End-of-Year Events and Festivals to Check Out in Colorado Springs

One key factor behind Colorado Springs’ unbeatable quality of life? There’s always something new going on—and the later months of the year are no exception. Thanks to festivals and events that engage folks of all ages, you certainly won’t be at a loss of things to do during the city’s colder months. Here are a few of the best end-of-year events to check out in Colorado Springs, one of the most desirable cities in the nation:

Rocky Mountain Food Tours: A city that’s earning national acclaim for its foodie scene deserves to have its culinary story told. That’s where Rocky Mountain Food Tours comes in, bringing attendees to five diverse and delicious culinary destinations in one walking tour. For those of age, add alcohol pairings to get a taste of local craft beer, spirits, and wine. Weekends, downtown Colorado Springs

Emma Crawford Coffin Race: Racing coffins down the street may sound like a strange way to celebrate a holiday—but in neighboring Manitou Springs, it’s a classic Halloween tradition. Named after a historic Manitou Springs visitor, this event features up to 70 teams racing coffins down Manitou Avenue for the Coffin Cup and other prizes. Oct. 28; Manitou Springs

Trick or Treat Train: Shake up the normal Halloween routine with an event that’s a surefire hit for Colorado Springs’ younger trick-or-treaters. Ride behind a historic Denver & Rio Grande Steam Locomotive, try some local food, get your face painted and enjoy Halloween in a safe but lively setting. Oct. 29; Colorado Railroad Museum

Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade: Colorado Springs, ranked one of the nation’s best cities for veterans, has always taken pride in its strong military community. No parade celebrates that essential part of our city better than the Veterans Day Parade through downtown Colorado Springs. The parade is funded entirely by donations. Nov. 4; downtown Colorado Springs

Electric Safari at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: 85 light sculptures over 50 acres throughout 20 nights– all adding up to one of the region’s best ways to get in the holiday spirit. Bring the kids and check out some of the exhibits that remain open at night, and get pictures with Santa, who’ll be in town during select nights. Various dates in December; see website

Christmas Stroll | Dickens on the Avenue: Need an excuse to visit Old Colorado City, one of the Springs’ most unique neighborhoods? This spirited event features musicians (including Colorado Springs’ own Pikes Peak Bell Ringers), carolers, and treats in the avenue’s shops. Take a side trip to Santa’s Cabin in Bancroft Park to cap off your day. Nov. 25, Old Colorado City

Yule Tea at Glen Eyrie Castle: What better way to drink in (literally) the holiday spirit than an afternoon tea at Colorado Springs’ historic, enchanting castle near Garden of the Gods? Make sure to get your tickets soon–they go fast–and make the most of your visit with a tour of the castle. Nov. 25–Jan. 14; Glen Eyrie Castle