(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — The new owners of a private ranch in El Paso County, east of Fountain, are now opening their land to the public to serve as a community venue, and the first event held this weekend, honored our military and first responders.

The new owners of Circle 3 Ranch, which is located off Squirrel Creek Road, said they plan to host community events once a month through October and each will have a different theme and will benefit various nonprofits.

This weekend’s event was held on Saturday, July 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the community was invited to meet our local heroes while enjoying games, music, a selfie station, and much more. There was also a petting zoo and pony rides for the kiddos, along with face painting. Food trucks and several vendors were also on site.

“There’s just not a lot of places that facilitate for the youth and younger kids to come out and learn and feel comfortable and be supported in that way, that we really wanted the community and everyone to just have a place that is fun and safe and they can get their hands on more animals, in an experience that is hard to find around here,” said Meghan Kelly, Manager of Circle 3 Ranch.

Circle 3 Ranch is located at 12393 Squirrel Creek Road, Fountain, CO 80817. All of the events are free entry and open to the public.