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Mark Reis / Colorado Springs Gazette (2012-01-15), courtesy the Pikes Peak Library District digital collections
Participants prepare their compressed-air cannon to shoot a 9-pound fruitcake during the 2012 Great FruitcakeToss at Manitou Springs High School. This pair sent their fruitcake flying more than 700 feet.

Manitou Fruitcake Toss

Johnny Carson once declared, “There is only one fruitcake in the entire world. And people keep sending it to each other, every Christmas." Well, if one of these dense confections mocks you from your pantry, take it to Manitou Springs in late January for the Great Fruitcake Toss. Since 1996, participants have hurled their fruitcakes as far as they can, usually by hand, but there’s also a slingshot category. The record was set by a team of engineers whose mock artillery piece sent a fruitcake sailing more than 1400 feet. If flinging dessert is not your thing, compete in other events like the baking contest. Participants are encouraged to bring non-perishable items to benefit local food needs. Everything left from the Great Fruitcake Toss is eagerly devoured by a local pig named Jezebel and her appreciative friends.

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Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado. See more postcards.


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