Colfax CA: Things to Do and See

Rock the Vote Colfax concert at Art Park downtown Colfax CA

Rock the Vote Colfax – A Free Concert With Big Dreams for Our Small Town

September 4, 2025 in Event

If you’ve ever believed that music could move mountains—or at least bring a small town into the national spotlight—then you’ll want to mark your calendar for Saturday, September 6th. On that day, the small but mighty town of Colfax, CA, will host an event that promises to do more than entertain—it aims to transform. The Rock the Vote Concert, an effort of the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, isn’t just a free concert—it’s a rally cry, a celebration, and a bold step toward securing a place for Colfax on the national music map.

Set against the charming backdrop of Colfax’s Art Park at 20 South Main Street, the event will run from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, although if you know how we do things here, you might want to show up a bit early to soak in the pre-show vibes. You’ll find live music, delicious local eats, beer & wine garden, and most importantly, your neighbors. The people who make this town feel like home.

But this isn’t just about having a great time—though trust us, you will. It’s about showing the Levitt Foundation that Colfax has the heart, the hustle, and the hunger for live music. We’re one of only three cities in California to make it into the top 100 finalists for the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant, and your presence could be the deciding factor that brings $120,000 in matching funds to our town.

Imagine 7–10 professional, free concerts every year for the next three years. Imagine Main Street filled with music, laughter, and new faces discovering what we’ve always known—Colfax is a hidden gem. That dream starts here, with you. So grab your friends, bring your energy, and let’s Rock the Vote, Colfax-style.

A Small Town with a Big Vision

Why This Concert Is More Than Just Music

Sure, music is at the center of this event—but the vision is so much bigger. Rock the Vote Colfax represents an opportunity for this town to shine on a national stage. When people think of vibrant music scenes, they might not immediately think of Colfax—but we’re about to change that. This event is proof that small towns can dream big—and deliver.

This isn’t just a concert. It’s a strategic move. By gathering a massive crowd, generating buzz on social media, and engaging the local community, Colfax is sending a message to the Levitt Foundation: We’re ready. Ready to host world-class performers, ready to turn our historic downtown into a cultural destination, and ready to elevate our local economy with tourism and entertainment.

Colfax has always been rich in community pride, but this concert proves that pride can turn into action. Music is one of the few things that universally unites people. It breaks down barriers, builds relationships, and creates memories. And when that happens in our own backyard, it changes how we see ourselves—and how others see us.

The real win here isn’t just the grant (though that would be incredible). It’s the energy, the excitement, and the sense of possibility this event sparks. It’s about giving local artists a stage, families a place to gather, and visitors a reason to return. This concert is our chance to say: Colfax matters. We have stories to tell, songs to sing, and a community worth celebrating.

The Heart of the Event – Music, Community, and Colfax Pride

An Unforgettable Lineup of Talent

If there’s one thing you’ll walk away from Rock the Vote Colfax saying, it’s “Wow, that lineup!” We’ve pulled together an incredible mix of local heroes, regional favorites, and national names to bring a full-spectrum music experience to our downtown park.

Headlining the event is Tyler Edwards, an artist whose blend of heartfelt Americana and indie-folk storytelling has landed him on the Billboard Rock Charts. His voice carries the kind of raw, emotional power that sticks with you, and his songs feel like the soundtrack to a road trip through the Sierra foothills.

Then there’s Jennifer Belle, a breakout country artist who’s making waves on the national scene. With multiple Josie Music Award nominations, a #1 CMC-USA chart hit, and past performances alongside Big & Rich, Easton Corbin, and Parmalee, she’s no stranger to big stages—but she’s excited to bring her star power to a small town stage.

Rounding out the lineup is a showcase of Sierra talent:

The Breakovers, known for their stunning harmonies and high-energy bluegrass-Americana style.
Michael James Cox, Colfax’s own homegrown star whose music blends outlaw country with Sierra soul, making every lyric feel personal and real.
And Ally Gerlach, opening the night with a soulful rendition of the National Anthem, kicking things off with pride and power.

Each artist brings something different—but together, they tell a story: Colfax is rising. This isn’t just a show—it’s a soundtrack for a movement.

How You Can Help Colfax Win the Grant

Showing Up Is Everything

If you love Colfax and believe in its future, then your presence at Rock the Vote Colfax on Saturday, September 6th matters more than you might realize. The Levitt AMP Music Series Grant isn’t awarded just based on paperwork—it’s about community spirit, visible support, and the energy we bring as a town. The larger our crowd, the louder our message to the Levitt Foundation: Colfax is ready to rise.

Here’s how you can be part of this historic moment:

Be there at Art Park (20 South Main Street) from 4:00–8:00 PM on September 6th. Come early, stay late, and bring your best concert vibes.
Bring your people—family, friends, neighbors, co-workers. If they love live music, local pride, or just a good time, they need to be there.
Wear your Rock the Vote Colfax T-shirt loud and proud! It’s more than just a shirt—it’s a symbol of unity and grassroots support. Get yours now before they sell out!
Spread the word on social media, text chains, and in-person chats. Let’s make sure nobody misses this.

💡 Important Note: The public voting period doesn’t start until September 5th and runs through September 15th. That’s when every vote counts toward helping Colfax secure up to $120,000 in matching funds for 7–10 free concerts each year over the next three years.

👉 To stay in the loop on how to vote, when to vote, and where to cast your ballot, head over to www.RockTheVoteColfax.com and register for updates. We’ll send you everything you need the moment voting opens.

This is more than just a grant—it’s our future. It’s about turning Colfax into a destination for music, connection, and community celebration. Let’s show the world that our small town has a big heart—and an even bigger sound.

Social Sharing Tips to Spread the Word

Want to go the extra mile? It’s time to take your love for Colfax online. Your voice matters—especially when you use it to inspire others.

Here’s what you can do:

RSVP to the official Facebook event: Rock the Vote Colfax.
Tag friends in the event page and send them a personal invite.
Share the event flyer on your own Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Use hashtags like #RockTheVoteColfax and #LevittMusicSeries to help us trend and be seen.
Post photos or stories from past local events and mention why you’re excited about this one.

Remember, the public voting window opens September 5th and runs through September 15th. Even if someone can’t attend the event, they can still vote online to help Colfax win. So don’t be shy—spread the word and encourage everyone you know to cast a vote for Colfax.

Let’s Rock This, Colfax!

Colfax has always been a place where big dreams grow in small-town soil. We’ve seen it time and time again—neighbors supporting neighbors, businesses backing community events, and artists sharing their gifts freely for the joy of the people around them. Rock the Vote Colfax, made possible by the dedication and vision of the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, is just the latest example of that spirit in action.

We’ve made it this far by believing in ourselves—and now we’re just one final push away from securing something that could change the future of our town. Imagine summers filled with music, families enjoying evenings downtown, local businesses thriving from the increased foot traffic, and Colfax finally getting the recognition it deserves as a destination for music and culture.

This is our moment, Colfax.

So let’s come together, pack the park, wear our shirts with pride, and show the Levitt Foundation—and the world—that we’re ready to rock, ready to rise, and ready to bring something extraordinary to our small but mighty town.

Congressman Kevin Kiley walking Main Street in historic Colfax, California

Congressman Kevin Kiley Visits Colfax’s Historic Main Street

August 31, 2025 in Downtown Revitalization

Small towns across America are experiencing a renewed focus on revitalization, and Colfax, California, is no exception. This past week, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, working alongside the Colfax Chamber of Commerce and Mayor Sean Lomen, welcomed Congressman Kevin Kiley for a walking tour of Colfax’s historic Main Street. Congressman Kevin Kiley’s visit was more than a routine stop—it was a recognition of the ongoing efforts to preserve the town’s unique heritage while breathing new life into its economy.

Too often, small towns are overshadowed by larger cities when it comes to federal attention, resources, and recognition. Kiley’s presence signaled that Colfax, with its deep Gold Rush history and railroad roots, is being seen, valued, and supported. The Congressman didn’t just meet with officials; he walked the streets, talked to business owners, and listened to the challenges and successes of those investing in the heart of the community.

This kind of visit brings more than symbolism—it has the potential to unlock resources and foster partnerships that can accelerate Colfax’s growth. For a town like Colfax, where preservation and progress must work hand-in-hand, the timing couldn’t be more important.

Spotlight on the Colfax Hotel Project

The tour began at the long-vacant Colfax Hotel, a cornerstone of Main Street that has been empty for over 40 years. Owners Leif and Wendy Lowery, already known for restoring the Dutch Flat Hotel and running Miners Camp in Foresthill, are now breathing new life into this long-awaited project.

Working with Mayor Sean Lomen, City Council, and the City of Colfax, the Lowreys expect permits soon and aim to complete renovations within a year. Their plans include hotel rooms, short-term rentals, and a ground-floor restaurant. They’ve gone the extra mile to preserve authenticity—even retrieving original hotel doors they discovered through a Facebook Marketplace listing.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is backing the project, with our board member Gretchen Hilyard Boyce of Groundwork Preservation attended the walk-through and provided information on federal tax credits and preservation grants.

Main Street Businesses in the Spotlight

As part of the tour, Congressman Kiley visited several Main Street businesses that showcase Colfax’s entrepreneurial spirit:

Colfax Farm & Country Store – A community fixture for nearly 20 years.
Snapdragon Provisions – A fresh, organic, and vegan-friendly restaurant opened by Kallie and her wife Taylor after falling in love with Colfax.
The Wrecking Crew Café – Run by longtime resident Caroline, who has lived in Colfax for over 30 years.
Colfax Market – Operated by Paul, who also owns two Main Street buildings.
Coco’s Candy & Creamery – A new arrival to Colfax with an already successful location in Grass Valley.

Each business reflects resilience and creativity, reinforcing Main Street as the heart of the Colfax Downtown community.

The Role of Music and Culture in Revitalization

Revitalization isn’t just about buildings—it’s about creating spaces where people come together. That’s why the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant is such an exciting opportunity for Colfax, CA.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association applied for this national grant, and Colfax has already beaten out hundreds of cities to make the Top 100 finalists. If selected, it will bring 7–10 free outdoor concerts a year for the next three years, supported by up to $120,000 in matching funds.

What makes this even more powerful is that it would allow us to activate Depot Park—an underutilized space directly in front of the historic Colfax Hotel. With professional staging, lighting, and touring bands alongside local talent, Colfax could host world-class concerts in the heart of downtown.

We shared with Congressman Kiley about making it to the final public voting (Sept. 5–15), and to build excitement, we’re hosting a Rock The Vote Kickoff Concert on Sept. 6 at the Art Park on South Main Street.

Congressman Kevin Kiley has pledged his support to rally behind Colfax in this effort, recognizing that music and culture are key to both economic renewal and community pride. With his backing—and strong community engagement—Colfax has a real chance to turn its historic downtown into a vibrant hub of music and culture. What an opportunity the Levitt Grant Foundation has provided Colfax!

Looking Ahead for Colfax

Congressman Kiley’s visit made it clear that Colfax’s story is worth telling—and worth investing in. From the long-awaited revival of the Colfax Hotel to the growth of Main Street businesses and the exciting opportunity presented by the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant, Colfax is proving that small towns can think big.

The future is about more than preserving historic buildings—it’s about creating a vibrant downtown where history, culture, and community all come together. Projects like the hotel restoration, concerts at Depot Park, and the ongoing efforts of our local entrepreneurs are setting the stage for Colfax to once again be a destination people are proud to call home and eager to visit.

With federal allies like Congressman Kiley, strong local leadership, and the dedication of business owners and residents, Colfax is writing a new chapter—one filled with music, culture, and opportunity.

Now, we invite everyone to be part of this journey. Join us at the Rock the Vote Kickoff Concert on September 6, cast your vote in support of the Levitt AMP Grant from September 5–15, and help us bring world-class music and community pride to the heart of Colfax. Get more information at RockTheVoteColfax.com

And if you’d like to stay updated on all the exciting things happening downtown, be sure to subscribe to our monthly newsletter, All Aboard Colfax. It’s the best way to follow the progress, celebrate milestones, and discover upcoming events that keep our community moving forward.

Together, we can keep downtown thriving for generations to come.