GILPIN COUNTY - The Gilpin County Fairgrounds whirred with excitement on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, as the annual Fairgrounds Frenzy filled the late-summer air with food, shopping, and even the rumble of a helicopter landing. The fun-filled day had a little something for everyone.

The Buck for the Badge rough stock rodeo was the main attraction at the Fairgrounds Frenzy, but it was not the only exciting activity. Organizer Krystal Meyer said the event is in its ninth year.

The rodeo is part of the Buck for the Fallen nonprofit, which supports local first responders. 

“So next year will be our anniversary year, and we’re already planning bigger.” She explained that people are starting to realize this is an important event, with participation growing each year. Adding the other events to the rodeo just made sense.

Running on sangria

Earlier that morning, runners stretched their legs in the Summer’s End Sangria 5K. About 15 people crossed the finish line and were greeted with a well-earned glass of sangria.

The winner was Sarah Wicen with a time of 25 minutes. All proceeds went to the Friends of Gilpin County Community Center.

Flea market finds and first responder focus

Treasures were scooped up at the High Country Auxiliary Flea Market, where profits benefit local emergency groups. 

Commissioner Sandy Hollingsworth said proceeds help not only the fire department but also the sheriff’s office, emergency management, GCART, and the ambulance authority.

“Every year is different,” she said. “This year we saw fewer big furniture items and more collectibles.”

The Be Smart booth handed out free gun locks and tips on safe firearm storage. Volunteers taught how simple steps can prevent tragedy, from suicide prevention to stopping unauthorized access.

The afternoon also featured a thrilling moment as HCA Health’s AirLife helicopter circled the fairgrounds in honor of fallen first responders before landing to show off its capabilities. 

Kids climbed inside to check out the life-saving equipment up close, as adults captured the experience with photos.

The pilot explained that the chopper carries everything on board to treat someone in critical condition, including a ventilator, monitor, and mini pharmacy. The pilot, who is also a certified nurse, said he treats about 120 patients per year.

Local vendors

The artisan market was filled with local and regional crafters.

Julia Church of Missing Link Soapworks shared that her family has had a cabin in the area since 1963. 

“I started making soap when I was 12 in my aunt’s kitchen, and it just stuck,” she said. Her table was lined with sweet-smelling slabs of soap and ceramic soap dishes.

At With Love from Seed, an herbalist vendor, offered teas, tinctures, and even bundles of catnip. “Cats go wild for it, but humans can use it too,” she chuckled. “It’ll get cats hyper, but it chills people out.”

Mama Roo’s big purple food truck was on-site, banging out comfort foods like grilled cheese and fries. 

Closer to the stands, Gilpin Archwood 4-H offered hamburgers, hot dogs, quesadillas, and burritos.

Zingali Bakes was selling cottage goods like “10k cookies” (baked at 10,000 feet), s’mores cakes, and little loaves of banana bread. Baker Kim Zingali said mountain life adds a challenge to the craft. 

“Baking at altitude is always an experiment,” she said with a grin. “Markets are fun, but I’m starting to do more custom orders, too.”

The Mountain-Ear had a booth set up, giving out complimentary newspapers, visitor guides, and free schwag for new subscribers.

The Gilpin County Democrats and the Gilpin County Republicans were both offering informational materials, educating the public on their respective political parties.

Preparing for the unexpected

The Gilpin County Office of Emergency Management shared information on a new mass communication system called Genasys EVAC. 

Emergency Manager Steven Mingura and Undersheriff Greg Demo explained that the platform will integrate mapping, evacuation routes, and alerts for everything from fires to floods. 

“It takes the guesswork out of an emergency,” Mingura said. “People will be able to see clear directions on their phones.” The rollout is expected by 2026.

A day to remember

Between rodeo rides, helicopter tours, and homemade goods, the Fairgrounds Frenzy showed off the mix of grit and creativity that defines Gilpin County. 

Whether you came for the flea market, the bulls, or the tasty goods, the multi-faceted event offered plenty of reasons to stick around.

Stay up to date for next year's 10th Annual Buck for the Badge Fairgrounds Frenzy event at https://gilpincounty.colorado.gov/parks-rec.