When winter casts its silvery spell over the Rocky Mountains, Colorado springs to life with an array of vibrant celebrations, each as diverse and dynamic as the state's topography itself. As the gentle breeze transforms the landscape from serene white to a playful riot of color, March in Colorado promises revelry, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories.
Whether you're an avid festival-goer, a travel enthusiast, or a local Coloradan, this comprehensive guide to the winter festivals in March 2024 is your companion to the best gatherings the season has to offer. Join us in exploring the rich tapestry of Colorado's winter events, each a unique celebration of community, culture, and the great outdoors!
Top 5 Festivals and Events Happening in Colorado in March 2024:
Boulder International Film Festival
The Boulder International Film Festival (BIFF) is a must-visit for cinephiles and culture buffs. Against the backdrop of the majestic Flatiron Mountains, this renowned festival gathers a stunning mix of feature films, shorts, and documentaries from local and international filmmakers. With a focus on fostering dialogue and understanding through the art of cinema, BIFF is not just a series of film screenings, but an immersive experience that includes discussions, workshops, and after-parties that encapsulate the spirited nature of Boulder’s artistic community.
When: February 29–March 3, 2024
Where: Boulder, Colorado
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Monte Vista Crane Festival
The Monte Vista Crane Festival is a wildlife spectacle set in the San Luis Valley, where the skies come alive with the silhouettes of thousands of sandhill cranes. As these elegant birds migrate north, they pause in the Valley, offering bird watchers and nature enthusiasts a breathtaking show. The festival serves as an educational platform, with guided tours, field trips, and presentations on the natural heritage of the area. Beyond the cranes, the festival’s vibrant Hispanic culture is celebrated with live music, traditional dances, and mouthwatering local cuisine.
When: March 8–10, 2024
Where: Monte Vista, Colorado
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Frozen Dead Guy Days
If eclectic and offbeat is more your style, then the Frozen Dead Guy Days of Nederland will be right up your alley. What once started as a homage to a famously cryogenically preserved 'citizen' of the town has evolved into a one-of-a-kind festival that’s as quirky as it is charming. Part winter celebration, part macabre cultural event, Frozen Dead Guy Days features coffin races, polar plunges, ice turkey bowling, live music, and plenty of outlandish contests that defy categorization. Despite its unusual origins, Frozen Dead Guy Days is a family-friendly event that welcomes all to join in the fun and celebrate the fascinating lore of the town.
When: March 14–17, 2024
Where: Nederland, Colorado
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Denver St. Patrick's Day Parade
The Denver St. Patrick's Day Parade is a tradition that spans more than a century, and each year it grows bigger and better. Drawing over 200,000 spectators, the parade weaves a tapestry of Irish culture through the heart of the mile-high city. With spirited performances by step-dancers, high-school marching bands, and charismatic floats, the city streets transform into a flowing green mosaic. The parade is a family-friendly affair, and the jovial atmosphere is contagious, spreading the luck of the Irish to all who attend. Post-parade, the celebrations continue with various events throughout the city, including Irish music festivals, cultural exhibits, and themed pub crawls that turn the town into a haven for leprechauns and revelers alike.
When: March 16, 2024
Where: Downtown Denver, Colorado
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Colorado Springs St. Patrick's Day Parade
Not to be outshone by its northern counterpart, the Colorado Springs St. Patrick's Day Parade is a lively and spirited event that takes place on Tejon Street in the heart of downtown. As the city's largest and most jovial parade, visitors are treated to a colorful extravaganza featuring traditional Irish music, elaborate floats, and the infectious beat of bagpipers. What this parade lacks in age is made up for in enthusiasm, with the newer tradition quickly becoming a highlight of the local social calendar. The parade kicks off a day of community gatherings and special events at local pubs and cultural institutions, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
When: March 16, 2024
Where: Tejon Street, Downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado
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Winter in Colorado is more than just skiing and snowboarding—it’s a tapestry of culture, heritage, and community celebration waiting to be explored. The festivals in March 2024 offer an array of experiences! Whether you're drawn to the bustling city streets or the serene valley skies, there's a festival in Colorado that's sure to warm your heart this winter.
For more updates on the winter festivals and travel tips in Colorado, be sure to keep an eye on our social channels and event pages. We can't wait to share the adventure with you!
