This week includes a strong lineup of outdoor and nature-focused family events in Colorado Springs — and Friday, July 25 in particular stacks up nicely if you're looking for options. Here's what's worth your attention this week.

Friday, July 25

Friday is the standout day this week, with three distinct events ranging from a morning nature walk to a late-night bug watch.

Bumblebee Program at Bear Creek Nature Center

Community scientist Susan Crick leads a guided bumblebee program from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Bear Creek Nature Center (245 Bear Creek Rd.). The session covers how to identify bumblebees, how they pollinate wildflowers and vegetables, how to create backyard habitat, and why populations are declining.

Cost is $5 per person, and prepaid registration is required. This is a good fit for kids who are curious about insects or pollinators — and for parents who want to learn alongside them. Look for registration details through El Paso County Nature Centers or contact Bear Creek Nature Center directly.

Zinnia Days at Gather Mountain Blooms

Gather Mountain Blooms opens its zinnia field for a pick-your-own event from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday at 5210 South U.S. Highway 85-87. General admission is $10 per person (children under 6 are free), which gets you into the field to explore and pick. The $25 Cup of Flowers upgrade includes biodegradable snips and up to 20 stems to take home — a good option if you want to actually walk away with a bouquet.

The event also has Good Gracious Coffee, 4th Avenue Crepes, a mini makers market, and floral cocktails on-site, so there's plenty to do beyond the flowers. Online booking is recommended at gathermountainblooms.com.

Sheet Lighting Night with Mile High Bug Club

For families with older kids or night-owl tendencies, the Mile High Bug Club is hosting a Sheet Lighting Night at Fountain Creek Nature Center (south of Colorado Springs) starting at 8:30 p.m. and running until midnight. A naturalist guides the group through watching moths, beetles, and other nocturnal insects drawn to a lit sheet — it's genuinely fascinating once you're out there.

Admission is free, but an RSVP is required. Call 719-520-6745 or visit elpasocountynaturecenters.com to reserve your spot. This event works best for kids who can handle the late hour, and for families who want something genuinely out of the ordinary.

What's Next

For the Friday events, registration matters — the Bumblebee Program and Sheet Lighting Night both require advance sign-up, and the Zinnia Days recommend booking ahead. If you're planning on attending any of them, it's worth locking in your spots today or tomorrow. For Bear Creek and Fountain Creek events, El Paso County Nature Centers (elpasocountynaturecenters.com) is your go-to resource for scheduling and contact info.