As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, Colorado comes alive with vibrant fall activities perfect for all ages. From charming festivals to outdoor adventures, there’s something special about autumn in the Centennial State.
From pumpkin patches and chili cook-offs to elk-watching and spooky film festivals, you’ll find plenty of fall activities in Colorado worth adding to your bucket list. Here are ten exciting experiences to check out this fall.
10 Fun Fall Activities in Colorado
Elk Fest in Estes Park
Every October, Estes Park hosts the famous Elk Fest, where you can watch majestic elk in their natural habitat during their rutting season. The event features engaging bugling contests, educational exhibits about elk behavior, and even captivating performances by Native American dancers. With the beautiful backdrop of Rocky Mountain National Park, this fall festival is a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Chile & Frijoles Festival in Pueblo
Pueblo's Chile & Frijoles Festival is a must-visit for food lovers who crave authentic Colorado flavors. Held in late September, it celebrates the region’s beloved Pueblo green chile, which is served roasted, chopped, or mixed into various dishes. The festival also offers lively cooking competitions, jalapeño-eating contests, arts and crafts, dancing, and live music. It’s a flavorful and vibrant community celebration that attracts visitors from all over the state.
Miners Pumpkin Patch in Colorado Springs
For some classic fall fun with a historical twist, head to the Miners Pumpkin Patch in Colorado Springs during October. The festival offers hayrides, pumpkin picking, cider pressing, and even blacksmith demonstrations, all while supporting the Western Museum of Mining & Industry. Expect delightful activities like face painting, food trucks, and hands-on experiences that give you a glimpse into Colorado’s mining heritage.
Telluride Horror Show
Film lovers and horror enthusiasts gather in Telluride every October for the spooky and thrilling Telluride Horror Show. As Colorado’s first and largest horror-film festival, it showcases spine-chilling films from around the world, including horror, dark fantasy, thriller, sci-fi, and dark comedy. The festival’s unique setting in Telluride’s charming theaters adds to the overall hauntingly fun atmosphere.
Applefest in Cedaredge
Cedaredge’s Applefest in October is all about celebrating the bountiful apple harvest of the region. As you drive into town, you’ll see row after row of trees heavy with shiny red and green apples. At Applefest, more than 200 vendors share the area’s agricultural wealth through fresh produce, apple-based dishes, and handmade goods. Visitors can also enjoy a classic car and motorcycle show, live music, and other fun activities that bring the community together.
Oktoberfest Denver
Denver’s Oktoberfest takes the traditional German celebration to a whole new level of fun. Held each September, this lively event offers everything from food booths and polka dancing to singalongs and live music. You can also participate in wacky contests like stein hoisting and beer-keg bowling, making it an entertaining experience for the whole family. The energetic downtown setting adds even more excitement to the festivities.
Mountain Harvest Festival in Paonia
The Mountain Harvest Festival in Paonia is a colorful celebration of the region’s agricultural abundance and artistic talent. Taking place each September, the festival features live concerts, farmers’ markets, arts and crafts, beer and wine tasting, and farm tours. The bounty from locally owned orchards, ranches, and farms attracts revelers from across Delta County and beyond, making it a joyful event filled with creativity and community spirit.
Poudre Pour in Windsor
Held in October, Poudre Pour is a unique celebration that combines environmental education with a side of fun. Along with presentations about the heritage of the Cache la Poudre River, visitors can enjoy craft-beer tastings, gourmet appetizers, historical displays, and live entertainment. The event also offers engaging activities for children, making it a family-friendly festival that highlights the importance of Colorado’s natural resources.
Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival
The Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival in October is the perfect event for those looking to warm up with some delicious small-batch spirits. Held in the picturesque town of Breckenridge, the festival invites visitors to sample a wide variety of handcrafted spirits from local artisan distillers. It’s also an excellent opportunity to learn about the distilling process and appreciate the rich history of this mountain town with its own pioneering distillery.
La Junta Tarantula Fest
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For a quirky and unforgettable fall experience, head to La Junta in September for the Tarantula Fest. This fun event is all about celebrating the region’s annual tarantula-mating season with creative activities like face painting, food trucks, homemade gifts, and even a parade. Brave visitors can take guided tours to observe these gentle, eight-legged creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an event that offers both entertainment and educational value for all ages.
What to Expect During Fall in Colorado
Fall in Colorado is a beautiful blend of golden aspens, cool mountain air, and charming small-town festivals. From September through November, the state offers a dazzling display of autumn colors and plenty of fun fall activities in Colorado to enjoy. You’ll find everything from pumpkin patches and apple festivals to wildlife watching and craft fairs.
Nature enthusiasts and festival-goers alike flock to the mountains and scenic towns to celebrate the season. Fall is also a fantastic time to explore Colorado’s hiking trails and outdoor attractions, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, there’s always something exciting happening during Colorado’s autumn months.
Understanding Fall Temperatures in Colorado
Colorado’s fall temperatures can vary quite a bit depending on your location and altitude. In the mountains, temperatures can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, ranging from the 30s to 60s Fahrenheit. In cities like Denver and Boulder, daytime temperatures often sit comfortably between the 60s and 70s, making it perfect weather for outdoor activities.
As the season progresses, temperatures drop, and snowfall becomes more likely, particularly in higher elevations. To make the most of your fall activities in Colorado, pack layers, including a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, especially if you plan to spend time in the mountains or attend outdoor festivals.
Why You Should Experience Fall in Colorado
Visiting Colorado in the fall offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It’s the perfect time to enjoy nature’s beauty, especially with the stunning foliage that colors the state’s landscapes. From the Rocky Mountains to the charming small towns, every corner of Colorado seems to transform into a postcard-worthy scene.
Aside from the picturesque views, fall activities in Colorado include some of the state’s most beloved festivals and outdoor events. Whether it’s sampling locally made chili in Pueblo, enjoying handcrafted spirits in Breckenridge, or attending the quirky La Junta Tarantula Fest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a season filled with fun, food, and culture you won’t want to miss.
Helpful Tips for Exploring Fall Activities in Colorado
Planning ahead can make all the difference when enjoying fall activities in Colorado. Since many popular events and festivals happen in small towns and mountain areas, booking accommodations early is a good idea. Make sure to check local event calendars to align your visit with the festivities you want to attend.
Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore outdoor festivals or hiking trails. If you’re driving through the mountains, be prepared for sudden weather changes, as conditions can shift quickly. Also, don’t forget your camera – the stunning fall colors and lively events provide endless photo opportunities.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Fall Activities in Colorado
Colorado’s fall season offers a magical experience filled with colorful landscapes, festive events, and unique cultural celebrations. Whether you’re hiking through golden aspen groves, tasting local delicacies at food festivals, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air, there are endless fall activities in Colorado to enjoy. Make the most of this beautiful season by exploring all the wonderful things the state has to offer.
