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Goldens in Golden

A Celebration of Golden Retrievers in Golden, Colorado

February 6, 2027 | Free Admission

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when thousands of Golden Retrievers take over a historic mountain town. Every February, Golden, Colorado, transforms into a sea of wagging tails and golden coats to celebrate International Golden Retriever Day.

This isn’t just a meetup; it’s one of the largest gatherings of Goldens in the world. From the iconic group photo beneath the “Welcome to Golden” arch to the sea of friendly faces lining Washington Avenue, Goldens in Golden is a heartwarming spectacle that captures the true spirit of our community. Whether you are a lifelong Golden owner or just someone who appreciates a surplus of “good dogs,” this is an experience unlike any other.

Join the Fun as a Sponsor or Vendor

Goldens in Golden wouldn’t be the golden-retriever-filled celebration it is without the businesses and organizations who show up for it year after year. From the sponsors who help bring it all to life to the vendors who line the vendor villages with treats, gear, and good energy.

Applications for Goldens in Golden 2027 are now open through October 1, 2026. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or considering your first year, we’d love to have you be part of what makes this day so special. As a sponsor or vendor, you get your brand in front of dog lovers while supporting a joyful community event.

Questions about sponsorship or vendor opportunities? Contact us we’re happy to help you find the right fit.

Goldens in Golden 2026 Group Photo of dogs and humans under the Welcome to Golden Arch

Sponsorship Application
Vendor Application

What to Expect

Washington Avenue closes to traffic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and fills with thousands of proud pup parents and their Goldens dressed in bandanas, sweaters, and full winter fluff. Throughout the day, enjoy three group portrait sessions under the iconic Golden Welcome Arch, two Vendor Villages featuring local and national merchants, dog-related nonprofits, food and drinks, games, contests, and community meet-ups at the Goldens in Golden Pup-up Tent and Parfet Park, plus scenic walks along Clear Creek (leashes required).

Photo opportunities and official merch are around every corner, and the good vibes don’t stop when the event does. Keep the party going all weekend across Golden’s dog-friendly patios, craft beverage spots, boutique shops, and scenic trails.

2026 Award Winners

Congratulations to our inaugural class including Cash (Golden Mayor), Rylie (Hometown Hero), Goose (Rookie of the Year), and Estes Bark (Hertz Gold Standard)! Thank you to everyone who nominated and voted to help launch this new Golden tradition. Check back early next year for 2027 details.

Cash the golden retriever stands on a wood boardwalk wearing a bandana
Hertz Gold Standard: Estes Bark
Rookie of the Year: Goose
A golden retriever dog names Estes Bark walks the aisle in a wedding ceremony

The official 2026 group photos taken under the Golden Welcome Arch are available for high-resolution download. Find your pup and save a piece of Golden history.

View & Download 2026 Group Photos

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Plan Your Visit

Admission is free. The official event takes place Saturday, February 6, 2027 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Washington Avenue in Downtown Golden. We welcome friendly, leashed, and well-socialized dogs only. Free off-site parking is available with dog-friendly shuttles running directly to Parfet Park until 5 p.m. Rideshare drop-off and pick-up is available near the Clear Creek Parking Lot at 907 Archer St, Golden, CO 80401. Rain, snow, or shine, the event goes on, dress in layers for a classic Colorado winter day. Golden is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their four-legged friends. Beyond the event, explore our creek-side trails, dog-friendly patios, and local shops.

For specifics on shuttle routes, day of event schedule and specials, stay tuned. Read the Goldens in Golden FAQs

Thank You 2026 Community & Event Partners

Goldens in Golden welcomes thousands of golden retrievers and their people to downtown Golden for a heartwarming winter celebration unlike any other. We’re sincerely grateful to the partners who help keep this beloved tradition alive year after year.

Presenting Sponsor

Shuttle & Security Support

Official Merchandiser

Leader of the Pack Sponsors

Golden Spirit Sponsors

Golden Spirit Sponsors

Golden, CO: A Dog-Friendly Destination

Goldens in Golden may be the main reason you visit, but many attendees turn the weekend into a longer stay. Golden is one of Colorado’s most dog-friendly towns, offering miles of creekside and park trails, walkable streets, and plenty of restaurants and breweries with patios that welcome dogs. It’s the perfect destination for exploring with your four-legged friends while enjoying everything the town has to offer.

Goldens in Golden Group Vertical

For more dog-friendly tips and suggestions, check out these blogs and pages that will help you plan the perfect Goldens in Golden weekend!

Meet the Goldens

View & Download 2026 Group Photos

FAQs About Goldens in Golden

When and where is the event?

Goldens in Golden is held every February. The 2027 event is scheduled for Saturday, February 6th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The main gathering takes place in downtown Golden, centered on Washington Avenue under the Welcome Arch, in Parfet Park, and in the lots between Arapahoe Street and Miners Alley.

Do I need tickets?

No tickets are required. Attendance is completely free.

Are all dogs allowed?

Friendly, leashed dogs of any breed are welcome to join the celebration. While Golden Retrievers may be the star of the show, all doggos all welcome!

Where should I park?

Convenient FREE parking & dog-friendly shuttles will run in 2027 until 5 p.m. with more information available as the event draws closer. Parking is also available in garages and surface lots throughout Downtown Golden; please read posted signs and register your vehicles as required to avoid ticketing.

Where is the rideshare drop-off and pick-up?

We’ve designated 907 Archer St, Golden, CO 80401, by the Clear Creek parking lot as the official rideshare zone for Goldens in Golden. It’s convenient and gets you to the event in under 2 minutes. Return to the same location for easy pick-up when the event ends.

Is the event weather-dependent?

The event is rain, snow, or shine. In the case of severe weather, a public safety concern, or other circumstances beyond the City’s reasonable control, the City may modify or cancel portions of the event.

Will there be water or rest areas?

Bring plenty of water for you and your pup, and enjoy downtown’s dog-friendly patios! Explore local breweries, restaurants, shops, and relaxing benches throughout town with your four-legged friend.

Where can I see this year’s group photo?

The official 2026 event group photos are ready! View and download the high-resolution images here, and don’t forget to share your favorites. You can also browse the 2025 official portraits in this folder.

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