Snowdown is upon us once again, for the 47th year. The annual cabin fever reliever bills itself as Colorado’s premier winter celebration, and the Durango Business Improvement District believes that is 100% correct. Here are BID’s tips for how to enjoy Snowdown:
First and foremost, get a costume! This year’s theme is “Uniquely Colorado – Then and Wow.” This year’s them ties into Colorado’s 150th Anniversary. So think Colorado history – miners, the wild west, skiing, John Elway or maybe mountains. Then come up with a creative costume to match something that resonates with you.
Grab a schedule of events. The schedules should be available around the community this weekend. You can also view all 220 events at Snowdown.org. Events start on Jan. 23 and continue through Feb. 1. There are plenty of new events, plus many of your favorites, and events that are good for families. Look for the family friendly event icon on the schedule pages on the website.
Not only does Snowdown.org have the full schedule, it also has the schedule separated out by day. If you are only available on a particular day, go to that page to find out what is happening. The website also contains information on Snowdown’s most popular events, such as the Light Parade and Chili Cookoff.
Speaking of the Light Parade, it is Jan. 30 and starts at 6 p.m. sharp on Main Avenue downtown. Arrive early to get a good spot along the parade route, which is from College Drive to 12th Street. Make a plan for getting to and from downtown as this large parade requires many street and parking closures. Pro tip: Take the free shuttle from the La Plata County Fairgrounds and Events Center to the Transit Center. The free shuttle runs from 3 to 8 p.m. BID has it on good authority that there will be something very special happening towards the end of the parade this year!
Not only is there free public transportation to and from the parade, every bus route is free from Jan. 28 through 31, including the Main Avenue Trolley. For late night options, the on-demand DuranGO! service is free on Jan. 30 and 31. DuranGO! operates from 5 p.m. to midnight. Book your ride through the app by searching for DuranGO! in your app store.
Do you have a suggestion for a theme for a future Snowdown? The theme for next year’s Snowdown in 2027 has been selected and will be announced during this year’s Snowdown, but you can suggest themes for 2028. Visit Snowdown.org and scroll down towards the bottom of the page where it says Win a Purgatory Ski Pass to learn more and submit your ideas. The 50th Snowdown will be here before we know it, so if you are interested in being on an advance planning committee, click on the volunteer tab on the website.
BID encourages you to follow Snowdown on social media – www.snowdown.org on Facebook and thesnowdowndurango on Instagram.
Happy Snowdown!
Tim Walsworth is executive director of Durango Business Improvement District. Reach him at timw@downtowndurango.org or 375-5068.
