Visit Loveland to debut Colorado’s largest community time capsule to be buried at The Ranch Events Complex
LOVELAND, Colo. (May 14, 2026) — Visit Loveland, in partnership with Larimer County and The Ranch Events Complex, is launching a new 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, 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,” Charles Lammers, Destination Marketing Manager of Visit Loveland, said. “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, with 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 at The Ranch, 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,” said 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 (acid-free paper recommended), photographs, artwork, creative writing and small keepsakes representing Colorado life. Restricted items include food or any other organic materials, liquids or gels, anything with batteries and items that are flammable, hazardous or illegal. Smaller items are encouraged to allow for broader participation with a maximum size of 12”x12”x12”. Submitted items will be reviewed by a selection committee to ensure they can be preserved long-term and reflect a diverse cross-section of Colorado life. Selected pieces will be vacuum-sealed to protect against deterioration.
Community members can contribute items in person during the Larimer County Fair, taking place July 31 through Aug. 4, 2026, at The Ranch Events Complex (5280 Arena Cir., Loveland). Alongside traditional fair programming, including rodeo events and live entertainment, this year’s fair will feature special elements tied to the semiquincentennial and sesquicentennial milestones, including an Indigenous-led opening ceremony, a historical banner walk showcasing key moments and documents from Colorado’s past and a historically themed drone show. Those who cannot attend the fair can mail items through Aug. 10, 2026, addressed to the Great Colorado Time Capsule, c/o Visit Loveland, 5400 Stone Creek Cir., Loveland, Colo. 80538.
About Visit Loveland:
Visit Loveland is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Loveland—a vibrant, art-filled community at the base of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, where love, creativity and outdoor adventure converge. Located just 50 miles north of Denver, 35 miles northeast of Boulder and 30 miles south of Fort Collins, Loveland offers more than 300 days of sunshine annually, a thriving craft beverage scene, scenic parks and lakes, and a nationally recognized public art program. As the home to four sculpture gardens, two bronze foundries, a finishing house and several iconic love lock sculptures, Loveland’s deep-rooted commitment to the arts is visible at every turn. Known for its inclusive spirit, authentic charm and creative energy, Loveland is more than a gateway to the mountains—it’s a destination all its own. Learn more at VisitLoveland.com.