Chautauqua

Chautauqua Institute was founded in 1874 on Lake Chautauqua in New York State. It started as an outdoor religious educational and recreational experience. It was a summer “tent university” that was multigenerational and multidisciplinary that engaged people through the arts and nature. The movement spread all over the country to semi rural locations near large towns with good rail service. As autos became prevalent, these programs faded away for a different type of summer vacation. President Teddy Roosevelt however called the Chautauqua “ the most American thing in America”. 

One of the first such “daughter” Chautauqua, first in Colorado, was in Palmer Lake “just down the rail” from Denver. It was held in the Glen area from 1886-1910. People would stay for days to weeks in tents or cabins or in local hotels. There were featured speakers, nature talks and walks, hikes, and concerts. Some of the lecturers were even given land in the Glen as payment. 

The Palmer Lake Arts Council along with our partners are reviving this Chautauqua concept for a current-day experience. We want to promote the arts and humanities in a program of entertainment and participation events for all ages. There will be performing and visual art, music, hikes, and classes from a wide array of subjects and for all age groups. Get ready for an exciting weekend event August 2-4 2024.