver, Tom Noel is well-known for his walking tours of Denver's historic neighborhoods, churches, saloons and cemeteries. General admission tickets are $6 and available online now or by phoning 303-797-8565 Ext. 321. Held in The Inn at Hudson Gardens at 7PM, includes light refreshments.

...Gary Hart, Tuesday, May 4, 2004...

Gary Hart - statesman, scholar, attorney, writer - is a Renaissance man of new ideas. He is a former U.S. Senator from Colorado and co-chair of the U.S. Commission on National Security for the 21st Century who continues to make a difference through writing and speaking around the world. General admission tickets are $6 and available online now or by phoning 303-797-8565 Ext. 321. Held in The Inn at Hudson Gardens at 7PM, includes light refreshments.

...Mother's Day, Sunday, May 9, 2004...

Our Mother's Day Brunch is a classy, fun family celebration! A splendid brunch, big band music, vintage cars, and an art show by the Front Range Watercolor Artists make this a Mother's Day to remember. Kids will enjoy roving entertainers and the opportunity to craft a present for their special mom. And each Mom receives a gift from The Hudson Gardens to take home, too! Reservations required. Multiple seating times from 9AM-2:30PM. $20 adult, $12 child (ages 3-12). Phone 303-797-8565 Ext. 321.

...Koi Auction, Saturday, May 15, 2004...

Includes fish and merchandise for fish ponds. A great event for koi enthusiasts and a fun spectacle for the curious. From 9AM-12PM In partnership with the Rocky Mountain Koi Club.

...7th Annual AirLife Memorial 10K/5K Run, Sunday, May 16...

7th Annual AirLife Memorial 10K/5K Run is a continuing memorial to the heroic EMS providers who died in the 1997 helicopter crash. This event kicks off EMS Week, honoring police, fire and emergency service providers who risk their lives to save the lives of others. In partnership with AirLife Committee. From 8 AM – 4 PM. More information at www.airlifedenver.com.

...The Fab 4, Sunday, June 6, 2004...

Colorado’s premier Beatles tribute group. Hearken back to the days when four lads from Liverpool ruled the world. Come along on this Magical Mystery Tour--All you Need is Love! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.the-fab-4.com.

...New York Street Boys, Wednesday, June 9, 2004...

Fun for kids of all ages. Join in a high energy concert with the New York Street Boys, who play drums on everything-hard hats, trash cans-—and each other! Gates open at 5:00PM Concert starts at 6:00PM. All tickets are $5 general admission. More info at www.newyorkstreetboys.com.

...Firefall, Sunday, June 13, 2004...

This Colorado-based band with their mellow, easy, country/rock sound created top 40 hits, including You Are The Woman, Just Remember I Love You, Strange Way, and Cinderella. Firefall’s legacy endures because of the strength and integrity of their songs and flourishes because of the energy and spontaneity evident on stage. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.firefall.com.

...John Philip Sousa Band, June 15, 2004...

Recapturing the beauty of the past "golden age" of American bands, including big band swing, Broadway show tunes, classical, jazz, patriotic tunes, songs from the great wars, ragtime….and a polka or two! Gates open at 6PM, concert starts at 7PM. $4 adult. $2 child. More information at http://sousaband.tripod.com/.

...Happy 8th Birthday! Free Day! Tuesday, June 15...

Eight years old! My, how we've grown! Come appreciate this jewel of the South Metro community.

...Dotsero, Sunday, June 20, 2004...

According to Ute Indian legend, Dotsero is something unique. To jazz fans, Dotsero is smooth jazz at its best, full of life, spontaneity and energy that few artists in the genre have been able to match. Dotsero – undeniably something unique! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.dotsero.org.

...Jeffco Brass Ensemble, June 22, 2004...

A double brass quintet plays classical brass selections, big band, polkas, fanfares--and a little bit of Dixie, too! Gates open at 6PM, concert starts at 7PM. $4 adult. $2 child. More information at www.jeffcobrass.com.

...Art Guffaw, Wednesday, June 23, 2004...

Mr. Art Guffaw, a house painter who is afraid of color and cannot draw a straight line becomes a real artist with the help of a quirky but wise talking easel, a still life with a knack for dancing, and a talking chicken. Gates open at 5:00PM Concert starts at 6:00PM. All tickets are $5 general admission. More info at www.manitouarttheater.com/jim/jim.html.

...Lannie Garrett, RAINED OUT 6/27/04, RESCHDULED...

Lannie Garrett-Colorado's famous redhead-is a highly sought-after singer and entertainer, known for her comedic instincts and natural charisma. Named Favorite Female Vocalist six years in a row by Denver Post readers, Garrett has a large and loyal following. Lannie loves to entertain--and it shows! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.lannie.com.

...Sha Na Na, Saturday, July 3, 2004...

Sha Na Na has been putting the bop in the bop she-bop she-bop for over 30 years. If you loved the music of 1950s and 1960s, if you--or your kids--loved the movie Grease, you won't want to miss these icons of rock nostalgia! Put on your Chuck Taylor sneakers or a poodle skirt and bring the whole gang for a night of high energy doo-wop followed by our renowned fireworks display! Concert at 7:30PM. Tickets are $18 general admission. More info at www.shanana.com.

...Colorado Wind Ensemble, Sunday, July 4, 2004...

Comprised of forty woodwind, brass and percussion players, this ensemble group performs great works for bands and wind groups of all sizes from all eras, including renaissance motets, baroque organ works, classical chamber wind works, marches, military and symphonic band pieces, and compositions written for the modern wind ensemble. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.coloradowindensemble.org

...Hazel Miller, Sunday, July 11, 2004...

Our own First Lady of Soul, Hazel Miller has been lauded as not just a great singer, but a force of nature. Known as Denver’s Queen of the Blues, Hazel Miller has a powerful, gospel-based voice that generates enough power to light up Colorado! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.hazelmiller.com.

...Ms. Behavin', July 13, 2004...

International 9th place finalists, these four sassy gals make the most of life and four-part harmony. Their mission is to make you laugh, cry, sigh, cheer…and then go shopping! Gates open at 6PM, concert starts at 7PM. $4 adult. $2 child. More information at www.msbehavinquartet.com.

...The Denver Brass, SATURDAY, July 17, 2004...

We're the summer home for the Denver Brass! One of the few symphonic brass ensembles of its kind in the nation, the Denver Brass musicians are at the forefront of brass performance. From renaissance masterpieces to new works with a distinctive new-age Colorado sound, their music is a feast for the heart, mind and soul. The Denver Brass...they will blow you away! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.denverbrass.org.

...Wendy Woo, Sunday, July 18, 2004...

A one-woman music machine—Woo’s energy, soul, and wild child attitude, make her a media and fan favorite! Named Best Singer/Songwriter three years in a row by Westword, Woo is a passionate performer of many styles, from mellow jazz to folk-inspired ballads to down-n-dirty blues. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.wendywoo.com.

...Pinetop Perkins & Friends, SATURDAY, July 24, 2004...

Joe Willie Pinetop Perkins is widely recognized as the world's best blues piano player and one of the last great Mississippi bluesmen, creating a style of playing that has influenced three generations of piano players and will continue to be the yardstick by which blues pianists are measured. Pinetop IS the blues--and he's celebrating his 91st birthday on July 13, 2004. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. Part of Red, White & Blues Fest!

...Big Bill Morganfield, Sunday, July 25, 2004...

Morganfield, the son of Muddy Waters, definitely has the blues in his blood! With a distinctive, window-rattling voice and scintillating slide guitar, Morganfield is also a talented songwriter and performer. Guitar Player magazine sums it up by declaring, "Big Bill is a singer/songwriter who surely would have made Muddy smile." Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. Part of Red, White & Blues Fest!

...Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, Tuesday, July 27, 2004 ...

Featuring many of Denver's finest jazz musicians, the MJO does it all--from the toe-tapping, finger-snapping Big Band hits of 40's and 50's to sultry bossa novas to modern pop hits —and jazz too! Gates open at 6:00PM. Concert at 7:00PM. More information at www.metropolitanjazzorchestra.com.

...Bonnie Phipps & the Elastic Band, Wednesday, July 28, 2004...

Bonnie's gift for audience participation convinces everyone that the funnest things in the world are clapping, meowing, blowing kisses, swimming, making bubble gum stew, shaking pom-poms or singing along. Whether singing about monsters who are afraid of Children Under The Bed, a Dinosaur Choir, Best Friends, math, or the common cold, she works magic on kids who hang on her every word. Gates open at 5:00PM Concert starts at 6:00PM. All tickets are $5 general admission. More info at www.bonniephipps.com.

...The Nacho Men, Sunday, August 1, 2004...

Wacky, zany, crazy, and fun—swing, 50's, 60's, disco, and beyond... the band's musical repertoire is as varied as the performers. One of Colorado's best oldies bands, these guys dance the dance and shake their booty with costume changes, hysterical stage antics and great music from all eras. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.nachomen.com.

...Chris Daniels & the Kings...
...Halden Wofford & the Hi-Beams, Sunday, August 8, 2004...

Chris Daniels & the Kings: For nearly 20 years, Daniels and his band have performed a souped-up mix of jump blues, blue-eyed soul and horn-infused rock. The Kings bring new forms and new riffs to blues and R & B—a new lyrical energy to the music we love! More info at www.chrisdaniels.com.

Halden Wofford & the Hi-Beams: Passionate about “real country music”, the Hi-Beams’ high-energy shows feature an original and popular repertoire of honky-tonk and western swing a la Bob Wills, Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell, and others. More info at www.hibeams.com

Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12.

...After Midnight Swing Combo, August 10, 2004...

The Rocky Mountain Region's best small swing combo, After Midnight specializes in Benny Goodman's small combo sound of the 30s and 40s. Join us for an evening of the finest in jazz and swing entertainment!Gates open at 6PM, concert starts at 7PM. $4 adult. $2 child. More information at www.aftermidnight.20m.com/.

...Pan Jumbies, Sunday, August 15, 2004...

Immerse yourself in a Trinidad Carnival with the Pan Jumbies—pan for "finely-tuned steel drums of Trinidad and Tobago" and jumbie "Caribbean for spirit or ghost; a person possessed." Their Caribbean-style fusion and world beat music combines steel pan and calypso with soca funk bass and percussion into a new, acutely Caribbean sound. Shake your party bones! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.panjumbies.com.

...Japanese Festival & Koi Show, August 20-22...

Includes fish and merchandise for fish ponds. A great event for koi enthusiasts and a fun spectacle for the curious. In partnership with the Rocky Mountain Koi Club. More information at http://www.rmkc.org/show.htm.

...Colcannon, Sunday, August 22, 2004...

Decidedly some of the most exciting and entertaining Celtic sounds around today—soaring harmonies and uplifting songs give contemporary clout to romantic Irish traditions. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.colcannon.com.

...Jubilant Bridge, Tuesday, August 24, 2004...

A dulcimer wizard and a pure-voiced poet create a sparkling, harmony-driven sound that is fresh and innovative. Offering a surprising range of critically-acclaimed originals, contemporary songs, and instrumentals, this duo surprises audiences with counter melodies, changing time signatures, well-chosen dissonance, and their singing of what could be instrumental leads. Gates open at 6PM, concert starts at 7PM. $4 adult. $2 child. More information at www.jubilantbridge.com.

...The Denver Brass, Sunday, August 29, 2004...

We're the summer home for The Denver Brass! One of the few symphonic brass ensembles of its kind in the nation, the Denver Brass musicians are at the forefront of brass performance. From renaissance masterpieces to new works with a distinctive new-age Colorado sound, their music is a feast for the heart, mind and soul. The Denver Brass...they will blow you away! Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.denverbrass.org.

...Parade of Ponds, August 28-29...

A popular tour of water gardens at homes and businesses in the Denver area. A great way to get ideas for your own garden. More info at www.brdlandscape.com/colorado_parade_of_ponds_denver.html.

...The Erica Brown Band, Sunday, September 5, 2004...

Powerful and strong vocals, stinging guitar work, funky keyboards and a tight and solid rhythm section make up the blues/rock sound of The Erica Brown Band. Brown is a high-energy, high-spirited powerhouse with soaring vocal talent and a favorite in the Denver-area club circuit. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.ericabrownband.com.

...Onda, Tuesday, September 7, 2004...

This eight piece ensemble rooted in Afro Latin Jazz, playing traditional Afro-Cuban rumbas and salsas, jazz melodies and a wide range of Caribbean sounds. Onda (Spanish for "vibe") is about more than just music, presenting the relationship between music, audience and band, the collective spirit of the whole experience, and the respect and corazon of the Latin American family. Gates open at 6PM, concert starts at 7PM. $4 adult. $2 child. More information at www.ondalive.com.

...Free Day, Saturday, September 11, 2004...

Free admission to The Hudson Gardens is our gift to you. Come reflect and connect with nature, friends and the community.

...All Ford Extravaganza, Sunday, September 12, 2004...

Hundreds of Ford automobiles, live entertainment, kids' activities, silent auction, and hands-on demonstrations make this a perfect family outing. In partnership with the Early Ford V8 Club.

...The Hot Tomatoes Dance Orchestra, Sunday, September 12, 2004...

Hot Tomatoes Dance Orchestra recreate the sound and feeling of the Swing Era and the Great Jazz Age. From Ellington to Basie to Goodman, the Hot Tomatoes will put you In the Mood with Fascinatin' Rhythm! A nine-piece ensemble featuring sax, trumpets, trombone, piano, bass and drums, the Hot Tomatoes perform with precision, style and wit. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.hottomatoes.com.

...Lannie Garrett, Sunday, Sept. 19, 2004......

Colorado's famous redheaded singer and entertainer is back on our schedule after being rained out in June! June tickets for Lannie Garrett will be honored. Known for her comedic instincts and natural charisma, named Favorite Female Vocalist six years in a row by Denver Post readers, Garrett has a large and loyal following. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Concert start at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $7.50 nonmembers, $5 members, $2 children 3-12. More info at www.lannie.com.

...Oktoberfest, Sunday, Sept. 19, 2004...

Oompah! Look forward to bratwursts, pretzels, music, dancing, a biergarten, and traditional games in this favorite autumn celebration.

...Garden of Goodies Halloween, October 29-30, 2004...

Safe trick-or-treating around our lighted and decorated Oval Garden. In cooperation with local businesses.

...John Weller, Sunday, Nov. 14, 2004...

John Weller presents photos from his book Between Light and Shadow. Weller has photographed Great Sand Dunes National Park over a three year period and will speak about his experiences in this unique landscape. Tickets are $6, include refreshments, and are available by phone at 303-797-8565 x321 or at the door. John Fielder, originally scheduled for this date, had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. Fielder hopes you will enjoy Weller's photos as much as he does. More info at http://www.chieftain.com/life/1099387065/1.

...Lois LaFond & the Rockadiles, Sunday, Dec. 12, 2004...

Lois LaFond & the Rockadiles is a five-piece band for kids dedicated to making the best music for kids this side of Mars. Their live show paints a rainbow of words that kids love, messages that parents appreciate, and great world beat music that pulls it all together. This special concert is complete with a visit from Santa Claus following the performance. Gate opens at 4:30PM. Concert at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $7.50 adults, $5 members, $4 children. More information at www.loislafond.com

...Bill Barwick & The Sons of the Tumbleweed, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2004...

Twice nominated by the Academy of Western Artists, as Cowboy Music Male Vocalist of the Year, Bill Barwick weaves tales that transport a person right back to the trail ride. You can almost hear the leather of his saddle creak. Hailed as a cowboy's cowboy-song singer, and accompanied by his superb guitar work, Bill is not to be missed! Gate opens at 6PM. Concert at 7PM. Tickets are $7.50 adults, $5 members, $4 children. More information at www.barwicksvoice.com