On Saturday, June 17, 2023, the sun was shining over Main Street in Central City as it began to fill with print dresses, corsets, aprons, bonnets, and top hats. By midday, Mayor Fey got Central City’s 49th Madam Lou Bunch Day under way with a flourish.

Throughout the day, spectators were encouraged to dance along with live music and several performances by The Infamous Backroom Cabaret dance groups. From tap dancing to the can-can dance, there were plenty of reasons to shimmy, clap, and laugh.

Fifteen minutes before 3 p.m., the crowd’s excitement grew as attendees, community organizations, bed racing teams, and a few patrons walked in the parade displaying everything from costumes to smiles and pride.

Jimmy Lewis provided musical motivation for the competitors during the famous bed race. The crowd hooted and hollered for their favorite team as beds wheeled down and up Main Street, competing for the shortest time.

The live entertainment continued as judges gathered their thoughts and notes, announcing the bed race winners by 4:30 p.m. Dostal Alley took first place. Just as the festivities seemed to have dwindled, Jewel & the Rough got the party going again, bringing the crowd to life on the dance floor during The Madams & Miners Ball.

Clouds and a few sprinkles weren’t enough to deter costume wearers from entering the competition for the titles of Madam, Sporting House Girl, and Dandy Dan of the Year, ending the evening in another spectacular display honoring Madam Lou Bunch!

To learn more about Madam Lou Bunch Day, visit https://www.visitcentralcity.com/blog/madam-loubunch day, or you can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/madamloubunchday/.