#ShopLocalColorado

Juneteenth, also known as Jubilee Day, Freedom Day and Emancipation Day, has long been celebrated in communities across Colorado and commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and declared that more than 250,000 enslaved Black people were free. Despite the Emancipation Proclamation having been issued by President Lincoln on January 1, 1863, many enslavers continued to hold enslaved people captive.

Pride Month rolls around each June to remind us to celebrate the significant accomplishments of LGBTQIA+ individuals and the work we have ahead to support Colorado's LGBTQIA+ communities. According to the 2021 Colorado Health Access Survey, about 7.8% of Coloradans 18 years and older identify as LGBTQIA+. 

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. We join in paying tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and are instrumental in its future success.

Our Minority Business Office partner, the Asian Chamber of Commerce is plugged into several Asian American Pacific Islander community events starting in May and going through July.

Many believe that it’s best to wait to plant your gardens until Mother’s Day because Colorado’s spring weather is so unpredictable through mid-May. Coincidentally, gardening is also a great way to spend time with the mothers in your life. Houseplants, flowers, and other garden accessories are also fantastic gifts to show your love and appreciation to those special people in your life.

We gathered a list of local, small plant stores across the state offering seeds, plants, gardening tools, classes, and other gifts for mothers in your life this May. 

With 420 once upon a time being the “secret code” for cannabis, it is no news that now 4/20 has made it on the calendar for the cannabis industry. Since Colorado’s legalization of marijuana in 2014, the cannabis industry has been on a steady incline with record-breaking sales of $2.2 billion in 2021.

Here in Colorado, we don't need a designated day each year to get outside. Every day and every season, Coloradans find a way to enjoy our great outdoors. Snow or shine, our state offers an expansive playground for people with diverse passions, skills, and abilities. Friday, April 22 is Earth Day and we’ve made a list of local businesses who make it easy for you to go out and enjoy Mother Nature in whatever capacity fits you best.

Women’s History Month: Colorado is home to innovative and creative women – past, present and future

Did you know? For those who have hiked or rode the train up Pikes Peak, the expansive view, the crisp air and the incredible height might move one to tears. It’s no wonder that one of Colorado’s most famous fourteeners was the muse, or rather the purple mountain majesty, behind one of the country’s most cherished anthems, “America the Beautiful.” For some, hearing this song before a sporting or momentous event might fill one’s chest with pride.

If you haven’t already noticed the heart-shaped candy and chocolate at the grocery store, Valentine’s Day is once again upon us. Whether you celebrate with a special someone, friends or perhaps avoid it at all costs, here are some ideas on how to treat yourself or your sweetheart with #ShopLocalColorado gifts or experiences from Colorado businesses.

Delicious treats

As they say, the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. This is likely why chocolate and candy are common gifts and treats during this holiday.

Black-owned restaurants and shops in Colorado are serving up plenty of options when it comes to ideas for dates — of the romantic and friend variety — gifts for loved ones and sweet treats or cool pints to brighten up your day. This year, honor Black History Month by showing love and support to some of the amazing Black-owned businesses in Colorado.

Today is Colorado Gives Day, one of the largest giving movements in the country. Every December, Coloradans come together for a day to show support for their favorite nonprofits and charities. Since its launch in 2010, Colorado Gives Day has raised over $300 million for nonprofits around the state. During a month of abundance in food, celebrations and gifts, individuals wanting to give back to their communities this year have plenty of ways to do so..