What began as a creative solution to a tree die-off in Craig has grown into one of Northwest Colorado’s most distinctive art festivals.

The Whittle the Wood Rendezvous returned to Loudy-Simpson Park over the weekend to celebrate its 25th year with chainsaws, community, a unique blend of artistry and small-town spirit.

“For an event to last 25 years says a lot,” said Ryan Dennison, director of Parks and Recreation for the city of Craig. “It says a lot about the community support behind the event. It’s kind of a beloved tradition and something truly unique to Moffat County.”

Dennison, who has worked in Craig for 10 years and became Parks and Recreation director in 2020, said the festival traces its roots to a brainstorming session more than two decades ago after a dieback of trees at City Park that left staff with a challenge, and ultimately, an idea.

“Instead of just chopping them down and removing them, staff said, ‘What if we created a carving out of these trees?'” Dennison said. “That’s how Whittle the Wood was born.”

The original event was small and humble compared to what it has become. A hay trailer doubled as the stage, and just a few tree carvings decorated the venue. Each year since has brought new growth and momentum.

“We outgrew City Park and we moved to Loudy-Simpson in 2012 for more room,” Dennison said. “Now it’s a large-scale event, but it’s still very laid-back and welcoming. That’s part of the draw.”

Whittle the Wood is, at its core, a competitive chainsaw carving event. Ten professional wood carvers from around the world spend three days turning massive logs, some as tall as 10 feet, into detailed works of art. Judges score the carvings based on creativity, craftsmanship and efficient use of the entire log.

“There are no restrictions on subject matter, and the carvers really appreciate that,” Dennison said. “It gives them the freedom to do something brilliant.”

To keep the stakes high and attract top talent, the city has increased its prize money in recent years. First place comes with $5,000, second earns $2,500, and third takes home $1,250. All carvers receive lodging, meals and can participate in activities like a quick-carve event and a subsequent silent auction, the proceeds from which are split between the city and the carvers.

2025 Whittle the Wood Rendezvous Winners (June 19–21, Craig):

• First Place: Joe Srholez, Sweetwater, Colorado
• Second Place: Justin Driver, Kentucky
• Third Place: Jess Coss, Iowa
• People’s Choice: Dustin Grant, De Beque, Colorado
• Artist’s Choice: Joe Srholez, Sweetwater, Colorado

“The carvers tell us this is their favorite event by far,” Dennison said. “That means a lot. These are people who compete nationally and internationally.”

This year’s competitors included artists from as far away as Ireland and Germany, a reflection of the festival’s growing reputation. But the event is about more than the carvings. It’s about community.

“Whittle the Wood gives people in Craig a reason to gather around art,” Dennison said. “It’s a fun and low-key atmosphere that brings locals and visitors together.”

In addition to the carving competition, the weekend included live music, food and craft vendors, kids’ activities and the return of the Wake the Whittler 5K, which was sponsored by Moffat County Public Health. It also featured a mud obstacle course called the “Mud Run.”

“There’s something for everyone,” Dennison said. “We really wanted to make it a family-focused event that’s accessible for everyone.”

Planning for the event begins months in advance, with city staff working closely with Moffat County, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Loudy-Simpson Park and a network of volunteers. Each year, the goal is the same: create an event so memorable and fun that people return year after year.

“Some folks plan their family vacations around it,” Dennison said. “Others come from out of state because they heard about it from a friend. That tells us we’re doing something right.”

Dennison shared a few moments that, for him, capture the heart of Whittle the Wood.

“When the carvers say it’s the best event they attend — that just blew me away,” he said. “But it’s also those families who keep coming back, who say, ‘We mark this on our calendar every year.’ That means the world to us.”

While much has changed over 25 years, the core of the event remains the same: creativity, community and connection.

“At the end of the day, it’s about offering something special,” Dennison said. “It’s something that brings people together and showcases what Craig is all about.”