When you think of Colorado’s official summer sport, mountain climbing might come to mind. Surprise—it’s pack burro racing! And nobody celebrates it better than Cripple Creek. 

From June 27-29, Donkey Derby Days returns for its 94th year, galloping into town with burro races, live music, food, vendors, a beer garden and more. The event is the largest and longest-running in Teller County.

The tradition dates back to 1931 to boost morale and tourism after Cripple Creek’s mining boom faded. The town wanted to look after their newly freed donkeys, once essential to the gold rush. So they made them the stars of a festival, now the biggest fundraiser for the Two Mile High Club, the nonprofit that cares for the town’s famous free-roaming herd. 

“The donkeys are considered the town ambassadors,” said Laura Piccolo, secretary/executive assistant for the Two Mile High Club. “They’re all very gentle because they interact with people all the time. But we also want to remind people that they are wild donkeys and to always treat them that way.” 

A special pen will be set up during the festival so visitors can meet some of the herd. The event is expected to draw more than 40,000 visitors.

Piccolo is thrilled that nearly every donkey is currently sponsored.

“We are so unbelievably grateful,” she said. “Our main job is to care for these beautiful animals that represent their mining ancestors and the Pikes Peak region’s history.” 

The festival’s signature event, the pack burro race, involves runners leading donkeys on ropes. While the town’s local herd doesn’t compete, professional racing burros from across the country do.

In addition to the races, more than 100 vendors will line the streets. Kids will enjoy a petting zoo, while adults can browse the silent auction.

The weekend’s parade promises to be another highlight, featuring the Fountain-Fort Carson High School Color Guard, the 4th Infantry Division Band, a Panther Flight flyover and the Geezers Motorcycle Club, made up of retired military personnel. Cripple Creek was recently named a Purple Heart community, so this year’s parade will feature a special float honoring Purple Heart recipients featuring up-and-coming country star Maddox Ross. 

“There are just so many unique things to do here [in Cripple Creek],” Piccolo said. “It is literally jam-packed with activities once the weather is nice and everything opens up.”

Cripple Creek is an easy day trip from Colorado Springs—just over an hour away. While you’re there, take time to visit local attractions like the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Outlaws and Lawmen Jail Museum, the Cripple Creek Heritage Center, the Molly Kathleen Gold Mine and the Butte Theater. On June 6-8, don’t miss Pearl DeVere Day, which pays tribute to the town’s most famous madam.

If You Go

Donkey Derby Days
June 27-29
Downtown Cripple Creek

For a complete schedule, visit CrippleCreekDonkeys.com/DonkeyDerbyDays