This trip to the chocolate factory is adults only. The whimsical party, inspired by Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, is a colorful celebration for the Children's Museum's 40th anniversary. Delight in décor that imitates scenes such as the chocolate river, inventing room, everlasting gobstoppers, and becoming a blueberry.

Celebrate the symphony with the style and pageantry of a polo match. This polo-themed annual fundraiser is hosted by the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra in the beautiful Larson Barn. In addition to a champagne bar, auction items, and pony-less polo, the event will feature performances by the Steamboat String Quartet, Anna Roder, and Keri Rusthoi. Sat 6 p.m.-midnight.

Lose yourself in a weekend of St. Patrick’s Day revelry. Saturday’s warm-up events include rugby matches, and activities for kids until 4 p.m., and live music by Clancy's, Celtic Steps, and Under a Blood Red Sky. The celebration continues on Sunday with more music, food, and (of course) beer. Sat 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

With all of the controversy surrounding gun legislation in Colorado, you might be surpised to know that 40 percent of Americans own guns. Fellow gun-owner and author Dan Baum tells their story in his newest book, Gun Guys, which explores our unique American fascination with firearms and the touchy politics surrounding gun ownership.

Go beyond spring cleaning this year and add fresh design to your home. Find new products, inspiration, and design advice in one trip. Show highlights include garden exhibits, Sogetsu Japanese flower arranging, an ask-a-designer booth, and a special section for products made right here in Colorado. Fri-Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Show off your snow-white winter tan lines in Copper Mountain's bikini contest. Sign up early and be ready to show the judges your creativity and flair as you speed downhill in your bikini or swim trunks. The first prize winner will receive a 2014 Copper Mountain ski pass. Jack’s Slopeside Grill & Bar will have St.

Dine and dance to the jams of the Atomic Brass Project, an 11-piece horn band. Enjoy a four-course meal provided by a sweep of the city's top restaurants including Barolo Grill, the Populist, and Twelve Restaurant. The evening benefits Invest in Kids, a nonprofit that provides research-based community programs to improve the health and well-being of children from low-income families.

Check out nearly 2,500 ceramic creations, all crafted by the hands of 30 local Colorado artists. Meet the potters—such as Willow Connery, who creates dishes with exquisite floral designs and shades of cerulean, Ortrud Fowler, Willow Connery, Kathleen Laurie, and Ginny Cash, who completes her earthenware with experimental glaze layering.

Meet the source of your all-too-comfortable natural-fiber sweater: the alpaca. An animal considered to be as exotic as it is domestic is this show’s special guest. Hundreds of these livestock are expected to arrive from more than two-dozen states to compete.

Help support local women’s shelters with this creative fashion bazaar and bra-decorating competition. Enter a newly-purchased, creatively altered undergarment into the contest and purchase a ticket to cast your vote for the most artistic and stunning brassiere.