Carbondale, Colorado:
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Did you know that The Thompson House is one of the few historic house museums in the country featuring contents authentic to its original pioneer ranching family?
Myron Thompson, who lived among the Ute Indians built the house in 1885 for his daughter Hattie and her husband Oscar Holland. The house, then known as the Holland House, was the hub of the Pleasant View Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the Crystal River Valley and the center of social activity in Carbondale. Social gatherings often included prominent individuals, including John C. Osgood, the wealthy coal baron and founder of the village of Redstone. After Oscar’s death in 1920, Hattie continued the ranching operation and in later years traveled around the world, returning from her trips with unusual items and elegant furnishings that are on display in the house. When in Carbondale, don’t miss the chance to explore this cultural heritage treasure, which is open to the public during the summer for guided tours! Learn more about the historic Thompson House »
Did you know that every spring and fall cowboys still drive their herds right through the center of town?
Cattle ranching is an integral part of Carbondale’s history. The wide open valley and fertile lands were ideal for raising cattle, establishing the foundation for a vital local economy. Today the town is still surrounded by ranches and the cowboy tradition is alive and well. Every Thursday, from June through August the Wild West Rodeo takes place at the Gus Darien Arena. Cowboys and cowgirls come from far and wide to compete in team roping, barrel racing, and bull riding. Even the local youngsters get involved with the calf scramble and mutton bustin’. This time honored western tradition and award winning event is fun for the whole family.
Did you know that Carbondale was once the potato capital of the United States?
Carbondale’s climate and fertile soil yielded an abundant supply of potatoes, a profitable cash crop for local farmers from the late 1880s to the 1940s. During both World Wars, tons of potatoes were shipped out to feed American soldiers and the prized red McClure Potato developed in Carbondale, was sent East to upscale restaurants such as Delmonico’s in New York City. Every fall the town celebrates Potato Day in Sopris Park with a community parade and pit-barbecue. Today, Carbondale is known for its commitment to the arts: acclaimed three-day Mountain Fair in July, a year round open air Art Around Town sculpture collection,the Performing Arts Center, and first class theatrical productions performed by Carbondale’s award-winning Thunder River Theatre Company. In 2012 Carbondale received the prized Governor’s Arts Award.
Did you know Carbondale is located at the confluence of two rivers, and crowned by the majestic 12,953 foot Mt. Sopris?
In addition to a rich cultural heritage, Carbondale offers spectacular scenery and outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fly fishing, hunting, rafting, kayaking, and cross country skiing, as well as easy access to miles of bike and pedestrian trails and pathways.Carbondale Event Planning
April: 5 Point Film FestivalMay: Carbondale Taste of Spring
May: Dandelion Day
June –August: Wild West Rodeo
June-August: Summer Concerts in the Park
July: Fourth of July Parade
July: Annual Carbondale Mountain Fair
September-July: Thunder River Theater Company season
Fall: Potato Day
Year Round: First Fridays Art Walk