Just hours before Todd Helton played his final home game last September, owner Dick Monfort promised that the first baseman’s number would be retired.

Thursday, a date was set.

He will become the first Rockie to receive the honor for his playing career in a pregame ceremony at Coors Field on Aug. 17, fitting for No. 17.

It will conclude “Retire 17” weekend. The three-day event begins with a Todd Helton Farewell bobblehead on Aug. 15 for the first 15,000 fans. Saturday will feature Helton collectible jerseys, and Sunday will include the ceremony and Helton bobblehead gnomes for 15,000 fans.

The Rockies have two numbers on their outfield wall, No. 42 for Jackie Robinson, whose number was universally retired in major league baseball, and No. 57 for Darryl Kile, their former starting pitcher who died of a heart attack.

Helton’s honor clears the way for more former players to have their numbers taken out of circulation, a list that begins with Larry Walker, Vinny Castilla and Dante Bichette.

Helton’s number retirement highlights the Rockies’ home season promotional schedule. The full list of giveaways can be found at coloradorockies.com. Among the highlights:

— April 6 Michael Cuddyer Batting Champion bobblehead gnome

— May 18 Super CarGo bobblehead gnome

— July 27 Country singer Sara Evans concert

— Aug. 24 Faith Day with singer Jeremy Camp

— Sept. 7 Baby Bull Wilin Rosario bobblehead gnome

Troy E. Renck: , trenck@denverpost.com or twitter.com/troyrenck