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Golden Today
By the People, for the People
Golden Retrievers Gather for Largest Unofficial Breed Celebration in Colorado
Thousands of golden retrievers and their owners descend on Golden, Colorado for annual 'Goldens in Golden' event.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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The annual 'Goldens in Golden' event in Golden, Colorado drew an estimated 5,500 golden retrievers and 16,000 people to celebrate the beloved dog breed. The event, which started in 2019, has quickly become a popular tradition for golden retriever owners across the country to gather, meet other families, and enjoy the dog-friendly city.
Why it matters
The Goldens in Golden event highlights the strong community and pride around the golden retriever breed, as well as the dog-friendly nature of the city of Golden. It also provides a platform to raise awareness for animal welfare causes like Goldie's Act, which aims to improve conditions for dogs in commercial breeding facilities.
The details
The Goldens in Golden event featured thousands of golden retrievers dressed in colorful bandanas, sweaters, and tutus, as well as vendors, local shops, and dog-friendly restaurants. Attendees were able to take iconic group photos of the retrievers under the city's famous arch. The event also featured a table for the ASPCA to promote Goldie's Act, which seeks to strengthen USDA inspections and penalties for commercial dog breeding facilities.
- The first Goldens in Golden event took place in 2019.
- The 2026 event was held on Saturday, February 7.
The players
Meredith Ritchie
City of Golden Engagement and Communications Director, who stated that Goldens in Golden has become a 'meaningful tradition' for the city and dog owners.
ASPCA
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which had a presence at the event to promote Goldie's Act, legislation aimed at improving conditions for dogs in commercial breeding facilities.
What they’re saying
“Goldens in Golden is a signature winter event that highlights the City of Golden, local businesses, and community pride.”
— Meredith Ritchie, City of Golden Engagement and Communications Director
“Since the first event in 2019, Goldens in Golden has grown remarkably fast, and we're honored it's become such a meaningful tradition for so many people and pups in our city and from around the country.”
— Meredith Ritchie, City of Golden Engagement and Communications Director
What’s next
The city of Golden plans to continue hosting the Goldens in Golden event annually, providing a beloved tradition for golden retriever owners and their dogs.
The takeaway
The Goldens in Golden event showcases the strong community and pride surrounding the golden retriever breed, as well as the dog-friendly nature of the city of Golden. It also serves as a platform to raise awareness for animal welfare causes like Goldie's Act, demonstrating how community events can drive positive change.
