Journey through history at the High Plains Chautauqua festival in Greeley, Colorado, from August 5-9. This annual festival is one of the biggest Chautauqua festivals in the country. It is known for its immersive historical reenactments and engaging presentations. Attendees can expect a vibrant celebration of individuals who have shaped history—our "Game Changers."

What is Chautauqua?

Chautauqua gatherings, which originated in the late 19th century, were designed to promote adult education through cultural and recreational activities. Today, the tradition lives on with Weld County’s High Plains Chautauqua. The free, family-friendly event offers a unique blend of historical interpretation, live performances and community engagement.

Main Event Highlights

All main events will take place at the Aims Community College Welcome Center.

Monday, August 5

11 a.m.-2 p.m.: Young Chautauqua Presentations

5:15-6:15 p.m.: Kickoff Reception with music by The Hoagies

6:30-9:00 p.m.: Chautauqua presentations including depictions of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Rachel Carson, and Steve Jobs.

Tuesday, August 6

8:15-9:15 a.m.: Coffee & Conversations with Chautauquans

9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.: Adult programs including sessions on Louis Armstrong and Frances Perkins.

5:15 p.m.-9 p.m.: Evening programs kick off with music by Craig Nelson and Chautauqua presentations include Antonina Zabinska, Mother Jones, Dr. Florence Sabin, Maud Nelson, and Albert Einstein.

Wednesday, August 7

8:15-9:15 a.m.: Coffee & Conversations with Chautauquans

9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.: Adult programs including sessions on Delph Carter and Albert Einstein.

5:15 p.m.-9 p.m.: Evening programs kick off with music by George Gray and the Elvis Experience Band and Chautauqua presentations include Vivien Thomas, Frances Perkins, and Eleanor Roosevelt.

Thursday, August 8

8:15-9:15 a.m.: Coffee & Conversations with Chautauquans

9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.: Adult programs including sessions on Eleanor Roosevelt, Frances Perkins and Supreme Court Justices.

5:15 p.m.-9 p.m.: Evening programs kick off with music by John Mills Orchestra and Chautauqua presentations including J. Edgar Hoover, Louis Armstrong, and Chief Justice Earl Warren.

Friday, August 9

8:15-9:15 a.m.: Coffee & Conversations with Chautauquans

9:15-10:00 a.m.: End your week with a complimentary breakfast.

Youth and Family Programming

While the whole event is family-friendly, the High Plains Chautauqua festival offers specific programming catered to youth and families. Kids and teens can catch presentations during the day on August 6, 7 and 8 at various libraries around Weld County. Youth program presentations include "New Heroes, New Bugs, New Toys!" and "Growing Your Sense of Wonder." On August 7, there will be a family program presentation titled "Nature from the Very Small to the VERY BIG." Additionally, each evening performance at the Aims Community College Welcome Center will include a Young Chautauqua cameo.

Join Us at the High Plains Chautauqua

These portrayals at High Plains Chautauqua festival go beyond entertainment. They offer profound insights into the lives and legacies of these remarkable individuals who have left a mark on our world.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of the arts or simply curious about these figures who shaped our past, the High Plains Chautauqua festival offers something for everyone. Visit the festival's website to discover the full schedule of events and locations, plan your visit and ensure you don't miss a moment of this extraordinary celebration.

Interested in other events to check out while you're in town for this festival? Check out our events calendar here.