Introduction to Ouray, Colorado
Deep in the San Juan Mountains, nestled in a picturesque alpine valley, lies Ouray, Colorado. Known as the “Switzerland of America”, Ouray is home to a variety of outdoor activities and events year round. Whether you’re looking for a summer adventure or a winter escape, Ouray has something for everyone. Here are the top events in Ouray, Colorado.
Ouray Ice Festival
The Ouray Ice Festival is the premier ice climbing event in the United States. Every January, climbers from all over the world come to Ouray to test their skills on the frozen waterfalls and cliffs of the San Juan Mountains. The event includes competitions, clinics, and workshops, as well as a variety of vendors and activities. The festival also features music and films, making it a great weekend of fun for everyone involved.
Ouray County Fair and Rodeo
The Ouray County Fair and Rodeo is an annual event that takes place every August in Ouray. The fair features a variety of events, including rodeo events such as bareback riding, bull riding, team roping, and barrel racing. There are also tractor pulls, animal shows, and a variety of other activities. The fair also features live music, food, and craft vendors, making it a great way to spend a summer weekend.
Ouray 4th of July Celebration
Ouray celebrates Independence Day with a two-day celebration that includes a variety of activities. On the first day, there is a parade that winds through the streets of Ouray with floats, music, and more. After the parade, festivities continue with live music, food vendors, and activities for the whole family. On the second day, the celebration continues with a fireworks show and more music and activities.
Mountain Film Festival
The Mountain Film Festival is held every June in Ouray and celebrates the best in outdoor adventure films. The festival features a variety of films that highlight the beauty of the outdoors and the thrill of adventure. The event also features a variety of activities, including workshops, clinics, and live music. The festival is a great way to celebrate the outdoors and learn more about the world of adventure filmmaking.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool
The Ouray Hot Springs Pool is a local favorite for soaking and relaxing. The pool is open year round and features natural mineral hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a long day of outdoor activities. The pool also features a variety of amenities, including a snack bar, lounge chairs, and a variety of other amenities.
Ouray Ice Park
The Ouray Ice Park is a world-famous ice climbing destination that has been featured in films and magazines around the world. The park is open year round and features over 200 established routes and climbing areas. The park also offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, changing rooms, and a snack bar.
Ouray Mountain Sports Festival
The Ouray Mountain Sports Festival is held every July and celebrates the best of mountain sports. The festival includes competitions in kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more. The event also features a variety of vendors, live music, and activities for the whole family.
Ouray Jazz Festival
The Ouray Jazz Festival is held every summer and features a variety of local, regional, and national jazz acts. The event includes a variety of jazz styles, such as swing, bebop, and fusion. The festival also features a variety of vendors, food, and activities for the whole family.
Ouray Summer Concert Series
The Ouray Summer Concert Series is held every summer and features a variety of musical acts from around the region. The event takes place in the heart of Ouray and features a variety of genres, including rock, blues, and country. The concerts are free and open to the public and make for a great way to spend an evening.
Conclusion
Ouray, Colorado is a beautiful mountain town that is home to a variety of events throughout the year. From the Ouray Ice Festival to the Ouray Summer Concert Series, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a winter adventure or summer fun, Ouray is the perfect destination to experience the beauty and excitement of the San Juan Mountains. This small mountain town in southwestern Colorado consistently ranks as one of the nation’s most beautiful places, due in part to its stunning mountain views. But ouray, also known as “the switzerland of america,” boasts much more than natural beauty. It’s also home to some of the most exciting events in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. From outdoor summer festivals to winter celebrations, here are the top events held in Ouray every year.
The Ouray Ice Festival is one of the most popular events in the state. Every winter, ice climbers from around the world gather here to celebrate the return of winter. The festival features exhibitions, clinics, competitions, and slacklining events along with breathtaking views. The largest North American ice climbing competition is held here each January.
The annual Ouray Mountain Air Challenge is an event not to be missed. During this two-day event, visitors can watch two of the most extreme sports in the world—mountain biking and para-alpine skiing. Professional athletes come to town ready to compete in these extreme sports, which makes for an exciting and inspiring event.
In early summer, locals look forward to the San Juan Heritage Festival. This celebration of southwestern Colorado’s cultural heritage is filled with demonstrations, folk music, traditional dancing, equestrian events, workshops, and art exhibits. Held at the Tumbleweed Ranch, it’s a great learning opportunity for visitors of all ages.
The beginning of summer marks the opening of the Ouray Farmers Market. Here, locals and tourists alike can find fresh fruit and vegetables, locally produced foods, handmade crafts, and plenty of entertainment. The market is held every Thursday evening from mid-June through late September at the main park.
August brings the Ouray County Fair, an annual celebration of the area’s rich agricultural heritage. Held in Ridgway, the fair resembles a traditional county fair with competitive events, livestock exhibits, contests, carnival rides, and motorcycles.
Every autumn, the town of Ouray hosts the Ouray Film Festival to celebrate the art of filmmaking. The festival features screenings of short and feature-length movies, workshops and seminars, and other special events and activities.
Lastly, Ouray is known for its spectacular display of holiday lights. Each year, the historic business district is lit up with thousands of lights. Visitors come from near and far for this holiday event, with concerts, caroling, ice skating, and other activities.
From winter festivals to county fairs, Ouray offers something for everyone. Come and experience life in the mountains at any one of these top events.
