To the city of Cripple Creek, a few scattered holidays didn’t seem like nearly enough time to truly celebrate the men and women who keep this country safe, at least, not how the festive and patriotic city would prefer to celebrate their service. That’s why for one weekend a summer, the city gives itself over to the Cripple Creek Honors America’s Armed Forces event, this year running the weekend of Aug. 7-9.

“Cripple Creek and its residents have a huge history of military service going back to the Civil War,” says Cripple Creek Mayor Dan Bader. “The event is our yearly shot at paying tribute to these people who are doing such an amazing job for us.”

The weekend celebration begins on Friday with a banquet, guest speaker and live entertainment. All proceeds benefit Home Front Cares, which provides support for local military families impacted by deployment. Then

left A festive parade and a carnival atmosphere make the military appreciation event fun for the whole family. above “Everyone enjoys a good military band,” says city administrator and retired colonel Bill McPherson, one of the driving forces behind the Cripple Creek Honors America’s Armed Forces celebration.