2026 SNOWDOWN DATES ARE FRIDAY JANUARY 23 TO SUNDAY FEBRUARY 1

Saturday January 31

This page will be updated throughout Snowdown and should always contain the most up-to-date information on events. Contact the event coordinator with questions. 

Check out our new app with all 2026 events! Click HERE.

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The icon below an event description means the event is family friendly, but please read the event info and make your own judgement if the event is right for your family. Contact the event coordinator with questions.

 

9 AM CASTAWAY - FLY ROD CASTING CONTEST
Confluence Park (Three Springs) - 100 Confluence Avenue
Test your angling finesse as you try to land perfect casts on targets at 20 ft, 40 ft, 60 ft, and the elusive bullseye. We’ll provide a fly rod, reel, and line for all participants, so everyone can fish on equal footing, whether you’re a seasoned river rat or just learning to mend your line. No experience required. All ages welcome!
Event Coordinator: Jandrea Glenn 970-382-9978
Entry Cost: FREE

 

NEW EVENT!
10 AM SNOWDOWN THROWDOWN
CrossFit Durango - 600 Sawmill Rd
Mountain men and pioneer women have nothing on you. Teams of 2 will race the clock in this endurance SNOWDOWN throwdown! Tackle a 500 m row, power through a 100 ft sled push, and blaze through a 1200 m bike course. Partners can share the workload however they see fit. Teamwork, strategy, and speed are key! Ages 13+. 
Event Coordinator: Tanya Basye 9707695814
Entry Cost: FREE

 

10 AM - 11:30 AM KIDS SNOW GAMES 
Folsom Park - 11 Folsom Place 
Hosted by McDonald’s, this SNOWDOWN event is taking playtime to the next level! Little adventurers will climb, run, and laugh through a day packed with fun challenges: tug-of-war, broomball, kickball, frisbee golf, balloon pops, and a twisty-turny obstacle course straight out of the McDonald's playground playbook. Bring your tiny pioneers and let them slide, swing, and spring their way to glory! Perfect for kids in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade.
Event Coordinator: Kathy Bowser 970-247-3986
Entry Cost: FREE

 

NEW EVENT!
10 AM ANYTHING BUT A CUE - SCOTCH DOUBLES
The Garage - 121 W 8th St 
You and a partner team up for Scotch doubles, but there's a catch—you must use something other than a traditional pool cue! From broom handles to ski poles, get creative and show off your unconventional skills. Proving Coloradans can make anything work, since 1876. Sign up 30 minutes before the event starts. Must be 21+. 
Event Coordinator: Jenn Kelley 970-317-8583
Entry Cost: $20

10 AM BRING YOUR PARTNER FOOSBALL
The Garage - 121 W 8th
Grab your flipper partner and step up to the table! 32 teams will battle it out in a high-score pinball double elimination tournament until one team emerges as the ultimate champ. Remember, spinning ain’t winning! Sign up 30 minutes before the event starts. Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Jenn Kelley 970-317-8583
Entry Cost: $20

11 AM BLENDER BEAN BATTLE
11th Street Station - 1101 Main
Think you’ve got the iced coffee chops to rule Durango? Bring your secret recipe, yes, the one you’ve been tweaking at 2 AM for years, and craft a cup that will blow judges’ minds (and give them the jitters).  We’ll provide a mountain of fun and quirky ingredients to mix, muddle, and let you espresso your creativity. Bonus points for the cleverest coffee name, because flavor isn’t the only thing that matters in this battle of the java jive. Must be 18+.
Entry Cost: FREE

11 AM CRASH COURSE DERBY
11th Street Station - 1101 Main
Rev up, little trailblazers!  Kids will take the wheel of battery-powered Big Rigs and roll into our miniature demolition derby corral. Each rider will defend their rig’s balloons while aiming to pop the competition one by one until only one legendary little driver remains. Big wheel keeps on turnin’ lil’ buckaroos keep on burnin. For kids under 10. 
Entry Cost: FREE

 

11 AM KIDS PINBALL TOURNAMENT
J Bo’s Pizza - 1301 Florida Rd Unit E
Calling all young pinball wizards! It’s time to grab a slice and show off your skills in our 3-Strike Pinball Tournament. Players go head-to-head in epic pinball battles. Lose a match? That’s one strike. Three strikes and you’re out! Keep playing, keep scoring, and dodge those strikes! The last kid standing without three strikes is crowned the ultimate Pinball Wizard. Must be under 18. 
Event Coordinator: Jason Thomas 970-759-1158
Entry Cost: FREE

 

11:30 AM OUTLAW JOSIE PETE'S SNOWDOWN GOLF 
Downtown Durango - Start and End at the Elks Ballroom - 901 E 2nd Ave 
It’s the Colorado Open, SNOWDOWN style. Saddle up for the annual costumed tavern golf shootout, where only the sharpest aim (and the steadiest stride) prevail. High noon marks the first draw. Armed with your own putter and golf ball, you’ll duel your way through Durango’s finest watering holes. See SNOWDOWN.org for entry details. Must be 21+. 
Event Coordinator: Doug Lyon 970-560-1753
Entry Cost: $80/team

12 PM - 7 PM HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW (Y)OUR WINE?
Four Leaves Winery - 528 Main
(See SATURDAY, Jan 25, 12 PM for details)

12 PM BLOODY MARY CONTEST
La Plata County Fairgrounds & Event Center - 2500 Main
Hosted by Star Liquor, this is the event your liver has been waiting for. Fun? You’re bloody right! Bring your signature Bloody Mary ingredients. Ice, cups, and vodka will be provided to all our mixologists. The tastiest cocktail and the best presentation (booth and costume) win! See SNOWDOWN.org for entry details. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Greg Yucha 970-382-0788
Entry Cost: FREE for contestants, samples are $2 (Cash Only)

12 PM SNOWDOWN CHILI COOK OFF
La Plata County Fairgrounds & Event Center - 2500 Main
Step right up to the Chuck Wagon Chili Roundup, where the finest chili cooks in the territory roll into town to show what they’ve got simmering in their pots. The cookfires and booth fixin’ begin at sun-up, 7 AM sharp. At 10:30 AM, the judges ride in for the official tasting. At high noon, tasting cups go on sale, so grab one and mosey your way through the wagons to cast your vote for the People’s Choice! Bring your appetite and your frontier spirit! See SNOWDOWN.org for entry details. All ages welcome! 
Event Coordinator: Greg Yucha 970-382-0788
Entry Cost: FREE for contestants, samples are $1 (Cash Only)

 

1 PM BLENDER SMOOTHIE BATTLE
11th Street Station - 1101 Main
Hosted by Love ‘N Juice. Do you have what it takes to craft the most delicious Durango smoothie? You’ll have 5 minutes to whip up the ultimate blend using only the provided ingredients. Whether it’s a Palisade Peach Pucker or a Paonia Pear-fection, the tastiest blended concoction will be judged on taste, creativity, and the perfect name. Grand Prize wins a $200 Love ‘N Juice gift card! Must be 18+.
Entry Cost: FREE

1 PM - 4 PM GEN ALPHA SKILLSQUEST & GEN BETA SKILLS EXPERIENCE
Chapman Hill - 500 Florida Road
Gear up for this SNOWDOWN showoff contest, where precision, style, and foolhardiness hit the slopes! Every trick counts, every turn tests your control and technique. Judges will score based on style, technique, and speed, with combined scores and times deciding the ultimate champion. Proceeds benefit local youth Ski and Snowboard Programs. Register online via the DurangoWinterSportsClub.org website. Prizes for the top Male and Female. Ages 13 and under, with a cap of 75 participants. 
Event Coordinator: Shane Ellis 970-799-5677
Entry Cost: $25

 

1 PM TRI GAMES 
Gazpacho New Mexican Restaurant - 431 E 2nd Ave 
Rally your team and get ready to compete for hometown glory in this epic tri-event challenge. Three rounds will test your precision, grit, and pure Colorado spirit: the 3-Point Basketball Throw, the Cornhole Pitch, and the Ladderball Summit Toss. Gift cards for $100, $50, and $25 for the winners. All ages welcome!
Event Coordinator: Brennan McManamon 970-426-1210
Entry Cost: FREE

 

1 PM MAGIC THE GATHERING TWO-HEADED GIANT COMMANDER TOURNAMENT (NEW DATE - MOVED TO SUNDAY FEBRUARY 1)
Guild House Games - 835 Main Ste 203

 

1 PM CANINE FASHION SHOW
McDonald's - 201 W College Dr
Hosted by McDonald's. Grab your best furry sidekick (or borrow someone else’s) and strut their stuff in this hilarious fashion showdown. Durango might’ve been dubbed the "worst dressed community," but USA Today clearly wasn’t talking about our four-legged fashionistas! Categories include funniest, dressed alike, and SNOWDOWN theme-related. It’s sure to be a howling good time! All canines, from puppies to seniors, are welcome, just keep those leashes on! All ages welcome!
Event Coordinator: Kathy Bowser 970-247-2446
Entry Cost: FREE

 

2 PM QUAFFING TOURNAMENT
11th Street Station - 1101 Main
Quaff [kwof, kwaf, kwawf] Verb To drink a beverage, especially an intoxicating one, copiously and with hearty enjoyment. Synonyms: guzzle, swig, gulp, swallow. Make your move in this annual SNOWDOWN favorite and test your quaffing skills in this fast-paced, fun-filled event! Watch as teams of 4 compete in a thrilling beer slinging battle. It’s all about speed, style, (belching?) and the art of the perfect swig. Must be 21+.
Entry Cost: $40/team

2 PM WHIP CREAM BEARD CONTEST 
Animas Chocolate Company - 920 Main 
Put down the razor and pick up the whipped cream; it’s time to celebrate lickable beards in the sweetest way possible. Grab a partner and compete to sculpt the most creative, extravagant, and downright delicious beard using whipped cream and a variety of tasty toppings, such as chocolate shavings, sprinkles, candy bits, and more. In each timed round, teams will have to whip up their masterpiece before the judges weigh in on style, creativity, and edible excellence. The team with the most impressive creation will be crowned the Whipped Cream Beard Champions! All ages welcome!
Event Coordinator: Carley Snider 970-317-5761
Entry Cost: FREE

 

2 PM BOOK GAMES 
Maria's Bookshop - 960 Main 
This year, we’re taking game night on an adventure through Colorado history! From the gold rush to the great outdoors, your knowledge, wit, and balance will be tested in unique challenges as you journey across the Centennial State. Can you strike gold like the miners of Cripple Creek, or blaze a trail like the explorers of the Rockies? All ages welcome!
Event Coordinator: Mary Schwartz 970-247-1438
Entry Cost: FREE

 

2 PM JOINT ROLLING CONTEST
Rocky Mountain High - 120 E 36th St
Think you’ve got the steady hands of a summit climber and the chill of a mountain breeze? Then it’s time to show off your rolling skills, Colorado-style! Using non-regulated hemp-based products, contestants will compete in three high-spirited categories: Biggest Joint Rolled - Go big or go back to Boulder with Big Head Todd. Fastest Joint Roller - Speed counts when the altitude hits you first. Most Stylish Joint - Think Mountain art meets mellow heart. Points will be awarded in each category to crown the Joint Rolling Champion of Colorado! Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Ken Aab 510-508-5171
Entry Cost: FREE

NEW EVENT!
2 PM ARMORED COMBAT BRAWL
Steamworks Brewing - 801 E 2nd Ave
Prepare for an epic tournament of knights as armored warriors from across the Four Corners gather at Steamworks Brewing for a day of steel, skill, and glory! Witness fierce duels, daring pro-fights, and thrilling team melees, all fought in authentic armor with real (blunted) weapons. Ages 18+. 
Event Coordinator: Raymond Kessler 303-946-9632
Entry Cost: FREE

NEW EVENT!
3 PM HOBBY HORSIN’ AROUND FOR KIDS! 
Doubletree Grand Ballroom - 501 Camino Del Rio
Saddle up, partners! Grab your trusty hobby horse and race across the DoubleTree corral in our first-ever Steeple Chase showdown for kids. Teams of two will leap over hurdles, dodge waterin’ holes, and wrangle through obstacles in a test of speed, agility, and cowboy spirit. Be the first to cross the finish line without losin’ yer hat or yer nerve, and ride off as the Steeple Chase Champion! Sign-ups start at 2:30 PM. Ages 3–17.
Event Coordinator: Kristin Nielsen 970-382-3910
Entry Cost: FREE

 

4 PM SNOWDOWN FASHION DO’S AND DON’TS VIDEOCAST
Animas City Theatre - 128 E College Dr
Did you miss the live show? Here’s your second chance to catch the dazzling Fashion Do’s and Don’ts in memorex style! See the glitz, the glam, and all the style a true Diamond Belle Saloon belle or gent should know. Snag your tickets online at AnimasCityTheatre.com. Must be 21+. Tickets go on sale Saturday January 10 at noon.
Event Coordinator: Michele Redding 970-799-2377
Entry Cost: $12

4 PM HOBBY HORSIN' AROUND FOR ADULTS
DoubleTree Grand Ballroom - 501 Camino Del Rio 
Adult version of Hobby Horsin’. No, not like that - get your mind out of the gutter! Must be 21+ to ride this ride. (See SATURDAY, Jan 31, 3 PM for more details.)

NEW EVENT!
4 PM BAR OLYMPICS
Lola’s Place - 725 E 2nd Ave
Bring your best brewery banter and your most hop-forward costume to Lola’s Place for the Ultimate Bar Olympics. Teams will go pint-to-pint in a lineup of classic taproom challenges, think cornhole and a few surprise brewhouse-inspired events. Costumes are encouraged, and bonus points are awarded for creativity. Must be 21+. 
Event Coordinator: Alec Ensign Martinez 970-385-1920
Entry Cost: FREE

4 PM NINTENDO 64 MARIO KART 
Starlight Lounge - 937 Main
Hear ye, racers! Saddle up and trade the reins for controllers as the Mushroom Kingdom becomes your frontier. Dodge shells, jump hazards, and race like a Pony Express rider through iconic tracks. Whether a seasoned pro or a first-time rider, everyone’s trail leads to glory. A $50 bar tab, $25 bar tab, and a free drink for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Rick Carney 970-749-7231
Entry Cost: FREE

4 PM ARM WRESTLING CONTEST
Wild Horse Saloon - 601 E 2nd Ave Ste A 
Oil up those elbows, roll up your sleeves, and bring your best flex. Men and women compete in their own divisions with multiple weight classes. The winner in each class will be awarded a $100 cash prize from the Wild Horse, a trophy from A&L Coors, and a share of the entry fees. Sign up 15 minutes before the event starts. Must be 18+.
Event Coordinator: Amber Morris 405-245-9968
Entry Cost: $5 for under 21

4 PM JOSIE PETE’S GOLF TOURNAMENT AWARD CEREMONY
Elks Lodge #507 - 901 E 2nd Ave
(See SATURDAY Feb 1, 11:30 AM for details)

5 PM SEARCH FOR THE SILVER BULLET AWARDS
Ska World Headquarters - 225 Girard St
(See All Week for more details.)

5 PM - 7 PM GEN ALPHA/BETA RAILJAM
Chapman Hill - 500 Florida Rd
(See FRIDAY, Jan 30, 7 PM for more details)  
This one is for ages 13 and under, with a participant cap of 40. 

6 PM RICE DICE ROLL SKEE BALL
11th Street Station - 1101 Main
Hosted by Avalanche Bowl Company. Step up to the lane and show off your classic Skee-Ball skills in this retro arcade showdown. Each player gets 6 rice balls to roll toward targets worth different points. Rack up tickets to redeem for gift cards, prizes, and all sorts of fun loot. First-come, first-served, so grab your spot early! Must be 18+.
Entry Cost: FREE

6 PM NAME THAT TUNE BINGO
Barons Creek Vineyards - 901 Main
(See SATURDAY, Jan 24, 6 PM for details)

6 PM HUMAN HUNGRY HIPPO 
DoubleTree Grand Ballroom - 501 Camino Del Rio 
Get ready to waddle, wobble, and wildly scoop! Teams of two will play the classic tabletop game, now human-sized, where each team's goal is to collect the most balls in the shortest time. Sign-ups start at 5 PM. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Kristin Nielsen 970-382-3910
Entry Cost: $10/team of 2

NEW EVENT!
6 PM BATTLE OF THE BANDS
Durango American Legion - 878 E 2nd Ave
Crank up the amps and hit the stage for the ultimate Battle of the Bands! You’ve got 45 minutes to blow the judges away and ignite the crowd. The fans will vote for their favorite act, so make sure your groupies are there to cheer you on. Sign up by Sat, Jan 24. More info on the Durango Legion website. Under 18 with a parent allowed till 10 PM. 
Event Coordinator: Ryan Williams 970-422-5209
Entry Cost: $10 for guests; $40 for the band

6 PM POETRY DUELS
The Subterrain - 900 Main
Round up your words and hitch your wit,
The Durango Poet Laureates are callin’ you to sit.
Esther Belin and Zoe Golden lead the rhyme,
In a fast-draw verse duel, quick as a steed in its prime.
Draw your prompt, spin your tale,
Face your rival, let your words set sail.
The crowd’s cheers will steer who rides on,
Through storytelling skill, your legend’s drawn. 
Test your style, charm the folk, and earn your name,
As a brave wordsmith in the Durango poetic game.
All ages welcome!
Event Coordinator: Spenser Snarr 9703753380
Entry Cost: FREE

 

6 PM STRIKE IT RICH BLACKJACK
Union Social House - 3062 Main
Step up to the felt and test your skills at our high-stakes Blackjack Tournament! This showdown combines luck, strategy, and nerves of steel as players strive to outscore their competitors. After each round, the players with the lowest chip stacks are sent home, while the top card sharks move closer to the final table. Games run 30 minutes each, with 6 tables and 5 players per table. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Carol Clark 970-759-4144
Entry Cost: FREE

7 PM 42ND ANNUAL SNOWDOWN FOLLIES
Durango Arts Center Theatre - 802 E 2nd Ave
(See FRIDAY Jan 23, 7 PM for details)

7 PM SNOWDOWN FOLLIES VIDEOCAST
Animas City Theatre - 128 E College Dr
(See FRIDAY Jan 30, 7 PM for details)

NEW EVENT!
7:30 PM SNOWDOWN AFTER DARK
Black Heron - 726 Main
When the sun sets behind the San Juan Mountains, the real party begins! Join us for SNOWDOWN After Dark, where Durango's nightlife rivals the rowdiest mining camp revelry. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Thomas Biaggi 520-405-4376

8 PM GIANT BEER PONG
Starlight Lounge - 937 Main
This isn’t your average backyard game; our giant cups and supersized table turn beer pong into a full-on mountain-sized match. Team up, line up your shots, and launch those balls with precision as you compete for glory and bragging rights. Who will yodel from the top of Pikes Peak and claim victory in the Giant Beer Pong Games? A $50 bar tab, $25 bar tab, and a free drink for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Rick Carney 970-749-7231
Entry Cost: FREE

9 PM BOOTY SHAKING CONTEST
Wild Horse Saloon - 601 E 2nd Ave Ste A
This bootylicious event is all about bringing your best rhythm, style, and saloon hall flair to the dance hall. Participants will compete to see who can bring the most energy, creativity, and, of course, the best booty-bouncing moves. Prizes will be awarded to the most impressive performers, but everyone will leave with a new level of confidence and some seriously smooth moves. Must be 18+.
Event Coordinator: Amber Morris 405-245-9968
Entry Cost: $5 cover fee

10 PM 42ND ANNUAL FOLLIES
Durango Arts Center Theatre - 802 E 2nd Ave
(See FRIDAY, Jan 24, 7 PM for details)

10 PM SNOWDOWN FOLLIES VIDEOCAST
Animas City Theatre - 128 E College Dr
(See FRIDAY Jan 30, 7 PM for details)

10 PM KARAOKE CONTEST
8th Avenue Tavern - 509 E 8th Ave
(See FRIDAY Jan 23, 10 PM for details)

11 PM BEST CHEST IN THE WEST
Starlight Lounge - 937 Main
Step right up, sugar, and strut your stuff in the Best Chest in the West Contest, open to gents and gals alike! Show off your strength, your style, and your finest assets, whether you’re a gym regular, a bodybuilder, or just naturally well-endowed. Judges will be looking for presentation, flair, and overall creativity, with extra points for charm, charisma, and confidence. Bring your sass, your sparkle, (and your pasties?) for the win! A $50 bar tab, $25 bar tab, and a free drink for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Must be 21+.
Event Coordinator: Rick Carney 970-749-7231
Entry Cost: FREE