Headline:

By: Mia Boudreau

Word Count: 544

Snowdown Preview

For many, January marks the start of a new year, but for the community of

Durango, it marks the start of Snowdown, our community’s biggest annual celebration.

January 31st is the official first day of the 2018 Snowdown, with the festivities lasting

until February 4th. The winter celebration invites locals to participate in events such as

the follies (a community talent show), the parade, and dressing up in a costume that

correlates with the yearly theme.

Snowdown is a tradition that started in Durango in 1979, by local John Murrah.

He created Snowdown as a remedy the darkness of winter and seasonal depression that

accompanies this time of year.

“It's just a change in the winter drudgery, it gives you that something to look

forward to after Christmas that’s not about buying things, rather, it’s about ​doing

things,” said a DHS teacher.

The community of Durango has been embracing this tradition for four decades

now. This year, there will be new events tailored specially for the 40th anniversary.

“In honor of Snowdown celebrating 40 years, the Animas Museum will have a

historical display of all years past,” said Snowdown co-coordinator Linda Brockman.

At Snowdown, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From the parade to the

Kid’s Follies, there are plenty of age-appropriate events to get involved with.
 “​Lots of people look forward to it and love getting into costume and stuff. It is a

goofy fun winter event that has been here for a long time,” said So. Shelby Flory.

This year’s Snowdown has 154 events and activities in store, with over 20 new

events this year, according to Brockman.

One of the most prominent events at Snowdown is the parade. Local businesses

and organizations create floats and participate in the celebration.

“It’s amazing to see how many people put in the time to make floats and do

routines for something that will last about 30 minutes,” said Snowdown organizer Mike

Biery.

A feature unique to Durango’s Snowdown is the annual theme. The theme builds

the foundation for the celebration; costumes, events, and parade floats are all made with

the theme in mind.

“​Originally the theme was to be "Still Sporty at 40," the idea was to celebrate

winter sports with the Olympics in S. Korea coming up but selling the idea to the

community was difficult,” said Brockman.

The theme was then changed to “A Black Tie Affair.” This theme gives locals a

chance to dress up in more elegant, or fancier clothes.

“We are the outdoorsy type, so ties and gowns, tiaras and cufflinks, it's a rare

opportunity indeed...Also, we may see some Sorrels with those gowns, but it's

Snowdown, so there's always a welcome twist on things,” said Brockman.

 Since themes are selected a year in advance, the theme for the 2019 Snowdown is

already chosen, although, there is a theme contest for 2020. Entries can be submitted

during Snowdown at Magpies Newsstand Cafe.

“It's hard to put a finger on what makes the magic of Snowdown. Maybe it's

knowing so many contribute their time, maybe it's seeing your neighbors get their goof

on, or seeing the increased patronage at the business’. I just know that Snowdown

brings smiles and unveils the Peter Pan in all of us!” said Brockman.