Summer Arts Guide: Family-Friendly Events Across Northern Colorado
Looking for creative ways to make the most of summer? Whether you're searching for a free outdoor concert, a hands-on museum experience, or a family festival, Northern Colorado is full of opportunities to experience the arts together.
At Artspire NoCo, we believe the arts inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning. While many of the programs we support take place during the school year, summer offers countless opportunities for families to continue exploring music, theater, visual arts, and cultural experiences throughout our community.
To help you plan your next adventure, we've gathered a few of our favorite family-friendly events happening across Fort Collins, Loveland, Timnath, Windsor, and Greeley.
Live Music & Performances
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Experience free live music, dance, theater, and cultural performances in parks and public spaces throughout Fort Collins. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of family-friendly entertainment under the Colorado sky.
Learn More: https://gardens.fortcollins.gov -
The Gardens on Spring Creek hosts a variety of concerts throughout the summer, including family-friendly performances like The Okee Dokee Brothers. It's the perfect combination of music, nature, and community.
Learn More: https://gardens.fortcollins.gov -
Free Wednesday evening concerts on the CSU campus featuring local and regional musicians, food trucks, and a relaxed family atmosphere. Great for picnics.
Learn More: https://www.visitftcollins.com/blog/stories/post/outdoor-summer-concerts-in-fort-collins/
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Pack a picnic and enjoy free Thursday evening concerts at Boardwalk Community Park. Local food vendors and beautiful surroundings make this a favorite summer tradition.
Learn More:https://www.windsorco.gov/parksrec -
Free concerts, family activities, and community events held at Foundry Plaza throughout the summer.
Learn More: https://visitloveland.com/a-locals-guide-to-one-sweet-summer-in-downtown-loveland/ -
Pack a picnic and enjoy free Thursday evening concerts featuring jazz, swing, big band, funk, and local musicians at the outdoor amphitheater.
Learn More: https://www.visitgreeley.com/blog/post/summer-concert-series-at-the-family-funplex/
Museums & Art
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Explore interactive exhibits that blend science, history, music, and creativity. From hands-on activities to special programming, it's an excellent destination for curious minds of all ages.
Learn More: https://fcmod.org
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Admission is always free to the Lincoln Center Art Gallery, where families can explore rotating exhibitions featuring regional and national artists.
Learn More: https://www.lctix.com
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Explore rotating art exhibitions, local history displays, and special family-friendly exhibits that celebrate Windsor's creative community. Admission is free, making it a great stop for an afternoon of art and exploration.
Learn More: https://www.recreationliveshere.com/183/Art-Heritage-Center
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Known as Colorado's Sweetheart City, Loveland also boasts an outstanding free art museum featuring rotating exhibitions, family art activities, and educational programs.
Learn More: https://www.lovgov.org/services/cultural-services/loveland-museum
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Home to one of the largest model railroad layouts in the country, this interactive museum delights visitors of all ages with detailed displays and hands-on exhibits.
Learn More: https://cmrm.org
Festivals & Community Events
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One of Northern Colorado's favorite summer traditions! Gather with family and friends for dozens of food trucks, live music, and an evening in City Park. Held Tuesday evenings through mid-September.
Learn More: https://www.focofoodtruckrally.com/
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Shop fresh Colorado produce, artisan foods, flowers, and locally made products while enjoying live music and a vibrant community atmosphere. Open Wednesdays and Sundays throughout the summer.
Learn More: https://www.fortcollinsfarmersmarket.org/ -
This annual celebration from July 23-26, features local artists, live performances, food vendors, interactive art experiences, and activities for the whole family. It's one of Northern Colorado's premier summer arts festivals.
Learn More: https://greeleyco.gov/events/culture-pop/
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A monthly community gathering at Pedro’s Coffee Shop featuring local makers, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Learn More: https://timnathchamber.com/events/ -
Bring blankets and lawn chairs for free outdoor movie nights featuring family favorites, plus face painting, yard games, and dessert trucks before the show.
Learn More: https://timnath.org/town-movie-night/ -
Every Saturday morning, families can browse local artists, makers, fresh produce, live music, and unique handcrafted goods while supporting local businesses.
Learn More: https://www.windsorco.gov
Make This Summer a Creative Adventure
Some of the most memorable family moments happen when we experience something new together. Whether it's attending a concert in the park, exploring a museum, or discovering a local festival, every arts experience helps spark curiosity, creativity, and connection.
At Artspire NoCo, we're proud to support arts education throughout the school year and celebrate the many organizations that make Northern Colorado such a vibrant place to live, learn, and create.
We hope this guide inspires your family to get out, explore, and make lasting memories this summer.
Explore More
Fort Collins Events: https://www.fcgov.com/events
Visit Loveland Events: https://visitloveland.com/events
Town of Windsor Events: https://www.windsorco.gov/parksrec
Town of Timnath Events: https://timnath.org/community-events/
Visit Greeley Events: https://www.visitgreeley.com/events
