LAKEWOOD, Colo. — Local supporters of Casa Bonita teamed up to host a rally on Saturday to save the iconic restaurant, which has been closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The rally hosted by the group Save Casa Bonita went from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the West Colfax Avenue sidewalk in front of the restaurant, which is a few blocks east of Wadsworth Boulevard in Lakewood.
Those who attended were asked to wear something "colorful and fun," as well as a mask. Signs were also welcome.
People can donate to the effort's GoFundMe campaign here. The GoFundMe has raised more than $46,000 toward its $100,000 goal.
There is also a section on the Save Casa Bonita website to buy merch that supports the cause.
Casa Bonita filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on April 6 in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Arizona. Chapter 11 allows a debtor to propose a plan of reorganization to keep its business alive and pay creditors over time. Businesses can also seek relief under Chapter 11.
Famous for its cliff-divers, a 30-foot waterfall and festive décor, Casa Bonita has long been part of Colorado's culture.
It was the subject of a 2003 episode of the TV show "South Park," and the Denver Broncos announced some of their draft picks from the Lakewood eatery in 2018. It was the subject of an art exhibit at the nearby Next Gallery for three years.
SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Local stories from 9NEWS
MORE WAYS TO GET 9NEWS
Subscribe to our daily 9NEWSLETTER for top stories from 9NEWS curated daily just for you. Get content and information right now for can’t-miss stories, Next and Broncos content, weather and more delivered right to your inbox.
DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP
iTunes: http://on9news.tv/itunes
Google Play: http://on9news.tv/1lWnC5n
HOW TO ADD THE 9NEWS APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for KUSA.
For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "9news" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.