While November can be crisp and cold, in Colorado, we’re lucky that even if wintry snowstorms roll in, sunshine and milder weather soon follow, creating a postcard-perfect environment to enjoy fun events — both inside and out in nature.

In Colorado, November offers a range of fun activities, including vibrant festivals, cultural events, outdoor adventures and trips to explore historic landmarks. Here are some of our favorites:

Nov. 2: The end of Daylight Savings Time – throughout Colorado

At 2 a.m., early on Nov. 2, clocks will “fall” back one hour, giving everyone an extra hour. That Sunday — and in the days that follow — take advantage of the earlier sunrise to get out for a morning walk or a sunrise hike. Catch the golden morning light over Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins or find peaceful reflection as you birdwatch at a nearby natural area.

And it’s not just the mornings where you can benefit from the change. Try adding an evening activity that requires earlier darkness, such as stargazing or gathering the family around a campfire before settling in for the night.

If you typically struggle with the time change, here are other tips that can help from UCHealth experts.

Nov. 8: Georgetown Bighorn Sheep Festival – Georgetown, Colorado

If you frequently drive I-70 into the mountains, you’ve probably seen Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep along the roadside cliffs and hillsides near Georgetown. So, it’s no surprise that a Bighorn Sheep Festival would take place there, the home of Colorado’s oldest and largest bighorn herds. This charming mountain town, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is the perfect backdrop to celebrate Colorado’s official state animal.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or you’re simply looking for a unique family outing, this free festival that takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. promises a day filled with educational activities, guided tours and plenty of opportunities to spot the iconic bighorn sheep in their natural habitat.

There will be education talks and archery at the Gateway Visitor Center, 1491 Argentine St., and kids’ activities, crafts, music and food trucks at 600 6th St. in Georgetown. 

Nov. 1-11: Veterans Week – Colorado Spring, Colorado

Colorado Springs is gearing up for its first Veterans Week celebration in an effort to revive the city’s traditional Veterans Parade. The event honors veterans from all branches.

Veterans Week kicks off with the historic Air Force vs. Army football face-off at Falcon Stadium. On Nov. 7, a Purple Heart Exhibit opens at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. That event showcases 150 military medals and decorations, including original artwork used in the design and engraving of the Purple Heart medal, and historic medals from the Revolutionary War and American Civil War.

On Nov. 8, the Veterans Parade starts at 11 a.m. And on Nov. 11, the week’s events will conclude with a Veterans Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Observance.

As part of the effort to celebrate service and sacrifice, 1,111 flags will stand in a field in downtown Colorado Springs as a physical expression of gratitude for service members. Community members can “adopt” a flag to include their honoree’s name, military branch and years or place of service. Proceeds benefit the “In Their Honor Veterans Day Parade.”

Nov. 1-30: Native American Heritage Month – throughout Colorado

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time when the National Park Service, museums and other organizations come together to honor the rich traditions, languages and contributions of Indigenous peoples while also acknowledging the tragedies they have endured.

One such tragedy was the Sand Creek Massacre, an event that forever altered the lives of the Cheyenne and Arapaho people and changed the course of U.S. history. On Nov. 29, 1864, approximately 700 U.S. soldiers attacked the lodges of unsuspecting Arapaho and Cheyenne civilians near Eads, Colorado. Over the course of eight hours, troops killed 230 individuals, primarily women, children and the elderly.

The History Colorado Center, located at 1200 Broadway in Denver, features a permanent exhibit titled “The Sand Creek Massacre: The Betrayal that Changed Cheyenne and Arapaho People Forever.”

To recognize Native American Heritage Month, visit this exhibit or tour the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site.

There are many other significant locations throughout Colorado where you can deepen your understanding and respect for the Indigenous people of this region during November or any other month of the year. Explore these other sites and museums to enrich your knowledge and appreciation. 

Nov. 22-23: Winter Wonderland Holiday Bazaar – Pueblo, Colorado

More than 100 vendors will fill the Pueblo Convention Center for two days. Along with finding that personal and unique gift for those on your holiday shopping list, you’ll also enjoy live entertainment that includes Irish dancers and an aerial team.

Santa Claus and the Grinch will also be there, and kids 10 and under are free. Admission is $5 for adults.