The state of Colorado is 142 years old today! The Centennial State first joined the union on Aug. 1st, 1876 thanks to Proclamation 230, which was signed by President Ulysses S. Grant.
If you ever wondered what “Colorado” means, it has it’s origins in Spanish, as the word for “colored red.” The state is actually named for the Colorado River and the red colored silt that was present in the river when Spanish travelers were passing through the state.
Today is generally known as “Colorado ” and several businesses and organizations offer free deals over the next week for people to enjoy and celebrate our state’s birthday.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is waiving entrance fees to all 42 state parks on Monday, Aug. 6th, in honor of Colorado Day. Permits are still required for fishing and camping, but entry is free.
If you’d like to make a trip up to Denver, The History Colorado museum is honoring the state’s 142th birthday with free entry today. They’ll serve birthday cake, ice cream, Palisade peach cobbler, and have music, dance demonstrations, performing pigs and other activities.
Oh, and then there’s free donuts-Dunkin’ Donuts is offering guests a free Colorado-themed donut with the purchase of any size cold brew. The offer is good through Aug. 5th.