APRIL 21, 2026 — Gilpin County, Colorado, has initiated a public competition to design its first official flag, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood and the upcoming United States semiquincentennial.
The local government is seeking a visual symbol that reflects the region’s historical heritage, natural geography, and community identity, according to the county’s website.
While many American municipalities use seals on plain backgrounds, the contest guidelines explicitly encourage participants to follow established vexillological principles, such as maintaining simplicity, using limited colours, and avoiding the use of lettering or complex seals.
The competition is open to residents, local students, and individuals with a demonstrated connection to the county. Submissions are open until May 3 and require a digital design accompanied by a written rationale explaining the symbolism used.
According to the official rules, a committee will screen entries for originality and adherence to design standards before a finalist group is presented for public feedback. According to the rules, between May 9 and May 31, the community will be invited to participate in an advisory vote via social media and physical displays at county facilities.
The final authority to adopt a design rests with the Board of County Commissioners, who are scheduled to review the results on June 9. The government has reserved the right to request modifications to the winning entry or to decline all submissions if they do not meet expectations.
The winning designer will receive a commemorative certificate and formal recognition but no direct financial compensation is specified in the contest terms.
