Centennial's 25th Year Anniversary!
Centennial’s 25th anniversary is more than a milestone—it’s a moment to reflect on what we’ve built together and look ahead to what’s next.
What started as a community-driven idea has grown into one of Colorado’s most connected and thriving cities. As we celebrate 25 years, we’re also setting the stage for the future—through shared vision, continued investment and a commitment to community.
Check this page often for new ways to celebrate, connect and reflect!
Celebrating The Next 25
Centennial’s future is already taking shape. Through community events, shared experiences and forward-looking conversations, we’re building on a strong foundation and setting the course for what’s ahead.
20th Annual State of Our City
Centennial’s future is already taking shape. At this year’s State of the City, Mayor and Council outline the priorities, projects and vision guiding the next chapter of our community.
Learn more about what's ahead, visit State of Our City
Thank you to the residents, businesses, community and City Staff—past and present—who have helped shape Centennial over the last 25 years. Here’s to the next 25!
Celebrate Centennial
Join us for an afternoon of live music, local vendors, food and community fun as we celebrate Centennial together.
- Join us Saturday, June 6 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Centennial Center Park
- Learn more and add this event to your calendar, visit Celebrate Centennial
This signature event brings neighbors together to mark 25 years and kick off the next chapter in true Centennial spirit.
25 Years of Centennial - A Connected Community
For 25 years, Centennial has been defined not just by growth, but by intention. A community built by residents, shaped by collaboration and focused on what comes next. Expand the accordion sections below to explore our milestones, memorable moments, news coverage and anniversary celebrations—or visit our About Us webpage to learn even more about our history and community.
Our Story: From Pancakes to Centennial
Every community has a beginning—ours started with a breakfast table and a bold idea: creating a City that reflects the values of its community. Learn how five neighbors—Randy Pye, John Brackney, Brian Vogt, Ed Bosier and Pete Ross—sparked the movement that led to Centennial’s official establishment on February 7, 2001.
Learn more about our founding and history on our History Webpage.
Our Journey: 25 Years of Milestones
From a grassroots movement to one of Colorado’s most connected, thriving communities, Centennial’s history is filled with defining moments. Explore the highlights that shaped our City—from incorporation to national recognition—and see how far we’ve come.
- 1998 – Pancake breakfast sparks the idea of incorporation. The Arapahoe Citizens for Self-Determination forms and quickly rallies thousands of petition signatures.
- 2000 – After a unanimous Colorado Supreme Court decision clears the way, 77% of voters approve forming the City of Centennial.
- 2001 – Centennial becomes official; first City Council sworn in on February 7.
- 2006 – Residents approve a TABOR exemption (“de-Brucing”), allowing Centennial to retain millions in local revenues for community use.
- 2008 – Voters approve a Home Rule Charter, strengthening local decision-making.
- 2010 – Census confirms a population of 100,377, making Centennial the 10th largest city in Colorado.
- 2012 – Fiber Master Plan adopted, paving the way for Centennial’s 50-mile fiber backbone.
- 2016 – Centennial named one of the Best Places to Live in America by Money Magazine.
- 2020 – Centennial celebrates its 20th anniversary online with residents during the pandemic and earns the highest Census self-response rate (87%) among U.S. cities over 100,000.
- 2025 – Ranked #1 Best Place to Live in Colorado by U.S. News & World Report.
These are just a few highlights from our journey—explore the full list of key moments on our Milestones page.
Our Memories: Centennial Through the Years
Centennial’s story is best told through the people and moments that define it. Browse our photo gallery for a look back at community gatherings, big milestones and everyday snapshots that remind us how special 25 years of Centennial have been.
Our News: Centennial in the Spotlight
Local and national stories have highlighted Centennial’s growth, innovation and community spirit. Revisit features that shine a light on our people, our progress and the pride we share in calling Centennial home.
Stay Connected - Be Part of the Next 25
The celebration doesn't stop here. Be the first to know about upcoming events, stories and ways to get involved: