Colorado is celebrating its 150th year of statehood on August 1, 2026, with a month-long series of events across the state, coinciding with the nation's 250th anniversary. This milestone is further highlighted by the state's recent achievement of being ranked the #1 state for education by U.S. News and World Report.
Governor Jared Polis expressed his deep dedication to the state, saying, "This state means so much to me, and it has been the honor of my life to serve Colorado with deep dedication these last seven and a half years as Governor." Colorado, known as the "Centennial State" for joining the Union in 1876, shares its birthday with the nation's founding centennial.
Colorado Day festivities on August 1st include a Community Fest and John Denver Sing Along at History Colorado in Denver, featuring a free pancake breakfast and performances by Isaac Slade and others. The State Capitol will host an "America 250–Colorado 150 Celebration" with speeches, a statehood proclamation reenactment, a birthday cake cutting, and the premiere of a new art exhibit. Regional celebrations are also planned in Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, and Kiowa, offering live music, food, family activities, and flag ceremonies.
Throughout August, the "Celebrate Colorado" initiative encourages residents to participate in over 650 free and discounted festivals, events, and celebrations. These include an open house at the Governor's Residence, festivities in Denver's LoDo neighborhood, a Colorado Rapids soccer match with fireworks, and historical society events in Eagle County and Louisville. A comprehensive list of events is available at celebrate.colorado.gov.
Adding to the celebratory mood, Colorado has risen from the No. 3 spot in 2025 to the No. 1 spot in 2026 for education. Governor Polis remarked, "Helping Colorado become the best state in the nation for education is one of the proudest moments of my time as governor." This improvement is attributed to initiatives like full-day kindergarten, universal preschool, and increased two-year college completion rates.
Looking ahead, First Gentleman Marlon Reis will host a Speaker Series with author Dan Flores on September 22, 2026, at the Governor's Residence, continuing the state's commitment to educational and cultural enrichment.