News and Views from the Heart of Teller County.

Tag: Woodland Park

  • 25th Annual TOUCH-A-TRUCK Day

    25th Annual TOUCH-A-TRUCK Day

    25th Annual TOUCH-A-TRUCK Day

    Wednesday, August 13 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Meadow Wood Sports Complex, Woodland Park
    Free Event

    emergency service vehicle. Closeup view

    Get ready for a morning full of horns, sirens, and smiles at the 25th Annual TOUCH-A-TRUCK Day, hosted by The Resource Exchange (TRE)! This exciting, hands-on event invites kids of all ages to climb inside, crawl through, and explore more than 20 big trucks and emergency vehicles.

    From fire engines and ambulances to a real helicopter, school buses, and even a snowplow, this is a rare chance to get up close to the vehicles that help keep our community running. You’ll also spot police cars, dump trucks, a JTLV military vehicle, backhoes, a street sweeper, and more.

    Whether your kid dreams of driving a bulldozer or sounding the siren on a fire truck, this event puts them right in the driver’s seat—literally.

    Helpful Tip: If anyone in your family is sensitive to noise, please bring noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs. Some vehicles may sound their horns or sirens during the event.

    Yellow excavator on a construction site against blue sky. The modern excavator performs excavation work on the construction site

    About the Host: The Resource Exchange (TRE)

    TRE is proud to serve approximately 13,000 individuals of all ages throughout El Paso, Pueblo, Teller, and Park counties. Advocating for independence and inclusion, TRE partners with children and adults with disabilities, delays, mental health, or long-term care needs. Using a person-centered approach, TRE coordinates care, promotes choice, and collaborates with over 200 community partners to increase opportunities for those they serve.

    TOUCH-A-TRUCK Day is just one of many events where TRE brings families, partners, and the community together to learn, connect, and have fun.

  • Sofia’s Antojitos Opens in Woodland Park to Rave Reviews

    Sofia’s Antojitos Opens in Woodland Park to Rave Reviews

    ffordable, flavorful Mexican street food arrives in the heart of town

    Sofia’s Antojitos, a fast-casual Mexican spot known for big flavor and friendly service, has opened its doors at 727 Gold Hill Place South, right where the old Italian restaurant used to be.

    This is not your average taco joint. Locals are already loving the variety, the price, and the vibe.

    “WP finally got an order-at-the-counter, fast, affordable, hole-in-the-wall-feeling Mexican restaurant. The food is incredible.”

    The word antojitos means “little cravings” in Spanish, and Sofia’s menu is full of them. From birria tacos and sopes to quesabirria and the fan-favorite pizzabirria, every item is packed with flavor. There are also tortas, flautas, papas locas, and plenty of other crave-worthy dishes to explore. Pair it with a cold margarita and enjoy the patio seating for a perfect afternoon or evening bite.

    Customers are also praising the friendly staff and clean, inviting space.

    “We got to meet the manager, Eddie, and he was super friendly and helpful. Everything came out fast, the place is clean and looks great.”

    “Love the open space, patio seating, and yummy birria tacos!”

    Sofia’s has two highly rated locations in Colorado Springs, and the Woodland Park community seems excited to welcome their newest addition. It’s fast, it’s fresh, and it already feels like a local favorite.

    If you are hungry for something flavorful and filling, Sofia’s Antojitos is definitely worth checking out.

  • TCRAS Launches Summer Push to “Empty the Shelters”

    TCRAS Launches Summer Push to “Empty the Shelters”

    Reduced adoption fees and plenty of loving pets looking for a second chance

    The kennels are full, the tails are wagging, and the folks at Teller County Regional Animal Shelter (TCRAS) are hoping this summer is the start of a whole lot of new beginnings.

    Starting this week and running through July 19, TCRAS is participating in the #EmptyTheShelters adoption event in partnership with the BISSELL Pet Foundation. That means drastically reduced adoption fees for all animals one year and older, giving families the chance to welcome home a new best friend at a fraction of the usual cost.

    TCRAS, located in Divide, serves the Pikes Peak region as a limited-admission, no-kill shelter, helping over 900 animals a year who are lost, abandoned, or in need of a second chance. Every dog and cat that enters the shelter receives the time, medical care, and training needed to find a forever home. And until that home comes along, the team at TCRAS is committed to caring for each animal like one of their own.

    Right now, the shelter is full of wonderful dogs and cats waiting to start their next chapter. If you’ve been thinking about adding a four-legged family member, now is the time.

    You can browse adoptable pets at www.tcrascolorado.org and schedule a visit by calling 719-686-7707.

    Every adoption makes room for another animal in need. Help TCRAS spread a little more hope—and maybe bring home your new best friend while you’re at it.

  • Police Respond to Late-Night Incident in Woodland Park; No Crime Suspected

    Police Respond to Late-Night Incident in Woodland Park; No Crime Suspected

    WOODLAND PARK, CO – July 6, 2025
    Woodland Park Police responded to a late-night call near 110 Reserve on Saturday, July 5, after reports of a person bleeding heavily from the head and neck.

    The victim was found partially incoherent and was treated on scene by medics. Due to the nature of the injuries and the limited information available at the time, officers initially treated the situation as a potential violent crime. The area was taped off, and a crime scene was established out of caution.

    As the investigation unfolded overnight, officers determined there was no evidence to suggest a criminal act had occurred. Based on new information, it appears the injuries were the result of an accidental fall, with alcohol being a contributing factor.

    According to the police, no crime is currently being investigated. However, they noted that the case remains open to updates should new information arise.

    The identity and current condition of the victim have not been released.

  • America’s Mountain Festival Brought Big Music and Mixed Reactions to Woodland Park

    America’s Mountain Festival Brought Big Music and Mixed Reactions to Woodland Park

    WOODLAND PARK, CO – July 5, 2025
    The first-ever America’s Mountain Festival hit Woodland Park on Saturday, bringing a full day of country music, food vendors, and live entertainment to town. With a headlining performance from Ned LeDoux, and sets from Curtis Grimes, Michael Martin Murphey, and Jon Wolfe, the festival ran from 1:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and drew fans from across the region.

    For many, it was a summer highlight. But for some nearby residents, the event struck a sour note.

    Not Everyone Was Tapping Their Toes

    While plenty of festivalgoers enjoyed the day, others in surrounding neighborhoods expressed frustration about the volume and how long the music lasted. Complaints started showing up on Facebook not long after the last guitar strum.

    One commenter wrote:

    “Absolutely ridiculous. Twelve hours of bass shaking my home was not okay. Still recovering from the migraine it gave me. Seriously who’s bright idea was that? Never again.”

    Another shared:

    “So happy it’s over. Four hours and some free music during the day is one thing. But twelve hours blasting directly behind my home? … I couldn’t get my kid down. Couldn’t have the door open for fresh air because it was so loud. The loud drumming freaked my dog out.”

    What Happens Next?

    Large events often come with trade-offs. For a community like Woodland Park that values both peace and celebration, those trade-offs can spark strong reactions. While the festival brought energy and economic activity to town, the noise complaints may prompt some rethinking.

    As of now, festival organizers and the City have not made any public statements about future events or changes. Whether America’s Mountain Festival becomes a yearly tradition or a one-time event, it seems clear that local input will be a key part of the conversation moving forward.

  • Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center Hosts Annual Arts & Craft Fest

    Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center Hosts Annual Arts & Craft Fest

    Support local makers, meet artists, and enjoy a day of creative fun in Woodland Park

    If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday in Woodland Park, make your way to the outdoor plaza at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center for their annual Arts & Craft Fest. It all happens on Saturday, July 5, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 201 S Fairview St, Woodland Park.

    This family-friendly market brings together local makers, artists, and nature lovers for a day filled with shopping, learning, and good mountain air. Whether you’re after handmade soap, fine art, or a refreshing mocktail, you’ll find it here.

    This year’s lineup of exhibitors includes:

    • Fountain Creek Nature Center – Interactive wildlife display with pelts, skulls, and antlers
    • Jantzen Peake – Local artist with bold and creative work
    • Katharina Mace – Illustrator with a colorful, distinctive style
    • Peg Lawson – Fresh Start Handmade Soaps
    • John Patterson – Artist and author sharing stories and artwork
    • Crafted Beardsman – Beard care goods and handcrafted mocktails
    • Peak Art – Fine art, paintings, graphic T-shirts, and handmade jewelry

    The RMDRC Arts & Craft Fest is a great way to spend the day with friends and family, support local creatives, and explore something new. Come for the art, stay for the dinosaurs.

  • Harriette and The Harmony Set to Rock Midland Pavilion In Woodland Park This July

    Harriette and The Harmony Set to Rock Midland Pavilion In Woodland Park This July

    Free community concert in Woodland Park with drinks, food, and classic hits

    Clear your calendar for Wednesday, July 9, because Harriette and The Harmony are bringing the party to The Midland Pavilion at the Ute Pass Cultural Center in Woodland Park. This free community concert is open to the public and promises a night full of music, dancing, and good vibes in the mountain air.

    Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the concert starting at 6:00 p.m. sharp. Come early, grab a drink from Woodies Bar, and get in line at the Firehouse on the Run Food Truck, both up and running when doors open.

    Thanks to the support of Pikes Peak Credit Union, this event is completely free to attend.

    Harriette and The Harmony is a high-energy Colorado rock cover band led by powerhouse vocalist Harriette Saide. Their setlist is packed with danceable hits from legendary artists like Boston, U2, Prince, Heart, The Bangles, and more. Whether you’re into classic rock or just looking for a fun way to spend a summer evening, this is a show that delivers.

    Bring your lawn chair, bring your friends, and come enjoy live music under the evening sky.

  • Woodland Park’s Old Fashioned 4th of July Returns for its 59th Year

    Woodland Park’s Old Fashioned 4th of July Returns for its 59th Year

    Games, parades, pie, and patriotism in Memorial Park

    There’s no better place to spend Independence Day than Memorial Park in Woodland Park, where the 59th Annual Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration is set to bring the community together for a full day of family-friendly fun.

    This year’s celebration takes place on Friday, July 4, 2025, and runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (note the earlier start time for this year only). The change is to accommodate two exciting partners — the Arts & Crafts Market and the Children’s Entrepreneur Market, both running from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Farmers Market will take this weekend off.

    This hometown favorite offers a mix of small-town charm and big summer energy, with games, vendors, live music, great food, beer, and margaritas all packed into one festive day.

    Games and Activities

    Get ready to compete, cheer, or just laugh along at a full lineup of old-school games and contests, including:

    • Pie Eating Contest
    • Watermelon Eating Contest
    • Tug of War
    • Sack Races
    • 3-on-3 Basketball
    • Karaoke
    • Line Dancing
    • Fishing Derby
    • Dunk Tank
    • New this year: All American Costume Parade
    • Firework Show (Starts just after sunset)

    Whether you’re there to win the pie-eating crown or just want to see someone get dunked, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

    Community-Focused and Fundraising-Driven

    In true Teller County fashion, this celebration is also about giving back. Proceeds from the event support Divide Mountain Explorers, the Lions Club, and the Colorado Phoenix Project. So every funnel cake, raffle ticket, or cold drink helps support a good cause.

    Between the local vendors, homemade crafts, and entrepreneurial kids showing off their business skills, this year’s celebration is shaping up to be one of the best yet.

    Come early, bring sunscreen, and enjoy a classic 4th of July the Woodland Park way.

  • Sofia’s Antojitos Bringing Mexican Street Food to Woodland Park

    Sofia’s Antojitos Bringing Mexican Street Food to Woodland Park

    Pizzabirria, papas locas, and more are on the way to Teller County.

    Woodland Park is about to get a fresh dose of flavor. Sofia’s Antojitos, a popular Mexican street food spot with two highly rated locations in Colorado Springs, is expanding to Teller County with a brand-new restaurant set to open at 727 Gold Hill Place South, the former home of Mountainara Cucina.

    While the official opening date hasn’t been announced yet, but a liquor license has been issued, the remodel is progressing, and hiring is underway. Sofia’s is known for its bold, crave-worthy menu and its signature take on Mexican street fare. If you’ve never been, “Antojitos” translates roughly to little cravings, and the menu is full of exactly that.

    Expect a variety of tortas, flautas, elotes, papas locas (a loaded fries dish that lives up to the “crazy” name), and fan favorites like birria tacos and the now-legendary pizzabirria, a cross between a quesadilla, and pizza (with birria, of course).

    Both existing locations in Colorado Springs carry 4.6+ star ratings on Google, and locals swear by the food. This new Woodland Park location marks the restaurant’s first move above 8000 feet, and it’s already generating buzz from locals eager to try something new in town.

    Sofia’s is currently hiring, though no wage info has been shared publicly yet. Whether you’re looking for a job or just a plate of papas locas, it’s a spot worth keeping an eye on.

    We’ll share opening details as soon as they’re available.