If you’ve just moved to Denver or are planning your relocation, October is one of the best months to experience what makes the Mile High City unique. Crisp fall air, colorful foliage, and a packed calendar of festivals and family-friendly activities make this a great time to get out and explore. Here’s your newcomer’s guide to the top October events in Denver and around Denver.
For those looking to engage in some of the best October events in Denver, be sure to check out local listings as the month approaches.
Make sure to mark your calendars for the exciting October events in Denver!
These October events in Denver offer something for everyone, from food lovers to families seeking fun.
Denver Oktoberfest – Downtown Denver
Celebrate one of the city’s longest-running traditions in the historic Ballpark neighborhood. Denver Oktoberfest features live music, stein-hoisting competitions, bratwurst-eating contests, and plenty of German beer. It’s a can’t-miss event that draws both locals and newcomers together for a true Denver fall tradition.
Dates: Late September through early October
Why go: Classic Denver tradition, great for meeting new people and enjoying fall weather.
Don’t miss out on the October events in Denver, especially if you enjoy festive atmospheres with friends and family.
Pumpkin Festivals – Littleton, Highlands Ranch & Beyond
From corn mazes to pumpkin patches, October is all about fall fun. The Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms Pumpkin Festival in Littleton is especially popular, offering hayrides, a corn maze, food trucks, and thousands of pumpkins for picking. Many farms around Denver also host their own fall harvest events.
Dates: Weekends in October
Why go: Perfect for families, photo opportunities, and seasonal fun.
Many farms host their own October events in Denver, ensuring a variety of experiences for visitors.
Glow at the Gardens – Denver Botanic Gardens
The Denver Botanic Gardens transforms into a glowing autumn wonderland with hundreds of carved pumpkins illuminated at night. Add in spooky displays, live performers, and seasonal treats, and you’ve got one of the city’s most Instagram-worthy events.
Dates: Mid to late October evenings
Why go: Unique fall experience in a beautiful setting.
Make your October memorable by participating in the October events in Denver that celebrate creativity and community.
Boo at the Zoo – Denver Zoo
One of the city’s favorite family-friendly events, Boo at the Zoo lets kids trick-or-treat in costume while visiting animal exhibits decorated for Halloween. Expect themed treats, animal demos, and plenty of festive fun for all ages. Boo at the Zoo is one of the most popular October events in Denver that families look forward to each year.
Dates: Select weekends in October
Why go: Great for families with children and newcomers wanting to connect with Denver’s community events.
Denver Film Festival – Downtown Denver
Film lovers won’t want to miss the Denver Film Festival, one of the largest in the Rocky Mountain region. With screenings of independent films, Q&A sessions with directors, and red-carpet events, it’s an ideal way to dive into the local arts and culture scene.
Dates: Late October to early November
Why go: A cultural must for anyone new to the city.
Film enthusiasts will find that the Denver Film Festival is among the most exciting October events in Denver.
Fall Foliage Hikes Near Denver
While not a single event, October is the prime time for fall colors along the Front Range. Just a short drive from Denver, spots like Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Evergreen, and Georgetown offer brilliant aspen displays. Many newcomers find these day trips the perfect way to experience Colorado’s outdoors without a long drive.
Best time: First 2–3 weeks of October
Why go: Affordable, scenic, and a great way to explore your new backyard.
Tips for Newcomers Experiencing Denver in October
– Dress in layers: Denver’s weather can swing from sunny 70s to chilly nights in the 40s.
– Buy tickets early: Popular events like Glow at the Gardens and Boo at the Zoo often sell out.
– Use light rail or rideshare: Parking can be tight at large events downtown.
– Meet your community: Many of these events are perfect for making new friends and networking as you settle in.
Final Thoughts
October in Denver is filled with events that showcase the city’s culture, outdoor beauty, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re enjoying a pumpkin patch, sipping a beer at Oktoberfest, or taking in the fall foliage in the foothills, the October events in Denver are one of the best ways for newcomers to connect with the Mile High lifestyle.
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