Northern Colorado’s Best Festivals Haven’t Even Happened Yet

Raise your hand if you love big events with music, drinks, and strobe lights. I am raising my hand high. Now raise your hand if you love small-town festivals. Also, raising my hand in the air.

Sometimes I sit alone and think to myself, if I could only choose one of those options, which would it be? Today, I'm going to small-town festivals because there's nothing like an intimate gathering with all the folks from your town enjoying music, drinks, and strobe lighting.

Don't believe me? Let's take a look at just a couple of small-town festivities you can enjoy without the metal detector and $30 parking.

Local festivals coming up in 2026

Well, obviously, I have to put the Taste of Fort Collins on the list because not only is our radio station K99 putting on the show, but Old Town is one of my favorite places on Earth.

With musical guests Lil' Jon and Modest Mouse, you'll be jamming out with the best of them. Big into local music? That's perfect because both days will be filled with amazing local music too.

Happening September 26th and 27th, and you can get all the details on the free K99 app.

Another one of my favorites has to be Pastels on 5th in Loveland. If you're a fan of chalk art, live entertainment, and delicious food, this small-town festival is right up your alley.

Happening Saturday, September 12th, in downtown Loveland, you'll see beautiful art from over 150 artists as well as an art area for kids. And if that isn't exciting enough, this very cool event is free to attend.

You can find the details at pastelson5th.org