RGCA Signature Programs & Events
The Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance proudly develops, produces, and partners in a diverse collection of signature programs and events that strengthen our businesses, enrich our community, and support the long-term success of the Royal Gorge region.
From beloved annual traditions to innovative leadership initiatives, each experience is thoughtfully designed to foster connection, promote economic vitality, celebrate our unique region, and inspire the next generation of community leaders.
Whether it's bringing thousands of visitors to the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival, lighting up historic downtown during the Christmas Parade of Lights, or developing tomorrow's leaders through the ASCEND Royal Gorge Leadership Development Program, every initiative advances our mission of building a thriving, connected, and prosperous Royal Gorge region.
These signature programs and events do more than create memorable experiences. They strengthen local businesses, support tourism, develop emerging leaders, foster community pride, and generate resources that allow the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance to continue investing in the future of our region.
Each program and event below provides opportunities to participate, volunteer, sponsor, or get involved. Whether you're looking to showcase your business, give back to the community, or simply experience the best of the Royal Gorge region, there's a place for you.
To discover additional community events, meetings, and fundraisers hosted by organizations throughout the region, visit our Community Event Calendar.
ASCEND Royal Gorge Leadership Program
Great communities don't just happen. They are built by people who are willing to lead.
ASCEND Royal Gorge is the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance's premier leadership development program, created to equip emerging leaders with the knowledge, relationships, and confidence to make a meaningful impact in their organizations and throughout the Royal Gorge region.
Designed specifically for our rural communities, ASCEND connects participants with local business leaders, elected officials, nonprofit professionals, educators, and community partners to provide an inside look at how our region works and how collaboration drives progress. Through engaging discussions, hands-on experiences, and meaningful networking opportunities, participants develop practical leadership skills while building lasting relationships across business, government, education, and the nonprofit sectors.
Whether you're an aspiring supervisor, a developing manager, a small business owner, a nonprofit professional, or someone simply ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, ASCEND provides the tools and connections to help you grow with purpose.
Leadership is not about having a title. It's about making a difference. ASCEND Royal Gorge is where emerging leaders rise, connections are built, and the future of the Royal Gorge region begins.
Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance Annual Banquet
Friday, February 19, 2027
Join the Board of Directors, Volunteers, and Staff of the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance for an evening to remember!
It’s time to celebrate our business community’s accomplishments and to highlight the people working incredibly hard to contribute to its success.
The annual banquet recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of both the chamber and our members over the past year. Keynote and featured speakers highlight current subjects that are of interest and relevance to the dynamic business community of the Royal Gorge Region.
Meet the incoming members of the Board of Directors and recognize the outgoing board members for their service. Awards are presented for the RGCA Business Member of the Year, RGCA Volunteer of the Year Award, Distinguished Citizen of the Year, Guy U Hardy, The Myron "Smitty" Smith Lifetime Award, and the Tourist Champion of the Year Award.
We can't wait to see you there!
Putt-Putt in the Plaza
Saturday May 30, 2026
From at 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Putt-Putt in the Plaza – On Par for Community Prosperity invites local businesses to tee up for one of the most fun and inclusive signature events of the year, right in the heart of Cañon City at the Gateway Depot & Plaza. This all-day miniature golf tournament brings teams of four together for friendly competition, creative costumes, great food, and local beverages, while surrounding participants with high-visibility sponsorships, branded holes, and engaging business activations. Designed to be approachable for all skill levels, this playful yet purpose-driven event replaces the traditional golf tournament with an experience that welcomes more people, more businesses, and more community connection. Proceeds directly support the programs and initiatives of the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance & Foundation, making every putt a meaningful investment in local business success and long-term community prosperity.
Royal Gorge Farmers MarketÂ
Every Saturday from July 4th to September 19th, 2026
From at 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
The Royal Gorge Farmers Market (RGFM) is produced and managed as a collaborative partnership between the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and the Fremont Economic Development Corporation (FEDC) supported by their AgStart Program. As a new tradition in Fremont County, we strive to contribute to the success of local food growers and producers, as well as other businesses, and create vibrant community gatherings. Event proceeds directly benefit programs of the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance Foundation, Chamber Alliance, and the FEDC AgStart programs. The RGFM will be a member of the Colorado Farmers Market Association.
Celebrate Colorado's 150th Anniversary at the Colorado Day Makers Market on Saturday, August 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Gateway Depot & Plaza in Cañon City. Enjoy an expanded marketplace featuring the Royal Gorge Farmers Market, Colorado artisans and makers, live music, food trucks, family activities, and community fun throughout the day. Visitors can also experience special historic tours showcasing the rich history and scenic beauty of the Royal Gorge region.
Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival
Fri & Sat, July 17 & 18, 2026
Established in 2009, the RGWF is one of the largest yearly community fundraisers, attracting thousands of visitors from across the state and beyond. The event is co-produced by these 501c-3 non-profit organizations; Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance Foundation, Fremont Community Foundation, and Royal Gorge RIO, which all benefit from the proceeds. Of special note is the fact that Royal Gorge RIO supports many important river projects, initiatives and beautification projects.
The RGWF features whitewater competitions and land-based outdoor recreation events to celebrate the whitewater season on the Arkansas River. Enjoy summer river flows in a fantastic whitewater setting in historic Cañon City, Colorado. Held in the refurbished, family-friendly Centennial Park, the Whitewater Festival pairs boats, bands, and beer for a weekend of fun-filled (and whitewater-fueled) events. It's the biggest party of the summer in Cañon City and one not to be missed!  All are welcome to register for events or to simply watch the thrills unfold!
Pasta Party Fundraiser
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Since 2003 it’s been pasta for a purpose! Our Chamber of Commerce holds a fundraising event every November that dedicates the proceeds toward scholarships for Fremont County residents. The awards are intended to incentivize local residents to make the most of their education to maximize career opportunities. Because retaining talent in our community is vitally important, we partner with the Fremont Campus of Pueblo Community College and its Foundation to match the funds raised at the event to maximize every dollar generated. Italian fare, made from scratch by volunteers and served with the traditional accompaniments, is enjoyed by the attendees who celebrate the value of higher education and the role it plays in the growth and prosperity of the Royal Gorge Region.
Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 5, 2026
An annual community tradition since 1989, the Christmas Parade of Lights, held on the first Saturday night of December, embodies the quintessential hometown holiday kickoff.
Downtown Cañon City’s Main Street provides the perfect Christmas-card backdrop as themed entries drive past the holiday-bedazzled historic facades of downtown businesses. Cheering spectators revel in the holiday atmosphere that sets the tone for the coming Christmas season. Each year, the community votes on a theme to make sure that the parade entries are fun and fresh.
From Christmas in the movies, Carols of Christmas, to Rocking around the Christmas Tree, there is always a theme to inspire and delight. Because there is never a cost to enter or observe this event, sponsor support is critical to its ongoing success!