Boulder/Louisville/Longmont Area Events

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Upcoming Events:

Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 1:00-2:00 pm (in-person)
The Roots of Rock ’n’ Roll
Emerging as a powerful force on the American music scene in the 1950’s, Rock music has evolved over the decades and now includes many variations that sound pretty different from the likes of Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley and Little Richard. Join Active Minds as we return to the roots of Rock ‘n’ Roll and trace its history and cultural impact through the years. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: West Age Well Center, 909 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80302... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-441-3148

Saturday, September 13, 2025, 10:00-11:00 am Mountain Time (webinar)
The Erie Canal
The Erie Canal was an engineering marvel that altered the course of the early history of the United States. The Canal, once thought to be an impossible task, changed the economic profile of the country and provided a major catalyst for industrialization and growth. The Canal’s story is a tapestry of backroom political dealings, surging boomtowns, and surveyors who had never worked on a canal project. Join Active Minds as we discuss one of the most influential and impressive feats of civil engineering in American history. This event is sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.
Host: Anthem Ranch, 16151 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
To Join Program: A few minutes before the program start time click here to join the live webinar (when prompted to join audio, select computer or internet audio).
Other: If for any reason you are unable to use the webinar link above, it is possible to join by phone with audio only. For info on dialing in using your phone click here for audio only dial-in instructions.

Monday, September 15, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Scotland
The northernmost territory of Great Britain and the United Kingdom, Scotland has its own fierce national identity and deep historical ties with the United States due to centuries of Scottish emigration. The future of Scotland is uncertain, however, given the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union and calls for second vote on independence (a first vote was narrowly defeated in 2014). Join Active Minds as we explore Scotland’s history, its current situation, and its uncertain future.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

* * * Special Event * * *
Thursday, September 18, 2025, 2:00-4:00 pm (2:00 reception, 2:30 program) (in-person)
The War of 1812
Twenty-nine years after the end of the American Revolution, conflict between Great Britain and the young United States flared up again. The War of 1812 broke out for a variety of reasons, including Britain’s seizure of American ships, impressment of American sailors into the British navy and restriction of trade between the United States and France. Join Active Minds as we explore the impact this war had on our young nation.
Location: Brookdale Meridian Boulder, 801 Gillaspie Dr, Boulder, CO 80305... map
Cost: Free
RSVP required (limited seating): 303-494-3900
Other: Refreshments served.

Monday, September 22, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
History of Movies
At the turn of the 20th century, inventions by Thomas Edison and others introduced a new art form to the world: motion pictures. From the early era of Nickelodeons and silent films to the era of “talkies” and the growth of Hollywood, movies went from a mere fad to an industry. Now, with the introduction of streaming services like Netflix, films are evolving once again. Join Active Minds as we roll out the red carpet and tell the story of movies.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, September 22, 2025, 3:00-4:00 pm (in-person)
South Africa: From Apartheid to Global Citizen
Join Active Minds as we explore the history of South Africa, its struggle with race and its journey to rejoin the international community since apartheid ended in 1994. We will discuss the pivotal role played by Nelson Mandela, the impact of immigration/colonialism, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and other important aspects of this story. We will end with a look at the current events, challenges, and opportunities for South Africa. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: East Age Well Center, 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder, CO 80303... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-413-7290

Monday, September 29, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Marshall Plan
In the wake of World War II, the United States invested over $13 billion to help rebuild Western Europe. The Marshall Plan, as it came to be known, not only helped Europe and the world recover economically, but also served to strengthen post war alliances for the U.S., providing an important balance against Soviet power as the Cold War era began. Join Active Minds as we review this historic initiative and discuss its relevance in the world today.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Thursday, October 2, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm (in-person)
The Erie Canal
The Erie Canal was an engineering marvel that altered the course of the early history of the United States. The Canal, once thought to be an impossible task, changed the economic profile of the country and provided a major catalyst for industrialization and growth. The Canal’s story is a tapestry of backroom political dealings, surging boomtowns, and surveyors who had never worked on a canal project. Join Active Minds as we discuss one of the most influential and impressive feats of civil engineering in American history.
Location: The Pearl at Boulder Creek, 2525 Taft Dr, Boulder, CO 80302... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: 720-565-6844
Other: Refreshments will be served.

* * * Special Event * * *
Friday, October 3, 2025, 1:00-3:00 pm (1:00 reception, 1:30-2:30 program) (in-person)
The Refugee Crisis
Millions of refugees are fleeing from danger zones in Sudan, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Venezuela and elsewhere, creating a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions while solutions remain complex and politically fraught. Join Active Minds as we explore the causes, impacts and global responses to one of the defining humanitarian issues of our time.
Location: Sunrise at Flatirons, 400 Summit Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80021... map
Cost: Free
Info: 303-466-2422
Parking: Complimentary parking is available. Call 303-466-2422 and ask for the Concierge for details.

Monday, October 6, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
The Story of Beer
Join Active Minds as we tell the story of beer. We will discuss the origins and history of beer, how it is made, different types of beer, as well as the rise of several great American brewers and beer families. We will end with a discussion of the current trends of microbrews and craft beers and their strong Colorado connections. Cheers!
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 1:00-2:00 pm (in-person)
Salem Witches
In 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts an extraordinary series of events coupled with the hysterical reaction of the community, resulted in what is referred to as the Salem Witch Hunt. Hundreds of individuals were tried for the crime of witchcraft and many were executed as a result. Join Active Minds as we seek to understand this astounding moment in our country's early history. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: West Age Well Center, 909 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80302... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-441-3148

Saturday, October 11, 2025, 10:00-11:00 am Mountain Time (webinar)
Salem Witches
In 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts an extraordinary series of events coupled with the hysterical reaction of the community, resulted in what is referred to as the Salem Witch Hunt. Hundreds of individuals were tried for the crime of witchcraft and many were executed as a result. Join Active Minds as we seek to understand this astounding moment in our country's early history. This event is sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.
Host: Anthem Ranch, 16151 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
To Join Program: A few minutes before the program start time click here to join the live webinar (when prompted to join audio, select computer or internet audio).
Other: If for any reason you are unable to use the webinar link above, it is possible to join by phone with audio only. For info on dialing in using your phone click here for audio only dial-in instructions.

Monday, October 13, 2025, 1:30-2:30 pm (in-person)
Native Americans of Colorado
Join Active Minds as we tell the stories of the original inhabitants of Colorado. From Mesa Verde to the high plains, we will trace the civilizations of the Ute, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Pueblo and other tribes as we seek to understand Colorado's Native American history and legacy.
Location: Broomfield Public Library, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: Not required

Monday, October 13, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
The Music of Elton John
One of the best-selling musicians of all time, Sir Elton John’s music and showmanship has had a significant impact on popular music. From his partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin to his work on Broadway musicals to his AIDS charity work and tribute to Princess Diana, Elton John has been an integral part of modern pop and music culture. Join Active Minds as we explore the life and music of this iconic British singer, songwriter, and pianist.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, October 27, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Salem Witches
In 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts an extraordinary series of events coupled with the hysterical reaction of the community, resulted in what is referred to as the Salem Witch Hunt. Hundreds of individuals were tried for the crime of witchcraft and many were executed as a result. Join Active Minds as we seek to understand this astounding moment in our country's early history.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, October 27, 2025, 3:00-4:00 pm (in-person)
Native Americans of Colorado
Join Active Minds as we tell the stories of the original inhabitants of Colorado. From Mesa Verde to the high plains, we will trace the civilizations of the Ute, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Pueblo and other tribes as we seek to understand Colorado's Native American history and legacy. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: East Age Well Center, 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder, CO 80303... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-413-7290

Monday, November 3, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Sand Creek Massacre
In November 1864, a 700-man force of the Colorado Territory militia attacked and destroyed a peaceful village of Native Americans in southeastern Colorado Territory, killing many innocent people. Join Active Minds as we tell this important and painful story of the Sand Creek Massacre and the scandal and controversy that it created.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, November 10, 2025, 1:30-2:30 pm (in-person)
Saudi Arabia
With over 20% of the world's proven oil reserves, Saudi Arabia continues to be important to the global economy. Join Active Minds as we tell the story of this complex nation. We will cover Saudi history, the recent generational transition of power in the Saudi Royal family, and the complicated role played by the Wahhabi school of Sunni Islamic thought in the country and the region.
Location: Broomfield Public Library, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: Not required

Monday, November 10, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Primary Colors in Music
Colors play a prominent role in our lives, influencing our thinking, inspiring our decision-making, and impacting our moods. Musicians have long made connections between colors and music. Whether colors are a metaphor for an emotion (blue is sadness, red is passion) or lyrics describe specific color instances that have deeper meaning, color references are common in both classical and popular music. Join Active Minds as we explore the primary colors in music: blue, yellow, and red, with many musical samples along the way.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 1:00-2:00 pm (in-person)
Winston Churchill
As one of the key architects of the Allied victory in World War II, Winston Churchill is widely regarded as one of the most important political leaders of the 20th century. Join Active Minds as we examine Churchill’s life before becoming prime minister of England, his years in the job, and his lasting impact on his country and the world. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: West Age Well Center, 909 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80302... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-441-3148

Thursday, November 13, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Marshall Plan
In the wake of World War II, the United States invested over $13 billion to help rebuild Western Europe. The Marshall Plan, as it came to be known, not only helped Europe and the world recover economically, but also served to strengthen post war alliances for the U.S., providing an important balance against Soviet power as the Cold War era began. Join Active Minds as we review this historic initiative and discuss its relevance in the world today.
Host: Arapahoe Library District
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Registration information coming soon
Info: Call the library at 303-542-7279 or e-mail Ashley at amitchel@ald.lib.co.us for help or information.

Thursday, November 13, 2025, 7:00-8:00 pm (in-person)
The Civil War: Causes & Effects
It’s been more than a century and a half since the end of the Civil War. Join Active Minds for a look at what caused the war and how our country was changed as a result. This program will not attempt to cover the military conflict in any significant detail, but rather will focus on what preceded and followed it.
Location: Louisville Public Library, Louisville Public Library, 951 Spruce St, Louisville, CO 80027... map
Cost: Free
Registration required: Click here or call 303-335-4849

Monday, November 17, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Thanksgiving
As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, join Active Minds for a program on the history and origins of the holiday and its associated traditions. We will have some fun as we dress the turkey and open up the cranberry sauce. We will also examine the way in which the celebration of the holiday has changed and continues to change.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, November 24, 2025, 3:00-4:00 pm (in-person)
The War of 1812
Twenty-nine years after the end of the American Revolution, conflict between Great Britain and the young United States flared up again. The War of 1812 broke out for a variety of reasons, including Britain’s seizure of American ships, impressment of American sailors into the British navy and restriction of trade between the United States and France. Join Active Minds as we explore the impact this war had on our young nation. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: East Age Well Center, 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder, CO 80303... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-413-7290

Monday, December 1, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Benjamin Franklin
As perhaps one of the most colorful Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin lived a life of lasting impact. As politician, publisher, inventor and diplomat, Franklin left his mark on all he touched. Join Active Minds as we trace the life of this extraordinary man and tell some of the stories that mark his legacy.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, December 8, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Pompeii
Preserved by the eruption of nearby Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE, the city of Pompeii is a unique window into the life of first century Roman Empire. Archeologists are able to show us daily life, art, architecture and culture through Pompeii’s remarkable ruins, bringing to life both its dramatic destruction and its extraordinary rediscovery. Join Active Minds as we investigate the history and life of this international trading port and explore the legacy of the ancient Roman world.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Tuesday, December 9, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm (in-person)
Pompeii
Preserved by the eruption of nearby Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE, the city of Pompeii is a unique window into the life of first century Roman Empire. Archeologists are able to show us daily life, art, architecture and culture through Pompeii’s remarkable ruins, bringing to life both its dramatic destruction and its extraordinary rediscovery. Join Active Minds as we investigate the history and life of this international trading port and explore the legacy of the ancient Roman world.
Location: Northglenn Senior Center, 1 East Memorial Parkway, CO 80233... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: 303-450-8801

Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 1:00-2:00 pm (in-person)
Egypt
After briefly flirting with democracy in the aftermath of the 2011 Arab Spring that toppled the authoritarian regime of Hosni Mubarak, Egypt returned to a militarily backed governance under President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi who has ruled the nation since 2014. Join Active Minds as we explore the history of Egypt and the role it plays in the current Middle East, including its border with Gaza and Israel. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: West Age Well Center, 909 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80302... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-441-3148

Monday, December 15, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Story of Toys
Join Active Minds as we trace the evolution of toys, from ancient handmade dolls to modern high-tech creations. We will explore how toys reflect culture, technology, and childhood through time, while connecting them to the broader history of play.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

Monday, December 22, 2025, 3:00-4:00 pm (in-person)
Van Gogh
Join Active Minds for a journey into the life and art of Vincent Van Gogh, whose painting career spanned only 10 years, during which time he produced over 900 paintings, selling only one. We will explore the many challenges of his relatively short and troubled life as well as explore the mystery of his death and the lasting impact of his art. This event is sponsored by Brookdale Meridian Boulder.
Location: East Age Well Center, 5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder, CO 80303... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: City of Boulder Older Adult Services: 303-413-7290

Monday, December 29, 2025, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Spices
From the bland diets of Europeans in the early 16th century to the myriad of culinary flavors available today, spices have had a huge impact in the world. Join Active Minds as we trace the rise of spices from colonialism and the spice trade to the hundreds of varieties that are commonly stocked in nearby supermarkets.
Host: Jefferson County Public Library
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Click here to register. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 30 minutes before the program. This link will work for this and all future Jefferson County Public Library Active Minds programs, so you only need to register once if you save the link for future programs.
Info: Call the library at 303-235-5275 for help or information

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