Best Bets

Sports: Wapiyapi Classic

Cycling is as much a part of Colorado as the Rocky Mountains, so why not pedal for a cause? Colorado-based nonprofit Wapiyapi—which offers summer adventure camps and retreats for children with cancer and their families—hosts its first fund-raising ride in Aspen this month. Added incentive: Seven-time Tour de France champ Lance Armstrong will be leading the charge. Ride with the legend on a 25- or 50-mile course through the scenic golden foliage and take on the $200 fund-raising challenge (for which you’ll receive a customized Wapiyapi jersey in return). The top 20 fund-raisers get to start the ride alongside Armstrong. September 26, Paepcke Park, Aspen

Culinary: Georgetown Cook-Off

Get a taste of mining lore and mountain fare as local chefs compete to determine who makes the tastiest Miner’s Stew and Rocky Mountain Cobbler. Competitors (anyone can sign up) use their imaginations to whip up the dishes on-site, and though judges make the final decision, spectators are invited to add their two cents and vote for people’s choice—you only have to pony up a dollar per taste. Continue the feast at the beer and brat garden, where Idaho Springs’ Tommyknocker Brewery and Pub will be pouring cold ones to wash down tasty German bratwursts. Catch live performances from local bands, and relax during a horse-drawn carriage ride through town for some truly old-fashioned fun. September 18, downtown Georgetown

Comedy: A Mile High Celebration: The Second City’s 50th Anniversary

You know their names—John Belushi, Joan Rivers, Steve Carell, Peter Boyle, Gilda Radner, Mike Myers—and love their jokes, but what else do these funny folks have in common? They’re all alumni of the Second City, the venerated comedy theater founded in Chicago and known for launching the careers of some of America’s most celebrated comics. In honor of its 50th year, a seven-member cast is heading to the Mile High City to revisit a selection of the troupe’s best sketches, songs, and improv skits—maybe even a few written by infamous wit-slingers like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert. Make sure you wear those elastic-waist pants—this one’s gonna be a gut buster. September 14–October 10, Garner Galleria Theatre

Dance: Colorado Ballet’s Triple Bill

The Colorado Ballet opens its 50th anniversary season with a three-performance show. Kicking things off is Feast of the Gods (which the company debuted in 2009), a lively piece with dancers en pointe that explores the adventures of a traveling gypsy troupe. Next up is …smile with my heart, an entertaining, contemporary number with two principal dancers. Closing the night is a world premiere by choreographer Matthew Neenan, whose bright, lyrical style is a combination of classic ballet and contemporary movement. Each piece lasts about 20 minutes, giving just a taste of what’s to come throughout the celebratory season. September 10–12, Newman Center for the Performing Arts