If you’re mourning the end of summer already… don’t. You’ve got 27 more days of sunshine, golden hour, sweet treats, and soaking up every second of Northern Colorado’s magic.
Whether you’ve been busy, pregnant (hi, same 👀), or just feeling like the season slipped by—you’ve still got time to check a few local favorites off your list. Here’s how I’m romanticizing these last days of summer… and maybe giving you a little inspiration for your own mini adventure list.
Watch Hot Air Balloons Launch at Windsor’s Harvest Festival
There’s something about the early morning calm + dozens of colorful balloons filling the sky that just feels like magic. Windsor’s Harvest Festival is iconic for a reason, and the hot air balloon launch is the highlight.
August 30th – September 1st
Eastman Park and Boardwalk Park, Windsor
Pro tip: Get there early, bring coffee, and dress in layers—it’s chilly at sunrise!
💻 More information on the schedule of events here.
Get the Peach + Cream Cinnamon Roll from Colorado Coffee Company
It’s everything good about late summer wrapped into one indulgent, gooey swirl. Made with Scofield Fruits Palisade peaches, this roll is seasonal, sweet, and worth the drive (or detour on your morning commute).
Colorado Coffee Company 
Only around for a limited time, so don’t wait!
Catch Golden Hour at Sweetheart Winery
A glass of wine, a riverside table, and that soft golden light? It’s giving Pinterest-core, and you deserve it. Sweetheart Winery’s patio is one of the best places to unwind at the end of the day with friends, your partner, or even solo.
📍 Sweetheart Winery, Loveland
🥂 Try the rosé or sangria for a summer vibe
Stroll the Larimer County Farmers’ Market
Fresh flowers, juicy tomatoes, local honey, and live music—it’s the kind of Saturday morning that just feels good. The Larimer County Farmers’ Market is winding down, so catch it while you can.
📍 200 W Oak St, Fort Collins
🗓️ Runs through October 25th on Saturdays from 9AM–1PM
Hike That Poudre Canyon Trail You Keep Putting Off
Maybe it’s Greyrock, maybe it’s Hewlett Gulch, maybe it’s just a riverside stroll—whatever trail you’ve been meaning to try, now’s the time. The leaves are starting to turn early this year, and the canyon is calling.
Let Dinner Be Someone Else’s Problem: City Park Food Truck Rally
If cooking sounds like a chore, just head to City Park in Fort Collins on a Tuesday night. Dozens of food trucks + live music + sunset over the lake = no-brainer dinner plan.
📍 City Park, Fort Collins
🗓️ Every Tuesday through September 16th
💻 Find food vendors here
Mean Girls Under the Stars at The Lyric
On Wednesdays we wear pink… but on September 12th, we also watch Mean Girls on the outdoor screen at The Lyric. Bonus points if you quote along with the entire movie. Because you can’t sit with us unless you show up.
📍 The Lyric Cinema, Fort Collins
🎟️ Bring blankets, snacks, and your favorite people
💻 Get tickets here
Indulge at Loveland’s Autumn Sweet Stroll
If your sweet tooth is acting up (or you’re pregnant like me and craving literally everything sweet), the Autumn Sweet Stroll is calling your name. Technically, autumn is in the name, but this event is still during the summer season! Treats from local businesses + a walk through downtown = summer serotonin.
Downtown Loveland
🗓️ Saturday, September 13th from noon – 3PM
💻 Tickets and event information here
☀️ It’s Not Over Yet
So here’s your permission slip to enjoy what’s left of summer—guilt-free, full-hearted, and maybe a little sticky from cinnamon roll glaze.
Send this to a friend, make the plan, wear the cute outfit now. Summer isn’t over yet, and Northern Colorado is still showing off.
💌 Want to stay up-to-date on everything Northern Colorado has to offer and make sure you never miss an event? Sign up here for my 2025 seasonal fall guide!