From honoring our heroes to helping neighbors, it’s a week that reminds us what makes Estes special.

Howdy, neighbors — Buck Timber here, writing with frost on the porch rail and the first real chill in the air. Estes Park’s settling into that peaceful stretch between leaf-peepers and snowplows, but there’s still plenty stirring around the valley.

This week, we’re talking veterans, generosity, and the fine art of keeping warm with community spirit. Mo Pass says it’s “giving season,” which I told him sounds better than “shoveling season,” so I’ll allow it.

What year was Veterans Day first celebrated under its current name in the United States?

Veterans Day at American Legion Post 119

Monday, November 11

Join the American Legion Post 119 as Estes Park honors those who’ve served our country.

7–10 a.m. – Breakfast Buffet

• FREE for all Veterans

• $15 for others

2 p.m. – Veterans Day Ceremony at the Veterans Monument

3 p.m. – At The Tavern: Veterans (21+) get their first beer on the house

6 p.m. – Bingo at the Legion – open to everyone

📍 American Legion Post 119 – 850 N. St. Vrain Ave
👉 esteslegion.org

Freedom’s never free, but coffee with a veteran is about as close to priceless as it gets.

The elves are back in business early this year. Estes Park Bright Christmas is now accepting donations to support local families in need — ensuring everyone in town feels a little extra light this holiday season.

Donations help provide toys, clothing, and groceries to local families who could use a boost. You can give online or drop off at collection points around town.

If you’ve ever doubted the size of a mountain town’s heart, stop by Bright Christmas headquarters. You’ll leave knowing the Grinch wouldn’t stand a chance here.

👉 Donate or learn more at EstesParkBrightChristmas.org

Estes Park Makes “Dreamy Mountain Towns” List

The rest of the country finally caught on — Yahoo Travel listed Estes Park among “14 Dreamy Mountain Towns for the Ultimate Escape,” and Forbes highlighted Rocky Mountain National Park as one of America’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

It’s nice to see our little corner of the Rockies get some well-earned spotlight — though we all know the real secret: Estes isn’t just dreamy, it’s home.

If you’ve ever watched sunrise hit the Rockies with a cup of coffee in hand, you already knew we’d make the list. The rest of the world’s just catching up.

👉 Read Yahoo’s feature here
👉 See the Forbes spotlight on RMNP

Did You Know? Estes Park Addition

• The American Legion Post 119 was chartered in 1920, just after WWI.

• Bright Christmas has helped local families since the mid-1980s.

• Estes Park’s first recorded snowfall typically hits November 9–12 (go ahead, check your driveway).

• The town was nicknamed “Gateway to the Rockies” as early as 1917 — long before hashtags were a thing.

• The American Legion Post 119 was chartered in 1920, just after WWI.

• Bright Christmas has helped local families since the mid-1980s.

• Estes Park’s first recorded snowfall typically hits November 9–12 (go ahead, check your driveway).

• The town was nicknamed “Gateway to the Rockies” as early as 1917 — long before hashtags were a thing.

• .

Buck's Joke Of The Day

Why did the turkey join the band?
Because it already had the drumsticks! 🥁

1954.
Originally known as Armistice Day, it was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.