Family-Friendly Steamboat Springs Events

The four-season beauty of the mountain towns of Colorado draws visitors from all over throughout the year. The small-town charm of Steamboat Springs keeps visitors coming back year after year. Whether you’re taking a much-needed break with your immediate family or are gathering the whole family young and old to experience the fun of Steamboat Springs, you’ll find family-friendly Steamboat Springs events and activities to keep everyone busy during their stay. 

Family-Friendly Steamboat Springs Events

Get a taste of Steamboat’s eclectic mix of western heritage and winter sports. The carnival is the country’s oldest continuous winter carnival west of the Mississippi. Family-friendly aspects include a horse-drawn ski pull for the kids down a snow-covered main street, to the “Lighted Man” during the Night Show Extravaganza – whose battery-powered suit weighs 70 pounds! Winter Carnival Button passes are $10 each and “Buff” passes are $15, with proceeds going to support future winter carnivals and the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. 

Art in the Park

Every summer, artists and vendors gather in West Lincoln Park for a festival celebrating their creations. The festival features over 150 artist vendors displaying their handmade art, gifts, crafts, and more. Spend all day at the event, as there are also food trucks and stands offering delicious refreshments. Entry is free. 

Fourth of July Celebration

Celebrate American independence in Steamboat. The celebration is also a way to celebrate the Yampa Valley’s western heritage as well. The 100+-year-old event not only features the traditional 4th of July parade and fireworks, but there are also events like the largest pro rodeo event of the summer, a ski jump competition, a 1K fun run, and much more. Activities last throughout the weekend of the 4th all the way up to the big day. 

Yampatika’s Fall Fest

Head to Torian Plum Plaza at the base of Steamboat Resort and celebrate fall. The Yampatika Fall Fest includes fun for all ages. There are educational activities that focus on environmental stewardship, and other environmentally-friendly activities. The free event also features a free pumpkin patch, face painting, a photo booth, visits with Smokey Bear, and more. You’re encouraged to walk, ride a bike, or take public transportation to get to the event. Yampatika is an environmental non-profit organization dedicated to conservation, education, and stewardship. 

Yampa Valley Crane Festival

The annual event takes place in Steamboat Springs, Hayden, and Craig, Colorado, and presents favorite crane, bird, and nature activities. Enjoy guided crane viewing and bird walks, a demonstration with live raptors, bird art exhibits, workshops, documentary films, and expert speakers. The festival is free, but there may be small fees associated with special events. 

Plein Air Festival

Artists come from near and far for the chance to paint in the open air of Steamboat and the Yampa Valley. The works are painted on location and showcase the area’s natural beauty including historic landmarks, ranches, and other community highlights of Steamboat. The event is hosted by the Steamboat Art Museum and is free. Special events may have a small cost or suggested donation amount. 

Steamboat Food & Wine Festival

The adults of the group sometimes need a break to do something just for them. There are kid-friendly places around Steamboat where your kids can spend some time while you enjoy your own fun for a while. When you come this fall, make sure you say “cheers” to the annual Food & Wine Festival. With nearly two dozen chefs, plus winemakers, sommeliers, mixologists, and other specialists, you’re bound to find something to please your palate. Enjoy “introduction” classes and seminars on topics like wine tasting, spirits, and mixology. Attend a special lunch or dinner that allows you to taste various pairings alongside food from some of Steamboat’s best chefs and food and drink specialists. For a special treat, attend the Grand Tasting, featuring 70 wines and dozens of spirits so you can truly choose from the best of the best. The event takes place at a number of locations around Steamboat, so you’ll not only go on a tasting tour, but you can also find your favorite restaurant while you’re at it. Ticket prices vary by event. The Steamboat Food & Wine Festival is a 21 and older event. 

Inexpensive Family Fun in Steamboat Springs

You chose Steamboat Springs for a fun getaway with your family. Extend the fun to your accommodations by booking a vacation rental with Elevated Properties. When you’re not out enjoying one of our family-friendly events, prepare a tasty meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Afterward, spread out in the open living area and relax with a book, or watch a favorite TV show or a movie. Choose a one-bedroom unit for your small family, all the way up to a six-bedroom unit for a family reunion! Choose a premium unit for upgrades like stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, and more!