The Greeley Creative District emerged as an opportunity to spotlight a city often seen for its agriculture rather than its arts.
Founded in 2012, the district was inspired by a Colorado initiative to bolster the state’s reputation. While Colorado was known for skiing, mountains and breweries, a study from the National Endowment for the Arts revealed it also ranked first in residents who perform or create art. The state launched its Creative Districts program, an opportunity that Becky Safarik, a longtime Greeley community leader, found to be “too good to pass up.”
Becky partnered with Pam Bricker, head of Greeley’s Downtown Development Authority, and Susan Nelson, Marketing Director for the University of Northern Colorado’s acclaimed arts department, to form the district. With a carefully chosen board, the organization became one of the first certified by the state in 2014.
“Our mission was simple,” Becky says. “Greeley has a rich cultural personality, and this was a chance to amplify that through a state megaphone.”
The district spans from Downtown Greeley to UNC, though its efforts aim to benefit the broader community. Early successes established it as a leader for the initiative. In 2018, Greeley hosted the Colorado Creative Industries Summit, attracting visitors who left impressed by the city’s thriving artistic scene.
“They were blown away,” says Pam, who also helped boost Greeley’s profile by founding the Greeley Blues Jam with her husband Al. “It’s such a good thing to let the state know what you have to offer.”
Greeley’s Creative District embraces the city’s agricultural roots and cultural diversity, celebrating both through events like Agriculture Feast, which highlights local culinary arts and farm-to-table dining. Another major success is Día de los Muertos, a cherished annual event honoring loved ones who have passed.
Beyond these marquee events, the district hosts Youth Art Month, DoTell!—an evening of personal storytelling—and Cacophonies, a program offering artists practical skills like marketing and finance. These initiatives spotlight the arts while addressing the needs of creatives.
The district also draws inspiration from Greeley’s founding principles. When established in 1870, the city prioritized art and culture in its planning, investments that continue to pay dividends. “Many artists and creatives are introverted and work alone, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need community,” Becky says.
Over the years, the district has built momentum, putting on more than half a dozen annual events. These efforts reflect a commitment to making art accessible and relevant to Greeley residents from all walks of life. Whether it’s supporting emerging artists or hosting engaging public events, the organization has successfully carved out a space for creativity in the city’s fabric.
Looking to the future, the district envisions a physical space—a hub of engaged imagination—that will hopefully be developed soon. “The building will give us a base from which to operate,” Becky says, adding that the new hub will host events and support artists at all stages of their careers, fostering growth for individuals and the community. “We want people to understand,” Becky concluded, “that creativity is an important part of our existence.”
With its ambitious plans and ongoing work, the Greeley Creative District aims to deepen its impact and solidify the city’s place as a nexus of artistic and cultural vitality.
“Our mission was simple. Greeley has a rich cultural personality, and this was a chance to amplify that through a state megaphone.”