Focus On… Florence

“Antique Capital of Colorado”

On the eastern range of the Rocky Mountains along the Arkansas River you will find the charming town of Florence. Here visitors can enjoy rich history, breathtaking views and big adventure.

This friendly community marks the start of the historic Gold Belt Scenic Byway, a railroad and stagecoach route leading to North America’s greatest gold camp, three world-class fossil sites and numerous historic sites along the way.

An antique-lover’s paradise, Florence, Colorado, is home to more than a dozen antique shops and various co-ops, making it a great destination for treasure hunting. Head downtown to check out the great shops, art galleries and dining establishments and visit the town’s many original sites and historic buildings that still remain today. “We’re right off the interstate and have 30 antique stores and phenomenal restaurants serving everything from sushi to steaks — lots of variety. The bustling downtown shops and Junktique help to keep our small town thriving,” says Rena Pryor, president of the Merchants Association and manager of Loralie Antique Mall.

So, kick off your summer early and hit the road to Florence for the Junktique Antique Show & Flea Market and 20th Annual Florence Car Show, May 13-15.

Weekend Overview: Junktique Antique Show & Flea Market and 20th Annual Florence Car Show

Friday, May 13

The area’s biggest antiquing event of the year, Junktique & Flea Market begins at 8 a.m. on Main Street and the historic Rialto Theater. The extravaganza features more than 40 vendors, evening shopping until 8 p.m., and street dancing with live music. This event brings hundreds of people to this small community with rich history and is truly fun for all ages.

Saturday, May 14

The Junktique & Flea Market continues for a second day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. At 11 a.m., the Florence Brewing Company’s Sixth Anniversary Party kicks off with food trucks and live music by Six Bucks and a Flight on stage from 12 to 3 p.m., followed by Mark’s Midnight Carnival Show from 4 to 7 p.m. The brewery will be releasing some exclusive sixth anniversary T-shirts and more.

Sunday, May 15

Finish the weekend with more than 300 cars lining Florence’s Main Street at the 20th Annual Florence Car Show. This non-judged event is fun to see, Pryor says, as it shows a 100-year span of vehicles (everything from Model Ts to modern cars).

For more information about the event, visit finditinflorence.com and florencecoloradocarshow.com.