Donkey Derby Days 2024 in Colorado

Every summer, an unusual tradition attracts thousands of people to the quaint town of Cripple Creek, Colorado. Donkey Derby Days is a unique annual dash where the town’s resident donkeys compete in speed. The donkeys descend from the animals that were brought to town after it was founded during the Gold Rush of America's West.

Festival Entertainment

The two-day festival features signature donkey races, live entertainment, historical competitions, and games for all ages. Kids will definitely enjoy seeing and interacting with adorable baby donkeys. Street vendors at the venue offer tasty snacks and souvenirs. There is also a parade on the second day of the festivities, during which spectators have a chance to appreciate all the colorful floats, periodic costumes, marching bands and vintage cars.

Donkey Races

Donkey races serve as the main highlight of the entire event. It's truly a fascinating spectacle, which features several teams consisting of two people and a donkey. The team members run along with the donkey, trying their best to urge him to run faster and cross the finish line. The races take place on Bennett Avenue on the second day of the festival.

Schedule & Location

The festival is usually held in August, but this year, it's set to take place at the end of June, a change of pace from the previous years. On June 28th, live music and festivities run from 7 pm until 9 pm at the District Museum. On June 29th, the kids zone is open from 10 am until 5 pm, while the beer gardens operate from 11 am until 10 pm. The parade takes place at 11 am, followed by the donkey races at 12:30 pm, 1:15 pm, 2:45 pm, and 3:45 pm. On June 30th, the children's area is open from 10 am until 5 pm. Beer gardens welcome visitors from 11 am until 5 pm. The festivities take place on Bennett Avenue.

History of Donkey Derby Days

The festival originated in the 1930s when a local entrepreneur Charley Lehew was thinking about ways to attract tourists to town during the low season. As a result, a race track was built in Cripple Creek, and the first Donkey Derby Days festival was born.

Hiking in Cripple Creek

The town of Cripple Creek is part of Colorado Springs Metropolitan Area located in 44 miles (71 km) from the city. Cripple Creek is a former gold mining camp with lots of hiking options in the area. Pikes Peak is the most well-known hiking destination. A 14,115 feet (4,302 m) mountain is one of the most prominent in this part of the Rocky Mountains. There are different routes to the top, with a 13-mile (21 km) Barr Trail being the most popular.