Sure, the bars are fun, but you can only wait in line for Bondi and pay the minimum at Rec Room so many nights in a row. If you’re looking to avoid the blinding lights of last call this weekend, check out these totally cultured, off-beat activities instead.
1. Get Inspired at Art Night (or any other event) at the Downtown Artery
Art night is basically the coolest house party you actually want to go to. The music is live, bar fully stocked, and winding 2-story space decorated with rotating local art exhibitions. There’s an activity for everyone: from T-shirt screen-printing to DIY painting stations, this gathering is a way more creative way to spend your Friday night while still enjoying all the perks of going out. The best part? Admission is free for all ages!
The next art night is March 9. The Artery also hosts a number of other events including burlesque, creative workshops, and weekly Wednesday open mic nights.
2. Eat, Drink, and Muse during the city’s First Friday Art Walks
Old Town itself is a living work of art, what with brightly painted pianos and ever-changing murals. Just when the bright flowers can’t weather the cold anymore, the streets are sheathed in twinkling lights, too.
From 6 to 9 p.m. on the first Friday of each month a number of galleries stay open late to showcase new pieces, interactive exhibits, and artist talks. Check here for a list of participating galleries, as some creators opt in and out each month.
(Bonus: This cultured evening doesn’t even require you skip out on the bars...you can route your tour to end anywhere downtown!)
3. Stargaze with Professionals
Whether you’re taking date night up a notch or just looking for fun with friends, break out the blankets, sit back, and enjoy!
Every third Friday, volunteers from the NoCo Astronomical Society break out their fancy telescopes and play star guide for the night. Although the event is free, registration is required.
4. See a Show at the Lincoln Center
While the Aggie, Hodi’s Half Note, and Avogadro’s Number are concert venue staples in Fort Collins, the Lincoln Center offers a unique selection of professional music, dance, and theatre.
Upcoming highlights: Black Jacket Symphony playing a rendition of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon March 9, Women Rock the Night March 16, and Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None beginning March 31.
The Lincoln Center also hosts free rotating art exhibitions open until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and occasional arts education classes.
5. Self-Reflect at a Meditation Center
For those really serious about spending their weekend evenings on self-growth and healthy habits, Fort Collins boasts a handful of unique meditation centers.
Shambhala is quite the large community with centers around the nation. The Fort Collins center offers free meditation four times a week, but their monthly calendar has lots of other events, especially on Thursday evenings.
Heruka is a smaller organization serving Wyoming and Northern Colorado. They offer free guided meditation on Tuesdays and a handful of other free events each month. Weekend events and workshops, like the Refuge program that runs both Friday evening March 2 and through Saturday March 3, require an online RSVP.