Lights, Action, Racing: Littleton’s Twilight Spectacle Returns for Year 12

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The Audi Denver Littleton Twilight Criterium transforms downtown streets into Colorado’s premier after-dark battleground this August

On August 2, Downtown Littleton becomes the epicenter of Colorado cycling as the Audi Denver Littleton Twilight Criterium returns for its 12th edition. What started as a local race has evolved into one of the state’s marquee cycling events, drawing national-level talent to a tight 0.8-mile circuit through historic downtown streets.

The event’s signature twilight-to-darkness progression creates pure cycling theater. Racing begins in afternoon sunshine, building intensity as the lights come on and elite men’s and women’s fields take center stage for primetime showdowns under the glow.

Scenes from the Women’s Pro race at the 2024 Littleton Twilight Criterium. Photo courtesy of Littleton Twilight Criterium

“This event has grown into one of the premier criteriums in Colorado,” says Alexandra Vander Pol, Littleton’s event manager. “It’s everything you want in a crit: fast laps, full crowds, and a festival atmosphere that celebrates cycling at every level.”

The technical 0.8-mile course demands complete focus, with quick turns and demanding corners where gaps open and pelotons splinter. Spectators line the barriers just feet from the action, creating an electric race-day atmosphere.

Scenes from the Men’s Pro race at the 2024 Littleton Twilight Criterium. Photo courtesy of Littleton Twilight Criterium

Racing for Everyone

Beyond the elite spotlight, the event offers a full day of racing spanning juniors to masters categories. New for 2025 is the Unified Ride, an adaptive and inclusive wave focused on accessibility and community participation. Fan favorites like the Family Cruiser Ride and skills zones for young riders return, transforming the event into a true cycling celebration.

Festival Meets Racing

The Twilight Criterium extends beyond pure racing into a community celebration. This year debuts the Littleton Arts Festival, featuring local artists, music, food trucks, and beer tents alongside the cycling action. With thousands of fans expected to line the barriers, it creates one of the highest-energy cycling environments in the region.

Audi Denver’s continued title sponsorship elevates the event’s production and racer experience. “The Twilight Criterium is a perfect expression of precision, power, and performance,” says Steve Powers, VP of Operations for McDonald Automotive. “It’s one of the few events where world-class racing meets a true festival experience.”

When the lights come on August 2, Downtown Littleton proves that some of cycling’s best theater happens right in our backyard.

Registration open now. Full details at www.LittletonCrit.com

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