With cooler days upon us, fall in Estes Park is a great time to visit. With bugling elk and colorful fall foliage sprinkling the mountain slopes of the Rockies, it’s no wonder that even after the summer has passed people still find their way up to Estes Park. And there certainly is no shortage of festivals and activities that take place in the fall, so be sure to plan your next vacation around these fall festivals in Estes Park.
Alpaca Market
When: September 1st – 2nd, 2018
The 19th annual Alpaca Market will return to the Estes Park Fairgrounds for a weekend packed full of entertainment. Here you can gain a glimpse inside the 200 alpaca ranches that occupy the state of Colorado. Visitors can watch demonstrations, meet an alpaca face to face and shop alpaca made products such as yarns, sweaters, socks, and scarves. It’s the perfect time to stock up on warm winter weather gear!
Estes Park Arts & Crafts Show
When: September 1st – 2nd, 2018
Held every year during Labor Day weekend, the Estes Park Arts & Crafts Show is a great opportunity to get outdoors and discover local artists. Over 100 artisans showcase their one-of-a-kind pieces for those wishing to take a little bit of Estes Park back with them.
Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival
When: September 6th – 9th, 2018
Did you know Estes Park is the Celtic capital of North America? Every year Estes Park hosts the Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival, a four-day event highlighting the Scottish-Irish heritage. The event includes music, dancing, drinks and even some playful Highland games. Come ready to party in your kilt and tartan and watch the main attraction of the festival, the largest Celtic parade in North America.
Autumn Gold Festival
When: September 22nd & 23rd, 2018
As aspens turn to gold and light up the Rocky Mountain landscape so does the town of Estes Park with the Autumn Gold Festival. This classic event brings a series of bands for which visitors can sit and listen or dance to. Sample some mustard-smothered bratwursts and local cold brews. Entrance is free and is a great event for the entire family.
Elk Fest
When: September 29th – 30th
Signs of fall can be heard in Estes Park by bugling elk every year, beginning at the end of August to October. It is mating season for the elk, better known as the elk rut. And as the elk make their way down to lower elevation during the fall it might start to feel as if there are more elk than people roaming the streets of Estes Park.
To celebrate the annual elk rut, Estes Park puts on a free festival, known as Elk Fest. The festival features bugling contests, elk exhibits, elk seminars, craft beer garden, arts and crafts, and so much more!
Pumpkins and Pilsners Festival
When: October 13th
What says fall more than pumpkins and beer? Join others at the Pumpkins and Pilsners Festival this October, where you can enjoy a local brew and pick out a pumpkin. Enjoy live music, games, crafts and even a bounce house for the little ones.
Where to stay this fall in Estes Park
Planning a trip to Estes Park this fall? There’s no better option than the lodging accommodations at Rocky Mountain Resorts, perfect for a budget-friendly and convenient location to downtown Estes Park. Our resort offers seven different properties including cozy cottages, condos, and vacation homes.
Be sure to check our availability while there is still time to plan a perfect fall getaway to Estes Park. Fall time in the Rockies is truly spectacular and should not be missed! So, book your stay with us today!