If you have ever driven south of Denver along I-25, you may have noticed the silhouette of a star atop the iconic Castle Rock, which shares a name with the south Denver suburb. While the 40-foot Star usually only shines during the holiday season, this year it will also serve as a beacon of hope during the coronavirus pandemic that is shaking the nation.
Beginning Monday, March 23rd, the famous Castle Rock Star will light the spring nighttime sky for the first time in Colorado history.
According to a press release from the Town of Castle Rock, the city council voted unanimously to light the Star "as a symbol of hope during the pandemic, and as a reminder that Castle Rock is a strong and united community that will persevere."
As previously mentioned, the Star stands 40 feet tall and consists of 88 light bulbs, giving it its famous glow that Coloradans have grown to know and love.
While this is the first time the Star has been lit during the spring, it has made a few non-holiday appearances in the past, including the end of World War II and for the Super Bowls XXXII and XLVIII.
As per the City of Castle Rock, Castle Rock Fire and Rescue firefighters and a long-time volunteer - dubbed the Keepers of the Star - will work to have the light shining by Monday night, with updates available on their website and social media.
Do you want to see both Castle Rock and the Star up close? Access to the 1.4-mile loop can be found via the Rock Park Trailhood just off of Front Street.