A Taste of Colorado draws more than 500,000 visitors annually.  Five entertainment stages include national, local and ethnic music in a variety of genres, children’s performers and much more. Festival goers could also try a variety of culinary delights from more than 50 of Colorado’s favorite food establishments, including a culinary showcase.  Visitors could enjoy the offerings of more than 275 marketplace artisans and vendors, as well as educational programs promoting the diverse cultural and Western heritage of the region — for no admission fee.  

Originally named Festival of Mountain and Plain and established in 1895 as a carnival similar to New Orleans’ Mardi Gras, the Festival was created to boost the city’s morale and vitality following the silver panic. The event, unsuccessful in ending Denver’s depression and declining in attendance, folded in 1902 when organizers were unable to obtain financial support.  In 1983, the Downtown Denver Partnership decided to bring back the spirit of the original Festival to commemorate the opening of the 16th Street Mall.  The following year, A Taste of Colorado was added to the Festival of Mountain and Plain name and concept and moved back to Civic Center Park in Downtown Denver, where the event first began.

A Taste of Colorado is the end-of-summer celebration of community pride and spirit in the Denver region with food, music and attractions for all ages.

Photos by John Root