Back to Hogwarts will bring a day of wizarding adventure to Downtown Casper on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Participants can pick up a special passport at Bookin' It or The Dreadful Bookshop before visiting participating downtown businesses, where activities, treats and special offerings will be waiting.

Stamps collected along the way will help participants complete their passports, with completed passports entering them for the Grand Wizard Prize. Guests are also encouraged to dress in Hogwarts-inspired attire and celebrate their favorite House while exploring Downtown Casper.

As Casper moves from summer into fall, homeowners have an opportunity to prepare their homes before cooler weather becomes the new routine. Simple tasks such as cleaning gutters, checking windows and doors, preparing heating systems, organizing outdoor spaces and making small changes indoors can help make the seasonal transition smoother.

Fall preparation doesn't have to be overwhelming, a little attention while the weather is still comfortable can go a long way toward making your Casper home ready for the season ahead.

The Casper Senior Center is bringing the community together for a Labor Day BBQ on Friday, September 4, at 1831 E. 4th St. Open to the community, the gathering offers a chance for Casper residents to share a meal, reconnect with familiar faces and create new connections.

Taking place during the Senior Center's 50th anniversary year, the BBQ is also a celebration of the role community gatherings have played in bringing people together throughout the organization's history.

This week's Casper on a Budget is all about giving yourself permission to enjoy a little time alone. A visit to The Nicolaysen Art Museum (The NIC) can turn an ordinary afternoon into an inexpensive solo date, with adult admission costing just $5. Spend a few hours exploring local and contemporary art at your own pace, then extend the outing with a walk downtown, an affordable coffee, or a small treat.

More than simply finding something inexpensive to do, it's a reminder that you don't need to wait for someone else to make plans before you can enjoy your own city. Sometimes, the best person to make plans with is yourself.

Glow Skate is bringing a fun adults-only night to Wagon Wheel Roller Skating in Mills on Thursday, September 3. From 7–9 p.m., guests ages 18 and older can enjoy an evening of roller skating, music, dancing, and black-light fun while showing off their brightest neon colors.

Admission is $12, with $3 skate rentals available for those who need them. Whether you're a longtime skating fan or simply looking for something different to do on a Thursday night, Glow Skate offers a colorful way to get out, have fun, and make some glowing memories with friends.

Denaj Permanent Jewelry will join Casper's September Art Walk with a pop-up at Cygnet Brewing Company on September 4. Visitors can browse permanent jewelry options, select their preferred style and have a custom-fitted piece completed on site. Admission is free, with jewelry available for purchase separately.

Casper will remain the host community for the College National Finals Rodeo through 2037 following an agreement between the City of Casper, Natrona County and the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.

The extension continues a relationship dating back to 1999 and ensures that college rodeo's national championship will keep returning to the Ford Wyoming Center for years to come.

The Wyoming Cancer Council Annual Meeting will take place September 1 in Casper, bringing together healthcare leaders, foundations and state program representatives to discuss updates to Wyoming's new cancer plan. Representatives from several Wyoming organizations are expected to participate in the statewide conversation.

The meeting will conclude with breakout workgroup sessions focused on continuing the planning process. By bringing different organizations together, the meeting provides an opportunity to share perspectives, develop priorities and help move cancer-related initiatives forward across Wyoming.

The Natrona County Library's Beyond the Pages virtual author series will feature award-winning historian and bestselling author David O. Stewart on Tuesday, September 1, at 12:00 p.m. MDT. Stewart will discuss his book The Democracy We Must Keep, which examines nine important documents and the founders involved in America's early experiment with self-government.

The free virtual conversation will include a live Q&A, allowing registered participants to submit questions to Stewart. Readers can join from home after registering online and receiving the event link and instructions by email.

The Center Street railroad underpass in Casper has reopened ahead of schedule following a storm sewer rehabilitation project. Crews reconstructed damaged stormwater catch basins, completed concrete work and cleared two major stormwater pipes as part of the improvements.

The project was funded through Natrona One Cent, Casper and Natrona County's local fifth-cent sales tax program. The completed work strengthens the area's stormwater infrastructure while returning the underpass to regular use, marking another local investment in Casper's transportation and drainage systems.

Art in the Park returns to Casper for its sixth annual celebration on Saturday, August 29, bringing local art, live demonstrations and music to Mike Sedar Park. The free event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving residents an opportunity to spend part of their weekend exploring the city's creative side.

With artists and musicians coming together in an outdoor setting, the event offers something for both longtime supporters of the arts and people experiencing it for the first time. Visitors can take their time exploring the event, enjoying the performances and discovering the people and creativity that continue to add character to the Casper community.

The Science Zone is bringing its annual Elemental Evening fundraiser to Casper tonight, August 28, with an evening of food, drinks, auctions, raffles and science activities. Among the auction experiences are hot air balloon rides, Jackson Hole golfing opportunities and a vacation stay in Brazil, giving guests plenty to look forward to throughout the evening.

The fundraiser also supports The Science Zone's broader educational work, including STEM and STEAM programs and scholarships that help make learning opportunities more accessible to families. With programs reaching communities throughout Wyoming, tonight's event offers Casper residents a chance to enjoy an evening together while supporting hands-on education for young learners.

Two separate Back-to-School Bashes are giving Casper-area families opportunities to prepare for the new school year while highlighting the generosity of the local community. The StillGood Natrona County and Unearthed Beauty event at the North Casper Clubhouse is offering free backpacks, school supplies, clothing, shoes and children's haircuts, with a sensory-friendly hour available before general public hours. Meanwhile, the 2nd Annual Back to School Bash at Shear Designs Salon is raising money for Parker Stevens and his family through admission, shopping and local vendors.

Although the events have different formats, both demonstrate how local businesses, volunteers and community organizations can help make back-to-school season a little easier. From donated essentials to fundraising and supporting local vendors, the two events provide opportunities for Casper residents to either receive assistance, contribute to a local cause, or simply take part in a community effort.

The Casper Celtic Irish Festival returns August 28 and 29 at the Ramkota Hotel, bringing music, Irish dance, cultural demonstrations, workshops, food, crafts and educational activities to the Casper community. With performers and programming scheduled throughout the two-day celebration, the festival offers residents and visitors an opportunity to experience Celtic traditions in a welcoming local setting.

Beyond its entertainment, the festival provides an opportunity for people to gather, learn and connect across different backgrounds. By creating a shared space for families, friends and curious community members, the event shows how cultural celebrations can help strengthen local connections while introducing Casper residents to traditions from around the world.

Fantasy football season is getting underway, and Wyoming Ale Works is inviting Casper leagues to bring their draft-night traditions to the local restaurant. Through September 6, groups of six or more can reserve a table and receive special draft-night perks, including nearby televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, a free appetizer, and $2 off draft beer.

The promotion gives local fantasy football players an opportunity to turn their annual draft into a group outing while enjoying food and craft beer at Wyoming Ale Works. Reservations are available by calling 307-472-5900, giving leagues a chance to gather their managers and get the competition started before the football season unfolds.

Students across Natrona County are preparing to return to classrooms on Monday, August 31, marking the start of the 2026–2027 school year. In the days leading up to the first day, families have been preparing through school activities, transportation arrangements, required forms, and other back-to-school resources provided by the Natrona County School District.

The return to school brings students and educators together for another year of learning, activities, and new experiences. With preparations underway across the district, families can review school schedules and available resources to help make the transition from summer break to the new school year a smooth one.

Explore downtown Casper in a whole new way with Cultural Casper, a self-guided scavenger hunt featuring nine local landmarks, trivia, riddles, photo challenges, and interactive activities. The 1.32-mile adventure takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and offers a fun way for families, friends, couples, and visitors to discover more of Casper’s downtown.

Watercolor Wednesday took place on August 26 at Wind City Sweets & Treats in Casper, giving residents a scheduled opportunity to enjoy watercolor painting at a local business. The recurring activity ran from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 4120 Centennial Hills Blvd., Suite 200.

While this week's activity has already wrapped up, readers are encouraged to stay tuned to the local calendar for future activities, events, and community happenings around Casper.

Casper Buzz is addressing the Casper community following the suspension of its Facebook presence and the ongoing appeal of Meta's decision. The message explains that the organization has not received a clear explanation for the suspension and has also experienced what appears to be repeated or coordinated reporting of its content, while emphasizing that Casper Buzz will not publicly accuse anyone without evidence.

The statement reassures the community that Casper Buzz is not going away. It explains the organization's commitment to local journalism, accuracy, community-focused reporting, local businesses and events, and its subscription-supported model. The team also explains that AI may be used as a production tool, but published information is reviewed by humans. Despite the Facebook suspension, Casper Buzz plans to continue growing through its app, website, subscriptions, and other communication channels, asking the community to continue supporting and following the platform outside Facebook.

Dolly Parton, beloved singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, has died at age 80.

Her nephew Bryan Seaver shared news of her passing in an emotional message, describing her impact as both personal and global.

Raised in rural Tennessee, Parton overcame humble beginnings to become a music icon with unforgettable songs like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.”

Her influence reached far beyond country music, shining in Hollywood films and humanitarian work.

Parton founded the renowned Dollywood theme park, transforming her hometown community, and launched the Imagination Library, providing free books to countless children worldwide.

Her legacy is measured not only by awards but by her enduring spirit of kindness, faith, and generosity.

Millions remember her as a symbol of hope, and her music and charitable works will inspire generations to come.

Small Favors brings Chris Daniels, Mark Oblinger, and Linda Lawson to Casper tonight for an ARTCORE-presented concert at CitiWerks Cafe & Bistro. The evening will also feature the Cory McDaniel Duo as the opening act, giving local audiences a chance to enjoy both local and experienced regional musicians.

The concert begins at 7:30 PM on Monday, August 24, with a special food and drink menu available for ARTCORE attendees. As a ticketed performance, it offers Casper residents another opportunity to enjoy live music and support the local arts community.

The Casper Recreation Center begins its Fall/Winter/Spring schedule on August 24, bringing updated facility hours and regular drop-in activities for the community. The center will be open 5:00 AM–10:00 PM Monday through Thursday, 5:00 AM–8:00 PM Friday, 8:00 AM–7:00 PM Saturday, and 1:00 PM–6:00 PM Sunday.

The new seasonal schedule also includes regular pickleball and basketball sessions throughout the week, giving residents more opportunities to stay active and use the facility as fall begins.

The Stained Glass Whimsical Keys Workshop at the Nicolaysen Art Museum gives Casper residents an opportunity to spend part of their weekend creating something by hand. Participants ages 10 and older can explore stained glass techniques while designing their own whimsical key companion to take home.

More than simply an art activity, the workshop offers a chance to slow down, experiment with color and materials, and experience the creative process firsthand. Taking place Saturday, August 22, it adds a hands-on arts experience to Casper's weekend calendar and gives participants a chance to leave with something they made themselves.

Ham & Jam Pig Races are returning to Casper on Saturday, August 22, offering residents a fun and unusual way to spend part of the weekend. The event at Gruner Brothers Brewing brings together racing pigs, community entertainment, and an atmosphere built around enjoying something a little different from the usual weekend activities.

Beyond the novelty of pig racing, the event also supports the local community, with proceeds benefiting The Science Zone. With the races beginning at 3 PM, Ham & Jam offers Casper residents an opportunity to gather with friends and family, enjoy a memorable afternoon, and support a local organization at the same time.

Tonight's Cinema at the Station gives Casper residents a unique way to begin the weekend with a Wicked double feature at David Street Station. The evening features Wicked at 4 PM followed by Wicked For Good at 7 PM, creating an extended movie experience for fans and newcomers alike.

With free admission, an outdoor setting, and food and movie snacks available, the event offers an easy Friday-night outing for families, friends, and movie lovers. More than just a screening, the evening gives Casper residents a chance to enjoy a shared experience downtown while making the most of a summer night.

The Casper High School Golf Invitational brings high school golfers to Casper for two days of competition on August 20 and 21. With the tournament taking place at Casper Municipal Golf Course, student athletes have the opportunity to test their skills, gain tournament experience, and compete alongside golfers from other Wyoming schools.

Beyond the competition, the invitational highlights the role of high school sports in bringing athletes, coaches, families, and supporters together. The two-day event gives the Casper community a chance to support young golfers while showcasing the city's golf course as a place where local and visiting athletes can compete and connect.

Casper/Natrona County International Airport broke ground August 14 on a new $30 million air traffic control tower, replacing the existing 1954 facility. The new tower will provide better visibility, more operational space, and modern systems to support Casper's diverse aviation activity.

The project is funded through federal, state, county, and airport resources and comes as Casper Airport recorded more than 100,000 passengers in 2025, its highest annual passenger count in a decade. Construction marks a major step toward modernizing the airport's infrastructure and preparing it for the future.

Earlier this summer, the Natrona County Library hosted “Small Figures, Big Narratives,” a miniature exhibit that brought American history to life through handcrafted dioramas and specially dressed figures. Featured during the July First Thursday Art Walk and connected to the America250 celebration, the exhibit brought together local organizations and community contributors to combine history, art, and hands-on activities.

The exhibit offered visitors a different way to explore historical stories while highlighting the creativity and collaboration within Casper's community. Although the display has concluded, it remains an example of how local spaces and organizations can use art and creative projects to make history more engaging and accessible.