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 3-13: 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 4-10: Colorado Rockies home season begins in Denver
Colorado Rockies’ opening homestand starts April 4 with Opening Day at Coors Field. The game against the Oakland Athletics will be the Rockies’ seventh game of their 162-game schedule for the 2025 Major League Baseball season.
Opening Day festivities on April 4 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 the Athletics on April 5 and 6, and then they’ll play the Milwaukee Brewers from April 8 to 10.
Throughout April: Closing day events at Colorado ski resorts
Even if you don’t ski, closing day at a ski area can be entertaining. There is live music, costumes and usually, sunshine. Oh, and pond skimming.
Pond skimming – at least in some form – is a common closing-day activity at Colorado’s ski mountain resorts. What is “pond skimming?” Everyone sets it up a bit differently, but the general idea is that a participant skis or snowboards down the slope with enough speed (and agility) to ride across the water of a pond to make it safely to the snow on the other side. How many make it? You’ll have to watch to find out.
It is free to visit a ski resort’s “base,” where most of these activities occur, but if you’re not skiing, bring your snow (or slush) boots.
One place to check out these festivities is at Steamboat Ski Resort. You can celebrate with their annual Splashdown Pond Skim on April 13 and their closing day events, which include music, more races and food on April 20.
April 13: Attend the Steamboat Cardboard Classic
Looking for another entertaining event in Steamboat? The Steamboat Ski Area hosts its 43rd 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 12: Colorado Springs Bike Swap in Colorado Springs
Colorado is a cyclist state. Nearly half of Colorado adults ride bikes for exercise or fun. Colorado Springs hosts one of the largest bike swaps in the state, fostering a sense of community among cycling enthusiasts.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 12, at SoccerHaus, 4845 List Drive, people can swap, sell and buy everything bicycle. Kids are free, and tickets are $5 for adults. Proceeds benefit Kids on Bikes and the Colorado Springs Mountain Bike Association.
April 12: 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 12 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 18-19: 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.
The lineup will be released on March 14. Try the app during the event to personalize your viewing lineup.
April 24-26: 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-hour sessions, daytime performances and educational workshops. Tickets are required.
April 30- May 4: 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.
Throughout April: The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Colorado Springs
Enjoy the beauty of Spring during a ride on the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. It is the highest and longest cog railroad in the world, reaching an altitude of 14,107 feet (which takes 1 hour and 10 minutes). On your way to the summit of Pikes Peak, you will likely see abundant wildlife, including Colorado bighorn sheep, elk and yellow-bellied marmot. Tickets are required, and early reservations are recommended. Also, here is a list of other great scenic railways throughout Colorado.