October 2023 Events in Estes Park

Here's a complete list of the best events in Estes Park this October.

You can't hike the entire time you're in town, although no one here will blame you for trying. Instead, fill out your trip with local events that will give you a taste of the sights, sounds and flavors of this vibrant little mountain town. Check out what's going on in October:
 

Elk Fest

September 30 - October 1

Celebrate Estes Park's resident elk at this family-friendly festival in downtown Bond Park. Enjoy vendors, live music, food trucks, bugling contests, performances and more at this year's Estes Park Elk Fest®!
 

First Friday Art Groove

October 6

Take a free tour of local art galleries! Various locations will be serving food & refreshments and hosting artist meet & greets, demonstrations, show opening and live music. Ride the free Estes Park Trolley to keep you warm between galleries. Check it out.
 

Pumpkins & Pilsners

October 7

Immerse yourself in fall magic at the Pumpkins & Pilsners Festival, a free and lively autumn celebration for all ages in Estes Park. From live music and craft beer to pumpkin picking and family activities like pony rides and games, this event promises a fantastic time. Discover the joy of local flavors, entertainment and community support, as proceeds benefit the Estes Park Education Foundation.
 

Rocky Mountain Craft Spirits Festival

October 21

The Rocky Mountain Craft Spirits Festival, presented by Elkins Whisky, returns to the Estes Park Event Center Saturday, Oct. 21 from 1–4 p.m. This festival showcases the finest spirits the Colorado Rockies have to offer. Festival goers will receive a commemorative tasting glass to sample spirits from over 25 different craft distilleries, listen to live music, hear talks featuring industry experts, play bar games and much more.
 

The Shining Ball

October 21

Prepare to be mesmerized by an unforgettable evening of music, entertainment, and Halloween festivities in the enchanting ambiance of The Famous Stanley Concert Hall. Dance the night away and immerse yourself in the eerie world of 'The Shining' with their annual costume contest! Learn more.
 

Downtown Halloween Celebration

October 31

This is the main event! Get your costumes ready for trick-or-treating Estes Park style! We close down Elkhorn Ave. (main street) at 5 p.m. on Halloween, and the entire community comes out for a hauntingly good time! Characters go door-to-door to all the shops to get their bags filled with candy. There's a haunted ambulance, unique Halloween window displays and more. You don't want to miss this frighteningly good time for all ages. Oh - and don't be the only parents without costumes - this event is for the WHOLE family!

Recurring Events:
 

Live Music at The Bull Pin

See website for dates

Bowl on into The Bull Pin for live music, games, food & drinks and a good time! 555 S Saint Vrain Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517; (970) 591-7771; EstesParkBowl.com
 

Open Mic Night at Avant Garde Aleworks

Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday

Calling all musicians, poets and performers! Come grab a beer before you take the stage and enjoy a night of live music in the taproom, hosted by local musician, Chris Theunissen. 920 Dunraven St, Estes Park, CO 80517; (970) 591-2700; avantgardealeworks.com
 

Latino Night at La Cabaña Mexican Bar & Grill 

Weekly on Saturdays

Join La Cabaña Mexican Bar & Grill every Saturday from 5-9 p.m. for dinner and a dance party. Dance to the tunes of bachata and reggaeton by Sonido Cali. 165 Virginia Dr., Estes Park, CO, 80517; lacabanabarandgrill.com
 

Live Magic at The Stanley

Most nights; Visit the website for details

Hidden beneath The Post Restaurant, upon the historic Stanley Hotel grounds, there is a secret subterranean theatre, where the greatest magicians in the world perform. Master Magician Aiden Sinclair, from the hit series America's Got Talent and Penn and Teller's Fool Us, has invited only the finest prestidigitators to appear in this enchanting new venue. Join them for an unforgettable and immersive experience that will inspire your imagination and kindle the wonder in your soul. 333 E. Wonderview Ave., Estes Park, CO, 80517; 970-290-2361; aidensinclairsunderground.com
 

Live Music at Twin Owls Steakhouse

Every Wednesday - Saturday

Enjoy live music every Wednesday - Saturday at the Twin Owls Steakhouse. Wednesdays starting at 6:30pm, listen to local bluegrass. Thursday - Saturday starting at 5:30pm, stop in for James Davis Spanish & Classical Guitar. For dining guests only, some exceptions apply. Call (970) 586-9344 to make a reservation. 3110 S. Saint Vrain Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517; (970) 586-9344; Taharaa.com/Twin-Owls-Steakhouse
 

Bingo Night at the American Legion Post 119

Weekly on Tuesdays

Enjoy a family-friendly bingo night at the American Legion, and play for cash prizes! Every Tuesday at 6 p.m. 850 N St Vrain Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517; (970) 586-6118; esteslegion.org
 

Weekly Classes at Inspired Artisan Market & Studio

Wednesdays - Sundays

From DIY Tie Dye Shirts and Fused Glass Necklaces to Felted Hummingbirds and Acrylic Pour Painting, Inspired Artisan Market & Studio offers no shortage of unique experiences for all ages. See their website for details.138 Moraine Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517; (970) 685-8818; inspiredartexperiences.com
 

Live Music at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern 

Every week, rotating musicians

Originally a sandwich shop at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and then evolved into a dance hall, The Rock Inn now boasts weekly live music paired with an ever-evolving food menu & full bar. 1675 State Highway 66, Estes Park, CO 80517; (970) 214 2953; rockinnestes.com
 

Check out our full list of events and book your next trip to Estes Park.
 

Are you an Estes Park business that hosts events? Let us know so we can make sure you're on our monthly event articles!