Author: erin

hree new vintage and antique shops opening at the Historic Fruit Exchange Building at 229 Railroad Street in Historic Downtown Colfax CA June 2026

Five New Businesses Have Opened in Historic Downtown Colfax. Here’s Who They Are.

Some wins are quiet. A grant approved. A meeting that finally goes the right way. A building owner who says yes.

And then there are the wins you can see from the street.

Five new businesses have opened in Historic Downtown Colfax. A woman who spent sixteen years at flea markets all over California opening her first real shop. A 65-year resident finally launching her passion project in the town that raised her. A couple who took a birthday drive up the hill, fell in love with a quiet historic main street, and decided to build their dream here. A historian who moved to Colfax and built a craft school because she believed this community deserved one. And a man who has owned one of this town’s most storied buildings for years — and decided the best way to bring it back to life was to open his own shop inside it.

None of them were recruited. None of them were incentivized. They looked at Historic Downtown Colfax and saw something worth betting on. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when a town starts to feel alive again — when there are events on the calendar, foot traffic on the street, and a growing sense that something is being built here worth being part of.

That’s the work. And this is what it looks like when it starts to pay off.

Nail Salon

Chromie Nails

9 S. Main St · Historic Downtown Colfax CA 95713

Leo and Phoebe came from Atlanta. They worked their way through salons across Georgia and California — building skills, building clientele, building a shared philosophy about what nail care is actually supposed to be. Not just beautiful nails. Healthy ones. Work that lasts because it’s done right from the start.

Then on Phoebe’s birthday in 2024, they visited Colfax. Just a day trip. And something clicked. The quiet. The historic main street. The feeling that this was a town becoming something. They drove home knowing — this is where they wanted to build their dream. With family already here at the Colfax Bistro, opening on South Main Street felt less like a leap and more like coming home.

Leo is the artist. Clients who’ve sat in his chair call him a magician — describe your vision and he’ll bring it back better than you imagined. Custom nail art is his language; music and design are his instincts. Phoebe is the anchor — meticulous, detail-oriented, the one making sure every set is built to last and every client feels taken care of from booking to the moment they walk out.

The full menu runs from classic manicures and pedicures to acrylics, dipping powder, builder gel, and Gel X extensions. Their spa pedicure menu — including a Luxury Herbal Candle Spa Pedicure with mineral soaks, botanical exfoliation, collagen masks, and hot stone therapy — is the kind of service Colfax has never had before. Kid services available for children under 10.

Small salon. Big heart. Open seven days a week.

📍 9 S. Main St, Historic Downtown Colfax
📞 916-398-5439
🕐 Mon–Sat 10:00 AM–6:00 PM · Sun 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
🌐 chromienailscolfax.com · Book online at chromienailscolfax.com
📸 @chromienailscolfax

Vintage Clothing & Accessories

The Wildlands Vintage

Serra has been doing this for sixteen years. Flea markets across California. Festivals up and down the state. Every piece sourced, selected, or made by her own hands. She knows vintage the way you only learn it by living it — by showing up before dawn at swap meets, by developing an eye that can spot something worth saving in a pile of noise.

The Wildlands Vintage is her first brick and mortar shop. And she chose Colfax.

The inventory spans the 1930s through the 2000s — clothing and accessories for women and men, all sizes from XS to 4X, with price points that run from thrift ($5–$10) all the way up. Alongside the vintage pieces you’ll find modern vintage-inspired brands, custom reworked and upcycled items Serra has made herself, and accessories — hats, shoes, scarves, belts — the finishing pieces that pull a look together.

This is not a shop stocked by algorithm. Every item in it was found, made, or reimagined by one person who has spent the better part of two decades doing exactly this. Open Friday through Sunday to start, with more days coming as the town gets to know her.

📍 229 Railroad St, Historic Fruit Exchange Building · Open Friday–Sunday · Grand Opening June 6th, 11am–7pm
📸 Instagram: @thewildlandsvintage

Antiques & Curiosities

Ms P’s Oddities

Patrice Goulet has lived in Colfax for 65 years. She was the school secretary who knew every kid’s name. She opened Buzz Thru Drive Through in 2000 and ran it for nearly a decade before selling it. She spent fourteen years running a vehicle licensing consulting company before retiring. Three successful businesses built in this town over the course of a lifetime spent here.

Ms P’s Oddities is the fourth chapter — and by her own description, the most personal one. This is a passion project, not a pivot. Patrice has always loved the art of collecting — the hunt, the find, the moment a piece that was overlooked somewhere gets a second life in the right hands. Her favorite part isn’t the acquisition. It’s watching a customer’s face when they discover the exact thing they didn’t know they were looking for.

That’s the shop she built. Antiques, curiosities, and one-of-a-kind finds for your home and garden — sourced by someone who has been a part of this community longer than most of its current residents have been alive, and who knows the difference between something worth keeping and something worth passing on.

Colfax raised Patrice. Now she’s giving something back to it… Again!

📍 225 Railroad Ave, Space 219 · Historic Fruit Exchange Building · Colfax CA 95713
📘 facebook.com/mspoddities
✉️ [email protected]
🎉 Grand Opening June 6th · 11am–7pm

Craft School & Community Studio

Craftfolk Collective

Gretchen Hilyard Boyce is a historian, multidisciplinary craftsperson, musician, and community builder who has spent her career studying something most people take for granted — the way communities are shaped by the skills they practice, the stories they share, and the spaces where people learn together.

She has been making things her whole life. Knitting. Natural dyeing. Herbal medicine. Soap making. Not as hobbies but as a way of moving through the world slowly and with intention. When she moved to Colfax, she saw something this town was missing — a place where that kind of learning could happen in community, free from the noise of social media, rooted in local relationships and the quiet satisfaction of working with your hands.

Craftfolk Collective is the realization of that vision. A craft school and gathering place at 38 N. Main Street — sharing space with Snapdragon Provisions, tucked into Depot Alley — where regional artists, craftspeople, and tradition bearers teach what they know to people who want to learn it. Block printing. Visible mending. Gel printing. Wet felting. Fermentation. Cheesemaking. The kind of knowledge that used to pass between generations at kitchen tables and is in danger of being lost.

Workshops are intentionally small — 10 to 12 people — so everyone gets real guidance, not just a demonstration. Free Community Craft Club sessions run throughout the month for anyone who wants to show up and make something alongside their neighbors. No experience required. Just a willingness to slow down and try.

Gretchen didn’t open a business. She built a gathering place. And she built it here.

📍 38 N. Main St, enter through Depot Alley · Colfax CA 95713
🌐 craftfolkcollective.com
📋 Workshop registration available online

Vintage & Found Objects

Liberator’s Emporium

Todd Saylor owns the Historic Fruit Exchange Building. He also runs Colfax Automotive. He has been part of this town for decades — the kind of person who knows everyone, remembers everything, and genuinely wants to see Colfax come back to its fullest potential. When he partnered with HCDA to activate his building, he wasn’t just being a good landlord. He was betting on his town.

Liberator’s Emporium is Todd and his partner Jenine’s own shop — and it is exactly what you’d expect from a man who loves a good story. Not quite antique. Not quite thrift. Somewhere gloriously in between. Every single item was sourced from somewhere in the Sierra Foothills, and Todd can tell you where. Which barn it came out of. Whose property it sat on. What it was used for and why it matters. That’s not a sales pitch — that’s just how he experiences the world. Everything has a history. Everything deserves to be found by the right person.

Walk in with no plan. Ask Todd about something on the shelf. You’ll leave an hour later with a story you didn’t have when you arrived — and probably something you didn’t know you needed.

The building owner opened his own shop in his own building. That’s not something you see every day. It tells you everything about how seriously Todd takes this town’s comeback.

📍 229 Railroad St · Historic Fruit Exchange Building · Colfax CA 95713
🎉 Grand Opening June 6th · 11am–7pm

Come celebrate with us — Saturday, June 6th

Three shops. One historic building that has been standing on Railroad Street since 1910. And a grand opening celebration that is free for everyone.

The Historic Fruit Exchange at 229 Railroad Street opens its doors Saturday, June 6th from 11am to 7pm. Shop The Wildlands Vintage, Ms P’s Oddities, and Liberator’s Emporium — three completely different stores under one roof, each one worth a visit on its own. Rowdy’s Bad Idea brings live music starting at 4pm. Food and drinks on site all day.

Come early to shop. Stay for the music. Bring someone who hasn’t been downtown in a while and show them what’s happening here.

📍 229 Railroad St, Historic Fruit Exchange Building, Colfax CA 📅 Saturday, June 6th · 11am–7pm 🎶 Live music at 4:00 PM · Free admission

This is what we came here to do.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association exists for moments like this one. Not just events on a calendar — but entrepreneurs choosing this town, buildings coming back to life, and a historic main street that is becoming the kind of place people drive to on purpose instead of through by accident.

Five new businesses in the historic district. A summer concert series filling South Main Street. A quarterly market that has been quietly proving for two years that Colfax is worth stopping for. The momentum is real and it is building.

We are proud of what this community is becoming. And we are just getting started.

Follow along at historiccolfax.com and find us on Facebook and Instagram. If you believe in what we’re building here — support the work.

The Colfax Bazaar Is Back — and This One’s Going to Be Something Special

Mark your calendars: Saturday, June 27th brings a new chapter for the beloved vintage market and makers fair at the Historic Fruit Exchange Building.

Downtown Colfax is getting its best day of the summer. The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is proud to bring back The Colfax Bazaar — a one-day vintage market and makers fair that just keeps growing — on Saturday, June 27th from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Historic Fruit Exchange Building, 225 Railroad St.

Free to attend and packed from open to close, the Bazaar is where the Sierra Foothills community comes together to shop, discover, and connect. Expect curated vendor booths filled with antiques, vintage treasures, handmade goods, artisan crafts, oddities, and one-of-a-kind finds you won’t track down anywhere else.

New This Year

We’ve been listening, and we’ve been busy. The June 27th Bazaar is the most festival-feel event we’ve ever produced — here’s what’s new:

Face painting
Live music all day long
Food trucks on site
And a few surprises we can’t quite spill yet 👀

We’re going big on atmosphere this year. It’s going to feel like an event — not just a market. Live entertainment, great food, and incredible vendors all in one place — come ready to discover something new.

Live Music: Rowdy’s Big Idea Band

We are thrilled to welcome Rowdy’s Big Idea Band to the Colfax Bazaar stage this June. Live music has always been part of the heartbeat of this event, and this year’s lineup takes that to a whole new level. Whether you’re browsing booths or just soaking in the scene, the music is going to make the whole day that much better.

About the Colfax Bazaar

The Colfax Bazaar is produced by the Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing Historic Downtown Colfax, CA. Every event is a direct investment in this community — bringing shoppers, makers, and music lovers to our historic downtown and supporting the vendors and small businesses who make it what it is.

The Bazaar takes place inside and around the iconic Historic Fruit Exchange Building — a piece of Colfax history that makes the perfect backdrop for a day of vintage finds and handmade goods. General admission is always free, because we believe everyone should be able to experience what this town has to offer.

Vendors: There’s Still Room for You

Are you a vintage picker, antique dealer, Sierra Foothills maker, or artisan with something special to share? Vendor booth spaces for the June 27th Bazaar are available now. Spots are limited and filling up — don’t wait. Complete the Vendor Application

At the end of the day, the Colfax Bazaar is about more than great finds and good music — it’s about this town. Every event we’ve held has filled the Fruit Exchange Building and spilled energy out into the streets of Historic Downtown Colfax, and that’s exactly the point. The Historic Colfax Downtown Association exists to bring life back to this incredible little downtown, and the Bazaar is one of our favorite ways to do it. Come for the vendors, stay for the vibe, and help us show the world what Historic Downtown Colfax is made of. We’ll see you June 27th.

Hundreds of people filling South Main Street in Historic Downtown Colfax CA for the opening night of the Live in Colfax free outdoor summer concert series, May 2026

Colfax Showed Up. So Did a Few Hundred of Its Friends.

The 2026 Live in Colfax Summer Concert Series opened May 30th with Wayward Buffalo, a closed Main Street, and proof that a town of 2,200 can pull off something that feels a whole lot bigger.

South Main Street closed to traffic at 5pm on Saturday, May 30th. By the time Wayward Buffalo hit the stage, it was hard to find a clear sightline from end to end.

That’s the short version. Here’s the longer one.

The 2026 Live in Colfax Summer Concert Series held its opening night at Art Park on South Main Street in Historic Downtown Colfax — five free outdoor concerts produced by the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, running May through September on a fully closed historic block. Concert #1 brought hundreds of residents, families, and visitors from across the I-80 corridor to a night that felt less like an event and more like the town remembering what it’s capable of.

Crowd gathered in front of the stage at the Live in Colfax 2026 Summer Concert Series on South Main Street in Historic Downtown Colfax CA

The night itself

Michael James Cox opened the show. His sound sits somewhere between the Ozarks and the Sierra Foothills — outlaw country and bluegrass with enough edge to wake up a street. He held the crowd while the sun was still high and South Main was still filling in.

Then Wayward Buffalo took the stage. The Gold Country Americana band — known for honest songwriting and harmonies that feel like they were grown right here — played a set that was exactly what the night called for. Warm. Rooted. Completely unhurried. The kind of music that makes you want to stay.

People did stay. The restaurants on South Main Street reported a significant lift on concert night. Families brought chairs. Neighbors who hadn’t seen each other in months ran into each other at the beer garden. A fully closed Main Street will do that.

How a town of 2,200 built a free concert series

The Live in Colfax series exists because the community decided it was worth fighting for.

A year ago, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association competed for the national Levitt AMP Grant — a highly competitive program that funds free outdoor concert series in small and mid-sized cities. Out of hundreds of applicants, Colfax reached the top-50 finalists nationwide. For a town of 2,200 on the I-80 corridor between Sacramento and Truckee, that’s not a consolation prize. That’s a statement.

The grant didn’t come through. So the community built the series anyway.

Local businesses, residents, and regional supporters stepped in because they believed in what it could mean for Colfax.

The City of Colfax, Pioneer Energy, Smart Broadband, BLM Lending, Hills Flat Lumber, and the Placer County Arts Council made it real. What launched on May 30th is the result — five free Saturday concerts, a fully closed Main Street, and hundreds of people per show turning a downtown block into a neighborhood gathering place for the entire region.

Concert #2: Love Mischief comes to Colfax on June 20th

When a band chooses to include Colfax on a multi-state summer tour, we take that as a compliment. Love Mischief is making their way from San Francisco to Idaho and beyond this summer — and Colfax is one of only two California stops on the entire tour. They chose Historic Downtown Colfax. We’re not taking that lightly.

Hailing from Sacramento, Love Mischief is led by brothers Brian and Colin Curtin — both graduates of Berklee College of Music. Their live show blends funk, psychedelic rock, jazz fusion, and jam-band energy into something that resists easy categorization. Original music. Exceptional musicianship. A set that takes audiences somewhere they didn’t expect to go.

They’ve built a loyal following throughout Northern California and are gaining momentum across the West. This is a band worth discovering before everyone else does — and June 20th in Historic Downtown Colfax is your chance.

Colfax is one of only two California stops on their summer tour. We’re honored they chose Historic Downtown.

Opening act

Las Ninas Muertas – A five-piece all-women acoustic Grateful Dead tribute from the California foothills. Four-part harmony alongside banjo, mandolin, and upright bass — a sound that has built a devoted following throughout the region. The act was brought to the Live in Colfax series by Colfax City Councilman Larry Hillberg.

Bring your lawn chairs. Grab dinner from the food vendors. Enjoy local beer and wine from the on-site garden. Spend an evening on a closed South Main Street discovering your new favorite band.

This isn’t a local showcase. It’s a real concert series.

Every band on this summer’s lineup was hand-picked. Touring acts making a stop in Colfax. Working musicians who play Strawberry Music Festival, tour multi-state circuits, and rack up regional awards — then come do it on South Main Street for free.

That doesn’t happen by accident. The Historic Colfax Downtown Association spent months sourcing, vetting, and booking talent specifically to bring the kind of live music experience you’d drive an hour for — to your own backyard.

Five Saturdays. Real stages. Real bands. All summer long in Historic Downtown Colfax.

Full lineup and band bios at liveincolfax.com.

Colfax has always been worth stopping for. Most people just didn’t know it yet. The Live in Colfax Summer Concert Series exists to change that — one free Saturday night at a time. A closed Main Street. A real stage. A few hundred neighbors and strangers becoming the same thing for a couple of hours. That’s the mission. And it’s working.

None of it happens without the people who believed in it first. Thank you to the City of Colfax, Pioneer Energy, Smart Broadband, BLM Lending, Hills Flat Lumber, and the Placer County Arts Council for making this series possible. And thank you to every resident, business owner, and donor who stepped up when the grant didn’t come through. You built this. See you on Main Street.

Free outdoor concert in Colfax CA — Historic Colfax Summer Concert Series May 30 2026 at Art Park on Main Street

Free Concert in Colfax CA This Saturday — And It’s Going to Be a Good One

May 30, 2026 · Art Park · South Main Street, Colfax CA · Free Admission

We’ve told you why we built this series. Now let’s talk about Saturday.

Concert One of the Historic Colfax Summer Concert Series kicks off May 30th — and if you’re anywhere in Placer County this weekend, this is where you want to be. Two artists. One stage. South Main Street closed to traffic and open to everyone, from 5PM to 9PM. Free.

Whether you’re coming up from Auburn, making the drive from Roseville, or you’ve been watching this thing come together right here in Colfax — Saturday is the night it all starts.

Here’s who you’re going to hear.

Michael James Cox | Opener · 6:00 PM

There are a lot of ways we could have opened this series. We chose a kid from Colfax.

Michael James Cox was born in the Ozarks, found his way to the gold-dusted hills of Colfax, California, and has been building something honest here ever since. His sound lives where outlaw country meets bluegrass — raw, road-worn, and real. He writes songs that sound like they’ve already lived a thousand lives.

But here’s what matters most on Saturday night: when the Historic Colfax Summer Concert Series plays its very first note — on Main Street, in front of this community, in the town he calls home — it’s going to come from him.

That’s not an accident. That’s a statement. This series belongs to Colfax, and we wanted the first voice you hear to prove it.

Michael James Cox opens the entire 2026 Historic Colfax Summer Concert Series at 6:00 PM.

Wayward Buffalo | Headliner · 7:30 PM

Wayward Buffalo is a roots-driven band out of the Gold Country of California — and they are exactly the right band to kick this series off.

Their sound blends Americana, country, and folk in a way that feels weathered and alive. Songs about hard days, honest lives, and the kind of grit that doesn’t photograph well but sounds incredible loud. They play for people who work for things. People who know what a foothill town actually looks like from the inside.

They’re from here. They sound like here. And on Saturday night, they’re playing free on Historic Main Street in Colfax — no cover, no tickets, no catch.

Wayward Buffalo headlines at 7:30 PM.

Event Details — Free Live Music in Colfax CA

Saturday, May 30, 2026 Art Park · South Main Street, Colfax CA 95713 · Full Street Closure

Gates: 5:00 PM
Michael James Cox (opener): 6:00 PM
Wayward Buffalo (headliner): 7:30 PM
End: 9:00 PM

Free. All ages. The seating area is grass — bring a lawn chair or a blanket. Easy off I-80 at Colfax. Free parking downtown.

This Doesn’t Happen Without These People

Free doesn’t mean it fell out of the sky. The Historic Colfax Summer Concert Series exists because a group of local businesses and community partners decided Colfax was worth betting on — before the first note was ever played.

We are grateful to the City of Colfax for their early and unwavering support, and to our sponsors who made this possible: Pioneer Energy, BLM Lending, Hills Flat Lumber, Smarter Broadband, and the Placer County Arts Council. This is a community effort in every sense — and these are the people who showed up first.

If your business wants to be part of what’s coming this summer, there are still sponsorship opportunities available. Learn more at liveincolfax.com/become-a-sponsor.

Four More Free Concerts This Summer in Colfax

Saturday is Concert One. We’ve got four more coming to Historic Downtown Colfax — June 20, July 25, August 15, and September 26 — with a lineup that includes a two-time Sacramento Area Music Award winner, an internationally touring folk duo, and a Nashville Star top-10 finalist.

Five free concerts. All summer. Right here in the Sierra Foothills — close enough to Auburn, Grass Valley, and Roseville that there’s no excuse not to make the drive.

Full schedule at liveincolfax.com.

Get your butt up to Historic Downtown Colfax. We’ll see you Saturday.

Live in Colfax is produced by the Historic Colfax Downtown Association — a community-built 501(c)(3) dedicated to bringing Historic Main Street back to life. We launched this series with a belief that Colfax deserves world-class live music. Turns out, we were right. Learn more at HistoricColfax.com.

Historic Fruit Exchange Building at 229 Railroad Street in downtown Colfax California with grand opening signage for three new vintage and antique shops

Three New Businesses Open at Colfax’s Historic Fruit Exchange Building

Historic Downtown Colfax is celebrating. Three new businesses are opening inside the Historic Fruit Exchange Building at 229 Railroad Street — and for the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, this moment is years in the making.

Some wins are quiet. A grant approved. A permit signed. A spreadsheet that finally balances.

And then there are the wins you can see from the street.

Entrepreneurs chose Colfax. Chose our downtown. Chose a building that has been standing on this block since 1910 — and for too many years, standing mostly quiet.

That changes on June 6th.

A Building With a Story

The Historic Fruit Exchange Building isn’t just old. It’s woven into the DNA of this town.

Built in 1910, the building was the nerve center of Colfax’s agricultural boom. The Colfax Fruit Growers Association used it to organize, inspect, pack, and ship the region’s harvests to markets across California. Growers brought their fruit here. Packers prepared it for shipment. The Southern Pacific line, just steps away, carried it west. By the 1920s, Colfax was exporting thousands of crates of fruit every season.

In 1926, Colfax became one of only 23 icing locations in the entire Pacific Fruit Express network — a massive operation that kept refrigerated railcars cold with blocks of ice cut straight from the Sierra snowpack. This building was part of that. This block was part of that.

Then time moved on. Mechanical refrigeration replaced the icing platforms. Larger Central Valley operations took over distribution. The orchards went quiet. And the building — architecturally intact, historically significant — faded into the background while tens of thousands of cars rolled past it every day on I-80 without stopping.

For years, that’s how it stayed.

A Partnership Built on a Shared Vision

The story of what happens next starts with a conversation.

Todd Saylor owns the Historic Fruit Exchange Building. When the Historic Colfax Downtown Association came knocking, we weren’t just being neighborly. Activating dormant historic buildings is core to what we do. The Fruit Exchange had been on our radar. A landmark sitting quiet while thousands of cars rolled past it every day on I-80 wasn’t something we could ignore.

Saylor had an idea he’d been talking about for years. A market. Something that would give people a reason to get off the highway and walk through those doors again. When we sat down together, the pieces clicked into place. He brought the space, the history, and a vision that had been waiting for the right partner. We brought the infrastructure, the marketing, and the network to finally make it real.

The Colfax Bazaar was born out of that conversation.

What followed is what genuine community partnership looks like.

Three successful Colfax Bazaars. Hundreds of people flooding into Historic Downtown Colfax on market days — not just into the Fruit Exchange, but spilling out onto Main Street, into the antique shops, into the restaurants. Local business owners told us they tripled their sales on Bazaar days. Some had to bring in additional staff just to handle the volume. A building that had been largely invisible for years suddenly became the reason people drove to Colfax on purpose.

That’s not a small thing. That’s exactly what downtown revitalization is supposed to look like.

The momentum is real. And it didn’t stop at the Bazaar.

“This building has been part of Colfax’s story for over a hundred years,” says Saylor. “It deserves to be part of its future too. That’s what we’re building here.”

This Is What Main Street Revitalization Looks Like

HCDA isn’t just throwing events. We are building the infrastructure for a living, breathing downtown.

The Main Street America approach — the framework we are working toward as an organization — is built on a simple premise. When you invest in historic commercial districts, you create the conditions for private investment to follow. You don’t just fill a building for a day. You change the perception of what’s possible. You make entrepreneurs believe that opening a business here is a good idea.

That’s exactly what happened at the Fruit Exchange.

We activated a dormant building with a quarterly market. The market drew people downtown. People downtown changed the story about Colfax. And that changed story attracted exactly the kind of entrepreneurs who look at a historic building in a Sierra Foothills town and see an opportunity instead of a risk.

Three businesses. One building. One partnership. One event at a time.

This is the work.

Meet the Tenants

On June 6th, three incredible new shops open their doors inside the Historic Fruit Exchange at 229 Railroad Street.

The Wildlands Vintage brings carefully curated vintage clothing for the adventurous soul. If you’ve been hunting for pieces with character — clothing that tells a story — this is your place.

Ms P’s Oddities is exactly what it sounds like. Antiques, curiosities, and one-of-a-kind finds for your home and garden. The kind of shop you walk into for twenty minutes and come out two hours later with something you didn’t know you needed.

Liberator’s Emporium rounds out the lineup with vintage treasures and unusual pieces that belong in a home, a garden, or a collection. Finds with history. Objects with soul.

Three unique shops. One historic building. Open year-round.

Come Celebrate With Us

The Grand Opening is Saturday, June 6th from 11am to 7pm. There will be food, drinks, and live music starting at 4pm. It is free to attend. Come early to shop. Stay for the music. Bring someone who hasn’t been downtown in a while and show them what’s happening here.

This is a milestone for Historic Downtown Colfax. We are proud of it. And we are just getting started.

📅 Saturday, June 6th | 11am–7pm 🎶 Live Music at 4pm 🍽️ Food & Drinks on site 📍 229 Railroad St, Colfax, CA 95713

Come Celebrate With Us

This is a milestone for Historic Downtown Colfax. We are proud of it. And we are just getting started.

📅 Saturday, June 6th | 11am–7pm 🎶 Live Music at 4pm 🍽️ Food & Drinks on site 📍 229 Railroad St, Colfax, CA 95713

Three new businesses. One historic building. One community that refused to let its downtown fade.

This is what we came here to do. When the Historic Colfax Downtown Association started this work, Colfax was a town people drove through. Today it is a town people drive to. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens one partnership, one event, one grand opening at a time.

The Fruit Exchange has been standing on Railroad Street for over a century. It has earned its place in this town’s future. And on June 6th, that future walks through the front door.

We’ll see you there.

We Set Out to Change Downtown Colfax. Here’s What Happened Next.

There is a version of this story where we talk about what we built and how hard we worked to build it.

That is not this story.

This story is about what happens when a community decides it deserves more — and then proves it.

A recent report from Main Street America confirms what we are already seeing on the ground in Colfax — that events and experiences are one of the most powerful drivers of downtown foot traffic and economic activity. We wrote about what that looks like here in Colfax. The Historic Colfax Summer Concert Series is that strategy in action.

It Started With a Grant We Didn’t Win

A few years ago the Historic Colfax Downtown Association applied for the Levitt Foundation grant — one of the most competitive community music grants in the country. To get there we needed public votes. So we threw a concert right here on Main Street and asked Colfax to show up.

And Colfax showed up.

This community voted us into the national top 50, outmobilizing cities a hundred times our size. The Colfax Record captured what that night felt like when it quoted a concert attendee — “This is the most alive I’ve ever seen Colfax.”

We didn’t win the grant.

But we couldn’t walk away from what we had just witnessed. Because what we saw that night wasn’t an event. It was a community telling us exactly who it wanted to become.

So We Built It Anyway

With early backing of the City of Colfax and City Council, and sponsors who believed in this event before the first note was ever played, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association launched Live in — Live in Colfax.

Not because we had all the resources. Because we had all the proof we needed.

This Summer Is the Result

Five free concerts. Five Saturday nights. Historic Main Street in Colfax closed to traffic and open to everyone — from May through September 2026.

We are not booking whoever is available. We are bringing regional and touring acts with proven draws — musicians who give people a reason to drive up from Sacramento, pull off I-80 on their way to Tahoe, and spend an evening discovering what Colfax has been quietly building.

The 2026 lineup includes artists who have played stages from California to Ireland, from Memphis to Nashville.

All of it free. All of it on Main Street. All of it made possible by this community and the sponsors and partners who believe in its future.

This Is What the Mission Looks Like

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association exists to breathe new life into historic downtown Colfax — to build the kind of downtown that makes people want to stay, return, and invest.

Live in Colfax is not a side project. It is the mission in action.

Every person who drives up from Sacramento for a free Saturday night concert discovers a downtown worth coming back to. Every family who spreads a blanket on Main Street is building a memory that makes Colfax home. Every vendor who sells out their inventory — as one did at our very first concert — is proof that when you give people a reason to gather, commerce follows.

We are proud of what this community has built. And we are just getting started.

Join Us This Summer

The full 2026 lineup and event details are live at LiveinColfax.com. All concerts are free and open to the public. No tickets required.

If you want to be part of making this happen — as a sponsor, a vendor, or a supporter — we would love to hear from you at liveincolfax.com/become-a-sponsor.

See you on Main Street.

— The Historic Colfax Downtown Association

Downtown Colfax CA: How a National Main Street Study Supports Revitalization in Historic Colfax

In Colfax, California, a small historic town in the Sierra Foothills, downtown is beginning to shift.

A recent report from Main Street America highlights how communities across the country are adapting in a time of economic change—focusing on economic resilience, local investment, and creating places people actively choose to spend time in.

Many of those same strategies are now being implemented by the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing historic downtown Colfax CA.

While every town is different, the patterns are consistent—and increasingly measurable.

What the National Main Street Report Found

Main Streets across the United States are evolving in several key ways:

Events and experiences are a primary driver of foot traffic
Downtown organizations nationwide report that concerts, markets, and cultural programming are among the most effective ways to bring people into their districts.
Public-private partnerships are essential
Collaboration between nonprofits, cities, and local businesses is a defining factor in successful downtown revitalization.
Funding remains one of the biggest challenges
Many Main Street organizations rely on a mix of grants, sponsorships, and community support to sustain long-term growth.
Placemaking shapes identity and visitor experience
Public art, walkable streets, gathering spaces, and historic preservation efforts increase visitation and encourage people to stay longer.
Economic resilience is the long-term goal
The focus is not just activity—it is measurable outcomes such as stronger businesses, reduced vacancy rates, and increased private investment.

These trends are being applied in small towns across the country—many of them similar in scale and character to Colfax CA.

How These Trends Are Already Taking Shape in Downtown Colfax CA

While Colfax has its own history and identity, many of these same strategies are already being implemented locally through the work of the Historic Colfax Downtown Association.

Events Driving Foot Traffic in Colfax CA

Events are one of the most effective tools for bringing consistent activity into downtown Colfax CA, and that strategy is already producing measurable results.

The Colfax Bazaar draws approximately 1,000 attendees per event, introducing new visitors to historic district and creating repeat traffic for local businesses.

But the momentum doesn’t stop there.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is expanding its event strategy with the launch of a 2026 Summer Concert Series, featuring five planned shows on Main Street. These concerts are designed to bring both locals and out-of-area visitors into downtown Colfax on a recurring basis throughout the summer season.

In addition to large-scale events, smaller cultural programming is also gaining traction. The recent “Women Who Refused to Behave” history event—produced in partnership with the Colfax Museum—sold out two sessions, demonstrating strong demand for experiences that connect visitors and residents to the town’s heritage.

As this programming expands, downtown Colfax is beginning to position itself alongside other active foothill communities such as Auburn and Grass Valley—and even larger regional hubs like Rocklin—as a place where people travel for events, not just pass through.

Partnerships Strengthening Downtown Colfax

Revitalization efforts in historic downtown Colfax CA are being shaped through active collaboration between local organizations, the City of Colfax, business owners, and community members.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is working alongside key stakeholders to:

produce events that activate Main Street
coordinate with the City on downtown initiatives and planning
partner with local organizations, including the Colfax Area Heritage Museum, to bring history-based programming to life
engage business and property owners in shaping the future of the district

This type of coordinated effort reflects the public-private partnership model identified in national Main Street programs as a key driver of long-term success.

Building a Sustainable Funding Model for Downtown Colfax

As a 501(c)(3), the Historic Colfax Downtown Association is developing a diversified funding model designed to support long-term revitalization efforts in downtown Colfax CA.

Current funding sources include:

grant funding to support large-scale initiatives and programming
business sponsorships tied to events and downtown activation
community contributions that help sustain ongoing efforts

This approach allows downtown initiatives to grow beyond one-time efforts and instead build consistent, repeatable impact—aligning with national best practices for Main Street organizations.

Placemaking and Identity in Historic Colfax

A key focus of revitalization efforts in historic downtown Colfax is strengthening the town’s identity as a destination in the Sierra Foothills.

Current and planned initiatives include:

historic storytelling through events, walking tours, and programming
public art and murals that reflect Colfax’s Gold Rush and railroad heritage
events that activate Main Street and encourage people to explore downtown
long-term efforts to improve walkability, gathering spaces, and overall downtown experience

These placemaking strategies are designed to create a downtown that is not only functional—but memorable, engaging, and rooted in the unique history of Colfax CA.

Growing Recognition Beyond Colfax

Colfax was selected as a Top-50 finalist for the Levitt AMP Music Series, a national grant program supporting small-town concert series—demonstrating that the work happening in Colfax is gaining statewide and national attention. This recognition builds on the momentum already being created locally through events and programming that are drawing visitors into downtown Colfax.

Why This Matters for Colfax CA

For those paying attention to downtown Colfax CA, the changes described in national Main Street research are not abstract—they are already beginning to take shape locally.

Across the country, the report highlights a clear pattern: communities that invest in consistent programming, partnerships, and placemaking are seeing measurable outcomes, including increased visitation, stronger small business performance, and renewed interest in downtown districts.

Those same strategies are now being implemented in historic downtown Colfax, positioning the area within a broader national shift in how small towns are approaching economic development.

Rather than relying on a single initiative, the focus is on building a coordinated approach—one that combines events, identity, partnerships, and funding into a long-term strategy.

From National Trends to Local Application

One of the clearest takeaways from the Main Street data is that successful downtowns are not driven by isolated efforts, but by systems.

Communities seeing the strongest results are not simply hosting events—they are building ongoing programming, aligning stakeholders, and creating a consistent presence in their downtown districts.

In Colfax CA, that same approach is emerging.

Through a combination of recurring events, collaborative partnerships, and investment in downtown identity, the foundation is being laid for sustained activity and long-term growth.

A Model in Progress

The national report makes one point clear: revitalization is not the result of a single project—it is the outcome of consistent, layered effort over time.

That model is now being applied in downtown Colfax CA.

As programming expands, partnerships deepen, and visibility increases, the trajectory seen in other Main Street communities begins to take shape locally.

How to Be Part of Downtown Colfax’s Growth

As the strategies outlined in national Main Street research continue to take shape in Colfax CA, there are opportunities for both businesses and community members to participate in that momentum.

For Businesses and Property Owners

As the strategies outlined in national Main Street research continue to take shape in downtown Colfax CA, there are multiple ways to be part of that momentum.

Whether you are a business owner, property owner, or community member, participation is not just support—it is alignment with the long-term trajectory of downtown Colfax.

This work connects directly to:

increasing foot traffic driven by consistent programming
greater visibility for businesses and Main Street activity
long-term economic growth tied to sustained revitalization efforts

For those with a direct stake in downtown, involvement helps position your business or property within a growing and evolving district.

For community members, ongoing engagement—whether through attending events, supporting local businesses, or contributing financially—helps sustain and expand the progress already underway.

👉 Become a community Sponsor >>

Discover What’s Happening in Colfax CA

To stay up to date on events in Colfax CA, downtown projects, and opportunities to get involved:

👉 Follow us on Facebook or Instagram
👉 Subscribe to the “All Aboard Colfax” newsletter

Colfax is part of a broader shift happening across the country.

The model is proven.
The work is already in motion.

And downtown Colfax CA is just getting started.

Snapdragon Provisions café interior celebrating one-year anniversary in Colfax.

Celebrating One Year of Snapdragon Provisions: A Colfax Gem

In the heart of downtown Colfax, Snapdragon Provisions has reached a momentous milestone: its one-year anniversary. Over the past year, this cozy café has transformed into a cherished community hub, delighting locals and visitors alike with its carefully crafted menu, warm ambiance, and unwavering commitment to sustainability.

From plant-based culinary creations to gluten-free treats, Snapdragon Provisions has not only offered sustenance but fostered connection and joy among its patrons. This anniversary is a celebration of hard work, gratitude, and the enduring spirit of community.

Journey of Gratitude and Connection

Kallie and Taylor, the passionate owners of Snapdragon Provisions, recently shared heartfelt reflections on this special occasion. Their message of appreciation resonated deeply:

“Cheers to a year of coffee, confections, conversations, and connections. The love and support we’ve been wrapped with has meant so much and has kept us going throughout these long days.”

Their dedication to creating a café that feels like a second home has made Snapdragon Provisions a cornerstone of Colfax. With every oat milk latte poured and every vegan bowl served, Kallie and Taylor have infused their love for wholesome, mindful dining into every corner of this gem.

Snapdragon Provisions: A Haven in Downtown Colfax

Tucked behind a charming flower shop on Main Street in D owntown Colfax, Snapdragon Provisions welcomes guests with an inviting blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort. Its brick floors, warm lighting, and thoughtful décor create an atmosphere where you’re encouraged to linger a little longer.

The sunny back patio provides a perfect retreat for enjoying a meal or a coffee while soaking in the laid-back charm of Colfax. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon or a bustling weekend morning, the café’s ambiance invites relaxation and connection.

A Menu to Savor

One of Snapdragon Provisions’ greatest draws is its diverse menu, thoughtfully designed to cater to a range of dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Among the standout offerings:

The Pure Stoke Bowl: A visual and culinary delight adorned with edible flowers.
Gluten-Free Pastries: Decadent, expertly baked goods that redefine what gluten-free can be.
Oat Milk Lattes and Curated Teas: Perfect companions for a leisurely afternoon.

Each dish and drink is prepared with a commitment to quality, using fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients. It’s no wonder patrons describe the food as “incomprehensibly delicious.”

Sustainability at the Core

Snapdragon Provisions isn’t just about good food; it’s about making a positive impact. From eco-conscious packaging to sourcing local ingredients, the café reflects values that resonate deeply with its customers.

Kallie and Taylor’s vision extends beyond the café walls, emphasizing a harmonious relationship with the environment. Their efforts contribute to a culture of sustainability that is woven into the fabric of Colfax life.

Looking Ahead

As Snapdragon Provisions celebrates its first anniversary, the café’s future shines bright. Kallie and Taylor’s dedication to quality, community, and sustainability ensures that this Colfax gem will continue to thrive for years to come.

To Kallie, Taylor, and the Snapdragon Provisions team: Here’s to many more years of success, growth, and delicious food shared with the Colfax community and beyond.

Best restaurants in Colfax CA

Your Guide to the Best Restaurants in Colfax, CA

Colfax, California, offers more than just beautiful views and historic charm; it boasts a surprising variety of culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty comfort food, gourmet pizza, artisan provisions, or freshly baked treats we have you covered. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Colfax, CA.

Main Street Pizza: A Slice Above the Rest

Main Street Pizza, located at 46 N Main St, is beloved for its consistently outstanding pizzas that never fail to impress locals and visitors alike. The menu showcases a wide array of flavors, from classic pepperoni to specialty combinations like the Garlic Chicken Supreme and Vegetarian Delight. Each pizza is crafted with a perfectly balanced crust—crispy on the outside yet soft inside—and topped generously with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Why You’ll Love It:

A Place to Hang Out: Hang out and watch a game and drink craft beer or enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Vibe: Main Street Pizza welcomes families, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Affordability and Quality: Great taste meets reasonable prices, ensuring a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Seating Area

See the menu >>

OPEN:
Mon – 12 to 7PM
Tues – 12 to 7PM
Wed – 12 to 7PM
Thurs – 12 to 7PM
Fri – 11:30AM – 8PM
Sat – 11:30AM – 8PM
Sun – 12 to 7PM

Colfax Bistro: A Taste of Asian Delight in Colfax, CA

Colfax Bistro stands out as a destination for those craving authentic Asian flavors. This bistro masterfully combines the rich traditions of Asian culinary arts with the welcoming vibe of a local eatery. Whether you’re indulging in classic Vietnamese dishes or trying a flavorful Thai-inspired meal, Colfax Bistro offers a menu that satisfies any food enthusiast.

Why You’ll Love It:

Warm and Inviting Setting: Colfax Bistro exudes a cozy atmosphere that makes it perfect for gatherings, from casual dinners with friends to family celebrations.
Unique Menu Offerings: With dishes like Banh Mi Sandwiches, Chicken Pot Stickers, and Beef Pho, the bistro delivers both variety and authenticity in every bite.
Commitment to Freshness: The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality, fresh ingredients that highlight the natural flavors of each dish, ensuring a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

See the menu >>

OPEN:
Mon – 2 to 8PM
Tues – 2 to 8PM
Wed – CLOSED
Thurs – CLOSED
Fri – 2 to 8PM
Sat – 2 to 8PM
Sun – CLOSED

Snapdragon Provisions: Artisan Delights for Food Lovers

Snapdragon Provisions is a haven for those who are looking for vegan and vegetarian options. With its eclectic offerings, this specialty shop stands out for its hand-crafted sandwiches, fresh baked pastries, Freshly squeezed juices, and locally sourced products.

Must-Try Items:

Delish Grab-and-go Options: Wholesome breakfast and lunches made with attention to creating great food that’s good for you.
Gourmet Coffee: Get a handcrafted specialty coffee delivered with a smile.
Baked Goods: Be sure to try their freshly baked bread and pastries, which make for a delightful breakfast or snack.

OPEN:
Mon – CLOSED
Tues – 7AM to 3PM
Wed – 7AM to 3PM
Thurs – 7AM to 3PM
Fri – 7AM to 3PM
Sat – 7AM to 3PM
Sun – CLOSED

The Wrecking Crew Bakery: Sweet Treats and More

The Wrecking Crew Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. This family-owned bakery has earned a stellar reputation for its handcrafted pastries, bread, and confections that taste just as good as they look.

What Sets Them Apart:

Creative Baked Goods: From flaky croissants to decadent muffins and beautifully decorated cookies, everything at The Wrecking Crew Bakery is made from scratch.
Seasonal Specialties: Look out for limited-time offerings like pumpkin spice scones in the fall and fruit tarts in the spring.
Custom Orders: Perfect for celebrations, their cakes and dessert platters can be customized for special occasions.

The bakery’s cozy ambiance, paired with the aroma of freshly baked goods.

Read the menu >>

OPEN:
Mon – 7AM to 3PM
Tues – 7AM to 3PM
Wed – 7AM to 3PM
Thurs – 7AM to 3PM
Fri – 7AM to 3PM
Sat – 7AM to 3PM
Sun – CLOSED

More Dining Gems in Colfax

Aside from these standout spots, Colfax has a variety of other excellent eateries worth mentioning:

TJ’s Roadhouse: With its rustic decor and extensive menu, TJ’s serves classic American fare that locals swear by. From breakfast staples to dinner entrees, there’s something here for everyone.

Il Pizzaiolo Wood-fired Pizza: If you’re a pizza aficionado, you won’t want to miss Il Pizzaiolo. The wood-fired pies offer a smoky flavor and are topped with the freshest ingredients.

Madi’s Mexicali Stop: For those craving authentic Mexican cuisine, Madi’s Mexicali Stop offers flavorful tacos, burritos, and other traditional dishes that transport your taste buds south of the border.

Beach Hut Deli: Ideal for a quick, delicious bite, this deli serves up sandwiches loaded with creative fillings and is perfect for a casual lunch or snack.

The Red Frog: An American grill that’s known for its hearty dishes, friendly staff, and laid-back vibe. Don’t miss out on their burgers and local beers on tap.

Why Colfax’s Dining Scene Is Worth Exploring

Though small in size, Colfax’s culinary scene reflects a blend of tradition, creativity, and community spirit. Each restaurant, café, and bakery tells its own story, enriched by local flavors and welcoming atmospheres. Whether you’re a pizza lover, a fan of fine dining, or simply in the mood for a freshly baked treat, Colfax has it all.

So, next time you’re passing through or planning a visit, be sure to stop by Main Street Pizza, Colfax Bistro, Snapdragon Provisions, and The Wrecking Crew Bakery, along with the other gems in town, for a taste of what makes this Sierra foothill town so special.

colfax city council meeting results

Summary of the November 13, 2024, Colfax City Council Meeting

The Colfax City Council convened on November 13, 2024, in the Council Chambers at 33 South Main Street, Colfax, CA. Key officials, including Mayor Kim Douglass and councilmembers Sean Lomen, Caroline McCully, Larry Hillberg, and Trinity Burruss, attended the meeting. The session aimed to address community needs, approve new regulations, and engage in strategic city planning.

Main Agenda Highlights

Consent Calendar: Routine approvals included the minutes from prior council meetings and the quarterly investment report. The investment analysis showed financial strategies in compliance with policy and ensured the city could meet its upcoming fiscal obligations.

Public Hearings: One significant topic was the amendment of the Planning Deposit Fee Schedule to introduce a fee for short-term rental permits. This move reflects Colfax’s ongoing commitment to regulate local rentals effectively, balancing economic interests with community standards. The council also discussed zoning code amendments to comply with the General Plan Housing Element, supporting affordable housing solutions like single-room occupancy and employee housing.

Presentations and Approvals: A presentation and a resolution for a contract with Eco Green Solutions aimed to upgrade the Lion’s Children’s Park and the Sheriff’s Substation with energy-efficient LED lighting was considered and approved.

Public and Council Input

Community voices played an essential role. Residents expressed concerns about various civic matters, including the maintenance of city amenities and community events. Public comments emphasized honoring Colfax’s history and fostering deeper community involvement.

The council acknowledged the need for public engagement in decision-making, reflecting Colfax’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.

Council Business and Initiatives

Key council discussions included:

The approval of $7,000 for the Winterfest Celebration, facilitating a festive local event.
A $5,000 funding commitment to support the Railroad Heritage Park Committee for its caboose relocation and museum development.

Conclusion

The November 13 meeting underscored Colfax’s dedication to fostering a community-centric approach. From zoning regulation updates to city projects and public event support, the council continues to align its strategies with long-term community welfare.

Attend the next Colfax City Council Meeting!
Watch the video of this meeting to find out more!