65 Reasons to Love Castle Rock

The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce marks its 65th anniversary in 2020 — a milestone understandably overshadowed by the health crisis that began to unfold nationwide in March. Instead of the yearlong plans for special events, the chamber is celebrating the anniversary through total focus on serving its members and community. And while this wasn’t in anyone’s plans, that determination and responsiveness reflect the core values and purpose that have driven the group throughout its long history.

Perhaps there’s no better way to celebrate the special anniversary than to consider all that people love about living and doing business in Castle Rock. The chamber and several local business leaders weighed in with tips and insights for this compilation of “65 Reasons to Love Castle Rock” — a numerical nod to the anniversary; rest assured there are many more!

Start With the Star

Favorite thing about Castle Rock? “The sense of community displayed at the chamber’s annual Starlighting event!” says D.J. Tedesco, market president for Independent Financial.

That’s something you’ll hear from thousands of people who’ve witnessed the annual lighting of the giant star atop Castle Rock’s namesake butte — about 25,000 people attend the event, which has been a tradition since 1964. The star has become as much a landmark as the rock itself since it was placed in 1936 as a beacon of hope during the Great Depression. The chamber initiated the lighting of the star as a community event to kick off the holiday season, and it stays lit throughout the winter through the end of January when the annual National Western Stock Show in Denver ends.

“It’s one of the best traditions in this town. All of the downtown streets are closed off, and residents get to spend two or three hours wandering around town and visiting with people they haven’t seen for a while but who they have known for years,” says Dave Peck, a resident of 25 years who, with his wife, Michelle, owns TMMC Property Management and Home Care Assistance of Douglas County.