April in Colorado is a time of transformation and renewal. As days grow longer and trees begin to bloom, the state bursts with energy, events and activities that capture the essence of spring.
Whether you’re a local looking to explore new experiences or a visitor eager to discover the fun and beauty of the state, this guide to things to do in Colorado this April will help you make the most of your adventurous spirit.
April 2-12: Southern Colorado Quilt Show in Pueblo
Hosted by the Pride City Quilt Guild, the Southern Colorado Quilt Show is a 10-day event at the El Pueblo History Museum in downtown Pueblo. This free event, open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., showcases more than 100 one-of-a-kind quilts from regional quilters, each telling a story of its own.
There will be many different styles of quilts on display, as well as quilt raffles and appraisals. Donations are welcome.
April 3-8: Colorado Rockies home season begins in Denver
Colorado Rockies’ opening homestand starts April 3 with Opening Day at Coors Field. The game against Philadelphia will be the Rockies’ seventh game of their 162-game schedule for the 2026 Major League Baseball season.
Opening Day festivities on April 3 begin at McGregor Square with games and activities for people of all ages. Before the pregame ceremonies, enjoy music and batting practices.
The Rockies play two more home games against Philadelphia on April 4 and 5, and then they’ll play Houston for three games, April 6-8.
April 10-11 and 17-18: Fort Collins Book Fest
The Fort Collins Book Fest brings together readers, writers and thinkers for a weekend of inspiration and conversations. Each year, the festival features nationally recognized authors alongside local voices, offering panels, readings and workshops that explore literature, culture and creativity.
This year’s theme is “Multitudes (n.): The many selves we carry and the stories that help us see, understand and connect across them.”
Attendees can expect engaging discussions, book signings and opportunities to meet authors. Events are held at venues throughout Fort Collins and cover all genres. This event is free, but tickets are encouraged, so you’re guaranteed a seat.
April 11: Attend the Steamboat Cardboard Classic
Looking for an entertaining event in Steamboat? The Steamboat Ski Area hosts its 44th annual traditional rite of spring, a beloved event that never fails to amuse. Participants build cardboard boats using duct tape, decorate them with magic markers, strings and balloons and then race them downhill to a raucous finish. This spectacle attracts tourists and residents, who relish the hilarity of it all. To cap off the event, prizes are awarded in the Most Creative, Best Costumes and Crowd Favorite categories.
April 11: Northern Colorado Children’s Festival in Greeley
Looking for quality playtime for your kids? Then head to Island Grove Event Center in Greeley from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 11 for a day of fun and excitement at the Northern Colorado Children’s Festival.
United Way of Weld County knows that quality parent time creates positive outcomes for children, so they’re hosting an event just for that. This Children’s Festival offers quality play experiences for infants and children up to 8 years old. These play activities can be replicated at home. The event is free, and every family receives a bag containing information about parenting resources. There will be over 90 booths, hands-on activities, childhood health screenings and free books. Enjoy age-appropriate entertainment, including singers and dancers.
April 18-25: Celebrate Earth Day in Colorado Springs, Denver, Englewood, Jefferson County, Lafayette and Westminster
The City of Lafayette is celebrating Earth Month throughout April. Participate in compost and mulch giveaways or a rain barrel workshop. And learn what to do with items that are hard to recycle. View dates and details.
In Jefferson County, you can celebrate Earth Day on April 18 by working on trail improvements and supporting a restoration project. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, and there will be a raffle. Children are welcome but they need to be accompanied by an adult and need to be able to hike and use tools. Learn more and sign up.
In Colorado Springs, Earth lovers can venture to either the Garden of the Gods on April 18.
This free family event will feature interactive activities, demonstrations, educational booths, crafts and live animal experiences. All ages welcome. No registration required.
In Denver, spring into spring by viewing colorful lilacs and other spring flowers at the Denver Botanic Gardens throughout the month of April. This year, a tulip blight has damaged the tulips, which means you won’t see the large displays of these perky spring flowers at the Denver Botanic Gardens. But don’t worry. You’ll still be able to stroll through beautiful gardens full of other lovely spring blooms.
The Earth Day celebration at the Gardens takes place on April 22, which is also a free day. Free tickets for the York Street location are sold out this year, but you can also visit the Chatfield Farms location for free on April 22. Learn more and get your free tickets.
Englewood is hosting its annual Earth Day Celebration and South Platte Renew Annual River Clean-up at Centennial Park on April 25. This family-friendly event is a great way to connect with neighbors, celebrate the planet and teach children about environmental initiatives. Learn more.
In Westminster City Park, Earth Day revelers can also celebrate on April 25. Enjoy rides in electric vehicles along with music, free food, air brush tattoos and education exhibits.
April 24-25: FoCoMX in Fort Collins
This two-day music festival (Fort Collins Music eXperience, or FoCoMX) celebrates hundreds of Colorado bands and artists from all genres. In Old Town Fort Collins and the surrounding blocks, more than 350 bands play at 35 venues over the two days. Some music is free, but an event wristband will get you into all locations (some venues have a 21 and older age restriction). You can also volunteer for a four-hour shift to get a free pass.
Try the app during the event to personalize your viewing lineup.
April 23-25: UNC Jazz Festival in Greeley
The University of Northern Colorado in Greeley hosts one of the largest events of its kind in the nation. This Jazz Festival brings together more than 150 school bands and vocal groups from all over the country, including internationally recognized artists.
There will be concerts, after-hours sessions, daytime performances and educational workshops. Tickets are required.
April 25: Colorado Governor’s Art Show and Sale in Loveland, Colorado
Sixty-five of Colorado’s top artists will showcase their work at the Loveland Museum from April 25 through June 6.
Long regarded as a cornerstone of Loveland’s arts scene, the show offers visitors the chance to browse and purchase original artwork from the state’s great artists, while also supporting the Loveland and Thompson Valley Rotary Clubs’ charitable causes that support education and the arts.
April 29 through May 3: Cañon City Music and Blossom Festival in Cañon City
This is not your typical music festival. The Cañon City Music and Blossom Festival is the state’s largest community-run school music competition. High school, middle school and junior high bands from all over the county come to perform and compete in concert, jazz and parade bands, orchestra and concert choir.
The music competitions kick off the event and run through Saturday. Also on Saturday there is a race, parade and lots of activities in the park.