As summer gives way to the golden hues of fall, Colorado’s mountain towns transition into a haven of crisp air, vibrant foliage, and seasonal festivities that capture the spirit of autumn. The Rockies come alive with the rich colors of changing leaves, and the inviting atmosphere beckons locals and tourists alike to embrace the cozy charm of the season.
There’s something truly enchanting about fall in Colorado – the cool mountain breeze, the breathtaking landscapes draped in autumnal splendor, and the array of outdoor activities that blend the thrill of adventure with the serenity of nature.
One of the highlights of this season is the diverse lineup of outdoor festivals and events hosted by various mountain towns. From harvest celebrations and craft fairs to music and food festivals, these events offer a perfect blend of entertainment and community spirit.
They provide an excellent opportunity for locals to honor their heritage and for visitors to experience the unique charm and culture of these picturesque towns. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a curious traveler eager to explore something new, there’s an event for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the most exciting and must-attend outdoor Colorado festivals and events happening in mountain towns this fall. Get ready to mark your calendars, layer up in your coziest sweaters, and prepare for an unforgettable autumn filled with music, art, adventure, and the natural beauty of Colorado.
Upcoming Events
Aspen Film is a renowned year-round organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting independent film in Aspen, Colorado. With over 40 years of history, Aspen Film hosts several high-profile events, including the annual Aspen Filmfest, Shortsfest, and Academy Screenings, drawing filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from around the world.
These festivals showcase a diverse range of films, from groundbreaking documentaries to thought-provoking narratives and innovative shorts, offering audiences the chance to engage with cinema in a breathtaking mountain setting. Aspen Film is a key cultural destination for anyone passionate about the art of storytelling through film.
The Breckenridge Film Festival is an annual celebration of independent cinema, showcasing a diverse range of films from around the world in the charming mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado. Founded in 1981, the festival offers an immersive experience for film enthusiasts, with screenings, filmmaker Q&A sessions, workshops, and special events.
Set against the backdrop of Colorado’s stunning fall colors, the festival creates a unique environment where art and nature intersect. Whether you’re a filmmaker or film lover, the Breckenridge Film Festival offers an inspiring and creative atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Colorfest Hot Air Balloon Rally in Pagosa Springs is a vibrant annual event celebrating the beauty of the San Juan Mountains with a stunning display of colorful hot air balloons. Held each September, this family-friendly weekend features balloon launches, a wine and food festival, live music, and a 5K fun run.
Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking sight of balloons filling the skies over Pagosa Springs, paired with a variety of local activities and entertainment. It’s a magical way to welcome the fall season and experience the charm of this Colorado mountain town.
The Telluride Autumn Classic is a one-of-a-kind festival that brings together the elegance of classic cars, the creativity of fine art, and the stunning backdrop of Colorado’s fall scenery. Set against the vibrant autumn hues of the mountains, this event offers a perfect fusion of automotive craftsmanship and artistic expression, making it an unforgettable experience for car enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Telluride while taking in the timeless appeal of vintage vehicles and exceptional works of art, all within a picturesque, small-town atmosphere.
Held in Telluride, Colorado, this four-day event features car shows, art exhibitions, live music, and scenic drives through the stunning autumn colors of the San Juan Mountains. The Telluride Autumn Classic is the perfect blend of culture, craftsmanship, and Colorado’s vibrant fall beauty!
Elk Fest in Estes Park is an annual celebration that honors the majestic elk population and the vibrant fall season in the Colorado Rockies. Held each autumn, this family-friendly event features educational seminars, live music, Native American storytelling, and elk-themed activities that provide a unique opportunity to learn about these magnificent animals and their natural habitat.
Elk fest visitors can also enjoy local food vendors, crafts, and a bugling contest, all set against the stunning backdrop of Estes Park’s autumn foliage. These highlights make Elk Fest a must-visit experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The Handmade in Colorado Expo in Glenwood Springs brings together local artisans to showcase a variety of unique, handcrafted goods in a scenic mountain setting. Visitors can explore many handmade items, from jewelry and pottery to art and textiles, all created by Colorado-based artists.
Set in beautiful Glenwood Springs, this outdoor market offers the perfect opportunity to discover local craftsmanship while enjoying live music and the vibrant atmosphere of this charming mountain town. It’s a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience Colorado’s artistic culture.
The Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering is an annual celebration of the rich heritage of the American West, featuring cowboy poetry, storytelling, live music, and art.
Held in Durango, Colorado, this event brings together Western performers and local enthusiasts to celebrate cowboy culture through performances, parades, and special events in a scenic mountain setting. The Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering is a must-see event for those who love the spirit of the Old West!
The Cedaredge AppleFest is a lively annual celebration of the apple harvest in Cedaredge, Colorado, bringing together the community for a weekend filled with fun and festivities. This family-friendly event features over 150 vendors offering local food, arts and crafts, live music, and plenty of apple-themed treats.
With a classic car show, beer and wine garden, and activities for all ages, AppleFest showcases the rich agricultural heritage of the region and offers visitors a taste of fall in Colorado’s beautiful Western Slope. It’s the perfect way to kick off the autumn season!
The Handmade in Colorado Expo in Vail offers a unique opportunity to explore Colorado’s finest handcrafted goods in the heart of the Rockies. Set in the stunning Vail Village, this open-air market showcases a wide variety of artisan creations, including jewelry, artwork, clothing, and home décor—all made by talented local artists.
Visitors can enjoy live music, shop for one-of-a-kind items, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this picturesque mountain town. It’s a perfect blend of art, culture, and stunning alpine views, making it a must-attend event for local craft enthusiasts and visitors alike.
The Miners’ Pumpkin Patch is a delightful fall event that brings together families for a day of autumn-themed fun. The celebration is held annually on Saturdays in October from 9am – 4pm at the Western Museum of Mining & Industry in Colorado Springs.
Visitors can enjoy exploring a hay maze and taking scenic hayrides while surrounded by the beautiful backdrop of the historic museum. The Miners Pumpkin Patch event also features seasonal treats, crafts, and games for children, making it a perfect way to celebrate the harvest season in a setting that honors Colorado’s rich mining history.
Tickets:
$13 door or $11 pre-purchase
Children age 3 and below are free
Pumpkins:
$7 door or $6 pre-purchase (not included)
Cider Days in Lakewood is a cherished fall event that celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage with a weekend full of family-friendly activities, delicious food, and, of course, plenty of cider. Held at the Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, this festival offers visitors the chance to experience traditional apple pressing and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Cider Days in Lakewood also features a wide array of local vendors, tractor pulls, and kids’ activities like face painting and a petting zoo. With its warm, community-focused atmosphere and the sweet scent of fresh apples in the air, this event is a perfect way to embrace the autumn season in Colorado.
The Telluride Horror Show is Colorado’s premier horror film festival, held annually in the picturesque mountain town of Telluride. Over the course of three spine-chilling days, horror fans can enjoy screenings of the latest horror, thriller, and sci-fi films, including features, shorts, and documentaries from both established and emerging filmmakers.
In addition to the terrifying lineup, the festival offers Q&A sessions with directors, special guest appearances, and interactive events like horror trivia and costume contests. Set against Telluride’s scenic backdrop, this festival is a must-see for horror fans.
The Pumpkin Festival at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is a beloved fall tradition, perfect for families and autumn enthusiasts alike. This festive event features a massive pumpkin patch where visitors can pick their perfect pumpkins, along with fun attractions like corn mazes, hayrides, and live entertainment.
There are plenty of seasonal treats, craft vendors, and family-friendly activities, including pony rides and face painting. Set in the picturesque Chatfield Farms, the Pumpkin Festival offers a fun-filled day in the crisp autumn air, celebrating the beauty of fall in Colorado.
Día de Muertos Exhibition: October 12 – November 5; at the Museum, free
Day of the Dead Family Celebration: October 12, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, Downtown Longmont at Coffman Street & 4th Avenue; free!
Noche de Museo: Celebrating Day of the Dead: November 2, 7:00 pm; $18 for general admission
Longmont’s Day of the Dead Celebration is an annual event that honors the traditional Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos, with a vibrant and culturally rich experience.
Held at the Longmont Museum, this month-long celebration features community altars, art exhibitions, live performances, and family-friendly activities that highlight the significance of remembering and celebrating loved ones who have passed.
The event culminates with a colorful downtown procession, featuring traditional music, dance, and costumes. It’s a beautiful blend of culture, art, and remembrance, offering visitors an authentic and heartfelt connection to this meaningful tradition.
The bRUNch Run in Denver is a fun and unique 5K and 10K race that combines fitness with fantastic food. After completing the scenic course through Central Park, participants are treated to a lively brunch festival featuring food and drink from some of Denver’s best restaurants, craft breweries, and distilleries.
Whether you’re a serious runner or just looking to enjoy a fun run with friends, this event offers a great way to stay active and indulge in delicious post-race bites and beverages. It’s the perfect blend of running and brunching in the heart of Denver!
The Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival is the longest-running women’s film festival in North America, held annually in Colorado Springs. This prestigious event celebrates the art of filmmaking through the lens of women, showcasing a curated selection of films including documentaries, narratives, and shorts that highlight diverse voices and perspectives.
The festival creates a space for thought-provoking storytelling, with opportunities to engage in discussions with filmmakers and participate in panels. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, this festival offers an inspiring and enriching experience for both cinephiles and supporters of women’s stories in film.
Treat Street is a family-friendly Halloween event hosted at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this spooktacular celebration offers a safe and festive environment for trick-or-treating, complete with candy stations, costume contests, pumpkin decorating, and carnival games.
With fun activities for all ages, including food trucks and photo ops, Treat Street provides a lively Halloween experience that’s all about community fun in a spooky, yet safe, setting.
Pumpkins in the Park is a delightful autumn event hosted in Old Colorado City, offering a festive celebration of the fall season. This family-friendly gathering features a wide array of pumpkin-themed activities, including pumpkin carving and decorating contests, hayrides, and live entertainment.
Visitors can explore vendor booths with seasonal crafts and treats, enjoy interactive games, and take part in a variety of fun activities set against the charming backdrop of Old Colorado City’s historic park. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the crisp fall air and embrace the spirit of the season with the community.
Wine in the Pines is a premier fundraising event hosted by Ability Connection Colorado, set amidst the beautiful pines of Evergreen. This elegant evening features a curated selection of fine wines from renowned wineries, gourmet food from local chefs, and live entertainment.
Attendees can enjoy an upscale tasting experience while supporting a great cause, as proceeds benefit Ability Connection Colorado’s programs and services for individuals with disabilities. The event combines sophistication with community spirit, providing a memorable night of indulgence and philanthropy in a stunning mountain setting.
FAQs for Fall Festivals and Events in Colorado
Popular fall festivals include Elk Fest in Estes Park, the Breckenridge Oktoberfest, Cider Days in Lakewood, and the Telluride Horror Show. Each festival offers unique experiences, from wildlife viewing and seasonal brews to spooky films and local crafts.
Peak fall foliage typically occurs from late September to mid-October, depending on the elevation and weather conditions. Towns at higher elevations, such as Aspen and Crested Butte, usually see colors changing earlier, while lower elevation towns like Durango and Salida might peak a bit later.
Yes, many fall events are family-friendly. The Miners’ Pumpkin Patch in Colorado Springs, the Great Pumpkin Haul in Littleton, and the Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering offer activities suitable for all ages, including pumpkin picking, hayrides, and storytelling.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons may be warmer. A good pair of comfortable walking shoes, a warm jacket, and a hat are recommended for outdoor events.
Yes, fall is a great time for food and drink festivals! Breckenridge Oktoberfest, the Colorado Mountain Winefest in Palisade, and Applefest in Cedaredge are just a few of the events where you can enjoy local brews, wines, ciders, and seasonal dishes.
It depends on the event. Some events, especially smaller festivals and markets, may not require tickets, while larger events like the Telluride Horror Show or Breckenridge Oktoberfest often sell tickets in advance. It’s a good idea to check the event’s website for details and to purchase tickets early if required.
Lesser-known events include the Creede Oktoberfest, Pagosa Springs’ Colorfest, and the Eagle Mushroom and Wild Food Festival. These smaller events offer a more intimate experience and showcase local traditions and specialties.
Yes, fall is a great time for outdoor adventure events! The Vail Outlier Offroad Festival, the Golden Leaf Half Marathon in Aspen, and the Durango Autumn Arts Festival combine outdoor activities with the beauty of the fall season.
Information about outdoor adventure festivals in Colorado for 2024 can be found on websites like www.visitcoloradopeaks.com, Colorado.com, and specific festival websites.
Health and safety precautions at Colorado festivals in 2024 include enhanced sanitation measures, availability of hand sanitizing stations, adherence to any local health guidelines, and potential capacity limits to ensure safe distancing. Always check individual festival websites for specific measures and updates.