This is the 93rd year for Donkey Derby Days! It is the largest summer event and tops the list of favorite Cripple Creek attractions.

People from all over the world descend on downtown to be inspired by the town's resident donkey herd, who roam Cripple Creek in honor of the original Cripple Creek donkeys from the town's Gold Rush days.

Enjoy our beer gardens, food vendors, retail vendors, kids activities, donkeys, and live music!

Schedule of Events

Pancake Breakfast at the Fire Station 7:00-10:00 am. Vendors and Kids Zone open starting at 10:00 - 5:00 pm! Parade at 11:00 am. Beer Gardens open from 11:00 - 10:00 pm. Donkey races at 12:30, 1:15, 2:00, 2:45, & 3:45 pm (final heat and awards)! History Comes Alive in Pocket Park at 1:00 & 3:00 pm. Live music all day!

Music Schedule:
Saturday's lineup begins with Mimic, playing tunes from the best classic rock hits from the 1960s through the 1990s. Returning favorite, JustUs, follows at 3:30 p.m., with dynamic country and rock that keeps people grooving on the dance floor. Wild Blue Country tops off the biggest day of Donkey Derby Days on Saturday evening from 6:30-9:00.