Here are 4 not-to-miss winter events – and why you should stick around

Set to the backdrop of Rocky Mountain National Park, events in our little mountain town are hard to beat. Especially in the winter. Winter events in Estes Park run the gamut in terms of offerings. Silent disco? Check. Wine, chocolate and whiskey tastings? Check. Guest appearance from Bigfoot? Maybe!

But the fun doesn’t stop at the events – couple the silent disco with a snowshoe tour in Rocky Mountain National Park. Or make whiskey tasting your reward after learning to ice climb. Hit the town’s shops after enjoying wine and chocolate. Relax with a coffee or beer after a day of Bigfoot fun. The opportunities for a fun-packed weekend centered around an event are truly extensive… and we’re not just saying that. Read on to learn more.

Winter Festival – January 18-19, 2020

This is where the silent disco comes in. Along with live music, a chili cook off, beer samples and vendors, to name a few. Also happening that weekend is Open Mic at The Barrel, a showing of Teton Gravity Research’s Winterland and karaoke at The Wheel Bar.

Wine & Chocolate Festival – February 8, 2020

Come up the night before to take part in a wine pairing dinner hosted by Snowy Peaks Winery and Seasoned - An American Bistro. Then send the kids and any non-wine (or chocolate – gasp!) lovers on Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Winter Ecology Snowshoe Tour while you indulge in wine and chocolate samples from regional makers. Consider a spa treatment to cap off the weekend. And of course, Open mic and karaoke are happening this weekend too.

Whiskey Warm Up – March 7, 2020

Are you more of a whiskey guy or gal? This event, held riverside, is smaller and more intimate – and sometimes snowy. Sip your whiskey samples around fire pits stationed along the river while enjoying live music. Warm up later in front of the fireplace or in a hot tub in your cozy cabin. Wake up early and take a one-of-a-kind snowcat tour through the less-traveled national forest before you head home.

Bigfoot Days – April 17-18, 2020

This unique event promises live music, vendors, food, and – hilariously –  a variety of Bigfoot-related activities that will keep you in Instagram posts for weeks. A Bigfoot obstacle course? A Bigfoot dance off? Yes, please! Explore the Riverwalk and its shops the next day or take a wildlife driving tour… you just might spot Bigfoot.

Bonus: Roots on the Ridge – May 16, 2020

Technically May is late spring, or early summer, depending on where you’re from and how old your kids are. Here in Estes it could be either – or winter. Our altitude and location makes snow in May a real possibility. This tenuous connection is enough for us to mention Estes Park’s inaugural Americana music festival here. And it’s one you won’t want to miss. Stay over and take a cabin fever-beating hike the next day. Here is a list of the best spring hikes in Estes Park, and what to pack.

 

Get more ideas for your extended itinerary with these off the beaten path experiences and make sure to check out our top reasons to come to Estes Park this winter, as well as the Estes Park Pass, a collection of lodging, activity and food and drink deals. If you still need convincing.