It’s time to celebrate the arrival of fall, and Colorado has everything from pumpkin patches to apple trees and costume contests. Swingle has found some of the best fall festivals in the area to celebrate the season.
Elk Fest
When: October 3-4
Where: Estes Park in Bond Park and surrounding areas
Every October, spectators’ head to Estes Park to experience the elk gather at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park to show off for females during the start of the rutting (breeding) season. Enjoy live music from the Matt Skinner Band along with an amateur bugling competition. This is a great place to celebrate fall and the 100-year anniversary of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Denver Oktoberfest
When: September 18-20 & 25-27
Where: 20th St. & 22nd St. on Larimer St.
Celebrate Denver’s Oktoberfest for a weekend of fun for the entire family. Enjoy dachshund derby, costume contests, food booths, polka dancing, and live music. Don’t forget to grab some authentic mouthwatering German food, which includes bratwurst, warm pretzels, and much more!
Applefest
When: October 3-4
Where: Town Park in Cedaredge, CO.
The small town of Cedaredge, on Colorado’s Grand Mesa, is lined with trees bursting with shiny red and green apples. At Applefest, more than 150 vendors share the area’s agricultural wealth with visitors. In addition, there’s a classic car and antique tractor show, as well as bands and much more.
Pumpkin Festival
When: October 9-11
Where: Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield
The Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield celebrates fall with a three-day event for the entire family. Select from a wide variety of pumpkins in the massive pumpkin patch (prices vary by size). Entry includes pumpkin carving demonstrations; hay, pony and barrel train rides; a mini maze; jumping pillow; five carnival game tickets; face painting and live music.
Fall Fest
When: October 17-18
Where: Old Town Square in Downtown Fort Collins
The Fort Collins Fall Fest is a seasonal celebration featuring visual art, high-quality handmade items, and affordable art from a plethora of local and regional artists.You will have the opportunity to meet and talk with the artists, dine in a patio café, enjoy live musical performances, and entertain your family.
With pumpkins, music, and a variety of fall flavored treats to enjoy, you are sure to find something enjoyable for the whole family this fall.
Can’t find the festival you’re looking for? Find a complete list here.
