Festivals, Fairs & Seasonal Happenings
Colorado celebrates all year long with vibrant festivals, fairs, and community events that capture the spirit of every season. From summer street fairs and Renaissance festivals to harvest celebrations, wine fests, and cozy winter markets, these recurring gatherings offer live music, local food, artisan vendors, and unforgettable mountain-town energy. Here are some of our favorite annual events worth planning your trips around.
Tip: Exact dates shift slightly each year. Check the official websites for the latest details.
Our Favorite Annual Events
When: Late July (recurring annually)
Where: Conifer, CO
A fun two-day mountain street faire with live music, local artisans, food vendors, a beer garden, kids’ zone, and a community trail run/walk. Great casual foothills atmosphere.
Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival
When: Early August (recurring annually)
Where: Wheat Ridge, CO
A free family-friendly tradition with live music, grand parade, carnival rides, car show, fireworks, and tons of food vendors. A Denver-area summer highlight for over 55 years.
When: Late June – early July (recurring annually)
Where: Larkspur, CO
Step back in time with jousting tournaments, period costumes, artisan shops, feasting, and entertainment. A full immersive Renaissance experience the whole family will enjoy.
When: Labor Day Weekend (recurring annually)
Where: Colorado Springs, CO
One of Colorado’s biggest hot air balloon festivals featuring morning mass ascensions, evening balloon glows, live music, food trucks, and family fun.
Estes Park Autumn Gold Festival
When: September (recurring annually)
Where: Estes Park, CO
A beautiful fall celebration in the mountains with live music, craft vendors, food, and stunning autumn colors as the backdrop.
When: September (recurring annually)
Where: Palisade, CO
Celebrate Colorado’s wine country with tastings, live music, and vineyard tours in the heart of the Grand Valley.
When: Mid-September (recurring annually)
Where: Vail, CO
A lively Bavarian-style festival with German food, beer, music, and dancing in the beautiful mountain setting of Vail Village.
When: Late November – December (recurring annually)
Where: Denver, CO (and other locations)
A traditional German-style Christmas market with handmade gifts, mulled wine, festive food, and holiday lights. Perfect for getting into the winter spirit.
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