It’s Peak Peach Season in Colorado!
When you think of Colorado, you might picture majestic mountains, world-class skiing, or stunning outdoor landscapes. However, the Centennial State is also home to a thriving agricultural industry, with one of its crown jewels being the famous Colorado peach. Known for their exceptional flavor and juicy sweetness, Colorado peaches are a beloved summertime treat, celebrated statewide with festivals, events, and, of course, a wide range of peach-based products.
A Snapshot of Colorado’s Peach Industry
Colorado is a significant player in the U.S. peach market, ranking as the sixth largest peach producer in the nation as of 2022. The state produced an impressive 14,050 tons of peaches that year, marking a 21% increase from 2021, when it produced 11,330 tons. The state’s peach orchards cover more than 2,400 acres, with the best growing regions located in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, and Montezuma counties. Peaches make up more than 75% of Colorado’s total fruit production, highlighting their importance to the state’s agricultural economy.
From Orchard to Table: Peach Products and Their Appeal
Colorado peaches are prized for their sweetness and are enjoyed fresh, but they also serve as the foundation for a variety of products that capture the essence of summer. Some popular peach products include:
- Peach Jam and Preserves: Capturing the flavor of fresh peaches, these spreads are perfect for toast, biscuits, or adding a sweet touch to savory dishes.
- Peach Pies and Cobblers: A classic way to enjoy peaches, these baked goods are staples at family gatherings and community events.
- Peach Salsa: Combining sweet and spicy, peach salsa is a favorite accompaniment for grilled meats, chips, and seafood.
- Peach Cider and Wine: Some Colorado orchards craft peach cider and wine, offering a refreshing twist on traditional beverages.
Celebrating Colorado Peaches: Festivals and Events
Colorado’s love for peaches goes beyond the orchards. The state celebrates its peach heritage with outdoor festivals that draw visitors from near and far. These events highlight the state’s agricultural richness and bring communities together to enjoy everything peaches have to offer.
The Palisade Peach Festival:
The most famous celebration of Colorado peaches is the Palisade Peach Festival, held every August in the town of Palisade, located in the heart of the Grand Valley. This festival, which has been a tradition since the 1960s, attracts thousands of visitors who come to savor fresh peaches, enjoy live music, and participate in fun activities like peach-eating contests and a peach queen pageant. Local vendors showcase an array of peach-based products, and festival-goers can sample everything from peach ice cream to peach BBQ sauce.
Other Peach-Themed Events:
- Palisade Peach Festival: Held in the epicenter of Colorado peach production 2024 marks its 56th year of celebrating the best peaches in the world.
- Lafayette Peach Festival: Held in the Front Range town of Lafayette, this festival celebrates Colorado peaches with fresh fruit, live entertainment, and an artisan market.
- Fort Collins Peach Festival: A community favorite, this festival in Fort Collins celebrates Colorado peaches with a variety of activities, including a 5K run, live music, and peach-filled culinary delights. The event also serves as a fundraiser, supporting local charities and bringing the community together for a day of fun.
The Future of Colorado Peaches
The Colorado peach industry continues to grow, with ongoing innovations in farming techniques, sustainability practices, and product development. Despite challenges like unpredictable weather and competition from other states, Colorado peaches remain a symbol of the state’s agricultural excellence. As the demand for locally grown, high-quality fruit increases, Colorado’s peach industry is well-positioned to thrive in the years ahead.
Whether you’re enjoying a fresh peach from a local farmer’s market, savoring a slice of peach pie, or attending one of the state’s lively peach festivals, Colorado’s peach industry offers a delicious taste of summer and a vibrant part of the state’s agricultural landscape.
Perhaps peak peach season in Colorado has inspired you to to tend to your own private garden. If you’re looking to get the most out of your garden or are thinking of prepping for next season, we have a guide for you.