Over 50 first responder units, nonprofits, businesses, and emergency preparedness and safety organizations will participate in the fourth annual Hero Fest in Fort Collins in late September at Front Range Village in Fort Collins.

Hero Fest is a free, family-friendly event sponsored by the Larimer County Office of Emergency Management, City of Fort Collins Emergency Preparedness and Security, and Canvas Credit Union Foundation. The event celebrates regional first responders and raises funds for Revital Colorado, a nonprofit supporting the needs of these community heroes. 

 

When:                  10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sept. 13, 2025

Where:                 Front Range Village Shopping Center, 2720 Council Tree Avenue, Fort Collins

 

Families can meet first responders, learn about emergency preparedness, see real K-9 units, emergency motorcycles, mounted patrol, and explore vehicles and equipment used to help keep our communities safe.

Hero Fest 2025 marks the third year of the event, created by the Canvas Foundation. The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management and Canvas joined forces to expand the fest to include first responders from Northern Colorado.

First responder agencies from across our region assemble at the Hero Fest to present and engage our community on preparedness and safety. “The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management is grateful for the collaboration from the Canvas Foundation to unite regional first responder agencies in this free and family-friendly community celebration to honor local heroes,” said  Lori Hodges, Director, Larimer County Office of Emergency Management.

“The Loveland Fire Rescue Authority is excited to team up with our incredible nonprofit partners for the 2025 Hero Fest --- a one-of-a-kind event --- designed to bring education, connection, and fun to our community,” said Loveland Fire Rescue Authority Fire Chief Timothy Sendelbach.  “This special day is a chance for citizens of all ages to meet our firefighters, explore our equipment up close, and learn more about the vital services we provide to keep Loveland safe. We invite everyone to come out, celebrate with us, and be part of this amazing event as we work together to keep our community strong and safe.”

Members of the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, regional fire and rescue authorities, municipal police, Colorado Parks & Wildlife, Colorado State Patrol, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses will also be present at the Festival, along with other emergency personnel.

Fort Collins Chief of Police Jeff Swoboda is enthusiastic about the upcoming event. “This event is a valuable opportunity to connect with our community, engage in meaningful conversations, share important safety information, and collaborate with partners who share our commitment to public safety,” Swoboda said. “We’re excited to see everyone there.”

Hero Fest also includes live music, free food from local food trucks, plus a Kids Zone with crafts, activities, and inflatables.

More about the Hero Fest Facebook event.