Fall in Colorado brings a unique crisp mountain air, golden aspen trees, and a line-up of exciting celebrations. From lively harvest festivals to spooky Halloween events, there’s something for every autumn lover.

These Colorado fall events showcase the state’s rich culture, delicious seasonal flavours, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh apple cider, thrilling film screenings, or Oktoberfest fun, you’ll find the perfect event to enjoy. Get ready to explore 7 unforgettable fall festivals happening across the state!

1. Applefest in Cedaredge

Celebrate the crisp autumn air and the taste of fresh, juicy apples at Cedaredge’s beloved Applefest. Held every October, this long-standing festival honors the region’s apple-growing tradition with cider tastings, homemade treats, and farm-fresh produce straight from local orchards.

More than 200 vendors line the streets, offering everything from handcrafted arts to delicious baked goods and jams. Visitors can also enjoy lively music performances, a classic car and motorcycle show, and plenty of family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to experience small-town charm, indulge in fall flavors, and celebrate Colorado’s bountiful harvest season.

2. Downtown Boulder Fall Fest

Boulder’s vibrant Pearl Street Mall comes alive each September with music, art, and seasonal delights at the Downtown Boulder Fall Fest. This highly anticipated event invites locals and visitors to enjoy live performances, handcrafted goods, and a beer, wine, and margarita garden.

The stunning foothills provide a breathtaking backdrop as festivalgoers explore food trucks, street entertainers, and interactive activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy hands-on crafts while adults sip seasonal drinks and shop for unique artisan products. This lively celebration is the perfect way to welcome autumn in one of Colorado’s most scenic and lively cities.

3. Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival

As the temperatures drop, warm up with handcrafted spirits at the Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival, a haven for lovers of fine whiskey, rum, vodka, and more. Each October, this charming mountain town hosts a gathering of small-batch distillers from across the country, offering tastings of their best and most unique creations. Guests can learn about the art of distillation, attend mixology demonstrations, and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails.

The festival also includes live music, delicious food pairings, and a welcoming atmosphere in Breckenridge’s historic downtown. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits connoisseur or just curious to try something new, this festival promises a weekend of warmth and flavor.

4. Elk Fest in Estes Park

Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts gather in Estes Park every fall for one of Colorado’s most unique and captivating wildlife events—Elk Fest. This festival, held in early October, celebrates the annual elk rut, when large herds gather in the region’s meadows and valleys.

Visitors can witness bull elk bugling in their natural habitat, participate in educational programs, and browse Native American performances and artisan booths. Learn about elk behavior from wildlife experts, try your skills in a bugling contest, and even take a guided tour to observe these majestic creatures up close. With Rocky Mountain National Park as a backdrop, this festival offers a truly unforgettable experience for all ages.

5. Oktoberfest Denver

Downtown Denver hosts one of the biggest and most exciting Oktoberfest celebrations in the Rocky Mountains. This annual event blends traditional German festivities with a fun, family-friendly twist, making it one of the most anticipated fall gatherings in the state.

In addition to steins of beer and sizzling bratwurst, festivalgoers can enjoy lively polka music, hilarious keg bowling competitions, and a competitive stein-hoisting contest. Kids and adults alike will love the traditional Bavarian dancing, festive singalongs, and street performers. With a variety of vendors offering delicious German treats and souvenirs, it’s the perfect way to experience a little slice of Munich right in the heart of Denver.

6. Mountain Harvest Festival in Paonia

Paonia’s Mountain Harvest Festival is a lively celebration of the Western Slope’s rich agricultural scene, bringing together farmers, artists, and community members for a weekend of fall fun. Held in late September, this event features farm tours, fresh produce markets, and hands-on demonstrations showcasing sustainable farming techniques.

Visitors can sip craft beer and wine from local wineries, listen to live music under the stars, and enjoy a chili cook-off featuring the region’s best flavors. Artisans display their handcrafted goods, while families participate in fun activities like pumpkin painting and cider pressing. It’s a weekend filled with community spirit, breathtaking mountain views, and an appreciation for locally grown food.

7. Miners Pumpkin Patch in Colorado Springs

Celebrate the season with a classic fall tradition at Miners Pumpkin Patch in Colorado Springs, a charming autumn retreat for families and festive spirits. This family-friendly festival, held every October, offers pumpkin picking, scenic hayrides, and hands-on activities like gold panning and blacksmith demonstrations. Kids can press their own cider, get their faces painted with festive designs, and enjoy delicious fall treats from local food vendors.

The festival also supports the Western Museum of Mining & Industry, allowing visitors to learn about Colorado’s rich mining history while enjoying seasonal fun. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin or just soaking in the autumn vibes, this event is a must-visit.