A Celebration of Golden Retrievers in Golden, Colorado
Save the Date: February 7, 2026 | 9 AM to 1 PM | Free Admission
Every February, Golden fills with wagging tails, soft ears, and the unmistakable joy that only Golden Retrievers can generate. Goldens in Golden honors International Golden Retriever Day on February 7th, 2026 with one of the largest gatherings of Goldens in the world—as thousands of Goldens and their humans gather downtown and along Washington Avenue beneath the iconic Golden arch! It’s cheerful, adorable, fun, and unlike any other winter celebration in Colorado….or anywhere!
📍 Where: Downtown Golden, Colorado ⏰ When: Saturday, Feb. 7 | 9 AM–1 PM 🐕 Who: Friendly, leashed, well-socialized dogs only 🚗 Parking: Free off-site parking + dog-friendly shuttles 📸 Photos: Official group photos under the arch 🌨 Weather: Snow, shine, or wag—event runs rain or snow
Visit Golden is doing an “unofficial count” on the Golden Retrievers, humans and other dogs. We’re also wondering where you’re coming from and what your dog is named! We’ll share some fun info after the event about all the participants who make Goldens in Golden so special!
The tradition began in 2019 and quickly grew into a can’t-miss annual reunion for Golden Retriever families. Today, it’s not just about gathering under the iconic arch for the famous group photos—though people still travel from across the country for that unforgettable moment.
It has evolved into a full community celebration where Goldens and their humans can meet other families, explore vendors and local shops, and enjoy restaurants that happily open their doors to four-legged friends. With entertainment, parties, and strong support from local businesses, the event feels part festival, part homecoming and an unmistakably Golden, Colorado celebration that perfectly reflects the town’s warm, dog-loving spirit.
What to Expect at Goldens in Golden in 2026
From 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Golden’s Main Street - Washington Avenue - will close to traffic and fill with thousands of proud pup parents and excited Goldens in bandanas, sweaters, tutus, and plenty of winter fluff. The air buzzes with laughter, jingling tags, and the unmistakable sound of Goldens greeting each other like long-lost friends. Expect a fun mix of activities throughout the event, which will include:
Three group portrait sessions under the Golden Welcome Arch: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and noon
Plenty of pup + people photo opportunities throughout town
TWO Vendor Villages featuring local and national merchants and dog-related non-profits as well as plenty of local food and drinks
Fun games, contests, entertainment, and meet-ups at the Goldens in Golden Pup-up Pavilion & in Parfet Park
Walks along Golden’s gorgeous Clear Creek walking paths (please keep dog leashed)
Official merch for you and your Golden!
All weekend long—and especially following the main gathering—the pup party and celebration continue at Golden’s many dog-friendly shops, breweries, restaurant patios, and along Golden’s beloved hiking trails. Be sure to check out Golden’s dog-friendly activities guide and the merchant offers and events listed below. This is a great way to explore the best dog-friendly trails, pet-welcoming businesses, and outdoor attractions in Golden, Colorado, while keeping the fun going.
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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.
For more dog-friendly tips and suggestions, check out these blogs and pages that will help you plan the perfect Goldens in Golden weekend!
Local businesses, vendors, and volunteers are key to making the event special each year. If you’re interested in participating or supporting the celebration, updates and application information will be posted here first.
Goldens in Golden is held every February. The 2026 event is scheduled for Saturday, February 7th, 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 dog-friendly shuttles will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., picking up at The Splash at Fossil Trace parking lot and dropping off on the south side of 10th Street, right at Parfet Park. Parking is also available in garages and surface lots throughout Downtown Golden.
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, and relaxing benches throughout town with your four-legged friend.
