Get ready for a “golden opportunity” to dine, win and make a difference. This March, downtown Fort Collins’ beloved Great Plates of Downtown™ celebrates its 20th anniversary, offering two weeks of specially priced menu items ($25, $35, $45 or $15 and under) at 50 local restaurants and a chance to win fantastic prizes.
From March 1-14, 2025, food lovers can indulge in curated culinary experiences while supporting the Food Bank for Larimer County. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time participant, this year’s 20-year celebration promises to be even more exciting, thanks to the introduction of Golden Ticket Cocktail Napkins. Diners who find a lucky napkin can enter to win one of three luxurious one-night staycations for two at premier downtown hotels (The Armstrong Hotel, The Elizabeth Hotel or the Edwards House), complete with a $100 Downtown Fort Collins Gift Card. Three additional winners will receive a $200 Downtown Fort Collins Gift Card, redeemable at more than 170 businesses in downtown. 
Great Plates of Downtown™ is more than just a delicious deal; it’s a community-driven business promotion that has raised over $1.15 million for the Food Bank for Larimer County since 2008, providing over 2.3 million meals. Diners are encouraged to add a donation to their bill, with 100 percent of contributions directly supporting those facing food insecurity.
“We’re tremendously excited to celebrate 20 years of Great Plates of Downtown™,” says Amy Pezzani, CEO of the Food Bank for Larimer County. “This event has become a legacy, showcasing the culinary excellence of our local restaurants while giving back to our hunger relief programs. The generous donations from participants help support services for more than 50,000 people. Community contributions are key to ensuring everyone has access to nutritious food.”
This year’s event welcomes exciting newcomers like Avogadro’s Number, Breckenridge Brewery, Japango, Persimmon, Pure Green, and Sushi Jeju, joining long-standing favorites like CooperSmiths Pub & Brewing and The Melting Pot Fort Collins. The official menu specials will be unveiled Feb. 14 at greatplatesofdowntown.com, though featured items may change.
How to Participate in Great Plates:
- Eat. Explore the Great Plates Restaurant Guide at greatplatesofdowntown.com and plan your culinary adventure.
- Enjoy. Ask your server about the Great Plates specials and choose your favorite.
- Donate. Consider leaving a donation to the Food Bank through provided envelopes, designated credit card lines (varies by location) or the official PayPal link/QR code. Donations and gratuities are separate from meal pricing.*
The Fort Collins Downtown Development Authority thanks participating restaurants and the community for their continued effort and support of a business promotion that has endured 20 years of success. Together, we are helping to ensure that this beloved tradition grows stronger each year and has a lasting impact on our neighbors in Larimer County experiencing food insecurity.