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Tag: Colfax Arts Month

International guitarist Richard Smith performing live on stage with acoustic guitar

Celebrating Colfax Arts Month with Richard Smith at the Historic Colfax Theatre

A Night of World-Class Music for a Meaningful Cause

As part of Colfax Arts Month, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) is proud to highlight a very special event happening right in the heart of our city—inside the beautifully restored Historic Colfax Theatre. Don’t miss the Colfax Arts Month Richard Smith Concert, an event sure to impress.

“An Evening with Richard Smith”, a benefit concert presented by Care Sphere, brings internationally renowned guitar virtuoso Richard Smith to our Main Street stage for an unforgettable night of music, wine, and community. While this event is being organized by Care Sphere, HCDA is honored to be a major contributor and proud supporter of this effort—an inspiring example of what happens when local nonprofits, artists, and community leaders come together to uplift both the arts and those in need.

Bringing vibrant, high-quality events to downtown Colfax is one of our core initiatives, and we are especially grateful to Jason and the Care Sphere team for choosing our historic theater as the setting for this incredible evening. Their mission to support autism caregivers is one we deeply admire, and we are thrilled to see their passion and purpose come to life on Main Street.

🎸 An Evening with Richard Smith

A Fundraising Event for Autism Caregivers
Presented by Care Sphere

📍 Location: Colfax Historic Theatre– 49 S. Main Street, Colfax, CA
📅 Date: 4/26/25
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Wine Tasting, Hors d’Oeuvres, and Silent Auction
7:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Live Performance by Richard Smith

🎟 Tickets:

  • $75 per person
  • Only 120 tickets available
  • Open seating – arrive early for the best spots 🎫 Get your tickets here

🎶 Spotlight on Richard Smith

Few guitarists in the world possess the extraordinary range, technique, and musicality of Richard Smith. Richard began playing guitar at just five years old. By eleven, he had already performed on stage with Chet Atkins, the legendary country guitarist who would later call Richard “the most amazing guy I know on the guitar.”

Smith is the 2001 National Fingerstyle Guitar Champion and a world-touring virtuoso known for blending classical, jazz, country, pop, gypsy, and ragtime styles seamlessly in a single performance. His unique ability to sound like an entire band—playing rhythm, melody, and bass simultaneously—has captivated audiences across the globe.

He has shared the stage with iconic musicians such as:

  • Tommy Emmanuel
  • Les Paul
  • Suzy Bogguss
  • John Jorgenson
  • Martin Taylor

Richard Smith’s live shows are a masterclass in musical brilliance and storytelling, equally touching, funny, and jaw-droppingly impressive.

“He can play anything I know—only better.” – Chet Atkins
“If you like my playing, you should hear Richard Smith.” – Tommy Emmanuel

This performance at the Colfax Theater offers a rare opportunity to see a guitarist of this caliber up close in a beautifully restored venue.

💙 About CareSphere: Supporting the Unsung Heroes

CareSphere, based right here on Main Street in Colfax, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for severely developmentally disabled adults by providing comprehensive support to their caregivers and support networks.

Their mission is rooted in compassion and connection—acknowledging that those who provide care often do so under enormous stress, with limited resources, and little recognition. Care Sphere works to fill that gap.

Their cornerstone programs include:

  • The GiveABreak™ Program – providing critical respite care and relief for caregivers.
  • Targeted funding for caregiver essentials, training, and tools.
  • Guidance and access to specialized products to support complex care needs.
  • Emotional support and community building for care providers under ongoing pressure.

By investing in those who care for our most vulnerable, Care Sphere improves lives from the ground up—ensuring the caregivers are not forgotten and those they support receive better, more sustainable care.

🍷 What to Expect

This evening is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the arts, all within the historic heart of Colfax.

🍷 Wine Tasting
Enjoy a specially curated wine tasting from Montoliva Vineyard & Winery, a local favorite known for crafting rare Southern Italian varietals in the Sierra Foothills

🍽 Hors d’Oeuvres
Savor a variety of small bites and appetizers from The Wrecking Crew and Bakery.

🎁 Silent Auction
Place your bids on exclusive items from local artisans and businesses through a fully digital silent auction on Zeffy—easy, accessible, and for a great cause.

🎭 The Historic Colfax Theatre

Originally built in 1939, the Colfax Theatre is one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. Following a fire that destroyed the previous theater, the current art deco building rose in its place and has been lovingly restored in recent decades. Its classic Streamline Moderne architecture, warm acoustics, and cozy atmosphere make it an ideal venue for music, storytelling, and cultural events.

Bringing world-class performances like this one to the Colfax Theater is a key part of the Historic Colfax Downtown Association’s mission to revitalize Main Street and create a thriving arts and culture scene in our town.

✨ A Heartfelt Thanks to Jason and the CareSphere Team

We want to sincerely thank Jason, the driving force behind this event and founder of CareSphere. His vision for caregiver support is deeply needed, and his choice to invest that vision in downtown Colfax makes a meaningful impact not only on local families but on our entire community’s cultural life.

🎫 Get Your Tickets Now >>
Tickets are limited and moving fast. Be part of something truly special—support local caregivers, experience a once-in-a-lifetime performance, and celebrate what makes Colfax such a beautiful place to call home.
💬 Share the word. Invite a friend. Join us downtown.

Let the music play. Let the arts rise. Let Colfax shine.

As we celebrate Arts, Culture & Creativity Month, a statewide initiative led by the California Arts Council and supported locally by the Placer County Arts Council, events like “An Evening with Richard Smith” embody the spirit of this movement—bringing world-class art to rural communities, activating historic spaces, and supporting important local causes. Here in Colfax, we launched Colfax Arts Month to stand alongside and amplify these efforts, aligning with the statewide initiative to spotlight the transformative power of the arts and their role in shaping our identity, preserving our history, and strengthening our future.

At the Historic Colfax Downtown Association, we are committed to supporting and promoting artistic experiences that elevate our town and honor the cultural legacy of places like the Historic Colfax Theatre. We are proud to be a contributing partner in this event and in the broader effort to keep the arts alive in Colfax. Together—with local leaders, artists, nonprofits, and residents—we are creating a thriving, creative future for our community, one event at a time.

🎨 Celebrate Colfax Arts Month – A Creative Journey Through April!

In April we are celebrating Colfax Arts Month, and we’re proud to announce that this celebration is part of a broader initiative led by the Placer County Arts Council and the California Arts Council.

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is honored to be part of this statewide movement. We’re incredibly proud of the work being done right here in Colfax to uplift local artists, support cultural experiences, and breathe new life into our historic downtown.

👇 Here’s what’s happening in Historic Downtown Colfax:

🖼️ Art Night at Snapdragon Provisions
📅 Friday, April 4 | 6:30–8:30 PM
📍 38 N Main St, Colfax
Celebrate the vibrant creative community of Colfax with artist showcases, a build-your-own flower bar, mocktails, multiple musical performances and plated desserts. A cozy and inspiring night to connect, collaborate, and uplift the arts!
Learn More about this event >>

🎨 Paint & Brunch at The Wrecking Crew Bakery
📅
Sunday, April 13 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
📍 30 N Main Street, Downtown Colfax
Start your Sunday with creativity! Enjoy a step-by-step painting session (no experience required), delicious brunch bites, and coffee in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
💰 Tickets: $35 (includes painting supplies)
Learn More about this event and get tickets >>

🎓 Colfax High School Student Art Showcase & Congressional Art Competition
The Historic Colfax Downtown Association is proud to partner with Congressman Kevin Kiley to uplift young artists in our community. Together, we’re offering two exciting opportunities for Colfax High School students to shine through their artwork:

🎨 Local Colfax High School Art Showcase – Presented by HCDA
✅ All student submissions will be displayed in downtown storefront windows
✅ Art will be featured throughout April as part of Arts Month
✅ A local winner will be selected by a panel of artists and community leaders
Reception and Winner Announcement: April 19th, 2025

🏛 2025 Congressional Art Competition – Hosted by Congressman Kevin Kiley
✅ One winning piece from our district will hang in the U.S. Capitol for a full year
✅ 2nd & 3rd place entries will be displayed in Congressman Kiley’s local offices
✅ All participants will receive official Congressional Honors
📬 Submission Deadline: April 25, 2025

🖌️ Who Can Enter:
Open to all current Colfax High School students in grades 9–12. Artwork must be original, two-dimensional, and follow accepted mediums.

📅 Entry Deadline for Local Showcase: Monday, April 14, 2025
Learn more about this contest >>

🎸 An Evening with Richard Smith – Live Performance & Fundraiser
📅 Saturday, April 26 | 5:00–9:30 PM
📍 Colfax Theatre, 49 S. Main St.
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of world class music, wine, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction—benefiting Care Sphere’s mission to support families affected by autism.
💰 Tickets: $75 – No service fees, limited seating!
Learn more about this event >>

Colfax is celebrating the Arts in April – it’s a movement to uplift creativity, foster community connection, and showcase the incredible talent rooted in our historic Sierra Foothills town. From interactive art nights and brunch painting sessions to student showcases and live performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Proudly supported by the Placer County Arts Council, California Arts Council, and Congressman Kevin Kiley, this initiative highlights Colfax as a growing hub for arts and culture in Northern California. Join us downtown this April and experience the magic of Colfax Arts Month for yourself.

Downtown Colfax with historic buildings, showcasing potential mural project locations.

Colfax CA Arts Month: Join the Community Meeting to Plan the Future of Local Arts

A Town on the Brink of an Arts Renaissance 🎭🎨

Not long ago, Colfax California was a town where history whispered through the walls of its buildings, where echoes of a once-thriving community still lingered. But something has been stirring beneath the surface—something electric.

It started with an idea.

A few passionate voices spoke up: What if we could bring the arts back to Colfax? What if we transformed blank walls into murals, empty stages into thriving performance spaces, and quiet nights into cultural experiences?

And now, here we are. On the cusp of something big.

On February 27th, the Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) is calling on dreamers, doers, and creatives to join us for a community meeting that could change everything.

Imagine walking down Main Street, past vibrant murals painted by local artists. Imagine the Historic Colfax Theatre alive with music, laughter, and storytelling. Imagine a town that doesn’t just remember its history—but makes new history every day.

This meeting isn’t just about planning an event. It’s about shaping the future.

colfax downtown association

What will we discuss?
Mural projects – Turning our streets into an open-air gallery
Live performances – Bringing music, theater, and culture back downtown
Interactive arts events – Creating spaces for local talent to shine
What’s next after our February 26th City Council meeting presentation about arts month?

We have a window of opportunity. A moment where momentum is on our side. But to make it real, we need you—your creativity, your ideas, your passion.

💡 How to Get Involved:
✔️ Visit our facebook page event and let us know you are going!
✔️ Tag & invite friends who care about the arts!
✔️ Drop a comment—What do YOU want to see in Colfax’s Arts Month?

🔗 Reserve your spot now:
Register online and we will add you to our mailing list!

Colfax is on the brink of an exciting transformation, and this is your chance to be part of it. Arts, Culture & Creativity Month is more than just an event—it’s a movement to revitalize our historic downtown, celebrate local talent, and create a thriving cultural hub for our community. By attending the Historic Colfax Downtown Association meeting, you can help shape the future of arts in Colfax, whether through mural projects, live performances, or interactive community events. Your voice matters, and your creativity can make a lasting impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to get involved—RSVP today and join us in bringing the arts to life in Colfax!

downtown Colfax, CA, celebrating Arts, Culture & Creativity Month with community members gathered in support.

Colfax Arts Month: Advocating for the Arts & Bringing Creativity to Our Historic Downtown

Colfax, CA: A City Where Arts, Culture & Creativity Thrive

The Historic Colfax Downtown Association (HCDA) is thrilled to announce our efforts to establish April as Arts, Culture & Creativity Month in Colfax, CA! As part of a larger Placer County and statewide initiative, we are working hard to bring more art, music, and cultural events to our historic downtown.

The arts have the power to revitalize communities—boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and strengthening our town’s identity and pride. We are advocating at a city level to gain official recognition and support for Arts Month in Colfax. This is a community effort, and we invite everyone to join us in celebrating and promoting the arts in our town!

Why Colfax Needs to Recognize Arts Month

The Economic & Cultural Impact of the Arts

The arts aren’t just about creativity—they are a driving force for economic growth and tourism. Research from the Arts & Economic Prosperity report by Americans for the Arts shows that:

The average arts attendee spends $31.47 per event, supporting local businesses like restaurants, retail shops, and hotels.
One-third (34%) of arts attendees travel from outside the county, spending more than twice as much as local attendees.
14.3% of nonlocal arts visitors stay overnight, spending an average of $142.70 per person on lodging.

These statistics highlight the economic potential of investing in the arts. By officially recognizing Arts, Culture & Creativity Month, Colfax can position itself as a regional destination for arts tourism, benefiting both local artists and businesses.


Who are Americans for the Arts and Why is Their Report Important?

Americans for the Arts is a leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the arts and arts education across the United States. Their Arts & Economic Prosperity report is one of the most comprehensive studies measuring the economic impact of the nonprofit arts and culture sector.

This report is essential because it provides data-driven insights into how arts and cultural organizations contribute to local economies by generating jobs, increasing tourism, and driving business revenue. Read the Arts & Economic Prosperity report.


How We’re Advocating for the Arts at a City Level

Support Arts Month at the Colfax City Council Meeting

We are advocating for:
🔹 A City Proclamation – Officially designating April as Arts, Culture & Creativity Month in Colfax.
🔹 City-Supported Promotions – Utilizing city resources, such as websites and social media.
🔹Potential Funding Assistance – Collaborating with the City to identify opportunities for supporting mural materials and event resources, ensuring these projects can thrive and benefit the community.


Exciting Events Planned for Colfax Arts Month

April is shaping up to be an exciting month filled with community-driven arts initiatives! We are actively planning a variety of events designed to engage residents, showcase local talent, and attract visitors to our historic downtown, including:

🎭 Community Arts & Music Events – Live performances, art showcases, and interactive workshops.
🖌 Mural Projects – Transforming blank walls into vibrant pieces of public art.
🎶 Live Music & Performances – Featuring local musicians and cultural performances.
🎨 Art Walks & Exhibits – Showcasing Colfax’s creative community.


How You Can Support Arts Month

Want to help bring more arts and culture to Colfax? Here’s how you can get involved:

✔️ Attend the City Council Meeting on February 26th and show your support for an official Arts Month proclamation.
✔️ Join our HCDA Community Meeting on February 27th to contribute ideas and help with event planning.
✔️ Spread the word on social media—let’s make sure everyone in Colfax knows about this exciting initiative!
✔️ Volunteer to help with mural painting, event logistics, or promotions.
✔️ Donate to help fund these efforts.


Join the Movement & Be Part of Colfax’s Arts Future!

The arts bring vibrancy, economic growth, and cultural enrichment to our town. By advocating for Arts, Culture & Creativity Month, we are making an investment in Colfax’s future—one that supports local artists, businesses, and residents alike.

Help us make history by supporting Arts Month in Colfax! Let’s create a thriving arts scene that showcases the heart and soul of our community. Complete our online for and let us how you can help!

Stay Connected

For more updates on Arts Month, upcoming events, and how to get involved, subscribe to our email list or contact us at VisitHistoricColfax.com.

We can’t wait to celebrate the arts in Colfax with you! 🎭🎨🎶