July is one of the most beautiful months in Colorado. Summer is in full swing, and the warm weather means you can enjoy plenty of outdoor events and activities. Whether you’re eager to venture into the mountains, enjoy live music with a picnic or attend a one-of-a-kind arts event, here are some ideas for fun things to do in Colorado in July:

July 3-5: Cherry Creek Arts Festival – Cherry Creek North

For two days each summer, art fills the streets in Denver’s Cherry Creek North neighborhood during the annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival.

Colorful art will dazzle you, and along the way, you can enjoy live music, kids’ activities and delicious food. Plus, you can learn more about art education.

This event is free and opens each day at 10 a.m.

July 6-11: Rooftop Rodeo – Estes Park

Watch the world’s top rodeo contestants wrangle calves and tangle with bulls during this six-day “rodeo with altitude.” Estes Park’s rodeo organizers brag that the event takes place at the highest altitude of any rodeo in the U.S. This signature Estes Park event offers contestants a chance to cool off and enjoy some mountain beauty as they show off old-western skills from bull riding to cattle roping and barrel racing.

The event features everything you’d expect from a class rodeo: family fun, thrilling entertainment, food and vendors. Covered grandstands ensure an enjoyable experience no matter the weather.

July 10–12: Rocky Mountain Regional Rodeo 43 — Jefferson County

Another great rodeo option in July is the Rocky Mountain Regional Rodeo 43, hosted by the Colorado Gay Rodeo Association.

This year’s event heads back outdoors to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Golden.

The three-day rodeo goes beyond traditional competitions, celebrating inclusivity in Western culture and drawing competitors and spectators from across the country. It kicks off with a junior rodeo on July 10, featuring up-and-coming riders in poles, barrels and flag racing.

Classic events like bull riding and barrel racing share the spotlight with unconventional competitions like goat dressing and the wild drag race, highlighting both grit and community. The event also supports local charities and initiatives, making it a meaningful way to spend the weekend.

July 10-19: Wildflower Festival – Crested Butte

The picturesque mountain town of Crested Butte is known as the wildflower capital of Colorado. The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary. It offers guided and self-guided hikes and walks, adventure photography and art workshops, nature-inspired culinary classes and more. Learn about geology, birding, butterflies and the history behind Crested Butte and the area’s wildflowers. Events are generally limited to 15 participants and sell out fast.

July 24-26: Burro Days – Fairplay

Burros played an important role in Colorado’s mining history — and the town of Fairplay hasn’t forgotten. For 76 years, town leaders have honored that legacy with a free, family-friendly event.

The tradition began with a daring burro race from Leadville to Fairplay. While the route has evolved over the years, the spirit remains the same. Today, racers dash to the top of a mountain pass and back, with a shorter course available for those seeking a less intense challenge.

But the fun doesn’t stop with the burros. There is also an event featuring llamas, along with some more silly competitions, like an outhouse race.

Come for the history and stay for the fun.

Throughout July: Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival – Boulder, Colorado

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival brings classic stories to life with professional performances of Shakespeare’s plays. Hosted by CU Presents, this long-running summer tradition features outdoor theater, engaging productions and a chance to experience the timeless works in an open-air setting.

It’s an ideal way to enjoy a warm Colorado evening while soaking up culture and live performance.

July 1-31: Explore the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk – Pueblo, Colorado

In Pueblo, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk offers a vibrant setting for summer evenings, with walking paths, boat rides, educational sites and nearby dining creating a lively atmosphere along the water.

The area hosts seasonal activities and events throughout the summer, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy the city’s unique character.

July 1-30: Hike a 14er – throughout Colorado

If you’re not from Colorado, you may be wondering, “What is a 14er?” A 14er or “Fourteener” is a mountain that exceeds 14,000 feet of elevation. Colorado has 58 named 14ers, the most of any state in the United States.

Summer is the best time to summit a 14er, as most of the snow has melted, but it is also known for afternoon storms. And hiking 14ers is extremely challenging and can be dangerous. Here’s more information on the various levels of difficulty of Colorado’s 14ers.

Regardless of which one you pick, you’ll want to start your hike as early as possible and depart the summit by noon at the latest. You don’t want to be above tree line when a lightning storm hits. It’s also essential to bring plenty of water and food along with warm layers and a dependable headlamp if you’re starting your hike in the early morning hours.

If hiking a 14er feels too intimidating, there are two high peaks with roads to the top. They are Mount Blue Sky near Denver and Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs. Plan ahead, since you’ll need reservations to reach the summits of these famous peaks.