CREEDE - The largest and most anticipated holiday event during the summer is just weeks away from the small mountain town of Creede, and plans are well underway for this year’s Independence Day celebration. Thousands of people descend on Creede during this holiday weekend, and the schedule of events is sure to be a great time for all who attend. 

First up and beginning on Friday, July 4, will be the annual Days of 92’ Mining Competition that kicks off in the mining arena behind Basham Park. This annual event brings mining competitors from all over the US to participate in one of the last mining competitions throughout the country. 

For more than 20 years the City of Creede has hosted this event that features competitions like Jack Leg drilling, hand mucking, spike driving and so much more. The event is a captivating process to watch as participants from all over the southwestern part of the US come to show their skills in mining both modern and historical techniques that bring a select set of spectators to the stands. Created to preserve Creede’s historical past, the Days of 92’ Mining Competitions capture the future of mining and honor those who worked below the surface of the area to bring riches to the top. 

The fun is only just beginning as the annual 4th of July Parade kicks off at 10 a.m. along Main Street. This small town is transformed into a hub for the fun and inventive as anyone who wishes can participate in the parade as long as they fill out a parade registration form. From local businesses and organizations to local and visiting residents and guests, this parade lasts nearly an hour and has over 100 participants each year. 

Thanks to the many efforts of the City of Creede and the Creede and Mineral County Chamber of Commerce, a shuttle will be provided for free that will bring guests from the Mineral County Fair Grounds south of town, on up to Main Street for all the day’s festivities. The shuttle will run from 8 a.m. until after the fireworks. The city encourages all guests to use the shuttle service this year to allow for more fun in and around town. 

After the parade, the Creede Farmer’s Market will open offering every type of vendor imaginable. Local restaurants and shops will roll out the red carpet, and guests are invited to enjoy the rest of the day wandering around town, enjoying the beautiful backcountry, and supporting local fundraisers and events. 

As day turns to night, guests can enjoy the spectacular 4th of July Rodeo Series down at the Mineral County Fairgrounds that kicks off at 4:30, grab a seat and enjoy a show at the Creede Repertory Theatre or enjoy live music in several different venues throughout town.  

And as the sun sets behind the San Juans, guests are invited to join for the first annual Party in the Park. Grab a seat and get ready for a show (weather and conditions pending) as Creede gets ready to celebrate Independence Day, the only way they know how with a glow party with glow sticks ending with a spectacular firework display.  

It is sure to be a fun event for the entire family, so mark those calendars and come out for some serious fun! For more information or a full schedule of events, please visit www.creede.com.