One of the most unique film competitions that exist, the 48 Hour Film Project happens in cities across the globe and challenges filmmakers to create a great movie in just two days. Giving out specifications like a genre, character, prop and line that must be used when the competition begins, the teams that take part in the festival must do everything from creating a script to editing the completed work by the end of the 48-hour countdown.

The final product, a 4- to 7-minute film, is shown about a week later to whoever happens to buy a ticket. Attending this event, happening in 2009 at the Gothic Theatre in Englewood, is always a treat, with a surprising array of films created out of the basic requirements laid out at the beginning of the project. If the date of the first public showing doesn't work for you, a month or so after the films play at the Gothic the best of the lot will run again at the Starz FilmCenter.

It's definitely a long drive down to Palisade, but getting the chance to attend at least some of the events and activities of the Colorado State Fair makes the trip more than worth the while. All of your favorite rides and games of the fair will be back as usual, with plenty of amusement park-style activities for all ages. Livestock, horses, crafts and art will be on display and judged throughout the course of the fair: look around and try to predict what you think will win!

Definitely make it to at least some of the rodeo competitions while you're in town. The skill of the cowboys and the wild nature of the animals makes this the most adrenaline-pumping thrill of the entire week. See some of the raw destructive power of modern machinery at the demolition derby or the monster truck events, happening during the last days of the fair. For a calmer experience, check out some of the music, this year featuring bands like Foreigner, Gaither Vocal Band and Darius Rucker.