Boulder/Louisville/Longmont Area Events

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Upcoming Events:

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

Monday, January 5, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
New York City
There’s no place in the world quite like New York City. From Broadway to Wall Street, Little Italy to Central Park, New York has a history and an energy all its own. Join Active Minds as we virtually visit one of the world’s most important cities. We’ll explore the city’s past and present, as well as the important people and places that have shaped this unique city.
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, January 8, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm (in-person)
Georgia O’Keeffe
Born in Wisconsin in 1887, Georgia O’Keeffe would emerge at a young age as a promising artist. Eventually she would come to be renowned for her abstraction of natural forms such as flowers, clouds and, perhaps most famously, desert spaces of the American Southwest. Join Active Minds as we trace the outlines of one of the most prominent figures in 20th Century modern art.
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, January 9, 2026, 2:00-4:00 pm (2:00 reception, 2:30-3:30 program) (in-person)
New York City
There’s no place in the world quite like New York City. From Broadway to Wall Street, Little Italy to Central Park, New York has a history and an energy all its own. Join Active Minds as we virtually visit one of the world’s most important cities. We’ll explore the city’s past and present, as well as the important people and places that have shaped this unique city.
Location: MorningStar of Boulder , 575 Tantra Dr, Boulder, CO 80305... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: 720-545-5868
Other: Refreshments will be served.

Saturday, January 10, 2026, 10:00-11:00 am 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. 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, January 12, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
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.
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, January 14, 2026, 1:00-2:00 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. 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

* * * Special Event * * *
Thursday, January 15, 2026, 2:00-4:00 pm (2:00 reception, 2:30 program) (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.
Location: Brookdale Meridian Boulder, 801 Gillaspie Dr, Boulder, CO 80305... map
Cost: Free
RSVP required (limited seating): 303-494-3900
Other: Refreshments served.

Monday, January 26, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Tibet
With an average elevation higher than the tallest peaks of Colorado, Tibet has been called the "Roof of the World." Join Active Minds as we explore the history and controversy that surrounds this unique region. China claims that Tibet has been part of China for centuries, while many Tibetans maintain that China illegally invaded the independent country in 1949. We will cover the role of the Dalai Lama, the views of China and the international community as we seek to understand the situation there.
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, January 26, 2026, 3:00-4:00 pm (in-person)
Coffee: A Brief History
Join us as we trace the history of coffee from its origins in Ethiopia to the Starbucks around the corner. It is a fascinating story of politics, power, chance and intrigue. We will also examine coffee's cultural influences as well as the differences between various types of coffee. Cream and sugar not included. 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, February 2, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
The Music of Tina Turner
Often known as “The Queen of Rock and Roll,” Tina Turner rocketed to music stardom in the 1960s. In the words of one critic, as she combined “the sheer emotional force of the great blues singers with a sheer, wallpaper-peeling power that seemed made to order for the age of amplification”. Her over 60 years of music, initially with her partner Ike Turner and then solo, showcased her vocal prowess, swagger, and energetic sensuality. Join Active Minds as we explore the extraordinary life and music of this legend who passed away in 2023 at the age of 83.
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 * * *
Friday, February 6, 2026, 1:00-3:00 pm (1:00 reception, 1:30-2:30 program) (in-person)
The Olympic Games
As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano begin, join Active Minds as we explore the rich history of the Olympic Games and how they have been involved in a variety of international political issues over the years. Born of diplomatic and political design, the Olympics have always played an important role in international politics. The games provide a stage for both international cooperation and peaceful competition, as well as international conflict and confrontation.
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.

Friday, February 6, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
The Olympic Games
The 2026 Winter Olympics are in Milano, Italy from February 6-22. Join Active Minds as we explore the rich history of the Olympic Games and how they have been involved in a variety of international political issues over the years. Born of diplomatic and political design, the Olympics have always played an important role in international politics. The games provide a stage for both international cooperation and peaceful competition, as well as international conflict and confrontation.
Host: Arapahoe Library District
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Registration link coming soon. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 24 hours before the program.
Info: Call the library at 303-542-7279 or e-mail Allison at awilley@ald.lib.co.us for help or information.

Monday, February 9, 2026, 1:30-2:30 pm (in-person)
Indonesia
Consisting of over 17,000 islands between Australia and China, Indonesia is a critical presence in a strategically important area. Islam, democracy and modernity not only coexist, but thrive in this mixture of hundreds of ethnic groups and many different languages. Join Active Minds as we examine what's working (and what’s not) in the world's largest Islamic country.
Location: Broomfield Public Library, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: Not required

Monday, February 9, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
The Olympic Games
The 2026 Winter Olympics are in Milano, Italy from February 6-22. Join Active Minds as we explore the rich history of the Olympic Games and how they have been involved in a variety of international political issues over the years. Born of diplomatic and political design, the Olympics have always played an important role in international politics. The games provide a stage for both international cooperation and peaceful competition, as well as international conflict and confrontation.
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, February 11, 2026, 1:00-2:00 pm (in-person)
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Established in 1945, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency within the UN with a mission of promoting peace through education. As part of that mission, UNESCO oversees the selection and legal protection of World Heritage Sites, locales judged to “be of outstanding value to humanity”. Join Active Minds as we trace the origin and extension of World Heritage Sites and take a tour of a few highlights. 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, February 14, 2026, 10:00-11:00 am Mountain Time (webinar)
The Great Depression
In the autumn of 1929, a crash of prices on Wall Street triggered a global economic contraction that would last for over a decade. Join Active Minds for a look back at the Great Depression. We will examine the origins of the depression and its legacy as well as take a look at it through the lens of our current economic environment. 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.

Thursday, February 19, 2026, 7:00-8:00 pm (webinar)
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Established in 1945, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency within the UN with a mission of promoting peace through education. As part of that mission, UNESCO oversees the selection and legal protection of World Heritage Sites, locales judged to “be of outstanding value to humanity”. Join Active Minds as we trace the origin and extension of World Heritage Sites and take a tour of a few highlights.
Host: Louisville Public Library
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.
To Register: click here

Monday, February 23, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Malcolm X
It has been over 60 years since the death of Malcolm X. Join Active Minds for a review of the life and legacy of this controversial civil rights leader. To his admirers he was a courageous advocate for the rights of Black people, but his detractors accused him of preaching racism and violence. We will examine how Malcolm X’s efforts impacted history and how his ideas continue to influence our society 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

Monday, February 23, 2026, 3:00-4:00 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. 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, March 2, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
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.
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, March 4, 2026, 1:00-2:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Women of Denver History
The city of Denver was shaped by the efforts of many great people. Join Active Minds as we focus on the women of Denver and their contributions to the city and the state. We will cover some familiar names as well as some lesser known figures as we trace the impact of these women and their place in history.
Host: Arapahoe Library District
Cost: Free
To Join Program: Registration link coming soon. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link via e-mail 24 hours before the program.
Info: Call the library at 303-542-7279 or e-mail Allison at awilley@ald.lib.co.us for help or information.

Monday, March 9, 2026, 1:30-2:30 pm (in-person)
The River Nile
In 2020, the controversial Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam began operating on a section of the Nile river in Ethiopia. When the reservoir is filled (likely around 2026), the dam will power the largest hydroelectric plant in Africa. Egypt has opposed the dam, fearing that it could cut off or reduce water to their country. Join Active Minds as we explore this great river, following its winding path through history as well as its modern role in the world.
Location: Broomfield Public Library, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: Not required

Monday, March 9, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Harriet Tubman
Born a slave in Maryland around 1820, Harriet Tubman escaped to freedom in 1849 and became the most famous “conductor” of the Underground Railroad that led slaves to freedom through a complex system of secret people and places. Nicknamed “Moses” for her efforts, she made over 19 trips and helped free hundreds. Join Active Minds as we review her life and legacy, including her efforts fighting in the Civil War and later fighting for Women’s Suffrage.
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, March 10, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm (in-person)
Amelia Earhart
Amelia Earhart was a pioneering American aviator famous for her numerous flight records, including being the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932. Earhart disappeared in 1937 over the central Pacific Ocean during an attempted circumnavigation of the globe, a mystery that continues to this day. Join Active Minds as we explore the life of this remarkable woman.
Location: Northglenn Senior Center, 1 East Memorial Parkway, Northglenn, CO 80233... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: 303-450-8801

Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 1:00-2:00 pm (in-person)
Harriet Tubman
Born a slave in Maryland around 1820, Harriet Tubman escaped to freedom in 1849 and became the most famous “conductor” of the Underground Railroad that led slaves to freedom through a complex system of secret people and places. Nicknamed “Moses” for her efforts, she made over 19 trips and helped free hundreds. Join Active Minds as we review her life and legacy, including her efforts fighting in the Civil War and later fighting for Women’s Suffrage. 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, March 12, 2026, 7:00-8:00 pm
Women Composers in Classical Music
Women in classical music might not have the same representation or achieved the same recognition as their male counterparts, brothers or husbands, but they have made significant contributions throughout music history. Join Active Minds as we explore the lives and music of female composers from the Middle Ages up to the 20th century. We’ll listen to works by Hildegard of Bingen, Barbara Strozzi, Fanny Mendelssohn, Clara Schumann, Amy Beach, and more.
Host: Louisville Public Library
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.
To Register: click here

Monday, March 23, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
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.
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, March 23, 2026, 3:00-4:00 pm (in-person)
New York City
There’s no place in the world quite like New York City. From Broadway to Wall Street, Little Italy to Central Park, New York has a history and an energy all its own. Join Active Minds as we virtually visit one of the world’s most important cities. We’ll explore the city’s past and present, as well as the important people and places that have shaped this unique city. 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, March 30, 2026, 2:00-3:00 pm Mountain Time (webinar)
Morocco
Located in the northwest corner of Africa just south of Spain, Morocco is a diverse country with a long history and rich culture. Home to the indigenous Berber people for thousands of years, Morocco has been at the crossroads of empires throughout history: Rome, the Arab Islamic Empire, and European powers in the “Scramble for Africa.” Join Active Minds as we tell the story of the Kingdom of Morocco, including current issues and future challenges.
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, April 13, 2026, 1:30-2:30 pm (in-person)
Australia
Australia, or The Land Down Under as it is affectionately known, is a country, an island and a continent. It is a land of diverse physical beauty, unique wildlife and some historical similarities to the United States. Join us as we explore the history and landscape of this key U.S. ally. We will review Australia’s beginnings as a prisoner settlement, its role in numerous global conflicts and its modern challenges, including the impact of climate change and its relationship with China.
Location: Broomfield Public Library, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: Not required

Monday, May 11, 2026, 1:30-2:30 pm (in-person)
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Established in 1945, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency within the UN with a mission of promoting peace through education. As part of that mission, UNESCO oversees the selection and legal protection of World Heritage Sites, locales judged to “be of outstanding value to humanity”. Join Active Minds as we trace the origin and extension of World Heritage Sites and take a tour of a few highlights.
Location: Broomfield Public Library, 3 Community Park Rd, Broomfield, CO 80020... map
Cost: Free
RSVP: Not required

* * * Special Event * * *
Thursday, May 21, 2026, 2:00-4:00 pm (2:00 reception, 2:30 program) (in-person)
Artificial Intelligence
The release of artificial intelligence programs such as ChatGPT has catapulted this technology to the forefront of global conversations. The enormous potential of this technology has many people both excited and fearful. Join Active Minds as we explain what AI is, how it can be used for good, but also the potential for abuse.
Location: Brookdale Meridian Boulder, 801 Gillaspie Dr, Boulder, CO 80305... map
Cost: Free
RSVP required (limited seating): 303-494-3900
Other: Refreshments served.

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