Come explore the outdoors at the 15th Annual Outdoor Heritage Day Festival in Palisade

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  Rachael Gonzales
Northwest Region Public Information Officer
970-773-8587 / [email protected]

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. - A dedicated group of outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for the 15th Annual Outdoor Heritage Day festival, eager to show kids and families the exciting things they can do outside. The celebration will go from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverbend Park in Palisade on Sat., April 30. This event is free and open to the public. 

Join Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Town of Palisade, Moose 92.3, Cabela’s, Orchard Mesa Gun Club, and other local organizations and businesses for a day of fun, education, and prizes. We’ll have a variety of outdoor activities such as archery, tree climbing, demonstration of hunting and search and rescue dogs, wildfire safety, fishing, and how to camp responsibly.

"Colorado has so much to offer outdoor adventurers, especially in the western part of the state," said Colorado Parks and Wildlife District Wildlife Manager and event organizer Bob Morris. "But we know there are many people that have very limited experience when it comes to outdoor activities, and that is where we come in. For many, a quick introduction to these fun activities is all they need to get started."

Youth, 15 years and younger, can earn a free fishing pole (while supplies last) by going through a series of stations to learn about laws and regulations, casting techniques, fish identification, and habitat. Afterward, they can head over to the pond and use their free fishing rod to land a big trout. If they are lucky, they will catch one of the tagged trout for a prize. Attendees will also have an opportunity to see some of Colorado's fish up-close at the portable fish tank, thanks to Rifle Falls Hatchery. As a reminder, anyone 16 and older planning to fish will need a valid fishing license.

CPW is excited to announce, thanks to Food Town and Colorado Q, that we'll be once again serving free hotdogs starting at 11:00 a.m. until they are gone. 

In 2007, Colorado Parks and Wildlife organized Outdoor Heritage Day as a way to encourage participation in outdoor activities, especially among the younger generations. Working with its many partners with similar goals, the event has grown in scope and attendance. CPW is grateful for our partnership with the Town of Palisade and the opportunity to host this great family event at Riverbend Park over the last 15 years.

"Colorado is known for having a wide variety of amenities, but our natural resources are among the most treasured," said Morris. "If people do not learn about our state's great outdoors, including the importance of conservation of wildlife and habitat, we risk losing a very valuable and important part of Colorado's heritage."

Learn more about CPW, visit our website.