Goldfield Days

Historic town’s annual celebration includes parades, land auctions, bus tours, music, and Old West gunfights.

By NEVADA MAGAZINE | July/August 2012

“In years past, there were fears that Goldfield would have no Goldfield Days,” says Chad Sorg, president of the Goldfield Chamber of Commerce. “I can assure you that, this year, Goldfield will have its Days.”

The 2012 dates for the Goldfield Days Celebration and Land Auction, an annual glorification of the western culture and lifestyle, are August 17-19. Festivities include bed races, food, beer, and vendors, as well as the inaugural Independent Performer’s Showcase. Floats will parade down main street, and visitors can bid on items in the auction and tell a whopper in the “liar’s contest.”

Families will enjoy children’s games and events, plus a poker walk, historic scavenger hunt, and chili cook-off. Ghost tours will be offered, and the courthouse and firehouse will be open for tours. Enjoy the historic bus tour around town as well. Esmeralda County also conducts its enticing land auction, so bring your checkbook.

“We’ll probably get to see some gunfighters in action,” Sorg adds. “Western wear is encouraged—parties are always better when people dress up and play.” There is also talk of a stargazing workshop, and exploration of the Goldfield area’s back roads on ATVs and dirt bikes is encouraged.

Sorg reports that all eight motel rooms in Goldfield are already booked for the event, but travelers can stay in nearby Tonopah—26 miles north via U.S. Highway 95. Lodging is available at the BEST WESTERN Hi-Desert Inn. Camping options are available in the town of Goldfield as well.