Embark on a journey through time and tradition at the 129th Annual Strawberry Days Festival in Glenwood Springs, where a legacy comes to life. This free community festival, a cherished tradition since 1898, invites you to join in the festivities on the third Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of June.

Originally conceived by the Tri-County Farmer's Union as a celebration of Colorado's bountiful fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, Strawberry Day was born on June 18, 1898. Local farmers contributed succulent strawberries and fresh cream, while community members baked cakes to share with nearly 2,000 attendees from across the state. Fast forward 129 years, and the Strawberry Days Festival remains a vital part of our community's identity, a living testament to our history and values.

Throughout its storied history, new traditions and events were added to enhance the Strawberry Days experience.  In 1915, the festival introduced the crowning of the Strawberry Days Queen, featuring beauty, talent, and evening gown competitions popular at the time. Over the years, it evolved into Miss Strawberry Days, a scholarship program celebrating poise, personality, community involvement, and leadership. Winners became true ambassadors for Glenwood Springs, embodying the spirit of the festival.

To keep crowds entertained, organizers brought in musicians and performers from near and far. Military, high school, and community bands filled the air with the popular tunes of the day. In 1917, an entertainer known as “The Human Fly” captivated spectators as he scaled the exterior of the Hotel Colorado—without safety gear—while onlookers held their breath. A decade later, in 1926, Hollywood star Tom Mix, in town filming The Great K & A Train Robbery, served as the festival’s guest of honor. In 1978, Glenwood Springs added a new tradition: the Strawberry Shortcut, a 5K and 10K race that quickly became a community favorite.

The Human Fly may have hung up his climbing shoes and Miss Strawberry Days may have taken her final bow, but the festival still buzzes with the same excitement and community spirit that’s defined it for more than a century.  Today, you’ll still find outstanding live entertainment and the Strawberry Shortcut running on Sunday morning.

As the festival has evolved over time, its heart has remained steadfast - a commitment to bringing together friends and neighbors, extending a warm welcome to guests, and showcasing the vibrant spirit of our community. The weekend is filled with an array of attractions, including live music, family activities, an arts and crafts fair, a food court, and the time-honored tradition of an old-fashioned parade.  A special highlight is the continuation of the 129-year tradition of serving free strawberries and ice cream, a gesture that encapsulates the warmth and generosity of Glenwood Springs.

Join us as we celebrate not just a festival, but a piece of living history that has become the official kickoff to summer for our community. The 129th Annual Strawberry Days Festival awaits, ready to weave together the threads of the past and the excitement of the present in a tapestry of joy and camaraderie.