From the blog

Estes Park Events | Summer 2026 Guide

Road Sign With Estes Park written on it and the mountains in the back.

Still deciding when to visit Estes Park this summer? In 2026, the town’s event calendar is packed with art festivals, rodeos, mountain races, live music, and classic Colorado traditions. From Memorial Day through September, these are some of the top Estes Park summer events worth planning your trip around.

Estes Park Art Market

May 23–25, 2026

Kick off summer during Memorial Day Weekend at the Estes Park Art Market in Bond Park. Hosted by the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies, this longtime event features artists from Colorado and surrounding states showcasing everything from paintings and photography to ceramics, jewelry, glasswork, and mixed media art. The downtown setting, mountain backdrop, and live entertainment make it one of the best ways to start the summer season in Estes Park.

Estes Park Wool Market & Fiber Festival

June 13–14, 2026

Held at the Estes Park Events Complex, the Estes Park Wool Market brings together fiber artists, ranchers, educators, and vendors from across the country. Visitors can shop yarns and handmade goods, watch sheep shearing and spinning demonstrations, and see live alpacas, llamas, sheep, goats, and rabbits. Workshops are also scheduled throughout the weekend for knitters, spinners, and fiber enthusiasts

Estes Park Marathon & Half Marathon

June 21, 2026

Known as one of the highest paved marathons in the country, the Estes Park Marathon draws runners from around the nation. The course winds through mountain scenery with views of Lake Estes, snow-capped peaks, and open valleys. Even if you’re not racing, the event brings exciting energy to town throughout the weekend.

Fourth of July Celebration

July 4, 2026

The Fourth of July remains one of Estes Park’s biggest summer traditions. Festivities typically include a pancake breakfast, family activities, downtown events, and the popular fireworks show over Lake Estes. Visitors often gather around the lake and downtown Estes Park throughout the day before the evening fireworks display lights up the mountains.

Rooftop Rodeo

July 6–11, 2026

The Estes Park Rooftop Rodeo is one of Colorado’s most well-known summer rodeos and part of the PRCA circuit. Expect bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding, rodeo parades, live entertainment, and community events throughout town. It’s one of the most energetic weeks of the summer season in Estes Park.

SnowyGrass Music Festival

July 2026 (dates TBA)

Hosted at Snowy Peaks Winery, the SnowyGrass Music Festival combines bluegrass music, local wine, craft beverages, and riverside scenery. The relaxed atmosphere, outdoor seating, and live bands make it a favorite midsummer event for both locals and visitors.

Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show & John Denver Tribute Concert

September 5–7, 2026

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend at Bond Park during the annual Arts & Crafts Show, featuring more than 100 artists and vendors. The weekend also includes the popular John Denver Tribute Concert, a longtime Estes Park tradition honoring the singer-songwriter closely associated with Colorado’s mountain landscapes.

Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival

September 11–13, 2026

One of the largest Scottish festivals in the country, the Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival fills Estes Park with bagpipes, Celtic music, dancing, athletic competitions, and cultural events. Highlights include caber toss competitions, pipe bands, clan gatherings, and performances throughout the weekend.

Stay at Brynwood on the River

Located on five acres of natural beauty in the heart of Estes Park, many of our rentals rest on the banks of the Big Thompson River, bringing the Estes Park scenery right to your front door. Enjoy cabins with private hot tubs, fireplaces, and river or mountain views for a cozy stay in Estes Park. Plus, feel right at home with modern features such as a full kitchen or kitchenette, a dining area, and free Wi-Fi.

Book your Estes Park vacation with us today!

Photo of Cass Tooke.
Cass is a writer who focuses on travel, outdoor fun, and local culture. When not working, she enjoys watching movies, listening to her record collection, and biking with her boyfriend, Ryan. She also dreams of earning that Paul Hollywood handshake and making it on the Great British Baking Show one day.

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