Durango likes to play. There is no doubt about it. So it was 39 years ago, our forbearers, burdened by dark days and slow commerce, conceived of a mid-winter celebration with a focus on fun they called Snowdown. Over the years, residents and some tourists caught the fever (or left town for the weekend) and the festivities grew into the 150-event happening it is today.
Snowdown is a remarkable display of community spirit, celebration and pride that is just what we need this time of year, especially now. It is a time when the only things on people’s minds are costumes, the light parade, The Follies, and how to get out of work to participate in all the fun that kicks off Wednesday with the ever-acclaimed Snowdown Fashion Do’s and Don’t’s at noon at the La Plata County Fairgrounds. The event is one of Snowdown’s most popular, and it sold out the day tickets went on sale. With this year’s “Intergalactic” theme, we can be sure to expect some far out fashions and costumes.
The Follies, often the best and worst (which is still some of the best) of locals on display in a community variety show, as with every year, is also sold out. The jokes can be a little raunchy and many are fun, but the dancing and music is always fantastic. It would not be the Follies if it were anything else. As of this writing, there were still tickets to the 10 p.m. Saturday telecast at the Animas City Theatre.
Not to worry. There really is something for everyone at Snowdown, including dogs and cats, and this year includes a plethora of new events, and some that bear San Juan Basin Health’s “Healthy Event” Seal of Approval.
Definitely look for the “Sneer” around town, the (un)official Snowdown newspaper for “The Onion”-style laughs. There is salsa dancing, pinball, spelling, outhouse-stuffing, golf, chili and so much more. Nothing is off limits during Snowdown. So dress up, have fun and be safe. Look out for others as you would your own. That is, after all, what makes our community great, especially during Snowdown!
For the full schedule, visit www.snowdown.org.
