TOP FUN

Issue: #837 June 25, 2025

THE BEST OF THE BEST

We’re just a local economic development nonprofit, standing in front of a captive email audience, asking them to love us. Please consider nominating THE San Juan Brewfest for best annual event in the Durango Herald’s Best Of La Plata County awards contest. BID manages Brewfest (translation: does the heavy lifting) in partnership with the incredible local nonprofit Team Up, formerly known as United Way of Southwest Colorado. They may have a new name, but they will continue the same collaborative work to help people thrive in Southwest Colorado. Brewfest has become an integral part of not just Durango’s summer lineup of events, but also to Team Up’s annual fundraising efforts, bringing in an average of $40k - $50k each year as locals and visitors alike enjoy tastings at up to 35 breweries and the sounds of three live bands. The festival brings in a late-summer economic boom, filling rooms and cash registers. Nominate The San Juan Brewfest for Best Annual Event here by June 29, and make sure to vote for your other favorite local businesses across all categories. This year’s Brewfest is happening August 22 – 23 at Buckley Park in Downtown Durango. See the beer and band lineups and get your tickets at SanJuanBrewfest.com.

KEEPING UP FOURTH RELATIONS

Four Days for the Fourth is next week! Here are some recommendations for activities as you celebrate Independence Day in Durango:

July 3-6: A Scavenger Hunt will take you to 10 Downtown businesses, if you can solve the riddles.
July 4: Wet and Wild 4th of July Parade and FREE concert at the Transit Center featuring the Afrobeatniks supported by High Country Hustle.
July 5: 2^nd Annual Boxing Classic happening in front of the Jack Dempsey mural at 10^th & Main
July 6: Beats & Brunch at 11^th Street Station

There will also be Pro Bull Riding, a gourmet breakfast, Concert in the Park, and so much more. View the full schedule of events here.

WRITING CHECK-INS YOUR LOVED ONES CAN CASH (IN ON)

Got friends or family coming to town? If they stay three nights or more, they can earn money to spend while they’re in town. Qualifying stays get rewarded with a $100 Heart of Durango Dollars gift card, now accepted at 100 local businesses. Eligible stays must include three nights that take place between Sunday and Thursday. Bookings at any hotel, motel, private campground, RV park, or vacation rental in Durango qualify! Learn the easy process at Durango.org/Stay.

GOODNESS GRACIOUS, THIS LINEUP IS FIRE

The Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College officially announced its 2025-2026 seasonal lineup. From grand stage productions to intimate storytelling sessions, the season invites audiences to pause, listen, and reflect — not just from the seats, but right alongside the performers. CCH @ FLC continues its acclaimed Backstage Pass Concert Series: a companion experience that puts audiences and artists together on stage in a 100-seat listening room setting, offering powerful and personal encounters. Check out the full season at DurangoConcerts.com.

I FEEL THE NEED, THE NEED FOR GREEN ENERGY SOURCES

Seven local households are going solar thanks to Project SunShare, a community-powered partnership between 4CORE and Shaw Solar. These are working families and individuals who wouldn’t otherwise have access to rooftop solar.

Here’s how it works: Shaw donates the equipment. Homeowners contribute what they can—knowing they’ll be eligible to claim the federal solar tax credit later. And local donations help close the remaining gap to make it all possible. With the first round of installations fully funded, 4CORE is gearing up to help more households in Round Two. Learn how it works and how you can be part of it here.