Who says there's nothing to do in the dead of winter? Check out these three Colorado festivals in February.
As images of beach chairs dance across our daydreams, unpredictable snow falls, then melts, then falls again in Denver. But while the Mile High City isn't hopping quite as much as it was in warmer months, the cold brings several winter festivals in Colorado that are worth a road trip.
Snowdown in Durango
When: January 30 to February 3
Where: Various locations
The theme for this 41st annual winter festival is "A Comic Con Snowdown." Visitors are encouraged to dress in costumes referencing their favorite pop culture characters. Events are happening all week and include an escape room, a "search for the silver bullet" with a chance to win $250 in prizes, and the creative "build a bong contest," which will be judged on Sunday. There will also be scavenger hunts, costume contests, trivia contest, sports tournaments, eating contests, and even a kayak pool slalom. With tons of interactive activities happening each day, you'll never get bored.
Courtesy of Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Facebook)
Steamboat Winter Carnival
When: February 6-10
Where: Various locations
Head to downtown Steamboat Springs for this annual festival, which was originally developed to help Coloradans escape cabin fever. There will be ski jumping, ice sculpture judging, jam sessions, races and obstacle courses, and more. Check out an '80s-themed soiree with a bonfire on Friday and a night extravaganza on Saturday, which will feature athletes lit with LED lights and flares, along with a stunning fireworks display with the largest firework in the world. There will also be a parade down the snow-filled street on Sunday.
Cripple Creek Ice Festival
When: February 8-17
Where: Bennett Avenue, Cripple Creek
This winter festival returns for its 12th year, and the theme is "Super Heroes in Ice." You can climb on the interactive ice sculptures and share the moments on Instagram. There will even be an ice slide and ice maze for kids (and the young at heart). Get your drink on in the ice bar or shop the numerous street vendors. Fun, family-friendly events will span both weekends, so there will always be something to get involved in.
Do you plan to check out any winter festivals in February? Are there any that we missed on our list? Let us know in the comments.