Breckenridge Celebrates 150 Years of Adventure
Way before Breckenridge was a ski resort, it was a town. And since our founding in 1859, the spirit of the town hasn’t changed much. We still boast equal parts outcast and visionary, frontier and fine living.
With the approach of Breckenridge’s 150th anniversary in 2009, it is important to reflect on the history, heritage and characters that made this Victorian mining community what it is today. Full of gold finds and mining, exploration and adventure, brothels and saloons, booms and busts, the town’s history set the stage for the modern day adventures Breckenridge is known and loved for.
Founded in 1859 by a small group of prospectors, the town’s Gold Rush brought settlers in droves seeking their fortune. While some found gold, each adventurer discovered the glory of the Ten Mile Range and the bounty of its beautiful landscape.
2009 will be a time to celebrate Breckenridge’s history. From the enhancement of existing events and the addition of new events to encouraging locals and guests to explore history on the trails and capital improvements being made, the town’s history can be experienced and celebrated by families and adventure seekers and history buffs alike.
Highlights to take place during ‘Breck 150’ include:
Ullr Festival Presented by Bud Light, January 4-10 –Come see the famous Ullr parade Thursday, January 9th at 4:30 pm on Main Street in Breckenridge. Participation is free and fun for the kids & adults.
Breck 150 Retro Ski Weekend, April 4 – fashion show of ski apparel through the decades, spring skiing in retro garb and more as part of the annual Spring Massive celebration that includes concerts, comedy, on-mountain competitions, the Massive Brewfest and other events throughout April .
Edwin Carter Museum restoration, to be unveiled in the spring of 2009 – exhibits will trace the evolution of Carter’s life as a miner, taxidermist, and scientist who was Breckenridge’s original naturalist and paved the way for the town’s modern environmental efforts. Also featured in the museum will be a theater and an interactive learning center where children can try hand-on activities related to Carter’s work.
History comes to life during Kingdom Days, June 20-21 – including historic mine tours, museum exhibits, gun fights, live music, old time arts and crafts, storytelling, historic hikes, kids’ activities and the annual Outhouse Races.
Arts District of Breckenridge unveiling of new additions – historic buildings are being renovated to form a cutting-edge arts campus that houses a ceramics studio, performance arts venue, artist-in-residence studios, workshop spaces and more.
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