Your Ultimate Northern Colorado Calendar: Events, Festivals, and Can’t-Miss Happenings in 2026

Northern Colorado is one of the most vibrant and activity-packed regions in the state, offering residents a nonstop calendar of festivals, concerts, holiday traditions, and community events. Whether you live in Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Greeley, or one of the neighboring towns, 2026 is set to be a year full of outdoor adventures, cultural celebrations, food and drink festivals, and family-friendly gatherings.

If you’re considering a move and researching Fort Collins, Colorado, real estate, this guide gives you a true feel for what life is like here—active, social, outdoorsy, and full of community pride.

Below is your complete 2026 Northern Colorado Events Calendar, organized season by season, highlighting the region’s signature experiences.

Winter 2026 Events

Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market (Jan–Apr)

Held at the Foothills Mall and inside the Opera Galleria, this market features local produce, baked goods, crafts, and seasonal treats. A favorite for weekend strolling.

Loveland Fire & Ice Festival (February 2026)

One of the largest Valentine’s events in the country—ice sculptures, fireworks, live music, car shows, and endless heart-themed displays. Loveland’s nickname isn’t “Sweetheart City” for nothing.

Greeley Sweetheart Ball (February 2026)

Elegant, family-friendly, and one of Weld County’s most beloved winter traditions.

The Great Plates of Downtown Fort Collins (Late Feb–Early March 2026)

Restaurants offer deep discounts and creative prix fixe meals to raise money for the Food Bank for Larimer County.

Spring 2026 Events

CSU Spring Football Game (April 2026)

Rams fans fill Canvas Stadium for a lively spring scrimmage celebrating Colorado State University pride.

Fort Collins Flower Trial Gardens Spring Bloom (April–May 2026)

One of the nation’s top horticultural displays. Perfect for photographers, families, and anyone who appreciates spring color.

Windsor Kite Festival (May 2026)

Held at Spring Canyon or Windsor parks, this colorful event draws hundreds of families to fly kites under the wide-open Northern Colorado skies.

Estes Park Bigfoot Days (May 2026)

Yes—it’s a thing. A quirky, enjoyable celebration with food, music, and “sightings.” Locals love it.

Summer 2026 Events

Summer is when Northern Colorado truly comes alive. Warm nights, lake days, outdoor concerts, and festivals every weekend.

Taste of Fort Collins (June 2026)

A major food and music festival featuring national headliners, local restaurants, and community entertainment. Always a can’t-miss weekend.

Colorado Brewers’ Festival (June 2026)

Celebrating Fort Collins’ status as the craft beer capital of Colorado. Expect great beer, live bands, and thousands of happy locals.

Greeley Stampede (June–July 2026)

One of the largest rodeos in the U.S. Carnival rides, PRCA events, a giant parade, and top-tier country concerts. A Northern Colorado institution.

Loveland Foote Lagoon Summer Concert Series (June–Aug 2026)

Free concerts at a stunning waterfront amphitheater. Bring your chairs and blankets.

Windsor Harvest Festival Fireworks (July 4, 2026)

Known for having one of the best fireworks displays in Northern Colorado.

Lagoon Concert Series at CSU (Summer 2026)

A beloved weekly outdoor event featuring local bands on the Colorado State University campus.

Horsetooth Swim & Boat Fest (Summer 2026)

Paddleboarding, open-water swims, food trucks, and warm sunsets over Horsetooth Reservoir.

Longmont Rhythm on the River (July 2026)

Just south of Fort Collins—food vendors, eco-friendly activities, and outdoor entertainment.

Fall 2026 Events

Fall might be the most picturesque season in the region—crisp air, golden leaves, and endless trail adventures.

Fort Collins Tour de Fat (Sept 2026)

It’s a time for costumes, beer, bikes, and pure chaos, all in the best possible way. This is one of the most renowned traditions in Northern Colorado.

Loveland Oktoberfest (Sept 2026)

There will be steins, pretzels, polka music, and German food available. Yes, lederhosen are encouraged.

Fort Collins Old Town Fall Festival (Sept–Oct 2026)

Pumpkin patches, kids’ activities, live performances, and seasonal treats.

Windsor Fall FunFest (Oct 2026)

A family favorite with hayrides, pumpkin carving, games, and local vendors.

Estes Park Elk Fest (Oct 2026)

A uniquely Colorado celebration dedicated to… you guessed it, elk. Visitors flock to hear the bulls bugle during rut season.

Fort Collins Día de los Muertos Celebration (Oct–Nov 2026)

The celebration features cultural performances, altars, music, and community remembrance activities.

Holiday Season 2026 Events

Old Town Fort Collins Holiday Lights (Nov 2026–Feb 2027)

Old Town is lit with thousands of white lights—creating one of the most enchanting holiday displays in Colorado.

Loveland Festival of Lights (Dec 2026)

A classic holiday celebration with carriage rides, hot cocoa, Santa visits, and glowing displays around downtown.

Greeley Lights the Night Parade (Dec 2026)

Marching bands, illuminated floats, and a huge community turnout.

CSU Holiday Spectacular Concert (Dec 2026)

A festive performance featuring the best of the university’s music programs.

Why This Events Calendar Matters for New Residents

If you’re researching a move to Northern Colorado or browsing Fort Collins homes for sale, these events demonstrate exactly what makes living here special:

• Community—People show up, participate, and support each other.
• Outdoor Lifestyle—Festivals and concerts often happen outdoors thanks to 300+ sunny days per year.
• Family-friendly atmosphere: safe neighborhoods, great schools, and constant activities.
• Local Food and Beer Culture—Breweries, farmers markets, and local restaurants play a giant role in the region’s identity.
• Colorado Spirit—A blend of small-town charm, mountain adventure, and college-town energy.

Living in Northern Colorado means having something to look forward to every month of the year.

Thinking About Moving to Northern Colorado?

From world-class outdoor recreation to year-round community events, Northern Colorado offers a lifestyle that’s difficult to beat. If you’re exploring a move or want to know which neighborhoods offer the best access to schools, trails, and city amenities—I’m here to help.

Whether you’re relocating for work, looking for more space, or dreaming of life near Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins is one of the best places in Colorado to call home.