Gilpin County’s 4th of July Barn Dance

The Peak to Peak Music Education Association (PeakMusic.org) is hosting a Barn Dance in Gilpin County, Colorado to celebrate our Nation’s independence and all the other wonderful things we gather together to celebrate each July 4th! 

If you aren’t familiar with PPMEA, it is the non-profit group formed in 2011 with a “mission to raise money for local kids’ music programs by hosting musical events in the area” – the “Peak to Peak” area stretching from Black Hawk and Central City, through Nederland and on to Allenspark.

Ever since the death of Nedfest founder “Michigan” Mike Torpie, PPMEA had kept his iconic Nederland festival alive and well until the sudden announcement of its cancellation this year, leaving a large void in the Peak to Peak musical landscape.

That brings us to July 4th, 2019, when that void will be at least partially filled.  The Peak to Peak Music Education Association is hosting a Barn Dance in Gilpin County, at the Gilpin County Fairgrounds Barn, of course!

The single day event will not quite draw the crowds that the multi-day Nedfest saw – the event page says there will only be 500 tickets – but it’s certainly a step in the right direction for an organization seeking new partners to continue its good work.

With a great lineup of local musicians playing right up until the start of the Black Hawk fireworks show, the 4th of July Barn Dance is sure to be a boot-stompin’ good time in the Peak to Peak region!

Tickets to the 4th of July Barn Dance

So, for the first Gilpin County 4th of July Barn Dance, we give you the Top 5 Reasons to Be There:

Gilpin County 4th of July Barn Dance: 5 Reasons to Be There

1. Gilpin County School Music Programs.

After spending years raising funds for school music programs in Nederland, the PPMEA decided it was time to spread that love around.  This year’s Barn Dance will give 100% of its profits to Gilpin County school music programs.  Take just a second to think about some of the amazing talent that has been groomed in the Peak to Peak region over the years, and you will easily see why spreading this funding to all of the area’s music programs is a great idea.  

2.  The Music

This one’s a no-brainer.  The first 4th of July Barn Dance has a stellar lineup of Colorado’s finest: The Railsplitters, members of Trout Steak Revival with Bridget Law, The Sweet Lillies, Ragged Union, and tweener jams hosted by Miles Perry of Caribou Mountain Collective.

3. Mountain Sun Beer

One of the most iconic breweries in the region, Mountain Sun Pubs have never been a part of Nedfest.  That makes it even more exciting for the PPMEA to get them on board for the 4th of July Barn Dance.  Let’s celebrate America with a Colorado Kind Ale!

4. More for the Kids

In addition to benefiting local school music programs, the 4th Barn Dance has plenty of other fun stuff to offer the kiddos. Kids under 12 are FREE, and there will be arts. crafts, a bouncy castle and fire engine rides!  Thank us when you’re old enough to appreciate it, kids.

5.  AMERICA!

Let’s not forget the reason for the season – celebrating what makes our country great.  It’s not just about fireworks – which will be plentiful, thanks to the Black Hawk firework show – or hot dogs and hamburgers – although you’ll most likely get your fill of those, too.  It’s about coming together, despite our differences, and enjoying the freedoms we have. 

This year, freedom comes in the form of a Barn Dance in Gilpin County! 

See you there!

Tickets to the 4th of July Barn Dance

Doors open 1:00

Music 1:30- 9:00 PM

Black Hawk Fireworks 9:30 PM

July 4th, Gilpin County Fairgrounds Barn

230 Norton Drive, Black Hawk, CO 80422

The Sweet Lillies will be at the 4th of July Barn Dance in Gilpin County, Colorado.