Visit Loveland, in partnership with Larimer County and The Ranch Events Complex, is launching a statewide initiative to preserve history as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary and Colorado marks 150 years of statehood. In alignment with the America 250-Colorado 150 Commission, Visit Loveland has created the Great Colorado Time Capsule, likely the largest community time capsule in Colorado history according to History Colorado, which will debut at the Larimer County Fair starting July 31, 2026.
The initiative reflects a broader, statewide effort to honor Colorado’s past, celebrate its present and create a lasting legacy for future generations. Through this project, Coloradans are invited to contribute items that capture everyday life, culture and community across the Centennial State.
“This project is about capturing a defining moment in Colorado’s story through the voices and experiences of people across the state, not just Loveland or the northern Colorado region,” says Charles Lammers, destination marketing manager of Visit Loveland. “It’s not just something to see. It’s something we invite any Coloradan to be part of. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of Colorado’s historical record.”
The Great Colorado Time Capsule is a seven-foot-long, three-foot-wide HDPE water pipe with water main end caps at each end and 50 cubic feet of interior space. The pipe is repurposed from materials used in the construction of The Ranch Events Complex master plan, reinforcing a commitment to sustainability and reuse. Once sealed, it will be placed on-site at The Ranch, near the new Event Lawn, and is intended to be opened in 2076 in celebration of the America 300 and Colorado 200 anniversaries.
“The Ranch is thrilled to have this piece of Colorado history on our grounds,” says Katie Buttermore, sales manager at The Ranch. “We’re hoping that people from all over Colorado participate, whether that’s when they come to the Larimer County Fair or by mailing in items. We want to capture as much of Colorado life in 2026 as possible.”
Suggested items to submit include personal letters, photographs, artwork, creative writing and small keepsakes representing Colorado life. Restricted items include food or other organic materials, liquids or gels, batteries and anything flammable, hazardous or illegal. Items must be no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches. Submitted items will be reviewed by a selection committee and selected pieces will be vacuum-sealed to protect against deterioration.
Community members can contribute items in person during the Larimer County Fair, July 31 through Aug. 4, 2026, at The Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Cir. in Loveland. This year’s fair will also feature special elements tied to the semiquincentennial and sesquicentennial milestones, including an Indigenous-led opening ceremony, a historical banner walk and a historically themed drone show.
Those who cannot attend the fair can mail items through Aug. 10, 2026, to the Great Colorado Time Capsule, c/o Visit Loveland, 5400 Stone Creek Cir., Loveland, Colo. 80538.
Digital submissions will also be accepted through an online “Letters to the Future” form at forms.gle/has4vBLEdmWhpRA79.
