San Juan County celebrated its 150th anniversary in September with a day of history, music and community. This post looks back at the celebration and rounds up what is coming up in Silverton this fall, from the annual ski swap to a new grant program for downtown storefronts and a few practical reminders for homeowners.
Silverton has always known how to mark a milestone, and this fall gave the town a big one. On Friday, September 25, San Juan County celebrated 150 years with an afternoon that brought neighbors together despite a cold, rainy day.
A Celebration 150 Years in the Making
As reported by the Silverton Standard & the Miner, about 250 people turned out, and when the weather turned, the party simply moved inside the firehouse. The day included an open house at the San Juan County Courthouse, where a historical photo exhibit in the main hallway will stay on display. The Historical Society's museum and archives opened to the public for free, classic and vintage cars lined Greene Street, and the Silverton Brass Band played a concert to mark its own 50th anniversary. Silverton Medical Rescue also celebrated 50 years with an open house.
A few moments stood out. The town's time capsule at 14th and Greene was opened, and items from 2026 were added for a future generation to find. Neighbors gathered on the courthouse lawn for a community photo taken from above, and in the evening a packed Town Hall watched the premiere of a short film made for the county's 150th, featuring many local faces.
If you missed the celebration, the photo exhibit at the courthouse is a simple way to spend a quiet afternoon with the county's history.
Community Dates to Save
The Silverton Powerhouse Collective's 5th Annual Ski Swap is a good excuse to get ready for winter. Consignors can drop off gear on Friday, October 16, from 1 to 7 pm. The sale runs Saturday, October 17, from 10 am to 4 pm at the Powerhouse, 8 Mears Avenue, with ski tuning and mounting help from Riff Raff Repair. Unsold items can be picked up Sunday, October 18, from 10 am to 3 pm.
On Sunday, October 25, the Silverton Family Learning Center holds its brunch-time silent auction at the Wyman Hotel from 11 am to 1:30 pm, with bidding from 11 am to 1 pm. It is free to attend and supports the center's work with local families.
For Business and Property Owners
If you own or run a business in town, the new Silverton Business Beautification Grant Program is worth a look. Offered by the San Juan Development Association and the Town of Silverton, it reimburses 50 percent of approved exterior improvements, up to $6,000, for work on a business façade or primary public entrance. Priority goes to properties in the Main Street District along Greene and Blair Streets, the National Historic District and the Creative District. Applications are open through November 13, 2026, and work done before approval is not eligible, so review the guidelines at sanjuandevelopment.com before starting a project.
Local artists and creative organizations have a shorter window. The Silverton Creative District has extended its fall mini-grant deadline to October 15, with grants of up to $500 available through silvertoncreativedistrict.org.
The Town has also updated its outdoor lighting code this fall. If you are planning new exterior lighting or a building project, check the current rules with the Town of Silverton before you buy fixtures.
A Seasonal Reminder for Homeowners
Bears are especially active this time of year as they prepare for winter. Keep trash secured, bring in bird feeders, pet food and compost, clean your grill, and lock doors, windows and cars, including on second homes that sit empty between visits. A quick check before you leave for the season can prevent a costly surprise.
Questions About Buying or Selling in Silverton?
Whether you are planning a storefront improvement, preparing a second home for winter or thinking about a move, our team knows this community and this market. Call Silverton Realty at (970) 387-0111 to talk through your plans.
