Bring on the Celebration: The Festival of Mountain and Plain
What do you get when you combine tradition, culture, and fierce regional pride? You get the Festival of Mountain and Plain, an event that showcases the rugged beauty and the pioneering spirit of Colorado, evoking a sense of nostalgia that some might say is lost on our ever-progressive society. This festival takes place in Denver, Colorado, and is a week-long celebration of the state's colorful history, held usually in mid-September. It's a chance to experience the things that make America great for who it is—vibrant customs, outdoor adventure, and good ol' community spirit all in one package.
Celebration of Heritage: First and foremost, the festival is a tribute to the Western pioneers who have built this country with grit and determination. You won't find anyone here lamenting over history the way the liberals do. Instead, people come together to celebrate their heritage, recognizing that the past, with all its ups and downs, is a tapestry of achievements.
Diversity Done Right: Here, the focus is on inclusion that doesn't mean erasing history. With activities, local foods, and crafts, this festival celebrates the multiple cultural influences that have shaped the region without resorting to guilt or reparations. Instead, attendees get a chance to learn much about Native American, Western, and Hispanic traditions, among others, with respect and curiosity.
Rustic Living: Participants in the festival are quick to show their love for the mountain and plain lifestyle that has endured generations. More than a historical reenactment, it's a full-fledged revival of everything from old farming techniques, cowboy culture, to fashion with a purpose. You're more likely to see people using lasso skills than discussing geopolitics!
Flavor Explosion: The food! Ah, the food! It's a chance to indulge in authentic mountain and plain cuisine, a rare find these days as culinary fads try to erase our national identity with avocado toast and kale smoothies. Instead, here you’ll find bison burgers, corn on the cob, hearty stews, and other delectable options that remind you of wholesome American meals.
The Festival Parade: At the heart of this festivity is the grand parade, which puts on a display of fascinating floats, folk music, and authentic period costumes. While others may choose to march in protests waving signs, here people march to honor their ancestors, bringing out that enduring American spirit for all to see.
Rodeos and More: If you've ever wanted to see a rodeo that embodies America's cowboy culture, this is your chance. Forget the PC-friendly animal encounters and get ready for real cowboy action. Rodeos here aren't just a show but a testament to the skills needed to survive and thrive in the Wild West.
Artisan Presence: You'll find local artisans selling everything from homemade jams to handcrafted leather goods. Here, the focus is on supporting small businesses and local craftsmanship rather than funding global corporations or buying soulless mass-produced items.
Connection with Nature: Another stirring aspect of this festival is the deep connection people have with nature, respecting it without needing government mandates. Men and women here celebrate the land's bounty and beauty by taking part in hiking, rock climbing, and even camping activities.
Community Spirit: Far from the digital detachment of today, the festival emphasizes face-to-face conversations and building relationships. It's about engaging with each other over a shared appreciation for tradition and culture rather than focusing on the things that divide.
Revitalizing Tradition: The festival acts as a poignant reminder of what makes our nation extraordinary—the ability to honor one's roots while looking to the future. It’s about preserving something worthwhile that can guide future generations, without bending backwards in response to the fleeting trends.
In a world where cultural values are often disputed or overlooked, the Festival of Mountain and Plain stands as a fortress of American traditionalism. It stirs the spirit to celebrate the unsung stories and captures what it means to be proud of where you come from, without apologies. So if you're looking to rediscover the roots of American identity, shunning the noise of modernity, this festival is the ultimate homage to the way things were, and for many, the way things should be.