Want to see a brighter future for Colorado youngsters? Tune in as a panel of bipartisan leaders and non-partisan organizations hash out the ways we can further our state's educational system. Hosted by Denny Hill, director of Strategic Resources West, Inc., this three-part series aims to increase educational awareness, support, and funding for our local schools. Thu 3 p.m. 

Discover the untold secrets of one of Colorado's grisliest tales, the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864. History columnist Carol Turner introduces you to the prominent players in this bloody event, including Chief Niwot, Captain Silas Soule, and Major Edward Wynkoop, while also divulging her personal interest in the subject.

Don't be just another ignorant voter this election season. Be an aware voter. Join Active Minds for a conversation that explores the complex issues you'll see on state ballots come November, such as marijuana legalization. Sharpen up those critical thinking skills and learn precisely what's at stake with a review that spells out the potential arguments for both sides. Tue 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Get in the Halloween spirit early this year with spooky tours through Cripple Creek’s historic Mt. Pigsah Cemetery. Hosted by the Gold Camp Victorian Society, the route features character reenactments of famous individuals that once populated the area and are now buried in the cemetery.

Discover the must-knows for backcountry adventures in a mountain classroom. In just six hours, you'll come away with the knowledge needed to prep your pack, navigate the trail, pick out top-notch gear, and handle unexpected animals, weather, and injuries. Don't be afraid to get a little mud on those boots as you conquer the three-mile trek complete with demonstrations and practice sessions.

Get a pint of state history with Thomas J. Noel, aka Dr. Colorado. The CU Denver history professor will detail the development and role of local breweries, distilleries, and taverns in a state proud of its beer history and innovation. Tue 7 p.m.

Garner the inspiration to create your own veggie garden by observing the Colorado Master Gardeners work their green-thumb magic. Seek answers to all of your gardening questions from the pros who upkeep the Hudson Gardens’ Vegetable Garden. You’ll learn techniques and tricks for bed preparation, planting, weeding, harvesting, and more. Tue 9:30 a.m. 

Calling all yoga gals and horse lovers for this ladies-only retreat. Spend a week indulging in leisurely horseback rides, relaxing yoga sessions, fine food and wine-pairing events. Special features include equestrian yoga classes, a massage, and nightly stargazing. Guests of all skill levels are welcome. 

Several decades ago, archeologists unearthed hundreds of fragments from royal buildings, statues, and reliefs in ancient Egypt. Art historian Kristin Thompson has spent the past 11 years documenting, restoring, and placing those fragments in their original contexts.

What is miniature, has many different shapes, and can live for hundreds of years? Answer: a bonsai tree. Find out more about the ancient Japanese art form of bonsai at this two-hour kid-friendly workshop. You’ll explore a plethora of these plants in the new Bill Hosokawa Bonsai Pavillion and learn the fundamental techniques used to form and care for bonsai trees.