Everyone knows Golden is one of the friendliest towns in the West.

So that makes it the perfect place to fete one of the friendliest dog breeds around—the lovable golden retriever.

That’s right!

This year, Goldens in Golden returns for a total tail-wagging take downtown on Feb. 5.

“We invite well-behaved, leashed golden retrievers—and their humans—to join us for a fun gathering, a walk down Washington Avenue, and a group photo under our Golden Arch,” said Megan Pinson of Visit Golden.

The wildly pup-u-lar event marks International Golden Retriever Day, which falls during the week on Feb. 3.

To garner maximum participation from both the four-legged and two-legged kind, Pinson said the City chose to celebrate on the following Saturday.

Last held in 2019, Pinson estimates more than 1,000 dogs and their owners participated.

While the event was a success, Pinson said the event took a short hiatus for event organizers to re-evaluate logistics and other details of the large-scale event.

But this year, it’s full steam ahead.

According to event organizers, many downtown merchants and Golden areas hotels will have attractive dog-friendly deals.

Dogs and their owners should gather at the Golden Visitor Center at 11 a.m. to enjoy complimentary “pup cup” treats, a professional photo under a mini Welcome Arch, and grab a free Golden doggie bag.

At 11:45 a.m., the group will walk to the Washington Avenue Golden Arch for an official group photo.

All dogs should be leashed, and owners are asked kindly to clean up after their pooch.

Pinson pointed out the event is very “weather-dependent” and will be canceled for inclement weather, particularly ice or snow.

Those planning to attend should check the Visit Golden website and Visit Golden social channels on the morning of the event.

Volunteers from the Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies help make this event possible.

Participants should follow all social distancing guidelines and the latest mask mandates. 

There is no charge for the event.