When defense-contracting work brought Cessna Kleinmoedig’s family from Amsterdam to Colorado Springs earlier this year, they were drawn to Banning Lewis Ranch for many reasons: new homes in a growing community, a good district with neighborhood schools, backyards, cul-de-sacs, pools, community centers and activities that would help them get connected in their new home.
The full schedule of seasonal events and gatherings provided them a perfect opportunity to find friendships and grow deep roots in their new home. “Banning Lewis Ranch events build community as they bring everyone together,” Cessna says.
That’s a common experience for residents of what has long been the fastest-selling community in Colorado Springs. “There is always something going on or things to do,” says Christine Wilson, who has lived at Banning Lewis Ranch for 10 years. “The events bring neighbors together with shared interests and help build a community that cares about each other and looks out for one another.”
Banning Lewis Ranch is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a community. With amenities and resources such as the Northtree Ranch House, the Vista Water Park, large fitness center, pickleball courts, grassy parks, trails, open space and more, Banning Lewis Ranch has been intentionally designed to bring people together and help them thrive. It’s a place where families grow, neighbors are friends, and residents form caring connections. Much of that connection happens at a full schedule events and celebrations.
As the holidays currently approach, Banning Lewis Ranch is gearing up for its annual Holiday Lights Contest. All residents who participate receive an official yard sign, a tasty goody bag and a vote in the contest. Significant cash prizes are at stake for the top three winners. And a grand prize winner receives a visit by coffee and cupcake food trucks so they can host their friends and neighbors and share more holiday cheer.
Of course, all residents are invited to holiday parties at the Northtree Ranch House. The site plays host to gatherings all year-round. During the holiday parties, it’s the place to meet Santa, create crafts and celebrate with neighbors. The parties help make the holidays special, but Banning Lewis Ranch’s goal is to make every day special.
Fun events are a year-round way of life here. In the spring, there’s a community Easter Egg Hunt. In autumn, the Fall Festival gives kids and adults a chance to don costumes, visit the pumpkin patch and enjoy free, delicious goodies.
“Whenever we have some kind of event, I feel more connected with others,” says 11-year-old Chloe. “I can interact with others and make more friends. It builds an atmosphere of kindness. We see smiling faces and it encourages community.”
On the Fourth of July, Banning Lewis Ranch serves as one of the launch sites for the citywide Star-Spangled Symphony and July 4th Block Party. Residents can walk to Vista Park to watch the show or see the fireworks from their porches and yards. And ice cream trucks cruise through the streets providing free frozen treats.
For Labor Day Weekend, in a partnership with the Labor Day Lift Off, ALOFT brings hot air balloons, food trucks and family activities to Banning Lewis Ranch. It’s a smaller community version of the popular balloon festival.
September brings the community-wide Pig Roast. It includes live music, a bounce house, delicious food and more. This year, Cessna’s entire cul-de-sac coordinated to attend at the same time, providing an excellent time to talk and bond with neighbors. When her 3-year-old wanted to run and play while Cessna stood in the food line, a neighbor offered to keep an eye on him.
“That is community for you,” Cessna says. “It was a wonderful, musical atmosphere with a great band, artistry from face painters, jumping joy for kids, plus delicious food, drinks and dessert. It was definitely a must-see, must-feel and must-do event.”
Emily Habeck, another resident, agrees. “It was a joy to see the smiles on my boys faces when they saw all the free activities for the kids, like face painting, bounce houses, ice cream and free prizes.”
Summer Concerts are another favorite for many residents. With talented local bands, delicious food trucks, vendor markets and family activities, the free summer concerts on the lawn are a carefree setting for family fun and bonding with friends and neighbors.
“The concerts have given us a chance to get to know our neighbors better without much pressure,” Cessna says. “We dance and have a wonderful time. Those events have definitely helped us integrate in Colorado Springs and Banning Lewis Ranch and feel part of the community.”
“We usually pack lawn chairs and have a picnic dinner while enjoying the music,” Emily says. “My boys enjoy throwing the football around and inviting other kids to play.”
“The people we live around are amazing,” Chloe says. “Our family wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but here.”
Welcome Home in Banning Lewis Ranch
Learn more and join the community at BanningLewisRanch.com.
