Picture a Colorado street transformed into a wiggling, wagging wonderland — where floppy ears outnumber hats and slobbery grins are the official currency.
That’s the scene that unfolded recently as Golden, Colo., hosted its annual “Goldens in Golden” gathering, a festival where four-legged celebrities stole the spotlight. The event, launched to lure visitors during quieter winter months, has become a boisterous tradition celebrating golden retrievers and their humans.
Robin Fleischmann, economic development manager for Golden, said the day brings more than just puppy love to town. “It’s a wonderful convergence of people and dogs, and we love celebrating National Golden Retriever Day here,” she said.
Golden retriever in costume with owner. Photo by Visit Golden & Ken Mostek Photography
This event not only brings joy to the community but also introduces people to Golden, a town that may be a little quieter at this time of year.”
Crowds flocked to downtown Golden for photo ops under the town’s iconic “Howdy folks!” arch, creating a sea of golden fur during scheduled group snapshots. Attendees like Eric and Pam Schorsch traveled from Tennessee with their four-month-old pup, a birthday gift for their daughter.
“We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than by bringing our new puppy out here to Golden,” Eric said. “It’s amazing to see a community come together like this. We’ve never seen anything like it,” he added.
Local businesses rolled out the red carpet — or perhaps the chew toy — for guests. The Golden Hotel reported full bookings, with general manager Tim Gerhold noting some guests plan a year ahead. Meanwhile, shops offered dog-friendly treats, like Kona Bowl Superfoods’ specialty pup bowl. Owner Alissa Mattson crafts the mix with banana, peanut butter, and flax seed, proving even dogs get the VIP treatment.
Golden retrievers with their owners. Photo by Visit Golden & Ken Mostek Photography
For J.J. Rounds and her two golden retrievers, the event marked a third year of tail-wagging fun. “We just love it. It’s so fun. We like seeing all of the markets and the different people from everywhere that come out. There’re people from all towns and states,” she said.
Though golden retrievers reign supreme, the city emphasizes inclusivity — with a wink. “Nobody is ‘checking IDs,’” organizers noted, though only leashed, trained pups earned invites. Even Denver7’s mascot, Mozzarella, joined the furry festivities, proving it’s a party where every bark is welcome.
Between campfire cocktails for humans, breakfast burritos, and wagging meet-and-greets, “Goldens in Golden” delivered a lesson in community joy — one paw at a time. As Fleischmann put it, “Golden is a great place to visit any time of year.”
