The Town of Vail’s annual Celebrating Community neighborhood picnic series returns this summer with the first picnic taking place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 23 at Donovan Pavilion in West Vail. Free food and drinks will be provided by the town on a first-come, first-served basis. 

This year, the Donovan picnic is taking place earlier in the summer as part of the schedule of events to mark the Town of Vail’s 6oth year since incorporation. Attendees will have the opportunity to chat with artist Pat Milbery and add their messages to his “Heart of the Games” capsule, a birthday gift to the town. The 4-foot, heart-shaped sculpture is meant to be filled with mementos created by the public. 

Vail’s 60th celebration began at the Annual Community Meeting in March and continues as follows: 

 June 17 – “History of the Gore Creek Valley,” on display at Vail Public Library through August 

June 23 – Community Picnic at Donovan Pavilion 

July 4 – Vail America Days, celebrating the U.S. 250th, Colorado 150th, and Town of Vail 60th 

July 14 – Community Picnic at Bighorn Park 

Aug. 23 – Happy Birthday Town of Vail! 

Sept. 8 – Vail Social Community Potluck, expected to be the biggest yet 

 (Additional details to come, events may be added.)  

 The picnics offer community members a fun and informal setting to reconnect with neighbors, as well as a chance to share comments and suggestions with members of the Vail Town Council and town staff.  

 The community picnics are just one way to connect with the town. Community members are encouraged to share their ideas, concerns and suggestions at any time by emailing the Town Council at towncouncil@vail.gov. The town’s website, vail.gov, also provides information on local topics and projects, along with email links and phone numbers for all departments. Stay connected by joining the town’s virtual community on Facebook and Instagram. 

For more information, contact the town’s Communications Department at 970-479-2115.