Bringing Music, Community, and Support Together in Estes Park
About Listening at the Legion
Listening at the Legion began with a single concert. In the summer of 2022, John Minier invited Jackson Emmer to perform at the Legion. It went very well, and Jackson shared the names of several other artists he thought would be interested in coming to Estes Park. And.. come they did! Our venue quickly became a gathering spot for both residents and visitors who share a passion for great tunes and community spirit. In the Fall of 2024 we celebrated our 50th show with Tom Paxton and the DonJuans. The 75th was a chance for us to showcase the talents of Mark Rashid. This January 2026 show brought out Mark’s storytelling, songwriting and performing talents, often overlooked but always appreciated.
The organizing committee for Listening at the Legion is comprised entirely of volunteers. Most of us are not veterans. We do it because we enjoy making these shows happen. Our reward comes with the smiles that we put on peoples’ faces, and in knowing that the work we do helps to support the Estes Park community.
Our Community Mission
Our mission is simple: to support veterans and strengthen the Estes Park community through the power of live music. Every concert, every ticket sale, and every event helps us give back, creating a ripple effect of positive impact both locally and beyond. We pride ourselves on hosting a diverse concert calendar, offering unforgettable shows from talented artists across genres. Whether you’re here for a lively weekend show, a special event, or just to soak in the atmosphere, you’ll always find a welcoming seat and a friendly face.
As we’ve grown, so has our commitment to supporting veterans and giving back to the Estes Park community. Every concert ticket you purchase helps us fund programs and initiatives for local veterans, ensuring they feel appreciated and supported.
MENTORING THE YOUTH OF OUR COMMUNITY
American Legion Post 119 has been sponsoring Boy Scout Troop 8 since 1938. We provide free meeting space, free hall usage for fundraising events, and specific grants/donations throughout the years. This year we made a generous donation to the Estes Park Girl Scouts, and have done likewise for the Cub Scouts in recent years.
Sending youth to Boys State and Girls State programs. These programs are the most respected and selective programs of governmental instruction for high school students.
This year we instituted the Gary Kyle Scholarship program for graduating high school students, giving two $1,000 scholarships to deserving graduates.
Meet Our Team
We are a dedicated team of volunteers committed to delivering excellence.
John Minier
Founder and Committee Chair
Miranda Dillard
Guest Relations
Cindy Minier
Booking
Randy Welch
Sound Engineer
Get Involved in Our Mission
Join us in making a difference for veterans and the Estes Park community. Whether you’re attending a concert, volunteering, or spreading the word, your support helps us keep the music alive and our mission strong.