As America commemorates its 250th anniversary and Colorado celebrates 150 years of statehood, Hudson Gardens will host a year-long series of programs and experiences exploring the people, industries, and traditions that shaped Colorado’s story. Set along the South Platte River, our 30-acre site offers a natural backdrop for engaging, place-based experiences that connect visitors to Colorado’s rich cultural and environmental heritage.
Red, White & ROCK! on July 3 will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with live music, fireworks, and family-friendly activities that bring the community together for a festive summer celebration.
Islands in Motion: A Polynesian Luau Experience on July 18 will feature live performances, music, food, cultural activities, and more, offering guests an immersive celebration of Polynesian culture and traditions.
As part of Western Welcome Week, Hudson Gardens will host a special Chris Janson concert on August 9, with tickets going on sale May 22.
Our seasonal G-scale model train will anchor Tracks Through Time, highlighting the arrival of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad in the 1870s and the important role railroads played in Colorado’s growth and development.
Families can also take part in A Summer of Discovery: Gnome Scavenger Hunt!, a free collaboration with the Carson Nature Center at South Platte Park. Spanning two South Suburban locations along the South Platte River, the scavenger hunt invites guests to follow clues inspired by nature, water, and regional history while exploring trails, historic buildings, and public art. Visitors can walk the scenic riverside route between locations or make the quick drive, all while discovering more about the land and people that shaped the region.
Tacos, Tequila & Tradition will celebrate Hispanic heritage and the early Spanish and Mexican influences that shaped Colorado through folkloric dance, music, and food traditions. More information and tickets will be available later this summer.
Together, these programs align strongly with History Colorado’s mission by making history accessible, interactive, and rooted in place—inviting visitors to celebrate Colorado’s past while experiencing it in meaningful and memorable ways.
