Well, the annual Helldorado Days celebration is over.  I was there for most of the weekend (having had to run out for a few hours on Saturday to attend a wedding) and I wanted to let everyone know what I thought of the event.

Although I remember Helldorado of years past, where there were lines outside the Crystal Palace and Big Nose Kate’s, this Helldorado had a fairly good “inside” attendance.  It was pointed out that, since there are more palces for people to go (Six Gun City has expanded its outside seating, Ringo’s now has “The Depot” which adds to their capacity, the 4 Deuces - new, and The Dragoon Saloon - somewhat new), this might account for the lack of lines.

Friday was a very slow start; the afternoon was like any ordinary weekend day.  However, Friday night picked up some and it was ok; not great.  I was able to talk to several people I hadn’t seen for several months (a few since last Helldorado) and network a bit - especially since we’re looking at starting up production on season 2 of “Bloody Gulch”.  Friday was, for the most part, unremarkable.

Saturday was a much busier day.  When we got into town, there was already a good crowd watching the gunfight competitions in the street.  Although it didn’t get incredibly busy, I noticed that Tombstone was holding the crowd longer.  Normally, there’s a huge influx of people about lunch time and by mid-afternoon, most of them have left.  This wasn’t the case this year.  The Saloons were packed at night (standing room only in the Crystal Palace) and we decided to spend the evening at Six Gun City, which had a very good band (Exit 303).  The night was cool, not cold, and sitting outside was great.

Sunday was a short day for us.  We went into town and watched the parade from inside the Crystal Palace.  We had lunch at Six Gun City (always good) and then made our way back to our B&B, packed, and made our way home to Tucson.

Now, a few comments; one thing I’ve noticed for years is that all the competitions take place in one location.  There should be competitions and shows all over town.  Although most people remember Tombstone from a 30 second gunfight, it did start as a mining town.  Why wait for Tombstone’s Old West Founder’s Day (formerly Territorial Days) to see mining competitions?  The Helldorado planners need to also consider doing something directed at kids.   They’re the next generation of Old West fanatics and this needs to be nurtured.  I’m not saying that those events that have been around forever should go away; they’re a lot of fun!  I’m just suggesting adding more.  Helldorado can be a lot of fun, I’m just offering a few ideas to bring in more people to enjoy it!

Anyway, if anyone out there has some comments or reflections on Helldorado, please post!

—Michael