After a year of canceled events in our mountain community, the annual Elk-Fest makes a much-anticipated return. Keep reading for tips on getting ready for Elktober in Estes Park this year!
The two-day event will be held in Bond Park on October 2nd and 3rd and will focus on celebrating the annual elk rut or mating season, which generally peaks around this time. There will be plenty of activities, food, and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy!
2021 Elk Fest Schedule of Events – Subject to change
Saturday, October 2: 10:00AM to 5:00PM
10:00 AM – Festival and all vendor booths OPEN
11:00 AM – NOON – Native American dancing, storytelling, and music with Danny Many Horses (main stage)
12:10 AM – 1:00 PM – Bugling Contest (family fun and prizes!)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Live music with Blues Dogs (main stage)
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Native American dancing, storytelling, and music with Danny Many Horses (main stage)
Sunday, October 3: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
10:00 AM – Festival and all vendor booths OPEN
11:00 AM – 12:50 PM – Live music with Venture Still (main stage)
1:00 PM – 1:50 PM – Live raptors with Rocky Mountain Raptor Program (main stage)
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM – Native American dancing, storytelling, and music with Danny Many Horses (main stage)
Things to Bring
- Light Jacket: Weather can vary in Estes Park. Come prepared, so you stay comfortable all day long!
- Camping Chair: Seating gets limited as the crowds start to pour in. If you’re planning on staying for the day, it’s a good idea to bring your own.
- Cash: You don’t want to leave without supporting the local vendors. Be sure to bring some money for tasty treats, refreshing beverages, and souvenirs.
- Identification: Attendees are asked not to bring in outside alcohol. If you plan on indulging, bring a form of identification for drink vendors to verify.
- Mask: It’s always a good idea to continue practicing reasonable safety measures in places where social distancing isn’t always possible. Bring a mask and stay safe!
Parking at Elkfest
The festival kicks off at 10 AM on Saturday and Sunday. It’s best to get there a little earlier to make sure you get a good parking spot. There is designated parking available behind the Library or any area you can find in downtown Estes. There will be shuttles available if you have to park further away.
Shuttles
Bustang– If you live in or near Denver, Boulder, or Lyons, you can go car-less to the Elk-fest for a hassle-free day. Purchase a ticket for the Bustang, originating in Denver’s Union Station and making stops headed North to Estes Park. Head to the website for scheduling and ticketing information.
Estes Park Town Shuttle– If you decide to drive, you can park at the Estes Park Visitor’s Center and take one of the free shuttles into town and on to Bond park for the festivities.
Pet Policy
Guests are free to bring their fur babies out to the festivities. The only rule is that pets must stay on a leash, be well-behaved and not disturb other attendees.
Stay in Estes Park
Outside Elk Ridge Retreat
One of the best ways to enjoy the Elktober in Estes Park is to book your stay with Rocky Mountain Resorts. We offer multiple Estes Park lodging options such as condos, cabins, and vacation rentals.
With seven different locations and over 125 units to choose from, we have something to fit all your needs. All accommodations are within minutes of downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Rooms fill up fast in the fall, so start planning your trip to Estes Park and book your stay with us today!
