We have some great festivals across Colorado. But making them enjoyable for everyone — participant and visitor alike — takes a lot of work.
In Winter Park that duty falls to 7Everyday Hero Cheryl Day. She volunteers to run the Winter Park Alpine ArtAffair.
"It is just my passion," she said. "I love this show."
Catherine Ross, Winter Park and Fraser Chamber of Commerce executive director, said there is no way they could do what she does because it takes someone working year round to put it on.
The Alpine ArtAffair, which helps further the arts for college students, has been entertaining thousands of people for 45 years in beautiful Winter Park.
"All of our profits go to scholarships," Day said. "We have awarded four scholarships."
She has given her time to run this arts festival for 11 years and it's not always easy.
"It is a juried show, so Cheryl has to tell people 'no,' that they can't come sometimes," Ross said.
Since the show features more than 65 artists booths, it becomes a year-round effort to pull it off without a hitch.
"Her dedication is just amazing," Ross said. "She will start planning 2019 next week."
Day has no plans to stop her work for a town she loves. She said it is important for the residents, the visitors, the artists and the art students who benefit from it all.
"She has grown this festival," Ross said. "It gets better every single year, so we truly appreciate Cheryl and all of her volunteers."
To learn more about upcoming festivals and events in Winter Park, go to www.playwinterpark.com.
Mitch Jelniker anchors Denver7 in the mornings from 4:30 to 7 a.m. He also features a different 7Everyday Hero each week on Denver7. Follow Mitch on Facebook here and Twitter here. To nominate a 7Everyday hero, click here.
