Fall isn’t just about viewing the bounty of autumn colors and first snowfalls of the season, though that’s certainly a big priority. It’s also a fabulous time to visit Vail, Colorado, for lively events like Vail Oktoberfest, Vail Concours and FreeFall Bluegrass Festival.
Find Vail event information, plus insider tips for making the most of the colorful season below. Check out the full Vail calendar for event dates.
Vail Farmers’ Market & Art Show
September–early October
Nestled in the heart of Vail, Colorado, the Vail Farmers’ Market & Art Show is a charming event that brings the spirit of this mountain town to life. From early summer through fall, East Meadow Drive transforms every Sunday into a bustling marketplace, offering a delightful mix of fresh produce, gourmet foods and artisanal crafts. It’s a haven for food lovers and art enthusiasts alike, with everything from homemade baked goods to unique handmade jewelry and artwork by local artists. New in 2024, the market extends its offerings with the Thursday Meadow Market, running from June 20 to Sept. 19, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. This midweek event provides a more relaxed shopping experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere or simply want to enjoy the market twice a week.
Vail Oktoberfest
September
There’s no place like Bavarian-influenced Vail for celebrating Oktoberfest, and this Insta-worthy mountain town invites you to do it over two autumn weekends. Free entry means you have more to spend on your ginormous preordered stein. Plus, there’ll be plenty of snacks to sample, like savory German brats and perfectly salted pretzels. Save room for the main draw, which is sampling authentic Bavarian brews, like classic lagers and wheaty hefeweizens. Feeling fancy and traditional at the same time? Don your favorite pair of lederhosen or lace up your brightly colored dirndl and pose for pics before the costume contest. Then watch feats of strength and skill (or test your own) in contests like the stein-lifting competition and keg bowling. Be sure to leave time for bucket-list-worthy leaf-peeping activities and fall-foliage hikes — it’s autumn in the mountains, after all, and some would argue it’s the most beautiful time of year. Find more Vail Oktoberfest tips.
Vail Concours
September
Coinciding with Vail Village’s Oktoberfest is the annual Vail Concours, a cool car event that culminates with a judged show over in scenic Lionshead. Stroll village streets and meander around the Eagle Bahn Gondola base area to see vintage collector vehicles and motorcycles (everything from Corvettes to Triumph Speed Twins), plus today’s coolest speedy “supercars.” Judging classes include Pre-World War II, Muscle Cars, American Classic, American Sports and so much more. Have a collector car of your own? See all those ruddy fall colors along the Barrett-Jackson Mountain Road Tour, where participants motor over to Steamboat Springs from Vail and back for a catered picnic.
FreeFall Bluegrass Festival
October
Bluegrass and brilliantly exposed mountain views go hand in hand — and there’s no better place to appreciate twangy banjo tones than Vail ablaze in color. See FreeFall Bluegrass Festival’s lineup including special performers like Bluegrass Generals, Drew Emmitt Band, WhiteWater Ramble and more. You don’t need to leave your kids home for this one, either. The Rock and Roll Playhouse caters to children aged 1–7, letting little ones jam out, play games and hear stories. A playtime KidZone, delicious food trucks and even a Bluegrass and Bloodies Brunch is all part of the fun.
Tips for Visiting Vail in the Fall
Dress in layers & bring your puffy jacket: Fall in Vail can be warm in the sun and cool in the shade, plus snow is a possibility. That means you should be prepared to add or shed a layer, or wear a warm-and-fluffy hat, depending on all sorts of factors, including time of day. High elevation here means the sun is strong even in cool weather, so wear sunscreen and don’t forget your sunglasses.
Make time for leaf peeping: The confetti of leaves in warm autumn hues are picture perfect around Vail, especially in the second half of September and into early October. That’s why any fall event should be accompanied by time set aside for leaf peeping. Whether you’re taking a drive or going on a self-propelled adventure, you’ll love to see fluttering aspens in shades of gold to burgundy.
Pets: Lively events can be stressful for your furry best friends. That’s why we suggest leaving your pup at home, especially for events like Oktoberfest. If you do decide to bring your dog along, be sure to keep them leashed and under voice command.
Bus Routes: Park your car and take the bus. Public transportation makes exploring Vail easy, and there are a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations available. See Vail’s bus schedules.
Vail Hotels: There are definitely deals to be had around Vail in autumn. Find the best fall rates on luxury Vail hotel rooms, condos and private residences by booking direct.
Dining: Some Vail restaurants close for the shoulder season in late fall; if you have a favorite one in mind, check ahead and make a reservation. Learn about what’s open in Vail.
Mark Your Calendars for More Vail Events:
- Check out the full Discover Vail events calendar.
- Find a handy list of Vail breweries and distilleries.
- Explore Vail’s always-popular signature summer event list.
- Use this insider’s guide to exploring Vail Farmers’ Market & Art Show.
- Try these tips for exploring Vail like a GoPro Mountain Games athlete.