Silt Heyday to celebrate 54 years of family fun

Ray K. Erku/Post Independent
The 54th annual Silt Heyday festival is set to bring another day of festivities and fun to Veterans Park on Aug. 10. The historic event, a Silt staple since 1969, will offer live music, food, beverages and more for locals and visitors.
The day kicks off with a pancake breakfast from 7-9:30 a.m., paired with acoustic tunes from local band Colorado Currys. Following the flag-raising ceremony led by local law enforcement at 8 a.m., the parade will march down Grand Avenue at 10 a.m.
Throughout the day, those in attendance will have the opportunity to explore a variety of attractions. Food and craft booths open at 9 a.m., and the beer booth serves from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Kids’ games, running from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., promise fun for younger visitors. The Colorado River Fire Rescue’s “Touch a Truck” event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. will allow families and friends to get a look inside a fire truck. The popular face-painting attraction will also make an appearance.
“We added a face painter last year, and it was so popular that we’ve extended her time by an hour,” Silt Heyday committee member Peggy Swank said. “We’ve also got a company coming in with a Photoshop-type booth running from 4 to 7 p.m.”
Musical entertainment will be a highlight of the day. The new local band 11:11 will perform from 1-4 p.m., while the Queen Bees, an all-women group known for their lively performances, will take the stage from 6-9 p.m. Swank emphasized the community spirit behind the event.
“The local businesses fundraise and cover the costs, so we can provide a day of entertainment in the park for families,” she said. “It’s a nice gift back from the local businesses to the community.”
For those interested in some friendly competition, the horseshoe tournament starts at 11 a.m. at the Stoney Ridge Horseshoe pits, and the cornhole tournament begins at 2 p.m. Registration for both tournaments is $10 per person, with proceeds benefiting the Silt Historical Park.
The vintage baseball game at 1 p.m. will feature the Silt All-Stars facing off against the Denver Territorial All-Stars. Playing under 1890s rules, offering a nostalgic experience for spectators. A silent auction from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. will also raise funds.
Admission to Silt Heyday is free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy the park, vendor booths, and activities. Food, beverages, and participation in certain contests and tournaments do have associated costs.
“It’s just a hometown way to get together in the park,” Swank said. “It’s been going on since 1969. Once again, we’re back at Veterans Park, and it’s a wonderful way for families to enjoy a day of wandering around and enjoying a great time.”

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