Founded in the 19th century by German farmers, Windsor, Colorado, has grown into a community of more than 24,000 residents featuring a variety of outdoor activities, historical sites, and family friendly community events. History buffs will love the Boardwalk Park Museum’s historic buildings, programs, and exhibits highlighting the city's roots as small sugar beet farming community. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Poudre River Trail Corridor, a 21-mile long paved trail with multiple parks and views of the stunning landscape.
The Windsor Harvest Festival has been the largest event in Windsor for nearly a century, and it will take place September 2-4, across the downtown area. This year’s event will feature the largest parade in Northern Colorado, including a variety of vibrant floats and performers. Attendees will also encounter a vendor area showcasing a variety of local and regional vendors, selling a variety of goods from clothing to cookware. A hot air balloon rally will include a spectrum of colorful balloons at Eastman Park, and the annual Show Off Your Garden Show will showcase the impressive fruits, vegetables, and more grown in local gardens. Patrons will have access to a beer garden with tasty beers from all over the country, and a pie eating contest will test the eating skill of anyone brave enough to participate. ResortsandLodges.com got the opportunity to interview Casey Johnson, a representative of the event, to learn more about great community celebration.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
CJ: This is the 96th year of the Windsor Harvest Fest.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
CJ: We anticipate between 25,000-35,000 attendees.
RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?
CJ: Our event is perfect for all ages. We see families, couples, and many groups of friends.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
CJ: It's unique because it's a Labor Day tradition that features the largest parade in Northern Colorado. It lasts three days and has a nationally known artist on Saturday night to kick off the event.
RAL: Take me through the activities of a day at the event.
CJ: Here is a taste of what attendees will find:
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Beer Garden
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Pie Eating Contest
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Arts/Crafts/Commercial Booths
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Show Off Your Garden Competition
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Parade (Monday)
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Local bands (Sunday/Monday)
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Amusement Rides for Kids/Teens
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
CJ: The food booths will be available Sunday and Monday all day, offering a variety of meals, treats, and refreshments.
RAL: What is the overall environment like?
CJ: It’s a fun-filled atmosphere for all ages. Attendees can take in all the event has to offer, then visit the great shops and restaurants in the downtown area.
RAL: Our travelers seek out unique and boutique accommodations, where can they find these in your area?
CJ: We have several bed and breakfast locations in town. Otherwise, there are several hotels within a 10-mile radius.
RAL: Are there any lodging specials that are set up specifically for the event?
CJ: The Super 8 in town usually has a discount, and the MyPlace Hotel is a sponsor who offers discounts for out of town guests.
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
CJ: It is the town's largest event, and we partner with the Windsor to perform this event.
RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?
CJ: Yes, people come from all over. They spend money at our hotels, restaurants, and stores.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?
CJ: We have a scholarship fund that we do once a year for graduating Windsor High School seniors.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
CJ: The event attracts families from across the country for reunions, first dates, kids events, and more. We provide activities for all ages, and we work to help support the community. We also feature a free concert by a great national musician.
For more information about the Windsor Harvest Festival, please visit the event website.