Photo by Jeff Laydon, Pagosa Photography.
January 16-18, 2026, will bring three days of fun to Pagosa Springs including a bonfire, balloons, music, and snowy fun. Winterfest 2026 is hosted by the Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce, with activities centered around downtown Pagosa Springs and the Archuleta County Fairgrounds. The weekend will feature a Friday night bonfire and live music, hot air balloon ascensions on Saturday and Sunday mornings, the Penguin Plunge, cross-country ski events, Sledz on Rez, and Skijor Pagosa, offering something for all ages.
Volunteers needed
The Chamber is seeking volunteers to help with event setup, guest check-in, parking assistance, and bonfire support at the fairgrounds. Community members, service clubs, youth groups, and local businesses are encouraged to sign up for volunteer shifts, which can range from a couple of hours to an entire evening. Those interested in volunteering can contact the Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce directly at 970-264-2369 or events@pagosachamber.com to be assigned to roles such as greeting guests, helping vendors, tending the bonfire, assisting competitors, and supporting clean-up efforts at the end of the night.
Battle of the Soups: new signature event
New for 2026, Battle of the Soups will debut on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Archuleta County Fairgrounds, running approximately 5–7 p.m. alongside the bonfire and live music. The competition invites both professional chefs and home cooks to bring their best recipes and compete for Golden Ladle Awards, including Best Homemade Soup, Best Restaurant Soup, and People’s Choice Soup.
Guests who attend Battle of the Soups will be able to sample multiple soups, cast votes for their favorites, and enjoy the festive fairgrounds atmosphere with live entertainment and food vendors. We hope Battle of the Soups will become a cornerstone of Winterfest, showcasing local culinary talent and giving residents and visitors another great reason to gather on a winter evening.
Ticket sales
Tickets for Battle of the Soups are now on sale for $10, which includes a set of tastings (six 4-ounce samples) from participating competitors. Advance ticket sales are encouraged for planning food quantities, supporting event logistics, and ensuring that both cooks and guests have the best possible experience.
Everyone is encouraged to invite friends, family, and visitors the fairgrounds and for this new Winterfest feature. Tickets and additional information about Battle of the Soups and other Winterfest activities can be found through the Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce at pagosachamber.com.
How to get involved
Sign up as a Winterfest volunteer to assist with set-up, bonfire help, guest services, and clean-up for Friday January 16, 2026.
Enter a soup in Battle of the Soups as a restaurant or home cook and compete for Golden Ladle Awards and community bragging rights.
Purchase Battle of the Soups tickets in advance, share the event on social media, and encourage neighbors and visitors to attend the Friday night bonfire and tasting at the Archuleta County Fairgrounds.