History of Festivals Commission

History 

Mission:  To actively plan, coordinate and produce events; coordinate volunteers; seek sponsors; and evaluate potential new events which celebrate Arvada as a community.

 The Arvada Festivals Commission was created by City Council in 2000 with a resolution which states:

“This resolution authorizes the creation of the Arvada Festivals Commission, in recognition of the importance public festivals play in building community and celebrating Arvada’s historical and cultural heritage.” 

It’s three-fold purpose, established by City Council, is:

1.                 To advise and make recommendations to City Council on future and existing festivals of community wide celebration.

2.                 To actively sponsor, organize, plan and work cooperatively with community-based organizations on festivals of community wide celebration by promoting activities consistent with the purpose of public celebration.

3.         To promote and build support for festivals of community wide celebration.

Over its seven year history, the Commission has developed and produced events that showcased the unique spirit of the City of Arvada. 

 One-Time Events

Celebration of Unity and American Spirit - September 11, 2002  marking the first anniversary of September 11, 2001, with an inspiring free community celebration.

Music for Hope Concert - March, 2003 – A community performance of an Interfaith Choir from 22 Arvada churches, Arvada Boy Scouts, and several community musicians which raised funds for Rotary International’s Project Polio Plus. 

Community celebrations created and produced by the Festivals Commission continuing today:

·        Senior Tea to honor people over 90 years old

·        Arvada Celebrates Its Trails, celebrating National Trails Day (started in 2002)

·        Arvada Kite Festival, celebrating National Kite month (started in 2003)

·        Wines for the Holidays Wine Tasting (started in 2007)

·        Performing Arts Festival,  (started in 2003 with the final celebration in 2007)  

     Celebrations developed prior to 2000, which the Commission has joined as a co-producer:

·         Independence Day Celebration with North Jeffco Recreation and Parks District 

·        Festival of Scarecrows with Historic Olde Town Arvada

·        Chocolate Affair with Historic Olde Town Arvada