Colorado became a state on August 1, 1876. That was 150 years ago today, which makes this Colorado's sesquicentennial — a milestone the state has been building toward all year. In Colorado Springs, the celebration is happening right now, and it is free.

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, at 215 S. Tejon Street in downtown Colorado Springs, is hosting a full day of family activities through 4 p.m. today. There is no admission charge, and no advance registration is required. Families can park downtown and walk to the museum.

The Context: Colorado's 150th Year

Colorado was admitted to the Union as the 38th state on August 1, 1876, earning it the nickname "The Centennial State" — it joined during the nation's centennial year. The 150th anniversary falls in 2026, which also marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, creating a statewide dual celebration that Colorado Springs has marked throughout the summer.

The City of Colorado Springs has maintained a Colorado 150 programming page at coloradosprings.gov/America250Colorado150 throughout the year. Today's Pioneers Museum event is among the signature local celebrations of the milestone. The museum itself has deep roots in the city's founding story and serves as a fitting venue for a day that is as much about reflecting on where Colorado Springs came from as it is about celebrating where it is today.

What's Next

Today's event runs through 4 p.m. at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, 215 S. Tejon Street. It is free and open to the public. The museum's regular programming — including the new "Freedom to Thrive" exhibit — continues beyond today. Hours and details at cspm.org.

Colorado's 150th statehood anniversary programming continues across the state through the year. For families who miss today's event, the museum and the city's America 250 / Colorado 150 pages will have ongoing programming details through the fall.