image: Elizabeth Courtney
As summer reaches its peak, Estes Park, Colorado, emerges as a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking a rejuvenating escape. Nestled amidst the picturesque Rocky Mountains, Estes Park captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a myriad of outdoor activities. August, in particular, offers a magical time to explore this charming mountain town and immerse oneself in its natural splendor. Join us on a virtual journey as we share our favorite ways to Experience Estes during the month of August!
COWBOY SING-A-LONG – SUNDAYS, MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS THROUGH AUGUST 15
A free summer long favorite tradition, the Cowboy Sing-A-Long features local singer songwriter Brad Fitch in Bond Park starting at 7 p.m., June 11-August 15.
COLORADO GYPSY JAZZ FESTIVAL -AUGUST 11-13
Immerse yourself in the world of Gypsy Jazz featuring the music of Django Reinhardt. We are proud to host part of this event at Twin Owls Steakhouse. This event lasts an entire weekend and takes place at several locations, including Avant Garde Aleworks, Snowy Peaks Winery, Historic Park Theatre, Mother’s Cafe and Performance Park. Enjoy free events along with two major ticketed events. You can learn more here!.
ESTES PARK WINE FESTIVAL – AUGUST 12-13
8 years and counting! This event features a celebration of food, wine and music! Learn more and purcchase tickeys here and enjoy a Saturday and Sunday downtown! This is a 21+ event. Tickets include a wine glass, wine tote and unlimited tastings, along with live music, retailers and food vendors.
ESTES VALLEY PLEIN AIR – AUGUST 19-25
The beloved Estes Valley Plein Air is back again this year! Every August, well-known artists from all over the country converge on Estes Park for this event. These juried and invited artists have a limited amount of time to paint “en plein air,” a French term meaning “in open air.” They paint on location in Rocky Mountain National Park and within 50 miles of the Estes Valley. Open to the public – Everyone is invited to the Riverside Plaza on August 19 to watch the Estes Valley Quick Paint. Stick around for the auction to take home your favorite piece! Then, attend the Plein Air Gala Opening Day on August 25, with a reception from 5-7 p.m. All artwork is for sale through September 24.
LONGS PEAK REUNION – AUGUST 18-20
Learn and celebrate the history of the Longs Peak Trail with the Longs Peak Reunion August 18-20, 2023. Historic Preservations, Inc will hold its first Longs Peak Reunion commemorative event since 2015. Dig deep into history with an all-day historic symposium on Saturday, August 19 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., featuring speakers detailing historic events that happened on the Longs Peak Trail. Close out the commemorative event on Sunday, August 20 with a free barbecue picnic at the Meeker Park Lodge picnic area. The public is invited and welcome.
HANDMADE IN COLORADO EXPO – AUGUST 25-27
The 16th annual Handmade in Colorado Expo is a juried event showcasing some of Colorado’s best fine art and contemporary craft. The free event will feature a vast array of independent designers producing original handcrafted goods from a wide array of media including metals, paper, glass, fibers, food, fabricated objects, clay, paint, wax, gems and more. Enjoy local live music and great shopping in downtown Estes Park on Friday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
ESTES VALLEY FARMERS MARKET – WEEKLY ON THURSDAYS
You won’t want to miss this Estes Tradition! The Estes Valley Farmers Market happens every Thursday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Farmers Market patrons must park in the parking structure at 691 N Saint Vrain Ave. Market location: 500 Big Thompson Ave; Facebook.com/EstesValleyFarmersMarket
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CONSERVANCY EVENTS
Learn about the geology of the Fall River and Big Thompson Valleys, set out on a mindfulness retreat and guided hike, and step up your night sky photography skills! The Rocky Mountain Conservancy offers classes monthly. Check their calendar
LIVE MUSIC AT TWIN OWLS STEAKHOUSE – EVERY WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY
Enjoy live music with US every Wednesday through Saturday! Wednesdays starting at 6:30pm, listen to local bluegrass. Thursday – Saturday starting at 5:30pm, stop in for James Davis Spanish & Classical Guitar. Make a reservation today!
August brings a unique charm to Estes Park, as the vibrant colors of summer flourish across the landscape. The lush forests, sparkling rivers, and wildflower-strewn meadows set the stage for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. With average temperatures ranging from comfortable to mildly warm, visitors can enjoy the perfect weather for exploration.
