September is when Steamboat slows down. Summer crowds thin, the air cools just enough for a sweater at night, and locals gather for festivals, races, and community fun. It’s the sweet spot between lake days and leaf peeping and the calendar is packed. Here are the can’t-miss events we think capture the spirit of Steamboat in September.
1. OktoberWest Beer Weekend (Sept 5–6)
Friday kicks off with a Beer Stroll through downtown bars and restaurants. Saturday brings a beer garden at the base area with craft brews, a beef cook-off, stein-holding contests, live music, and a kid zone. It is Steamboat’s official toast to fall.
2. First Friday Artwalk (Sept 5)
Wander downtown galleries, boutiques, and creative pop-ups from 5–8 pm.
The Artwalk happens year-round, if you can’t make it in September!
3. Steamboat Farmers Market (Saturdays through Sept 20)
Yampa Street comes alive every Saturday with farm produce, baked goods, flowers, crafts, and live music. Grab a coffee, wander with a pastry, and let the mountain morning unfold.
4. Run Rabbit Run Ultras (Sept 12–13)
One of Colorado’s most iconic trail races. The 100-mile starts on Friday, the 50-mile on Saturday, with courses climbing Mount Werner and Rabbit Ears Mountain. Even as a spectator, it is inspiring to cheer these athletes on.
5. First Annual Zucchini Classic (Sept 13)
Yes, zucchinis on wheels. Locals decorate giant squash, strap them to derby bases, and race them down a track. It promises to be as silly and spirited as it sounds!
6. Tennis Ball Drop – Down the Ski Jump (Sept 20)
Part of the Fast & The Furriest 5K9 Doggie Run & Walk at Howelsen Hill. Buy a numbered tennis ball, watch them tumble down the 60-meter ski jump, and see if your ball lands first. Proceeds benefit the Routt Humane Society.
7. Sunset Happy Hour at Thunderhead (Sept 21 & 28)
Ride the gondola up for golden-hour views over the valley. Add live music, a drink in hand, and mountain air that cools just as the sky starts to glow.
8. Steamboat Symphony: And A River Runs Through It (Sept 26)
The Symphony Orchestra returns to Strings Pavilion with a program inspired by rivers — fitting for a town shaped by one. It’s a thoughtful, powerful way to welcome fall.
9. Steamboat Bike Park Whip Off (Sept 27)
Riders launch off the Buckin’ Bronc jump in this jam-style biking competition. Expect tricks, big air, and even bigger cheers from the crowd.
10. Emerald Mountain Trail Run (Sept 27)
The last race of the Steamboat Springs Running Series. Choose the 12k or 4-mile course and run (or cheer) through changing leaves and wide-open views.
11. Downtown Chili Challenge (Sept 27)
Local cooks bring the heat to this downtown showdown. Taste your way through pots of red, green, and creative chili recipes until you find your favorite.
12. Yampatika Fall Festival (Sept 28)
Torian Plum Plaza turns into a pumpkin patch and play zone with crafts, scavenger hunts, and bingo. A perfect family outing to wrap up the month.
Local Tips
- Double up your days. Pair the Artwalk with the Beer Stroll or the Farmers Market with the Zucchini Classic.
- Bring layers. September evenings cool quickly once the sun dips.
- Carry cash. Some vendors and food stalls still prefer it.
- Don’t rush. September is a season for lingering.
