From holiday markets and festive celebrations to outdoor adventures and local traditions, discover 8 ways to spend Thanksgiving weekend in Northern Colorado.
Thanksgiving is a time to be especially thankful to live in such a beautiful state with so much to explore. No matter the season, Colorado is full of events and activities for the whole family, many of which are free to attend. Once you’ve filled up on turkey and sweet potatoes and polished off the last slice of pumpkin pie, get out of the house and check out these free family-friendly activities in Northern Colorado over Thanksgiving weekend.
Turkey Trot Free Kids Run
When: Thursday, Nov. 26
Where: College/Mountain Avenue intersection, Fort Collins
The Fort Collins Thanksgiving Day Run takes place every year on Thanksgiving. While there is an entry fee for adults, kids can participate in a free run of their own. The “Gobble Gobble” run kicks off the day at 8:45 a.m., just before the official trot begins at 9:00 a.m. It’s about a .3-mile run down College Avenue.
After the kids’ run, stick around and cheer on the runners as they complete the four-mile trot through downtown. You don’t have to run to join in on the fun! If you’re local, you can cheer from your porch or driveway, or if you’re not local, check out the course map and pick a spot to dress up, cheer, and spread some holiday spirit (don’t forget the cowbell!). You can also volunteer to help out with the race. Sign up here.
Free Hand Turkey Concert
When: Friday, Nov. 27
Where: 13714 Poudre Canyon Rd, Bellvue, CO 80512
What pairs well with leftover turkey? Obviously, a FREE concert. The Denver-based (and appropriately named) band Hand Turkey is putting on a free concert at Mishawaka Indoor Theater on Friday, Nov. 27, at 8 p.m. Known for their high-energy, genre-bending sound, the band draws inspiration from everything from jazz composition and musical theater to classic funk, fusion, and pop. It’s a little bit of everything, which means there’s something for everyone.
While concert tickets are free, there is a fee to take the shuttle from the parking area to the venue. You can learn more about the shuttle here.
Fresh Air Friday
When: Friday, Nov. 27
Where: All over Colorado
Need a breath of fresh air after all the Thanksgiving family time? Colorado’s got you covered with Fresh Air Friday. On the Friday after Thanksgiving, you can get free entry to every state park throughout Colorado. Getting outside is a great alternative to standing in long lines or fighting the crowds at commercial Black Friday sales. Instead, spend your Friday enjoying the outdoors and save your shopping itch for Small Business Saturday!
Some great state parks to explore in Northern Colorado include Boyd Lake State Park, Lory State Park, State Forest State Park, and St. Vrain State Park. Of course, there are plenty of other parks worth exploring if you’re willing to venture a little farther across Colorado. You can find a full list of state parks here.
Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market
When: Saturday, Nov. 28
Where: 215 E Foothills Pkwy, Fort Collins, CO 80525
The Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market, known as Wildcraft Markets, opens on Nov. 7 and takes place every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout the winter. So, on Nov. 28, head to the farmers market to stock up on whatever you need to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something new and delicious. In addition to seasonal produce, you’ll find plenty of local vendors selling unique, handcrafted creations. It’s a great place to get a head start on holiday shopping while supporting local businesses.
Greeley Winterfest
When: Saturday, Nov. 28
Where: Lincoln Park & 9th St, Greeley, CO 80631
Greeley’s Winterfest kicks off on Nov. 28 and takes place over three consecutive Saturdays, wrapping up on Dec. 12. The festivities begin with the Holiday Open House on Nov. 28, which coincides with Small Business Saturday. In addition to getting a head start on the holiday shopping, you can pick up a bingo card at any participating business and explore downtown as you check off the squares. Once you’ve completed your card, you’ll have a chance to win a gift basket filled with local goodies.
The day wraps up with “Light Up Lincoln!” at 5 p.m., an extravagant tree-lighting ceremony with carolers, holiday treats, reindeer, and a visit from Santa Claus. You’ll witness nearly 120 trees illuminate downtown Greeley, all with the flip of a giant switch!
Small Business Saturday – Downtown Loveland
When: Saturday, Nov. 28
Where: Downtown Loveland
If you’re looking for an excuse to go shopping (not that you need one), then head to downtown Loveland for Small Business Saturday. Local shops are opening their doors with special promotions and deals throughout the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to wander downtown, discover one-of-a-kind gifts, and find something you won’t see anywhere else. Be sure to arrive early to snag some Small Business Saturday swag and a special shopping bag!
Downtown businesses are a big part of what gives Loveland its charm. When you shop local, you’re not just supporting small business owners and entrepreneurs; you’re also investing in the future of Loveland and helping preserve what makes the community special. It’s a win-win for everyone, including those on your shopping list.
Bird Walk at Chapungu Sculpture Park
When: Saturday, Nov. 28
Where: Chapungu Sculpture Park (5995 Sky Pond Dr, Loveland, CO 80538)
If you’re looking to get outside and start your day in nature, head to Loveland’s Chapungu Sculpture Park for a morning Bird Walk hosted by High Plains Environmental Center. It’s a great way to connect with your community and spend some time with others who share a love of the outdoors.
During the guided walk, you’ll learn about native plants, local birds, and the wildlife habitat that makes the park special. All ages are welcome, and four-legged friends can tag along, too, as long as they’re on a leash. Tickets are donation-based, so you can give whatever you’re able.
Northern Colorado Holiday Light Trail
When: You choose!
Where: Fort Collins and surrounding cities
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your Thanksgiving weekend, consider loading up the car and going on the Northern Colorado Holiday Light Trail, a self-guided holiday light-viewing journey through Fort Collins and nearby cities in Northern Colorado. With 16 stops along the way, the trail takes you through several communities, including Loveland, Longmont, Boulder, Estes Park, and Greeley.
The entire journey, without stops, takes around four hours to complete, so you’ll want to make an evening of it. You’ll see everything from downtown streets lined with thousands of twinkling lights, illuminated parks, animated displays, and a giant holiday star shining in the foothills above Boulder. It’s best to wait to start the tour until evening so you can enjoy the displays after the sun goes down.
