Visit Cripple Creek this Summer for the 2025 Donkey Derby Days
When: June 27 – 29, 2025
Where: Downtown Cripple Creek
Event Calendar: Donkey Derby Days
For generations, the annual Donkey Derby Days in Cripple Creek has been more than just a festival; it is a profound echo of this town’s resilient past. Rooted in the pioneering spirit of the gold rush era, the event pays homage to the donkeys that were utilized by miners who transformed Cripple Creek into one of the largest mining camps in the West. Today the donkeys that roam Cripple Creek are descendants of the original donkeys from the town’s gold rush era. Each year the Donkey Derby Day celebration helps raise money for Two Mile High Club who care of these animals and to celebrate the mining past of Cripple Creek. Come see what all of the excitement is about and see one of the best summer events in Cripple Creek!
A Cripple Creek Tradition Since 1931
Since they first took up residency at the beginning of the 21st century, the donkeys have been part of the Cripple Creek community. There is a level of respect for these friendly animals as they wander throughout the town. Guests are reminded not to feed these animals, as many processed foods are bad for the donkeys’ diet. These beloved animals are cared for by a veterinarian and farrier, and are handled by the Two Mile Club as they roam across Cripple Creek each year.
2025 Donkey Derby Days
Explore three exciting days of events at this years Cripple Creek Donkey Derby Days festival! Beyond the thrilling donkey races—the highlight of the event—Donkey Derby Days offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained all weekend long. Across Bennete Ave, just outside of Triple Crown Casinos, visitors will find local vendors offering unique handmade items and tasty treats, an exciting parade, plenty of family-friendly activities, live music from local bands, and a beer garden. In between events, make sure to pop into one of the local casinos like The Brass Ass, Midnight Rose, or McGills and try your luck at a table game or take a spin on one of the many slot machines.
Donkey Derby Day Races
The main event of this festival is the Donkey Derby Races. This exciting event showcases a pack donkey with a team of two people: a donkey handler and a runner. Each team races towards the finish, trying to persuade their donkey to stay on course and beat the competition. It is an exciting race that is sure to bring cheering and laughter to the streets of Cripple Creek.
Local Vendors
Shop local vendors on Bennett Ave. between 2nd and 5th street. Here you will find crafts like candles, handmade jewelry, and art. You can also find great food vendors with options like BBQ, Mexican food, crepes, and other fair foods.
Parade
Starting at 11 am on Saturday, June 28th, find your way to Bennett Ave. for the 2025 Donkey Derby Days parade. This parade features a Color Guard, exciting floats, horses, music, classic cars, and more!
Live Music
This year’s lineup of entertainers is packed with excitement! From local bands to national acts, you can’t miss the excitement of the live entertainment all week long. Visitors this year will hear a mix of rock, blues, country, bluegrass, jazz, and more! See this year’s Donkey Derby Days entertainers.
Stay and Play at Triple Crown Casinos
Ready to have even more fun after a day of donkey racing? Join us at Triple Crown Casinos for even more food, fun, and entertainment! With our central location in Cripple Creek we are the perfect place to stay and play during the 2025 Donkey Derby Days.
McGills Casino
McGills is a modern Irish-themed casino with lots of space and fun machines. The second level houses a variety of progressive machines, video poker, and slots. It overlooks the casino’s main floor, packed with several other games you’d like to play with a view.
The Brass Ass
The Brass Ass casino has a vintage Western feel inside and out, including the building facade and street lamps. Named after a painted wooden brass ass in the table games room, the Brass Ass Casino is a fun destination for those who want a more traditional environment.
Midnight Rose
For those who love the decadence of the Victorian era, the Midnight Rose casino is the place to be. The casino has two floors of more than 300 of the hottest slot machines, and the casino also features one of the most decorated gaming rooms across Cripple Creek. Check out the only Poker Room in Cripple Creek here, too!
Ramblin Express
The best way to start your weekend is to leave the drive behind and take the Ramblin Express to Cripple Creek! Relax and enjoy the beautiful summertime views from this luxury bus that serves Colorado Springs and Woodland Park.
