September in Northern Colorado: Your Guide to Festivals, Food, Music, and More

September is one of the most vibrant months of the year in Northern Colorado. The air turns crisp, the light gets golden, and our communities—from Fort Collins to Loveland, Windsor, and Timnath—come alive with events that celebrate creativity, food, music, and connection. Whether you’re strolling Old Town Fort Collins, cheering at a parade in Windsor, exploring artisan markets in Timnath, or sampling treats in Loveland, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s your curated guide to what’s happening this month:

Fort Collins: Art, Music, and Local Flavor

• First Friday Art Walk – September 5
  Old Town transforms into a lively arts district with open galleries, live music, and creative energy. Perfect for a date night or casual stroll with friends.
• Open Streets – September 14
  Lady Moon Drive closes to traffic and opens to people for an interactive day of music, food trucks, art projects, and family-friendly activities.
• Fort Collins Foodie Walk – September 19 (5–8 PM)
  A beloved downtown tradition. Sample seasonal bites, meet local chefs, and discover new favorite spots on this self-guided tasting tour.
• Fort Collins Oktoberfest – September 27
  Raise a stein and enjoy Bavarian music, craft beer, food, and community cheer.
• Live Music & Brews
  • New Belgium Fridays: Free outdoor concerts (Sugar Britches, The Latin Groove, and more).
  • Washington’s: National acts like Tab Benoit with GA-20 (Sept 12) and The Dandy Warhols (Sept 23).
  • Avogadro’s Number: Eclectic local shows, including Fight the Stigma Music Festival (Sept 6) and Deborah Stafford & the Night Stalkers (Sept 19).

Loveland: Art, Sweets, and Cars

• Goodguys Colorado Nationals – September 5–7
  Classic cars and custom builds shine at The Ranch Events Complex.
• Pastels on 5th Street – September 13
  Downtown sidewalks become a canvas for local artists, with proceeds supporting Alternatives to Violence.
• Loveland Chocolate & Cheese Fest – September 13 (11 AM–5 PM)
  Indulge in artisan chocolates, cheeses, and specialty foods at The Ranch.
• Downtown Loveland Oktoberfest – September 20 (12–8 PM)
  Craft beer, live music, games, and vendors fill the heart of Loveland.

Windsor: Tradition Meets Energy

• 103rd Annual Windsor Harvest Festival – Aug. 30 to Sept. 1
  Northern Colorado’s oldest festival. Hot air balloons, live music, craft booths, parades, and fireworks make this a family favorite.
• Farmers Market at Boardwalk Park – September 6
  Seasonal produce, artisan goods, and local charm in a beautiful lakeside setting.
• Roar of the Rockies Powerboat Race – September 13–14
  Thrills on the water at Pelican Lakes, featuring high-speed powerboats and family activities.

Timnath: Community & Craft

• Timnath Fall Festival – September 13 (11 AM–3 PM)
  Celebrate autumn with live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, beer, crafts, and family-friendly fun.
• Second Sundays on Main & Artisan Markets – September 14 (10 AM–2 PM)
  A lively downtown market featuring farm goods, artisan products, art, and fashion—perfect for a relaxed Sunday outing.

Why September is Special Here

What makes Northern Colorado shine this time of year is more than the events themselves—it’s the community behind them. It’s families lining up for the Harvest Festival parade, neighbors raising a glass at Oktoberfest, live bands filling warm evenings, and artists bringing sidewalks to life. It’s about being part of something bigger—celebrating home, creativity, and the people around you.

Bottom line: Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the area, September offers endless ways to connect, explore, and enjoy. Bookmark this list, invite a friend, and make the most of the season.