The Arvada Festivals Commission shook up its summer slate of festivities this year, merging the former seasonal staples Arvada on Tap and Arvada Days into a new festival: Arvada Summerfest.
Judging by the first edition of Summerfest, the change might be here to stay, as the June 7 event saw a strong turnout thanks to good weather, good music and a few well-received activities.
Sean Star, Arvada’s communication director for Vibrant Community and Neighborhoods, said that he hopes the first Summerfest is “the start of a new yearly tradition in Arvada.”
“Attendees especially enjoyed the fact it was a free event, as well as the community and family-friendly atmosphere,” Star said. “Highlights included the pet swimsuit competition and a live music lineup featuring local musicians Mighty Holler, Earl Nelson & the Company, and The Barlow.
“The Kids Zone was another crowd favorite, offering free face painting, inflatable obstacle courses, bouncy houses, and a ninja course provided by Apex Park and Recreation District,” Star continued.
Beer sales at Summerfest raised about $3,000 for community service organizations, including the Arvada Jefferson Kiwanis Club, Arvada Sunrise Rotary and the Arvada Vitality Alliance.
Adelle Burton, Arvada’s special events coordinator, said the inaugural summerfest was a triumph.
“We’re so thrilled with the turnout for the very first Arvada Summerfest,” Burton said. “Our goal was to create a fun, inclusive event that celebrates everything we love about this community. Based on the smiles we saw all day, we think we’re off to a great start. We’re incredibly grateful to our volunteers, partners, and attendees for making it such a success.”