With the fall season upon us, it’s time to take advantage of the last several weeks in Steamboat before the ski crowds descend upon town. With the weather carrying a chill, grab your coziest sweater this October and start getting excited for the holiday season that’s just around the corner now. Whether you’re a local to the area or just passing through for a few days, there’s plenty to do in and around Steamboat this month.
Skip the time-consuming research on what’s happening around town and instead, use this handy guide to plan your weekend getaway or to fill your October calendar with fun things to do around town with friends and family.
Volunteer with the Yampa River Botanic Park’s Social Gardening
Where? Yampa River Botanic Park, 1000 Pamela Lane
When? October 1st, 9-12 p.m.
Looking for a volunteer opportunity? The Yampa River Botanic Park invites you to enjoy the fresh air and get your hands dirty at Social Gardening on the first Wednesday in October! The volunteering will be held from the morning to mid afternoon. Organizers recommend bringing gloves, sunscreen, and of course — a smile! The dirt, the tools and any necessary training will be provided onsite.
Attendees will meet at the shed in the gardens, where you’ll hear about the tasks for the day and meet new friends before getting to work. This event is free to attend, so come on out and enjoy a fun morning and afternoon as you help keep the gardens in tip top shape before winter rolls around.
Cast Your Vote for Best Film at the 28th Annual 2025 Manhattan Short Film Festival
Where? Bud Werner Memorial Library, 1289 Lincoln Avenue
When? October 2nd, 6:30-9:00 p.m.
For one night only, you can release your inner film critic by casting a vote for Best Film and Best Actor in the 28th Annual Manhattan Short Film Festival. The screening will officially take place from September 25th through October 5th all over the world. Locally in Steamboat, there will be a free screening at the Bud Werner Memorial Library on Thursday, October 2nd. Join film lovers in 500+ venues across the globe who are gathering to see the finalists in this year’s event. There will be a lineup of 10 short films that will explore a range of themes and topics, such as dramatic takes on migration, comical takes on parenthood and the price of silence.
This year’s finalists hail from seven countries, with films spanning from Spain, the United Kingdom, Norway, Mexico, the United States and more. Upon entry to the library, you’ll be handed a ballot that allows you to vote on your favorites at the conclusion of the event. The winners will be announced at ManhattanShort.com on October 6th.
Wine and Dine at the Steamboat Food & Wine Festival
Where? Various venues across Steamboat Springs
When? October 2nd-5th
There’s no better place to interact with renowned chefs in beautiful venues across Steamboat than at the annual Steamboat Food & Wine Festival. Attendees will discover firsthand a world of luxurious flavors and mouthwatering culinary concepts. The talent lineup for the 2025 festival is packed, with names such as Collin Kelley, Dana Rodriguez, Paul C. Reilly, Tristen Epps, Maggie DeMarco and many more.
Explore the 2025 schedule here so you don’t miss a thing! Packages include the Full Course Festival Experience, which includes some of the most sought after events. You’ll receive entry to a curated selection of seminars and dinners, as well as a VIP bag filled with specialty items. There’s also a Mix & Mingle Festival Experience which is a balance of mingling, sipping and sampling. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider the Adventure Festival Experience that provides access to multiple events that embrace the spirit of adventure that Steamboat evokes in many people. You’ll enjoy a Friday Alpine Ascent Lunch, among other extraordinary events boasting breathtaking views.
Explore Creativity and Culture at Steamboat’s First Friday Artwalk
Where? Various venues in Downtown Steamboat Springs
When? October 3rd, 5-8 p.m.
Every time the new month rolls around, you can count on the Steamboat Springs First Friday Artwalk. This monthly staple for the community offers locals and visitors alike an opportunity to peruse local galleries, museums and alternative venues across Steamboat Springs. This is a free self-guided tour, so explore at your leisure and don’t feel rushed to complete the entire route if you prefer a slower, more relaxed vibe. Businesses across downtown Steamboat will stay open later on first Fridays, with many offering changing exhibits so there’s always something new to see.
Refreshments and light bites will be served, so invite a few friends and see what these local establishments have to offer. Participating venues include the Brinkman Collaborative Space, the Jace Romick Gallery, Roots & Roost, Co., Sundog Steamboat, The Veterans Center and many more. Stay tuned for live music, wine and special demonstrations across different galleries and venues! Hours run from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, though some venues may remain open later.
This month at Slifer Smith & Frampton, Artwalk attendees will find newly featured work by Noah Wetzel, an award-winning landscape and action sports photographer. Swing by the establishment to meet the artist!
Dig Into Culinary Creations During Restaurant Week
Where? Various restaurants in Steamboat Springs
When? October 4th-11th
Food lovers unite! Steamboat’s Restaurant Week will be in full swing from Saturday, October 4th to the following Saturday on the 11th. Follow your tastebuds as you adventure through some of Steamboat’s iconic local flavors. From sunrise scrambles to late-night bites at your favorite participating restaurants, this is a prime opportunity for foodies to enjoy special menus and can’t-miss culinary surprises. You don’t have to be a fine dining aficionado, either. Casual comfort food connoisseurs are welcome to join in on the fun!
Reservations are highly recommended while dining during Restaurant Week. These bites will go fast, so snag your spot ASAP. Participating locations in 2025 include Table 79, Salt & Lime, Del Mezcal, Big Iron, Noodles & More, Mountain Tap Brewery, Causeway Coffee and many more. Check out the full lineup of restaurants here.
Observe Celestial Objects at Musical Stargazing: Jay Roemer
Where? Legacy Ranch, 35435 U.S. Highway 40
When? October 10th, 6 p.m.
Have you ever wanted to combine your passion for astronomy and live music? There’s no better way to experience the musicality of stargazing than on Friday, October 10th at this unique collaboration between Strings Music Festival and Yampatika. The evening will feature live music from Jay Roemer on Friday night. Paul McCudden, a Colorado Mountain College professor, will teach attendees basic astronomy as the sun sets and the stars rise in the autumn sky. Participants will be able to safely view celestial objects using provided telescopes. Tickets are priced at $35 for adults, $18 for kids ages 6 to 18 and $2 for kids ages 0 to 5.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner to this event! Sit back, relax, enjoy good music and see which constellations you can spot at Legacy Ranch. Plan to park at the STARS Ranch next door (35465 U.S. Highway 40) and walk to Legacy Ranch for the concert and stargazing. An email will be sent two days before the event with additional details.
Introduce the Kids to Pottery with the After School Youth Pottery Wheel Class
Where? Warehome Studios, 2520 Copper Ridge Drive Unit C2
When? October 22nd (Runs through November 19th), 3:45-5:45 p.m.
Everyone knows that kids love to play in the mud. Harness that energy and let them explore pottery and all of the creativity that can flow through the pottery wheel. Students will learn how to wedge and center their clay on the wheel while they create cylinders, cups, bowls and potentially plates. Students will also receive a lesson on how to trim their pots on the wheel once the clay has reached the “leather hard” stage. Over the course of several weeks, there will also be opportunities to decorate and glaze their work. All pieces will be fired so that they’re ready for functional use in the home and kitchen.
This after school program is designed for ages 8 and up. The cost for the entire class is priced at $485, which includes the instructor fee and all of the clay and glazing materials required for projects. There will be a max limit of 15 pounds of clay per child.
Take the Stage at Steamboat Dance Theatre’s Annual Community Concert Auditions
Where? Steamboat Dance Theatre, 1955 Bridge Lane
When? October 24th & 25th, 8 a.m.
Auditions for the Steamboat Dance Theater’s Annual Community Concert will begin on Saturday, October 25th. There will also be a new dancer orientation and choreographer preview on the preceding Friday. Community members 18 and up are invited to participate. While you need to be an active member of the theater to receive an audition number, newcomers are welcome to check it out. Interested parties can pre-register before auditions to skip the line.
There will be a showcase of the dance options that will be part of the concert in March 2026. An effort will be made to cast everyone present, as this is intended to be an inclusive experience. Learn more about the Steamboat Dance Theatre’s mission here.
Lace Up Your Sneakers for the Foundry Halloween 5K
Where? Soda Creek Elementary School, 220 Park Avenue
When? October 25th, 8 a.m.
The Foundry Halloween 5K is a relatively new event that’s been added to close out the Steamboat Springs Running Series season. Participants of all ages are invited to celebrate Halloween in a safe (and sober) way. The Foundry Treatment Center is passionate about providing an opportunity for lasting recovery through an integrative body, mind and spirit program. Situated in the majestic Rocky Mountains of Steamboat Springs, The Foundry’s natural setting is perfect for encouraging instinctive growth as individuals forge fresh starts.
The 5K course takes place on a mix of trail and road, making it a fun challenge for the whole family. The best news? Halloween costumes are highly encouraged! Leashed dogs are also welcome to join, making this a great family-friendly and pup-friendly outdoor activity this October. There will even be homemade Halloween treats after the race, as well as exciting activities like face painting, games and bobbing for apples. Additional race information can be found here.
Take a Spooky Walk Down Lincoln Avenue at Steamboat’s Annual Halloween Stroll
Where? Lincoln Avenue
When? October 31st, 5-7 p.m.
The annual Halloween Stroll in Steamboat Springs is a favorite amongst many area families. On October 31st, the city shuts down Lincoln Avenue from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM for the biggest Halloween bash in the Rockies. The stroll isn’t your average trick-or-treating experience, either. Instead, locals go all out with next-level costumes, fire dancers, drum circles and even a kids’ costume contest that’s equal parts competitive and adorable. If you’re lucky, you may even spot fairies on horseback or snag a shiny penny from the legendary Over the Hill Gang.
Like any good Halloween celebration, there will be candy galore. Once your sweet tooth is satisfied, sit back and enjoy the iconic people watching. You can count on this being a night of all things weird, wild and wonderful. Don your best costume and take a walk down the street while businesses open their doors for trick-or-treating. This is a truly special community event, so whether this is your 10th year or your 1st — you’re sure to have a blast!
Happy October, Steamboat Springs!
With fall in full effect here in Steamboat Springs, there’s no better time to soak up the autumn vibes before freezing temps and snowy days make an appearance for the winter. Enjoy Halloween festivities as you prepare for the holiday season right around the corner. Enjoy these October events across Steamboat and mark your calendars so you don’t miss a thing!