COLORADO SPRINGS — June marks the beginning of Western Heritage season, and the event that kicks it off the season each year is the Western Street Breakfast.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 has forced the breakfast to be delayed for now, but organizers say they're figuring out a way to continue these traditions.
The Western Street Breakfast is delayed until mid-August, and organizers are considering a social distancing alternative to the usual event, such as a ride around downtown where there are some Western Heritage displays and folks come out and support businesses at their own leisure.
In years past, the breakfast has drawn crowds to the corner of Pikes Peak Avenue and Tejon Street who gather to watch performances like the Pikes Peak Range riders riding through downtown, and enjoy some freshly made breakfast.
It's a tradition dating back to 1936, and the money raised goes to help military charities in town.
This year, since many are struggling financially, the event may go from being a fundraiser to an event where folks come out to support downtown shops and restaurants.
"If we can put together something that's meaningful and safe, and fun, and would help the community, I know our community would be all for it," said Kevin Kaveney, who serves as co-chair of the Western Street Breakfast committee.
The timing of the breakfast also depends on when the Pikes Peak or Bust rodeo will happen, since the goal is that both of these events will coincide.
Organizers of the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo told News5 the rodeo is scheduled to happen from August 19 to August 22, but the board will meet on July 1 to review state variances on open spaces. This is when they'll make a final decision on whether to keep that date.
