6 things to do in May in Colorado

By:
April 10, 2024
Photo of Telluride’s Mountainfilm festival banner, a great activity to enjoy in Colorado in May.
The Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride, Colorado brings together a community of filmmakers and change makers, showcasing documentary films that celebrate adventure, activism, social justice, environment and indomitable spirit. Photo by Ben Eng, courtesy of Mountainfilm Festival.

May is a wonderful time to be a Coloradan or visit Colorado. With mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine and a wide range of activities to enjoy, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a movie buff, a foodie or simply looking to enjoy the great outdoors, here are six great things to do in Colorado during May:

May 1-30: Explore your local farmer’s market

Shopping at your local farmer’s market reduces the carbon footprint associated with the transportation of food and helps to support sustainable farming practices. Photo by Getty Images.
Shopping at your local farmer’s market reduces the carbon footprint associated with the transportation of food and helps to support sustainable farming practices. Photo: Getty Images.

Farmer’s markets around the state are in full bloom in May, so it’s a great time to load up on local produce, crafts and art while enjoying some time outdoors. Check out the farmer’s markets open in your area.

May 1-30: Take in the natural beauty of Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth reservoir in Fort Collins, Colorado, in May
May is a great month to enjoy Horsetooth Reservoir because you beat the crowds and can enjoy the over 6.5 miles of shoreline and many hiking trails. Photo by Getty Images.

Located just west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy a day by the water. You can rent a boat or paddleboard, and go fishing, camping, hiking and biking. It’s also the perfect place to bring a picnic or just relax. You need a Larimer County pass, which can be purchased at the kiosks located in the parking areas.

May 3-4: Royal Gorge Rodeo in Cañon City

bull riding at a rodeo, one of the things you can watch in Colorado in May.
Photo: Getty Images.

The Royal Gorge Rodeo in Cañon City is Colorado’s oldest continuous rodeo, celebrating 151 years in 2024. Enjoy wild horse racing, bull riding, barrel racing and bronc riding. There is also mutton bustin’ for the kiddos.

This Colorado Pro Rodeo Association-sanctioned event is held during the weekend’s Cañon City Music & Blossom Festival. More info at: https://www.royalgorgerodeo.org/

May 4-5: Celebrate Mexican culture and heritage at the annual Cinco de Mayo festival in Denver

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that celebrates the Mexican army's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, and is widely observed in the United States as a day to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. Photo courtesy of VISIT DENVER and TruBlu Images.
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, and is widely observed in the United States as a day to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. Photo courtesy of VISIT DENVER and TruBlu Images.

With more than 400,000 attendees expected, it’s one of Denver’s most fun and family-friendly events. The event includes live music, traditional dance performances and a variety of food and drink vendors.

May 6: Learn water bath canning

this may in colorado, learn to can in a canning workshop at your local extension office and preserve your harvest like done in these jars.
Photo: Getty Images.

Get ready for summer’s bounty by learning how to preserve your garden harvest or locally purchased produce. Home canning requires an understanding of the science behind food preservation. In this introductory class, hosted by the El Paso County Colorado State University Extension office, participants will learn all the skills needed to safety can high acid foods such as fruit, salsa, pickles, tomatoes, jams and jellies.

Pre-registration is required and open until May 4. You’re CSU extension office may also be hosting this event or similar food preservation workshops. Find your local extension office for more information.

May 23-27: Become a movie buff during the Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride

Telluride’s Mountainfilm festival brings together a community of filmmakers and change makers, showcasing documentary films that celebrate adventure, activism, social justice, environment and indomitable spirit.
Mountainfilm Festival showcases more than 100 documentary films. Photo by Matt Kroll, courtesy Mountainfilm Festival.

The festival will showcase 100+ screen-worthy documentary films that audiences may never get a chance to watch elsewhere. Mountainfilm is all about inspiring audiences to create a better world. The event also includes an all-day symposium, guest presentations, book signings, musical concerts, parties and outdoor activities.

Hiking Ready. Set. CO To do in Colorado

About the author

Megan Jansson is a Social Media Communication Strategist at UCHealth with a passion for all things health. She worked as a certified personal trainer for many years, earned her bachelor’s degree in strategic advertising at the University of Colorado Boulder and earned her master’s degree in public health at Colorado State University. Always having a big passion for writing, she’s written numerous articles and stories for Colorado State University and the Colorado School of Public Health.