Discover arts and culture in Colfax, CA. From local art galleries and live music to community theater and our annual Colfax Arts Month celebration, this small Sierra Foothills town has a thriving creative scene. Explore artist studios, catch a performance, or find unique handmade works in our historic downtown shops.
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, 2026Art 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.
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.
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.
A 21+ BBQ fundraiser on April 25th at The Red Frog is the spark that keeps Downtown Colfax’s free concert series alive all summer long.
Here is what Colfax has learned in the last two years: when you give people a reason to show up downtown, they show up. Not just a handful of neighbors. Not just the usual crowd. Four hundred, five hundred people at a time — filling the Lots of Art Park, spilling out onto Main Street, packing local restaurants and shops until the register drawers won’t close. That’s what the Downtown Colfax Concert Series does.
We bet on Colfax — that this town deserves to be a destination, not just the place you stop for gas on the way to Tahoe. We were right. The proof is in the packed the park and main street, the doubled and tripled sales figures from downtown business owners, and a Levitt AMP Music Series finalist nod that put Colfax on the map nationally.
Now it’s time to fund the next chapter. And it starts with a plate of smoked pork butt and a cold drink at The Red Frog.
A special thank-you to Randy Brock and the entire team at The Red Frog for partnering with us to make this event possible. This is exactly what the revitalization of Downtown Colfax looks like in practice — local businesses and community organizations working side by side, investing in each other, and building something bigger together. Randy didn’t just open his doors. He leaned in. That’s the Colfax way.
On Saturday, April 25th, we’re hosting Rock the Frog, a 21+ BBQ fundraiser and live music event at The Red Frog (1007 CA-174, Colfax). Doors open at 4:00 PM. Dinner is served from 5:00–6:00 PM. Then the Holcomb Brothers Band takes the stage and plays all evening. No-host bar. Good people. Great food.
Not 21+? Want to say home but enjoy the food? No problem. We’re offering BBQ to-go packages so everyone can eat well and support the Colfax Music Fund at the same time. Individual plates are $30. Family packs (serves 4) are $100, with add-on meals available at $25 per person. All orders must be pre-purchased — no day-of sales.
Every meal sold — whether you’re seated at The Red Frog or picking up at the door — goes directly toward making the summer series happen.
What You’re Actually Funding
The Free 2026 Downtown Colfax Concert Series runs May through September — five concerts, free admission, bringing hundreds of people downtown on evenings that used to be quiet.
What does that mean in practical terms? It means downtown Colfax is alive. Businesses on Main Street are buzzing with foot traffic. Families are spreading out blankets in the park. Kids are running around while their parents catch up with neighbors. Everybody’s got a cold drink and a reason to stay out past sunset.
This is a town at the crossroads of everything California was built on — Gold Rush grit, railroad backbone, agricultural heritage, the spirit of the Sierra Nevada. The concert series is how we tell that story. Not with a museum. Not with a brochure. With music. With people. With a community that shows up for itself.
This is a town at the crossroads of everything California was built on — Gold Rush grit, railroad backbone, agricultural heritage, the spirit of the Sierra Nevada. The concert series is how we tell that story. Not with a brochure. With music. With people. With a community that shows up for itself.
Rock the Frog is more than a fundraiser. It’s a proof of concept. It’s Colfax saying: we take care of our own. We build things together. We don’t wait around — we make it happen ourselves.
You can be part of that story. Come out on April 25th, eat something incredible, hear some great live music, and know that your ticket — your meal, your donation — is what puts a band on the stage on Main Street!
Colfax has been a crossroads for 170 years. This summer, it becomes a destination. Come rock the frog.
🎟 GET YOUR TICKETS 📍 The Red Frog | 1007 CA-174, Colfax, CA | April 25, 2026 | 5:00–10:00 PM 21+ Pre-sale tickets required. No day-of sales. BBQ to-go orders also available.
By the President, Historic Colfax Downtown Association, highlighting the vibrancy and charm of Downtown Colfax businesses.
Last night’s City Council meeting reminded us of something simple but profound: music has always been central to the Colfax community.
The room was filled to capacity in support of Rainbow Music—a 40-year tenant in the historic train car downtown. What could have been a routine lease renewal became a heartfelt demonstration of how deeply the community wants Rainbow Music to remain in Colfax
A Legacy of Music in Colfax
For generations, Rob and Christine Bonner have taught music to Colfax’s children, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren. At $30 a month, their lessons have made music accessible to families of all means. They’ve taught students through illness, organized benefit concerts for struggling local businesses, and shared their talents at celebrations of life and community events.
Rainbow Music isn’t just a business—it’s part of Colfax’s cultural fabric. In a town with limited arts education in our schools, they’ve provided a creative outlet for local youth and a steady, welcoming presence downtown.
Speaker after speaker shared stories that painted a picture of remarkable dedication:
Elderly residents for whom these twice-weekly lessons are a vital connection to community
Multi-generational families where parents, children, and grandchildren have all learned from the Bonners
Students who performed at their grandfather’s celebration of life, prepared and coached by Rob and Christine
Children with serious illnesses who received in-home lessons when they couldn’t travel
Benefit concerts organized to support local businesses during difficult times
What This Moment Revealed
Last night wasn’t really about a lease—it was about recognition. The outpouring of support showed that Rainbow Music is not a relic of the past but a living symbol of what Colfax values most: community, creativity, and continuity.
Council Member Larry Hillberg captured something important when he noted that Rainbow Music is a “destination business”—people come to Colfax specifically for their services, then support other local establishments. These businesses are economic multipliers, but more importantly, they’re the reasons people identify with and invest in our town.
My Own Learning Moment
I spoke during public comment, and I want to share something personal:
I’ve been in Colfax for about six years. For the first few years, I admittedly didn’t connect deeply with the community. But when I started engaging and we created the Downtown Association, I became passionate about telling Colfax’s story—attracting opportunities and showcasing what makes us special.
What I realized last night is that we had clearly missed one of our best stories.
Sitting in that meeting, listening to testimony after testimony about the legacy the Bonners have created—the lives touched, the music brought to our town for four decades—it gave me goosebumps. They’ve been building Colfax’s reputation as a music-friendly community since 1985, long before our current branding initiatives even existed.
When I first moved to town I was instantly drawn to the historic train car, I’ve thought, “That’s the coolest building. What’s in there?” Well, it’s the home to exactly the kind of authentic, community-centered business that makes Colfax special.
This experience reinforced something crucial: sometimes the best stories are already here, already being lived. We need to listen, look around, and lift up what’s working rather than only chasing what’s new.
As the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, we’re committed to telling the Bonners’ story at a high level—because that’s our job. But more importantly, this situation reminded all of us to recognize and protect the authentic community assets we already have.
The Power of Showing Up
What happened last night demonstrates something powerful about local democracy: when community members engage thoughtfully and officials listen with open minds, we reach better outcomes.
The Council made a pivotal choice to move the discussion from closed session to open dialogue. That transparency mattered. It allowed the community to be heard, enabled Council members to understand the full impact of their decision, and resulted in a unanimous vote to extend Rainbow Music’s lease for 12 months with month-to-month continuation and 90-day notice provisions.
This wasn’t just good process—it was Colfax at its best.
Why It Matters for Our Future
As the Historic Colfax Downtown Association continues its work to strengthen the arts and downtown vitality, it’s clear that our strongest stories are already here. For forty years, Rainbow Music has quietly helped define Colfax’s identity as a place where the arts matter.
We’re currently pursuing opportunities like the Levitt Amp Music Series grant—an initiative we undertook independently to bring free outdoor concerts to our community. But as we work to tell the story of Colfax as a music-friendly town, we cannot separate that narrative from the 40-year legacy of music education happening right downtown.
Keeping Rainbow Music downtown sends a clear message to visitors, businesses, and funding partners: Colfax values its legacy, supports the arts, and stands behind the people who make this a thriving community.
Every town needs anchors—people and places that hold its stories. For Colfax, Rainbow Music is one of them.
What We All Can Do
The Council’s decision gives Rainbow Music security and time to plan for their future. Now it’s our turn to keep showing up:
For all of us as community members:
Support Rainbow Music through enrollments and referrals
Recognize that legacy businesses like this deserve our active patronage
Show up to City Council meetings when things matter
Celebrate what makes Colfax authentic rather than only seeking what’s new
As the Downtown Association:
We’ll advocate for proactive communication between City leadership and long-term business partners
We’re committed to helping tell Rainbow Music’s story more widely
We’ll work with them to expand their online presence and visibility
We’ll continue partnering with the City on initiatives that strengthen our downtown
The Colfax Way
When we work together—with transparency, respect, and shared purpose—we strengthen the foundation of our community.
That’s what happened last night: the community spoke, the City Council listened, and Rainbow Music continues to teach and inspire.
But this moment taught us something bigger: We’re a community where a 40-year music educator is valued, where citizens engage meaningfully, where officials respond with openness, and where we’re willing to recognize and protect what makes us special.
This is the Colfax story worth telling.
As we pursue economic development, seek grants for arts programming, and work to revitalize our downtown, we do so knowing that our greatest assets are already here: engaged citizens, businesses that span generations, a willingness to have honest conversations, and shared values about what matters most.
Last night reminded us that the best brand isn’t something you create in a marketing campaign—it’s something you live every day through how you treat people, honor commitments, and show up for each other.
That’s not just good governance or smart economic development. That’s the foundation for everything else we’re trying to build.
Something special is stirring in Colfax — and you’re going to hear it.
The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is thrilled to announce our plans for a 2026 Concert Series — a full season of free, live music designed to bring neighbors together, uplift local artists, and fill Main Street with vibrancy, rhythm, and joy.
🎤 From Inspiration to Momentum
It all began with a bold step — applying for the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant, a national program that helps small towns host free outdoor concerts. Colfax made it all the way to the Top 50 finalists in the country — a testament to our potential, our community, and our shared love of live music.
That recognition lit a fire. This past year, we held our first-ever Rock the Vote concert, helping us get to the Top 50 Finalist for the Levitt AMP Grant and proving the pull of music in our town. Next came Pints & Grooves, drawing hundreds downtown which turned Main Street into a festival: music, food, mingling — and small-town magic.
Whether or not we secure the Levitt Grant, we’re moving forward. We’re officially committed to launching the 2026 Colfax Concert Series — because the power of music to unite has already shown its strength.
🎯 Building the Soundtrack of Colfax
To make this vision real, we’ve launched the Historic Colfax Music Fund — a community-powered initiative to raise the dollars needed for:
Booking talented, professional artists
Providing top-tier sound and staging
Hosting safe, polished, unforgettable evenings
Elevating Colfax’s identity as a destination for arts, culture, and community
Every dollar contributed brings us one step closer to turning our downtown into a concert venue alive with energy, creativity, and connection.
🎟️ How You Can Be Part of It
If you believe in the power of music, in supporting local talent, and in the future of Colfax — we invite you to lend your support:
Donate: Every gift, big or small, makes a difference
Spread the Word: Share with friends, neighbors, and local businesses
Attend Fundraisers: Join us for upcoming events (next up: Dinner on Beacon Hill)
Get Involved: Volunteer, sponsor, or offer in-kind support
Keep your ears open for upcoming announcements — including the launch of our brilliant fundraiser series, starting with Dinner on Beacon Hill, an exclusive evening event in downtown Colfax. (Learn more at DinnerOnBeaconHill.com.)
We’ll also be sharing artist teaser reveals, volunteer opportunities, sponsorship packages, and more.
Let’s make 2026 the year Colfax becomes known for its sound. Because when the music plays — our town comes alive. 🎵
Colfax, CA — take a bow. Our town of just 2,200 has done something extraordinary: we’ve kept pace with cities 100 times our size and officially earned a spot as a Top 50 finalist in the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant competition. That means we’re one step closer to bringing a multi-year, free outdoor concert series to the heart of downtown Colfax.
After making it into the Top 100 and rallying votes during the national public voting round, Colfax has advanced to the final selection stage. On November 18, 2025, the Levitt Foundation will award matching grants to 15 communities across the country, each one empowered to launch a family-friendly, inclusive, and vibrant music series that breathes life into underused public spaces.
Before the final announcement, we’re taking a moment to celebrate how we got here — and why Colfax is more ready than ever to turn this momentum into a three-year tradition of music, community, and Main Street magic.
How We Got Here (Fast)
A concert — built in weeks
With only a short runway, we produced a four‑artist “Rock the Vote” concert at The Art Park in Colfax, CA, complete with professional sound, lighting, and vote‑help announcements. The lineup:
Aly Gerlach — Local talent with a massive voice who opened with the National Anthem
Michael James Cox — Colfax‑born outlaw country + Sierra soul
The Breakovers — Sierra‑soaked folk/bluegrass/Americana harmonies
Jennifer Belle — Country powerhouse, Josie Music Awards–nominated
Tyler Edwards — A former frontman of Billboard-charting I Anthem—delivers cinematic Americana/rock
The result? A packed lawn, kids dancing, neighbors reconnecting, local vendors humming — downtown Colfax alive.
Community everywhere you looked
As part of our Rock the Vote campaign—which featured a multi-artist concert and a city- and county-wide outreach push—we delivered the following:
Branded merchandise — Our “Rock the Vote” T-shirts – did double duty: it turned supporters into walking billboards that sparked conversations on every block and raised $1,600+ in just a couple of weeks. Those dollars helped us book professional-caliber talent, proving we can deliver top-tier shows in Colfax.
Business partnerships: Local Colfax businesses like The Colfax Bistro, Snapdragon Provisions, The Wrecking Crew, Main Street Pizza, Tj’s Restaurant, The Red Frog, Colfax Smog & Auto, the Colfax Visitors Center, Colfax Railroad Heritage Museum, and Marvel Sierra Market hosted info stands, QR codes, posters, handouts explaining how and when to vote.
Public presence: outreach booths at community events, a billboard on I‑80, and a rally at the Colfax High School football game kept the message in front of families and commuters.
Social media blitz: posts, Stories, Reels, and shareables flooded local and regional feeds with reminders, countdowns, and calls to action on our Visit Historic Colfax platform.
Inclusive access: when our website lagged, we emphasized text‑to‑vote so no one was left out by tech hiccups.
Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) Board — special thanks to Gretchen Boyce, Patrice Goulet, and Todd Saylor — rolled up sleeves from planning to teardown.
City of Colfax made the park shine; Mayor Sean Lomen and Council Members Kim Douglass and Larry Hillberg backed the effort.
How Colfax, CA Meets the Levitt Foundation Key Factors
Projected Impact on Community & Public Space
A Levitt AMP Music Series Grant would be transformative for Colfax, CA — not just in sound, but in spirit. If awarded, this grant would fund 7–10 free outdoor concerts each summer for three consecutive years, creating a consistent, high-quality event series that turns warm evenings into community celebrations.
Our proposed venue? Depot Park — the grassy, tree-lined area next to the historic Colfax train station. This space is already beloved by locals but underutilized for large-scale programming. With Levitt’s support, we envision it coming alive with families on picnic blankets, kids dancing near the stage, and neighbors reconnecting under string lights and stars. It’s walkable, accessible, centrally located next to public parking and ADA bathrooms, and steeped in the character that makes Colfax unique.
Beyond the music, the ripple effects are substantial. These events would:
Activate underused public space and give residents a reason to gather consistently.
Support small businesses, with increased foot traffic for local shops, restaurants, and lodging.
Boost civic pride, drawing visitors from across Placer County and giving locals something big to look forward to.
Strengthen Colfax’s identity as a creative, inclusive, and culturally vibrant town.
Depot Park is more than a space — it’s a stage for community revival. And with Levitt’s help, we’re ready to turn it into a musical heartbeat for downtown Colfax.
Feasibility of Implementation (Matching Funds & Logistics)
When it comes to delivering high-quality live events, Colfax, CA has already proven its capacity to execute — quickly, safely, and professionally. Our “Rock the Vote” concert at The Art Park was built from the ground up in just a matter of weeks, showcasing what’s possible when our city, partners, and volunteers come together with a shared mission.
From booking artists and coordinating stage production, to securing professional lighting, sound, site ops, and security, the entire event was run with the kind of precision and community spirit that Levitt expects from grantees. And it didn’t just run smoothly — it felt like a festival, with energy, excitement, and purpose pulsing through the crowd.
But logistics are only one piece. The other is matching funds — and Colfax is ready there, too.
Over $1,600 raised in merchandise sales alone in just days — a strong sign of early grassroots buy-in.
Multiple local organizations and small businesses have already pledged sponsorships to help meet our matching fund requirements.
The City of Colfax, the Soroptimists, and the Colfax Chamber of Commerce are all on board, offering both in-kind and logistical support.
Volunteer crews are committed and growing, drawing from local civic groups, youth programs, and residents passionate about music and community.
We’re not starting from scratch. We’re building on momentum — with clear operational capacity, a growing base of supporters, and a financial path already taking shape. Colfax isn’t just ready to host a Levitt AMP Music Series — we’ve already started.
Our roster blended local roots (Michael James Cox, Aly Gerlach) with regional and national acts (The Breakovers, Jennifer Belle, Tyler Edwards), spanning outlaw country, folk/bluegrass/Americana, and modern country—family‑friendly by design. It’s so important to us that we introduce Colfax to all types of music!
Why the Levitt Foundation Should Choose Colfax, CA
Awarding the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant to Colfax, California would be transformational. Here’s why this investment matters — and why Colfax is the perfect fit for Levitt’s mission.
1. Colfax Is Ready — We Just Need the Resources Colfax may be small, but we’ve proven we can move fast and work together. Without a full-time events team or a big-city budget, we successfully produced a professionally run, multi-artist concert that brought our town together in a matter of weeks. We’ve shown that when given a reason, this community shows up — and shows out. What we lack in funding, we more than make up for in grit, heart, and hustle. A Levitt AMP Music Series Grant would provide the structure and support we need to turn this spark into a sustainable, long-term tradition.
2. It Would Revitalize Our Historic Downtown The series would activate Depot Park, a green, walkable space in the heart of Colfax. Located next to the train station and blocks from from I-80, it’s the ideal venue to transform into a lively cultural hub that boosts downtown businesses and tourism.
3. Colfax Embodies Levitt’s Core Values We’re a small town with deep roots and a big heart — a place where people still show up for one another. The Levitt series would amplify our unique identity, foster belonging, and make live music accessible to everyone.
4. This Grant Would Spark Long-Term Change This isn’t just about concerts — it’s about civic renewal. The Levitt series would reconnect neighbors, reenergize Main Street, and give residents and visitors a reason to come downtown again and again.
5. We Serve a Much Larger Region Colfax is surrounded by small rural towns that lack access to free, high-quality music. We can be the cultural connector for the Sierra Foothills — offering inclusive, family-friendly events that serve far beyond our city limits.
This grant would change the trajectory of Main Street Colfax. Not just for a season — but for a generation. We’re ready to make it happen. All we need is the spotlight.
What’s Next while we wait for the Levitt Foundation’s Decision
Long before we knew we had secured a spot in the Top 100 — let alone advanced to the Top 50 finalists — simply applying for the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant sparked something powerful in Colfax, CA. It inspired a collective mindset shift: Why wait?
So we didn’t. We began bringing more music to downtown Colfax right away.
That spirit continues with the Pints & Grooves event (formerly Oktoberfest) on October 4, 2025, a celebration featuring live music, local brews, food vendors, and family-friendly fun right in the heart of historic downtown Colfax. It’s another example of our commitment to cultural vibrancy, regardless of the grant outcome — but it’s also a taste of what’s possible with Levitt’s support.
Thank You, Colfax, CA — Let’s Keep the Music Going
To every single person who voted, shared, performed, volunteered, donated, hosted, staffed, or simply showed up — your support made this possible. Together, we showed that a town as small as Colfax, CA can rise to the national stage, proving that community spirit and creativity don’t depend on population size.
We didn’t just apply for the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant — we rallied for it. We dreamed big, came together fast, and put Colfax on the map in a way that reflects who we truly are: a small town with a massive heart and deep love for live music.
This isn’t the finish line — it’s the first verse of something bigger. No matter what happens on November 18, we’ve already created momentum. We’ve reawakened downtown. We’ve reminded ourselves what it feels like to gather, celebrate, and dance under the stars.
Music belongs in Colfax, CA. And we’re ready to make it a Main Street tradition for years to come.🎶💛
Saturday night, downtown Colfax came alive. Main Street was filled with music, neighbors, and a sense of pride that only a small town can create. Hosted by the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, the Rock the Vote Concert wasn’t just a great night out—it was proof that when Colfax comes together, amazing things happen. The community’s effort is part of the Levitt Grant Colfax initiative.
But now comes the part where we need every single person to step up.
Why This Matters
Colfax is competing for the Levitt AMP Grant, a national program that could bring 7–10 free professional concerts to Colfax every summer for the next three years. That’s not just music—it’s economic development, tourism, and a chance to put Colfax back on the map as a cultural destination with the Levitt Grant Colfax opportunity.
Out of hundreds of cities across the country, Colfax has already made it into the Top 100. That’s a big accomplishment for our little town! As of today, we are sitting at #27 for the AMP Grant and #44 overall. But to secure this grant, we must make it into the Top 50 during the public voting round.
This is where you come in to support the Levitt Grant Colfax effort.
How to Vote
Voting is open now through September 15 at 5:00 PM PT and it only takes about 30 seconds.
Every single vote counts. In fact, one share, one tag, or one text could be the difference between Colfax winning or losing this once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Why Colfax Deserves This
Colfax isn’t just another small town—it’s a place built on grit, history, and community. From our Gold Rush roots to being a vital stop on the Transcontinental Railroad, Colfax has always played a bigger role than its size suggests, especially with the Levitt Grant Colfax opportunity on the horizon.
Local businesses thriving from increased foot traffic.
Colfax finally getting the recognition it deserves as a destination for music and culture.
Together, We Can Do This
We’ve already shown what’s possible when our town comes together. The Rock the Vote Concert proved that Colfax has the energy, the heart, and the passion to dream big. Now let’s take the next step and secure the Levitt Grant Colfax designation.
Vote. Share. Tag your friends. Tell your neighbors. Wear your Rock the Vote shirts with pride.
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 AllyGerlach, 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.
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.
After months of tireless work, strategic planning, and fierce competition against hundreds of cities nationwide, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association is proud to announce that Colfax CA Downtown Revitalization has advanced to the public voting round for the prestigious Levitt AMP Music Series Grant.
This isn’t just another grant opportunity—this is a historic moment for our town. Only 100 cities in the entire country made it this far. Last year, just 33 communities received this funding, making our advancement an extraordinary achievement.
If we win, Colfax could receive up to $40,000 per year for three years in matching funds from the Levitt Foundation. That means as much as $120,000 in total funding to host up to ten free concerts annually—bringing world-class live music, new visitors, and fresh energy to our historic downtown.
The impact goes beyond music. This grant represents an opportunity to reignite our local economy, boost tourism, and create lasting cultural experiences that will bring our community closer together.
How Colfax CA is revitalizing its downtown with live music
Imagine warm summer evenings where families, neighbors, and visitors gather under the stars to enjoy top-tier live music—for free. Picture our streets alive with local food vendors, artisans, and businesses buzzing with customers drawn by the events. That’s what this grant could deliver.
Over the three-year funding period, these concerts would:
Drive Economic Growth: Increased foot traffic means more business for local restaurants, shops, and lodging.
Boost Tourism: Colfax could attract visitors from across Placer County and beyond.
Enhance Community Pride: Public spaces would become vibrant gathering places that bring our diverse community together.
Preserve and Showcase Local Culture: Each event would highlight Colfax’s rich history while building new traditions for future generations.
The Road to the Final Round
Getting to this stage wasn’t easy. To pass the first round, our team had to:
Create a comprehensive event budget that detailed every dollar’s purpose.
Design an official event logo as if the concerts were already happening.
Develop a full-scale marketing plan to promote the events and maximize attendance.
Collect numerous letters of support from community members, nonprofits, and local leaders to prove that Colfax truly wants—and deserves—this opportunity.
This effort took nearly 100 hours of dedicated work and meticulous strategy, positioning Colfax as a competitive contender among much larger cities.
A Call to Action: Community Support Needed
Now comes the most important step—public voting. The voting period runs from September 5–15, 2025, and the Levitt Foundation has already sent us $1,500 to promote community engagement during these ten days. But that’s just the beginning—winning depends entirely on how many votes we can rally.
We’re calling this an “all-hands-on-deck moment” for Colfax.
Some doubters—outside our community—once told us we had no chance. But here we are, proving them wrong. Now we just have to cross the finish line together.
How We’re Mobilizing Colfax
We plan to host a community meeting at City Hall to bring together:
Community Outreach Plans – Reaching every household and business in Colfax.
Social Media Campaigns – Leveraging Facebook, Instagram, and local groups to spread the word fast.
Vote Collection Strategies – Making it easy and convenient for every supporter to cast their vote.
We already have a framework for this campaign, but we need voices, hands, and hearts from across the community to make it happen.
Our Mission: Breathing New Life into Downtown Colfax
The Historic Colfax Downtown Association’s mission is clear:
To breathe new life into downtown Colfax by honoring its history, uplifting its people, and creating spaces where community can truly take root.
Colfax is a town built on grit and rooted in history—a place where stories still matter. We believe true revitalization happens when those stories are preserved, when neighbors are connected, and when every person feels like they are part of that legacy.
With this grant, we can take a giant step toward transforming Colfax into a bustling, connected, and economically strong hub in Placer County—one that honors the past while building an exciting future.
Ways to support Colfax CA during the Levitt Grant voting period
Mark Your Calendar: Voting runs September 5–15, 2025.
Spread the Word: Tell friends, family, and colleagues—every vote matters.
Join the Meeting: Help us refine our outreach plan and get involved.
Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated on voting instructions and events.
Together, we can make Colfax a shining example of how small towns can achieve big dreams.
Colfax stands on the brink of something transformative. Winning the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant means more than just concerts—it’s about revitalization, community pride, and economic opportunity. We’ve come this far against all odds. Now, with your help, we can take the final step and secure a future filled with music, connection, and prosperity for our historic downtown.
Experience the Magic of Colfax Arts Month with a Special Giveaway!
The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is proud to present a community celebration like no other during Colfax Arts Month. As part of our commitment to enriching local culture and supporting charitable causes, we’re thrilled to announce a limited-time giveaway for a truly memorable event.
You could win two FREE tickets (valued at $250) to An Evening with Richard Smith, a heartwarming night of music, local wine, and community giving — all taking place at the beautifully restored Historic Colfax Theatre on Friday, April 26, 2025.
Why You Can’t Miss “An Evening with Richard Smith”
This is not just another concert — it’s an immersive evening featuring the internationally acclaimed fingerstyle guitarist Richard Smith, whose career includes performances alongside icons like Chet Atkins, Tommy Emmanuel, and Vince Gill.
Richard’s performances blend technical brilliance with emotional depth, leaving audiences amazed and inspired.
But there’s more to this night than great music. It’s also a fundraising event for autism caregivers, hosted by the nonprofit Care Sphere, which empowers families through initiatives like their Creative Space program.
What Awaits You at This Exclusive Event
Here’s what makes this night truly one-of-a-kind:
🏛 Historic Venue Charm – Step inside the enchanting Historic Colfax Theatre, a true gem of the Sierra Foothills.
🎸 Live Concert by Richard Smith – Witness jaw-dropping talent in an intimate historic venue.
🍷 Wine Tasting by Montoliva Winery – Savor local flavors with premium selections.
📅 Entry deadline: Wednesday, April 24 at 12 PM 📣 Winner announced: Wednesday, April 24 at 6 PM
🏛 Why We’re Hosting This Giveaway
This giveaway is part of the Historic Colfax Downtown Association’s mission to breathe life and energy into our historic district. By promoting events that support the arts and community wellbeing, we’re creating a downtown Colfax that’s not just beautiful and historic — but active, thriving, and full of connection.
