(CRIPPLE CREEK, Colo.) — The Cripple Creek Donkeys are roaming free again for 2024. On Monday, May 27, the donkeys were released from their winter pasture into the City of Cripple Creek.

Every Memorial Day, the donkeys are given free rein to roam the “greener pastures” of city lawns and gardens in Cripple Creek. According to the Two Mile High Club (TMHC), the nonprofit organization that cares for the donkeys, most residents welcome these loveable city mascots back into their neighborhoods.

The donkey herd has been a part of Cripple Creek History since donkeys were released from working in the mines in 1901, and rescued donkeys now supplement the herd. TMHC was formed in 1931 to care for the donkeys and has continued for 90 years.

For over 100 years, it has been a tradition to release the donkeys to roam free from May through October.

On June 28 through 30, the 93rd Donkey Derby Days celebration will take place. The event features music, an annual parade, Donkey Derby Races, great food, family attractions, and vendors.

“We’re excited to showcase “Wild Blue Country” from the United States Air Force as the
headliner band on Friday and Saturday nights, and the live concert schedule is packed with other
tremendous musicians the entire weekend!” Annie Valades, Donkey Derby Day chair, shared.

The Donkey Derby Races feature a pack donkey and a team of two—a handler and a runner—trying to coax their donkey to cross the finish line first on Bennett Avenue. It sounds easy, but stubborn donkeys can make it a real challenge.

TMHC relies entirely on donations from Colorado businesses, club memberships, individual and family sponsorships, and grants. Donkey Derby Days, its largest annual fundraiser, helps cover the $2,000 needed per donkey each year for vet care, food, and shelter. Volunteers work year-round, regardless of weather, to care for the donkeys.