This year’s 10th Annual Jewels and Jeans Barn Dance, hosted by the Rotary Club of Pagosa Springs, will feature Vanishing Breed — an area favorite known for their music that gets crowds on their feet.
Its band members bring a wealth of talent and experience: Ellis Miller, of Dolores, on lead guitar, has spent most of his life in music, performing with several big-name country stars. Brothers Carl and Donny Johnson, of Cortez, keep the rhythm rolling — Carl Johnson steel guitar (and a few other instruments, when needed) and Donny Johnson on bass, joining the band when he’s not busy with his own solo gigs. Fred Brown, a U.S. Navy veteran from El Paso, Texas, drives the beat on drums and also plays with other regional groups.
Rounding out the lineup is Odis Sikes — an accomplished acoustic guitarist, powerful lead vocalist, Vietnam veteran and proud regional resident since 1980. In August 2024, his lifelong dedication to music was honored with induction into the Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame.
“Vanishing Breed has this incredible ability to get everyone dancing — whether you’ve been two-stepping for years or you’ve never set foot on a dance floor,” said Rotarian Kim Moore. “We’re thrilled to have them bring their energy to our milestone year.”
The 10th annual barn dance will take place Oct. 18 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
The evening will offer more than just music. Guests can enjoy a silent auction featuring exciting packages such as a half-day guided fly-fishing trip (valued at $450), a Yeti cooler packed with a Bluetooth outdoor speaker, light, charger, tumbler, and more; ski rentals for two; an overnight getaway with fine dining in Ouray; and even a horse-drawn wagon ride paired with a two-night stay at a local bed and breakfast. Add to that an assortment of restaurant gift cards, and there’s truly something for everyone.
Hungry dancers will be treated to hearty fare from one of Pagosa’s favorite food trucks, serving up house-smoked brisket and chicken thighs with pickles, onions and BBQ sauce; green chile mac and cheese; coleslaw; and dinner rolls — all for $20 per plate (sold separately from the dance ticket).
The evening will also include fun contests for best dressed and best dancer, ensuring plenty of ways to join in the fun.
This year’s barn dance will feature a special signature cocktail crafted just for the occasion: The Barnstormer. A lively mix of Canadian whiskey, peppermint schnapps, dark and white crème de cacao, and a splash of fresh lemon juice, it’s shaken up and served over ice for a bold yet refreshing sip. The Barnstormer is the perfect pairing for an evening of music, dancing and celebration.
Rotary’s barn dance isn’t just about music and dancing — it’s also about making a difference. Over the years, proceeds have helped fund hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships for local students, along with programs such as the Feed Our Children Backpack Program, teacher mini-grants, the Dictionary Project for third-graders, youth leadership programs, international youth exchange and community grants.
“We love seeing neighbors and visitors alike out there on the dance floor, knowing that every step is helping fund a young person’s future,” added Rotarian Lisa Scott.
Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Secure your spot now at PagosaSpringsRotary.org, Exit Realty, Wednesday Bouquet or the Chamber of Commerce. Don’t wait — this is one night you won’t want to miss.
