Celebrate the People Who Make DAS Shine

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2026 DAS Spring Banquet & Awards Ceremony

The Denver Astronomical Society wouldn’t be the strong, vibrant organization it is without its members. Some of you are on the front lines—hosting star parties, leading outreach events, or mentoring new observers. Others work quietly behind the scenes, keeping committees, programs, and operations running smoothly.

The 2026 DAS Spring Banquet and Awards Ceremony is our opportunity to come together as a community to recognize those efforts, celebrate our shared accomplishments, and showcase the many ways members contribute to DAS.

The Rising Star Award - Presented to Bart Scully for his work on the Kline-Dodge Dark Sky Site - Photo by Ron Hranac
The 2025 Rising Star Award – Presented to Bart Scully – Photo by Ron Hranac

Why recognition matters:
A key part of honoring our volunteers is highlighting the many components of DAS—our committees, programs, and leadership roles—so members can see how the organization functions and find new ways to get involved. By recognizing today’s volunteers, we hope to inspire the next generation of DAS leaders.

Event Details (Members and Guests Only)

Deer Creek Stables
Deer Creek Stables

When:

Saturday, March 7, 2026
6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. MST

Where:

Deer Creek Stables 📍
Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
8500 West Deer Creek Canyon Road, Littleton, CO 80128
(Near C-470 and Wadsworth)

Cost:

$45 per person.

Registration:

Register Here!
Please note: This is a members-only event. Registration is required, and only DAS members can access the registration link.

What to Expect

During this year’s Spring Banquet, we will:

  • Formally induct our newly elected Officers and Trustees

  • Present awards to members who have made significant contributions to DAS

  • Highlight the work of our committees and programs

  • Recognize those whose past efforts helped shape the organization we enjoy today

We exist because dedicated members give their time, skills, and passion to astronomy and education. Our future depends on encouraging participation, curiosity, and leadership across all areas of DAS—and this evening is designed to do just that.

Deer Creek Stables
Deer Creek Stables

Dinner, Stargazing, and a Night to Remember

The evening includes a buffet dinner, social time, and—weather permitting—telescope viewing just outside the Deer Creek Stables.

Members and their guests are welcome to explore the public areas of Chatfield Farms until sunset. A fire pit will be available near the venue, and attendees may take beverages with them while enjoying the night sky.

It’s a relaxed, social evening that blends recognition, learning, and our shared love of astronomy.

Spring Banquet Agenda

  • 6:00 p.m. – Event begins / Bar opens
  • 7:00 p.m. – Buffet opens
  • 7:30 p.m. – E-Board Officers and Trustees seated
  • 8:00 p.m. – Awards ceremony
  • 8:30 p.m. – Presentations of DAS Committees
  • 9:00 p.m. – Bar closes
  • Until 11:00 p.m. – Telescope viewing
Deer Creek Stables Dining
Deer Creek Stables Dining

Buffet Dinner Menu

  • Chicken Piccata GF Seared Chicken in a Lemon, Butter, Caper Sauce. Garnish: charred lemons GF
  • Meatballs: Beef and Pork or Beyond Meat with Panko, Parsley, and Garlic in a Tomato Basil Sauce
  • Italian Stuffed Portabello Mushrooms GF VG
  • Seasonal Grilled Vegetables GF VG
  • Farfalle VG
  • Penne GF VG
  • Fire Roasted Tomato Sauce, garlic, herbs, basil GF VG
  • Alfredo garnished with shaved parmesan GF VG
  • Mediterranean Salad with Feta o the side, spring mix, romaine, olives, artichokes, pickled onions, tomatoes, cucumbers served with balsamic vinaigrette and basil garnish GF VG
  • Butter Rolls with butter pats
  • Apple Crisp GF VG

A beverage station with iced tea, coffee, hot tea, and water will be available. Beer and wine will also be offered.

Keep Looking Up

We hope you’ll join us for this special evening celebrating the people, programs, and passion that make DAS what it is today.