What to Do in Colorado Springs This July (Our Personal Takes)
Colorado is turning 150 in 2026, and the CO 150 Film Festival is celebrating with 150 films made in Colorado, about Colorado, or by Colorado filmmakers, screening statewide throughout the summer in Colorado Springs, Denver, Greeley, and mountain towns across the state.
Notable films include The Hateful Eight, True Grit, Dumb and Dumber, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, and A League of Their Own. Most Colorado Springs screenings take place at Lulu's Downtown.
Where: Colorado150film.com for the full schedule
Green Box Arts Festival in Green Mountain Falls
The Green Box Arts Festival is one of the most anticipated summer arts events near Colorado Springs. Held in nearby Green Mountain Falls, it runs from July 4th for two weeks and features large-scale outdoor art installations, live music, yoga classes, naturalist hikes, wine tastings, and community art sessions.
New installations debut July 5th, including an immersive 30-minute audio experience called The Unexpected Literary Journey.
Where: Green Mountain Falls, CO | greenboxarts.org
James Turrell's Sky Space
For art lovers visiting the Pikes Peak region, James Turrell's Sky Space in Green Mountain Falls is a permanent light and sky installation worth the short drive from Colorado Springs.
Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival in Cañon City
Just an hour from Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival takes over Cañon City July 17–18 with kayak races, raft sprints, a stand-up paddleboard parade, mountain bike rides, and live music. It's one of the best Colorado Springs-area day trips for outdoor lovers in July.
New Restaurants and Food Spots to Try in July
Monsé's Pupusería has opened a second location in downtown Colorado Springs, expanding access to one of the city's most beloved Latin food spots.
Por Favor Tacos & Tragos continues to be a top pick for Mexican food in Colorado Springs, with a menu worth making a special trip for.
Taste of Pikes Peak 2026: New Venue at Hillside Gardens
Taste of Pikes Peak, the region's largest food and drink festival, moves to Hillside Gardens for the first time this year. Held Thursday, July 9th from 6–9 PM, the event features unlimited tastings from local restaurants, breweries, and distilleries across Colorado Springs.
When: Thursday, July 9, 6–9 PM
Where: Hillside Gardens, Colorado Springs
United We Rock at Rockledge Ranch (Coming August 1)
Part of the Colorado 150 / USA 250 celebrations, United We Rock takes place at Rockledge Ranch on August 1st with live bands, food trucks, arts and crafts, and whiskey tastings sponsored by Proper.
Lady Fingers Letter Press Turns 10
Downtown Colorado Springs stationery shop and creative studio Lady Fingers Letter Press celebrates its 10th anniversary this July. The shop offers letterpress and risograph printing classes, plus free community create sessions every Saturday morning.
El Paso County Fair in Calhan: A Hidden Gem
Many Colorado Springs residents don't realize the El Paso County Fair happens just outside the city in Calhan. With a demolition derby, rodeo, auto races, and classic fair attractions, it's one of the most affordable family outings in the region, with day passes starting at $8.
Frequently Asked Questions
What festivals are happening in Colorado Springs in July?
Major July events include the CO 150 Film Festival, Green Box Arts Festival in Green Mountain Falls, Taste of Pikes Peak at Hillside Gardens, and the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival in nearby Cañon City.
Where is Taste of Pikes Peak 2026 held?
Taste of Pikes Peak is held at Hillside Gardens in Colorado Springs on Thursday, July 9th, from 6 to 9 PM.
Is there a county fair near Colorado Springs?
Yes. The El Paso County Fair takes place in Calhan, a short drive from Colorado Springs, with day passes starting at $8.
What new restaurants opened in Colorado Springs this summer?
Monsé's Pupusería opened a second location in downtown Colorado Springs.
Listen to the full episode of Springs & Things for more details, honest takes, and local recommendations on everything happening in Colorado Springs this July.
Have an event tip or local recommendation? Email springsandthingspod@gmail.com or message us on Instagram.
