Early Settler's Day
September
Early Settler’s Day is held each year to honor the people who helped settle the Lower Arkansas Valley communities. As La Junta’s featured annual events and one of the longest-standing traditions for the community, Early Settler’s Day is must see event in La Junta.
Cheer on Local Traditions in the Early Settler’s Day Parade
At 10AM, the Early Settlers Day Parade, kicks off the festivities for the day. During this time, it seems the entire community comes out to participate in or watch as parade winds its way through downtown La Junta.
The parade starts at 6th and Santa Fe, head North on Santa Fe to 2nd St, East to Colorado, South on Colorado, and back to 6th and Santa Fe.
One of Southeast Colorado’s Biggest Festivals!
Early Settler’s Day is La Junta’s biggest annual community event. This fun-filled-day features many options for individuals of all ages and interests. From live entertainment to a variety of vendor booths and various competitions to demonstrations, Early Settler’s Day is packed full of events for all to enjoy. In addition to the main events of Early Settler’s Day, La Junta offers several off-site attractions for visitors and locals alike.
Featured events include a fun run, kids fishing derby, car show, kids treasure hunt, poker run, skateboard competition, beer garden, horseshoe contest, street dance, main stage entertainment, talent contest, pie eating contest, and much more.
While the parade centers around downtown La Junta, most of the events and activities are held at the La Junta City Park.
Head to the Koshare Museum for the Annual Fine Art’s League Art Show
Jump aboard the Senior Center bus at the City Park from noon to 4pm for a no-hassle ride from the La Junta City Park to the Koshare Museum or walk a few blocks south of the La Junta City Park to view the Fine Arts League Annual Art Show. During this time, visitors can escape the heat and relax, while viewing the artwork from local artists in Southeast Colorado.
Artwork in the show include oil paintings, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, graphics, photography, altered photographs, mixed media and 3-D Arts (including jewelry, fiber arts, pottery, sculpture, miscellaneous).
Enjoy a Taste of Southeast Colorado
In the La Junta City Park, during Early Settler’s Day, you can discover delicious treats and tasty eats at many of the vendors at the location. In addition to these vendors, don’t forget to explore the culinary flavors from our locally owned and operated dining establishments.