BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. – July 14, 2009 – Almost 150 years to the day Breckenridge first came to life as a mining town and all the stops will be pulled out to make August 8 through 10 a truly Grand Celebration. This event will revolve around the Summit County Courthouse (celebrating its 100th anniversary) and an old-fashioned street party.
On a mid-summer morning in 1909, the Masons proceeded through downtown Breckenridge on their way to the “Laying of the Cornerstone” for the new courthouse. On the morning of August 8, 2009, the Masons will once again proceed through downtown Breckenridge on their way to the 100th anniversary of the “Old Court House” and the unveiling of the time capsule contents that were placed in a copper box 100 years ago. They will conduct their historic and authentic re-dedication ceremony.
Enjoy the street party, Arts District celebration, kids’ village on the Barney Ford Museum lawn, the Breckenridge myth buster tent, blacksmithing, mucking and jacking demonstrations from Country Boy Mine, carriage rides and more.
Saturday’s music kicks off at noon with a mix of swing, big-band and bluegrass from the Belleville Outfit from Austin, Texas. Eilen Jewell takes the stage mid-afternoon with her blues and rockabilly sounds. Austin, Texas' The Gourds will headline the afternoon with their unique country and bluegrass tunes. The evening will welcome a Breck150 tribute concert by the Breckenridge Music Festival and an anniversary fireworks display over Breckenridge at 10 p.m.
On Sunday, August 9, enjoy a “historic” trail race, the Father Dyer Mail Run 5K. There are three historic churches in Breckenridge, so Sunday services will have a historic focus. Other activities on Sunday include storytelling, family field day, an old-fashioned bucket brigade hosted by the Red, White and Blue Fire Department, an ice cream social and more. On Monday, August 10th, Breckenridge will host a local birthday party on the actual anniversary date of the town.
For more information on Breckenridge’s Grand Celebration, the Breck150 and lodging packages, visit Breck150.com or call 877.593.5260. Come celebrate with us! Families or groups of four can stay in Breckenridge for four nights at $30 per person/per night. Breckenridge’s Summer in the Rockies package includes the fourth night of lodging for free at available properties and is based on quad occupancy. Package offered through October 31, 2009.