Durango Local News

The City of Durango Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free community celebration Friday, July 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Durango Recreation Center featuring food and drinks, live music, games and more to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month. On Saturday July 18, Durango Nordic hosts a running biathlon at the Durango Nordic Center combining trail running with laser rifle shooting. And the 91st annual Durango Fiesta Days Rodeo runs Saturday and Sunday, July 18 and 19, at the La Plata County Fairgrounds with multiple performances running over the weekend. By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.Support the show

Lickety-Split Comedy is a comedy and improv group based in Pagosa Springs, founded by veteran performers Karisa Bruin and Scott Morehead. After years of working as improvisers, actors and writers in Chicago and Los Angeles, the two moved to Pagosa Springs and launched Lickety-Split. The group offers classes and workshops in unscripted theater as well as monthly shows on the third Monday of each month at Pagosa Springs Center for the Arts. For more information visit LicketySplitComedy.com.By Christi BodeWatch this story at LNN.news.This story is sponsored by RMW Tafoya Barrett & Associates  and Dunkin Donuts.Support the show

Under the sandstone bluffs of Farmington, a professional musical theater company draws record crowds with its production of "Grease." Artistic Director Randy West sits down to talk about how Four Corners Musical Theater grew from a request by city leaders seven years ago into New Mexico's only professional musical theater company, and why he says nights at Sandstone, rainbows and all, are unlike any other stage in the state.By Tanner WaiteThis story is sponsored by Express Employment  and Dickey's Barbecue PitWatch this story at LNN.newsSupport the show

The Elmore's Corner Midweek Market is a new, weekly makers market running every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grange on Highway 172 between Durango and Bayfield. Vendors sell fresh produce, local honey, sourdough bread, frozen meats from local ranchers and handcrafted goods. By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.news.This story is sponsored by Durango Pizza and Serious Texas Bar-B-Q.Support the show

This week, the Total Archery Challenge comes to Purgatory Resort July 10 through 12. The 72nd annual Four Corners Gem and Mineral Show runs July 10 through 12 as well, bringing 67 dealers from around the world to the La Plata County Fairgrounds. And on Monday July 13, the La Plata County Farm Bureau will host a free drought response presentation at the fairgrounds featuring the Colorado Department of Agriculture.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and FASTSIGNS Durango.Support the show

Mancos United started in response to tragedies the Mancos community experienced in 2021. From there, the organization worked to identify gaps in support for families and kids. Their flagship program, Summer Hub, provides full-day summer care for working families on a pay-what-you-can model, funded by community donations and business sponsorships.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and Blondie's Trophy Room.Support the show

The Mancos BurroFest returned for its seventh year and drew in over 2,500 attendees for a day of art, food, music, and burros. What began in 2019 as a small gathering of local artist-ranchers has grown into the Mancos Creative District's number one fundraiser and the biggest sales day of the year for many local galleries and restaurants. This year's theme, the Burro Birthday Bash, celebrates Colorado's 150th birthday with Colorado-themed obstacles, costumes, and community joy.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by The LOR Foundation and Big O Tires.Support the show

This week's roundup covers a packed Fourth of July weekend in Durango, including the annual Main Avenue parade and a free street dance featuring the Grammy Award-winning Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Old Barrel Tea Co. hosts a matcha ceremony and tasting event Friday evening, and Pagosa Springs will host Beyond the Embers, a community film screening and panel discussion on wildfire and flood preparedness following the region's devastating 2025 disasters.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and FASTSIGNS Durango.Support the show

The Ute Mountain Roundup returned to Cortez for its 96th year bringing thousands of visitors and top PRCA cowboys and cowgirls to the Montezuma County Fairgrounds. From the board members who organize the event year round to the stock contractor who drives twelve hours from Wyoming to bring the animals, this is a look at what it takes to put on one of the biggest events in Montezuma County.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and Hospice of Montezuma.Support the show

Durango has a packed week ahead with the True Western Roundup Rodeo at the La Plata County Fairgrounds, the Durango Youth Theater's production of Peter Pan and Treasure Island at the Durango Arts Center, and the Durango Botanic Gardens' 13th Annual Gardens on Tour.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by the Payroll Department and Kroegers Ace Hardware.Support the show

The City of Durango accepts photo submissions through August 1 for the cover of the 2026 budget book. This week Durango also has a firefly viewing party at Sunnyside Farms on Friday, June 19. And Purgatory Resort's Summer Opening Day Celebration on Saturday, June 20, just in time for Father's Day weekend.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and the FLC Center for Innovation.Support the show

Dr. Larry Grogin, 71, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019. Rather than let the diagnosis define him, he set out to run 100 marathons in 100 consecutive days from New Jersey to Los Angeles to raise awareness for the Davis Phinney Foundation and prove that movement is medicine.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Serious Texas Bar-B-Q and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings.Support the show

Durango's event calendar this week includes the Women's Resource Center's Inaugural Golf Open, KSUT's 50th Anniversary Party at Ska Brewing, and Manna's Beyond the Plate fundraising evening at Destination Ranch.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino Resort and Kroegers Ace Hardware.Support the show

Durango has a packed weekend ahead with the Mesa Verde Foundation's 120th Anniversary Celebration of Mesa Verde National Park at the EsoTerra Arboretum on Friday, June 5, the 4-Corners Rough Stock Challenge at the La Plata County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 6, and the Durango Cowboy Gathering's 12th Annual Barn Dance, Picnic, and Silent Auction at River Bend Ranch on Sunday, June 7.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at lnn.newsThis story is sponsored by Dunkin Donuts and RMW  Tafoya Barrett & AssociatesSupport the show

One of the earliest San Juan River peaks on record has whitewater guides and river engineers watching closely. Here is what it means for rafting and recreation this summer in Pagosa Springs.By Christi BodeWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings.Support the show

There are several events happening in Durango this week including the Durango Bluegrass Train, the 43rd Annual Animas River Days at Santa Rita Park, and the Durango Barbershoppers annual show at the Durango High School Auditorium.Watch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by the Payroll Department and the FLC Center for Innovation.Support the show

Durango has a busy Memorial weekend ahead with the 23rd Annual Downtown Clean Day on Friday, May 22, the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic running Saturday and Sunday, and the Narrow Gauge 10 Mile Run on Sunday, May 24. By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Serious Texas Bar-B-Q and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.Support the show

Skyring Water is a Cold War thriller bestselling author Louis L'Amour wrote around 1960 but never published. After L'Amour's death in 1988, the manuscript sat unfinished for decades until his son Beau L'Amour completed it, describing the book as a partnership across time. Skyring Water releases June 2, 2026.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at LNN.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino Resort and Kroegers Ace Hardware.Support the show

Music in the Mountains is celebrating its 40th anniversary season this summer, running July 9th through August 2nd across the Four Corners region. What started in 1987 with just 11 musicians has grown into a world-class orchestra featuring performers from around the globe. This year's festival features free community concerts from Durango to Bayfield, Ignacio, Pagosa, and Mancos, along with full orchestra performances, family concerts, and chamber music. Tickets are on sale now at musicinthemountains.com.By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at lnn.news.This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings.Support the show

The Garden Guys are back with practical advice for Southwest Colorado gardeners. Tom Bartels and Darrin Parmenter break down planting timing, drought prep, compost versus fertilizer, and what to look for when buying transplants this spring.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and the Payroll Department.Support the show

iAM Music celebrated its 11th annual Music Fest in downtown Durango from April 30th through May 3rd, bringing 25+ artists across eight stages throughout the city. Founded in 2015, every ticket sold supports iAM Music's mission of funding scholarships, performance opportunities, and music education for youth across the Four Corners region.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by the FLC Center for Innovation and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.Support the show

It's a great week ahead in Durango with the 4th Annual Manna Plant Sale running Friday and Saturday, May 8th and 9th, the first Durango Farmers Market of the season on Saturday, May 9th, from 8 AM to noon, a community tennis fundraiser benefiting the Durango High School Boys Tennis Team also on Saturday May 9th from 10 AM to 1 PM, and a free Women's Mountain Bike Basics Clinic at Purgatory Sports on Monday May 11th.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware  and Serious Texas Bar-B-Q.Support the show

It's a packed week ahead in Durango with the iAM Music Fest taking over downtown April 30th through May 3rd featuring 25 plus artists across eight venues. On May 1st, the La Plata County Humane Society teams up with Durango Motor Company for a special National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day adoption event from 12 to 2 PM. And also kicking off May 1st Love Locals Week runs through May 10th with deals and events at over 40 downtown businesses including a BOGO Heart of Durango Dollars gift card promotion.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino Resort and Serious Texas Bar-B-QSupport the show

On what would have been his 93rd birthday, friends, family and fellow leaders gathered in Ignacio on April 13th to honor the life and legacy of Ben Nighthorse Campbell. Those who knew him best reflect on a man who transformed Native American representation in American politics, championed tribal sovereignty, and proved that anybody can make a real difference.By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at durangolocal.news.Support the show

Fort Lewis College has launched a new dietetics program, clearing a key milestone toward national accreditation and opening new career pathways for students across the Four Corners.By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings Support the show

A packed weekend ahead in Durango! The Durango Wine Experience kicks off Friday April 24th with a Walkabout Tasting through downtown from 4 to 6:30 PM, followed by the Grand Tasting at Buckley Park on Saturday April 25th from 3 to 6 PM. Also this weekend the Devo Bike Swap runs Friday and Saturday  from 9 AM to 7 PM. And Friday evening Lively Boutique hosts its 8th Annual Fashion Show at the Henry Strater Theater with shows at 5:30 and 7:30 PM, with all proceeds benefiting iAM Music's youth programs.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Dunkin Donuts and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.Support the show

Maria's Literary Foundation is hosting its second annual Read-a-Thon from April 10th through April 20th, raising funds for the Reading Room — a free bookshop and reading nook for Durango youth. This year's goal is $25,000 with all donations up to $10,000 matched by Maria's Bookshop. By Sadie Smith Watch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by the Payroll Department and Serious Texas Bar-B-Q.Support the show

Three events worth putting on your calendar this week — an Arbor Day Celebration at the Durango Recreation Center on April 17th, Durango's Earth Day celebration with a parade and live music on April 18th, and Durango Montessori School's annual Electronics Recycling fundraiser on April 22nd.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and the FLC Center for Innovation.Support the show

Ragtime music — a blend of European styles and African American rhythms considered the forerunner of jazz — has found an unlikely home in Durango, Colo. For nearly 70 years, the Diamond Bell Saloon at the historic Strater Hotel has featured live ragtime piano, making it one of the only venues in the country where audiences can hear the music performed regularly. A pianist who holds a master's degree in historical musicology from the Peabody Conservatory plays up to six nights a week on an 1902 upright grand piano, calling the experience "time travel" for audiences.Now, that same musician has launched the Durango Ragtime and Early Jazz Festival, now in its second year as a nonprofit. The festival brings approximately seven of the country's top ragtime and early jazz musicians to Durango each year, with the goal of preserving the music and introducing it to new audiences. Organizers say Durango's size, rich ragtime history and the Strater Hotel — built during the ragtime era — make it an ideal home for the festival. For more information, visit durangoragtime.com.By Paige SparksThis story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Keesee Motor CompanyWatch this story at durangolocal.newsSupport the show

Here are three events worth putting on your calendar this week — Stillwater Music's Battle of the Bands at Miller Middle School on April 10th, the 30th annual Durango Bluegrass Meltdown running April 10th through 12th, and the Colorado Black Equity Study Community Listening Session at Fort Lewis College on April 11th from noon to 2 p.m.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings.Support the show

The city's annual Spring Cleanup is now underway, running through April 30th, with city crews moving through residential neighborhoods picking up furniture, appliances, yard waste, and more. Coming up April 2nd through 4th, the Duranglers Fly Fishing Festival returns with three days of films, clinics, demos, and deals, kicking off Thursday night at Animas City Theatre with the Fly Fishing Film Tour. And sign-ups are now open for Maria's Literary Foundation's Second Annual Read-a-Thon, running April 10th through 20th, benefiting youth literacy in Durango.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and Serious Texas Bar-B-Q.Support the show

Colorado's new Wildfire Resiliency Building Code requires fire-resistant materials and vegetation management for new construction and major home renovations in wildfire-prone areas. The town of Pagosa Springs plans to adopt the code April 1, with full implementation by July 1. Organizations like Wildfire Adapted Partnership offer free property assessments to help homeowners reduce their risk, even if the code does not apply to them yet.By Christi BodeWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and Blondies Trophy Room.Support the show

This week in Durango, the Durango-La Plata County Airport is collecting non-perishables, hygiene products, and infant supplies for TSA workers who have been without pay during the federal government shutdown — drop off donations at the airline ticketing lobby inside the main entry doors. On Wednesday, March 25th, Durango Comedy brings March Sadness to the Durango Arts Center — doors open at 6:30 with the show starting at 7:00, tickets are $25. And the Spring in the Rockies Arts and Crafts Festival closes out the month at the La Plata County Fairgrounds — Saturday March 28th from 9:00 to 3:00 and Sunday March 29th from 10:00 to 2:00, featuring 70 local artists and crafters along with food and door prizes.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by The FLC Center for Innovation  and Dunkin Donuts.Support the show

Durango artist Matt Clark of Little Bud Designs and mural artist Parker Ledford created Ebb and Flow — a public mural along the Animas River trail pulling from Clark's collage and illustration work. Clark says he wanted the piece to have something for everyone in the Durango community.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by the Payroll Department and Durango Gelato Coffee & Tea.Support the show

Cortez Livestock has served Montezuma County since 1959, providing a place for local ranchers and Native American producers to buy, sell, and trade livestock. As family farms and ranches continue to decline, this longtime auction barn remains a critical part of preserving Western heritage and supporting local agriculture. By Sadie Smith Watch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and Freddy’s Frozen Custard and SteakburgersSupport the show

On Friday, March 20th, local artist Shanda Akin invites the community to a free evening of art and conversation at Four Leaves Winery starting at 6 p.m. — drinks, light bites, and an artist talk are all included. Also opening March 20th, the Durango Arts Center presents Trey Parker's Cannibal: The Musical, a darkly comedic retelling of the true story of Alferd Packer, running through March 29th. And looking ahead to March 27th, the Southwestern Water Conservation District hosts its 42nd Annual Water Seminar at Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio, bringing together community leaders for a full day of panels on the future of water in the Southwest.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts and RMW  Tafoya Barrett & Associates.Support the show

Durango wasn't always the tree-lined community it is today — in the late 19th century, the landscape was largely barren — but now, climate change and rapid development are threatening the 12,000-plus trees that define it. The DurangoScape 2026 Climate Conference, hosted by the Durango Botanic Gardens brought together local and regional experts to help residents understand how to protect their community forest through smarter planting, root system awareness, and early action.By Paige SparksWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Payroll Department and Durango Gelato, Coffee & TeaSupport the show

What happens when one woman's curiosity about disappearing birds grows into a global movement? For Kelly Miller, founder of Follow the Birds, a simple question about winter silence along the Animas River trails became a three-day gathering connecting scientists, artists and storytellers from across the world. The Bird Migration Gathering — held each March and October — drew participants from 16 countries at its inaugural October event, exploring migration through ornithology, conservation, art, storytelling and technology. Past contributors include celebrated naturalist Scott Weidensaul, wildlife advocate Craig Foster of Cape Town, South Africa, and bird language expert Jon Young. The next gathering takes place online March 13-15, 2026.By Paige SparksWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Dunkin’ DonutsSupport the show

This week on Local NEWS Network, we're rounding up three events happening in Durango between March 11th and 17th. Rocky Mountain PBS brings its Mini-Film Fest to Fort Lewis College on Wednesday night — a free screening of short films exploring identity, belonging, and community, followed by a facilitated discussion. On Friday and Saturday, the Friends of the Durango Public Library hosts its annual Spring Book Sale at the Durango Public Library, with thousands of titles starting at just one dollar. And closing out the week on Tuesday, March 17th, hip-hop artist Grieves brings his Out Cold Tour 4 to Animas City Theatre, joined by Blueprint and Benz Shelton.By Sadie SmithWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Happy Pappy’s Pizza and Wings  and the FLC Center for InnovationSupport the show

West Coast Swing is more than a dance style — it's a lifestyle for members of West Slope Westies, Durango's nonprofit swing dance community. Known for its fluid, elastic movement and ability to complement almost any genre of music, West Coast Swing has drawn a growing and passionate local following.When the group began outgrowing their rented rooms at the Smiley Building, leadership made a bold decision: find a bigger home and trust the community to fill it. That leap of faith led to the creation of The Durango Collective, a downtown studio that now serves as a shared hub for multiple local dance communities all under one roof. As the group's president describes it, the space was built for people to connect, create and celebrate — and for anyone willing to push through that first moment of vulnerability on the dance floor, joy is waiting on the other side.By Paige SparksThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino Resort and Serious Texas Bar-B-QWatch this story at durangolocal.newsSupport the show

Durango has a full lineup of events this March. Our Own Lives presents its Second Annual Disability Art Show at the Durango Arts Center, featuring more than 30 artists. The McDonald’s Cardboard Derby returns to Purgatory Resort with creative downhill fun. And the Durango Bach Festival, presented by the San Juan Symphony, brings a week of “Mostly Mozart” performances to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.By Sadie Smith.Watch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by RMW Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & SteakburgersSupport the show

The Durango Independent Film Festival is celebrating its 21st year with the tagline "We're Legal," bringing independent films from over 50 countries to southwest Colorado from March 4–8, 2026. Known as a "Filmmaker's Festival," DIFF showcases adventure, documentary, native cinema, shorts, features, and more — creating a rare space where audiences are elbow to elbow with the filmmakers themselves. Among this year's selections is the Colorado-shot feature The Only Way Out Is Through, whose editor Misty Wilson is a Bayfield local, making the screening a homecoming celebration. Whether you're a film lover or just looking for that communal theater experience you didn't know you missed, DIFF is the place to find it. For more information, visit durangofilm.org.By Paige Sparks.Watch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and Payroll DepartmentSupport the show

A longtime Durango tradition is evolving. Southwest Colorado Rocks celebrates community leaders, organizations, and businesses making a difference across the region. Formerly known as Durango Rocks, the event expanded this year to include Ignacio and Bayfield, highlighting the impact of leaders throughout La Plata County. Organizers say the celebration is about recognizing the people who are strengthening the community and inspiring others to do the same.By Sadie Smith.Watch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS DurangoSupport the show

The Durango Women's Leadership Conference returns February 26 at Whalen Gymnasium with panels, breakout sessions, and talks supporting women’s athletics at Fort Lewis College. Comedian Olivia Carter performs in Durango February 27 after appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the Durango Independent Film Festival returns March 4–8 with screenings across Durango.By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings and The FLC Center for InnovationSupport the show

Every February, volunteers walk the banks of the Animas River counting American dippers — small, bold birds that dive headfirst into rushing rapids and spend their entire lives along river corridors. Because dippers feed on the aquatic insects that can only survive in clean water, they serve as a living indicator of river health. The American Dipper Project launched in 2016 following the Gold King Mine spill, and citizen scientists have been tracking nesting behavior and success rates ever since, entering all data into Cornell Lab of Ornithology's NestWatch database. When nesting success declined after the 416 Fire in 2018 and subsequent flooding, the dippers reflected that environmental stress. By Paige SparksWatch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea and The LOR FoundationSupport the show

 Colorado U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet made a stop in Durango this week to discuss his campaign for governor, touching on some of the most pressing issues facing the state. Bennet, who has represented Colorado in the U.S. Senate since 2009, shared his vision for Colorado's future and what he says sets him apart as a candidate. Watch the full interview to hear where he stands.By Paige Sparks.Watch this story at durangolocal.newsThis story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and Hospice of Montezuma.Support the show

For over two decades, the Center for Snow and Avalanche Studies has been monitoring Colorado's snowpack from weather stations on Red Mountain Pass. Their team digs snow pits every few weeks documenting dust layers, measuring snow crystals, and tracking how the snowpack reflects sunlight. This year they're recording unusually low snow conditions across the state while studying how dust particles reduce snow's reflectivity and speed up melt timing. Since snowpack provides 70 percent of Colorado's water supply, understanding these patterns helps water managers plan for the seasons ahead. By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by Dunkin Donuts and Keesee Motor Company.Support the show

This week in Durango highlights community leadership, small business support, and winter competition on the mountain.Southwest Colorado Rocks will host its Annual Awards Ceremony on February 19th at 5 p.m. at the Community Concert Hall, honoring outstanding businesses and leaders from across La Plata County.On February 20th, the Seeds of Success DFM Summit takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the La Plata County Fairgrounds. The free event provides practical workshops and networking opportunities for farmers, food producers, makers, and small business owners, with breakfast and lunch included.And February 21st and 22nd, Purgatory Resort hosts the 23rd Annual Ski Bike Festival and Race in partnership with the American Skibike Association, bringing riders from across the country to compete in the longest-running ski bike festival in the United States.By Sadie Smith. Watch this story at durangolocal.news.This story is sponsored by Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and The FLC Center for InnovationSupport the show

Durango's warming shelter is providing a lifesaving refuge for unhoused community members during the coldest winter nights. After years of discussion, the City Council unanimously approved the shelter following overwhelming neighborhood support with 88% of residents surveyed backing the initiative. The shelter opens when temperatures are forecasted to drop to 15 degrees or below, operating with trained coordinators and volunteers who provide transportation from the transit center, warm meals from Manna Soup Kitchen, and a safe place to sleep. Since opening this season, the shelter has seen growing demand, serving up to 24 people on recent nights, including families with children. The shelter is currently operating on a trial resolution, with hopes to secure a permanent ordinance if operations continue successfully. For those experiencing homelessness in Durango, this warming center represents more than just shelter — it's a compassionate response that literally saves lives.This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.By Paige Sparks.Watch this story at durangolocal.newsSupport the show

KDUR, Fort Lewis College's radio station now in its 52nd year, hosts an annual cover night that has become a cornerstone event for Durango's music community. The tradition began when musicians from different genres came together to celebrate local talent by covering Neil Diamond songs, adopting the motto "local musicians unite." The event has grown so popular that tickets sell out within minutes. The fundraising event known as “Cover Night” brings together community members who play music for the love of it, not for profit. KDUR operates as both a college and community radio station, funded through student fees, fundraising and formerly the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. With CPB funding recently cut by the current administration, local donations and community support through events like cover night have become more critical than ever to the station's survival.Local musicians say KDUR serves a critical role in promoting area concerts and providing airplay for local recordings, making it essential to keeping Durango's music scene active.By Paige Sparks.This story is sponsored by Dunkin Donuts and Tafoya Barrett and Associates PCWatch this story at durangolocal.newsSupport the show