The City of Golden is set to host its seventh annual “Goldens in Golden” event this Saturday, February 8. The celebration, which welcomes thousands of golden retrievers and their owners (as well as dog-loving spectators) from across the country, will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Golden.
The festival began in 2019 to promote winter tourism and celebrate National Golden Retriever Day, which is on February 3. While the event primarily honors golden retrievers — the most popular dog breed in Colorado, according to U.S. News and World Report — it is also open to all well-behaved, leashed, and trained dogs.
The main venue for the event will be downtown Golden, where Washington Avenue will be closed to traffic from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to ensure the safety of participants. In addition to the main festivities, dog-friendly pre- and post-parties will be happening throughout the town, like a pre-party at the Golden Mill, offering a campfire cocktail bar and breakfast burritos, as well as an art showcase at the Foothills Art Center. Specialty dog treats will be offered at local favorites Kona Bowls and Miners Cupcakes.
The schedule of events includes a variety of activities for attendees. The Parfet Park Pet Vendor Village will operate from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., featuring pet-friendly vendors and merchandise. Washington Avenue will be designated as a pedestrian-only area from 10th to 13th Streets, allowing attendees to shop and socialize freely with their dogs. Official group photos will be taken under Golden’s Welcome Arch at 11:30 a.m., 12 p.m.noon, and 12:30 p.m.
Exclusive “Goldens in Golden” merchandise, designed by the local brand YoColorado, will be available for purchase both online and at the event. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies and the Foothills Animal Shelter.
For attendees driving to the event, parking options include both free and paid locations within walking distance. Free parking is available at the Clear Creek Lot and the Colorado School of Mines Lot K, while paid parking can be found at Jackson Street public garages and select street parking areas.
Organizers encourage participants to bring essentials such as waste bags, a water bowl, and sturdy shoes suitable for potentially snowy conditions. Hydration stations will be set up throughout the venue, and participants are recommended to bring personal bowls to keep their dogs hydrated during the festivities.
For further updates, weather-related cancellations, and other details, visit the Visit Golden website or follow @VisitGoldenCO on social media.
