If you’re gearing up for the upcoming Poudre RiverFest, you’re in for a fun-filled, family-friendly day that brings together community, education, and celebration—all centered around one of Fort Collins’ greatest natural treasures: the Cache la Poudre River.
Poudre RiverFest is more than just a festival. It’s a celebration of the river’s vital role in our community—as a source of clean drinking water, a home to wildlife, a beloved recreation area, and a key player in local restoration efforts.
2026 will be the 12th annual Poudre RiverFest. Over the years, we’ve brought together over 26,000 community members, helping raise over $28,000.
2026 Poudre RiverFest
Saturday, August 8, 2026
11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
New Belgium Brewing - 500 Linden St, Fort Collins, CO 80524
Learn more at https://poudreriverfest.org/
All photos from Noelle Williams Photography
Here’s your guide to navigating all the amazing experiences waiting for you at this year’s event:
🎨 Family Zone
Need a casual spot for the little ones to recharge? The Family Zone is a family-friendly space with coloring sheets, fun games, and small activities designed for younger attendees. It’s also a perfect spot for parents to take a seat, enjoy some shade, and let kids unwind in a safe and engaging environment.
🧘 Free Yoga Class with Old Town Yoga
Start your festival day with a free yoga class led by Old Town Yoga at 11:00 AM on the New Belgium grass. Bring your mat, water bottle, and a friend for a relaxed, community-centered way to kick off Poudre RiverFest.
🖌️Free Pinot’s Palette Paint Class
Tap into your creative side with a free Pinot’s Palette paint class inside New Belgium Brewing. This hands-on activity is a fun way to slow down, make something river-inspired, and take home a creative memory from the festival.
🏞️Poudre River Experience
One of the highlights of the festival is the Poudre River Experience—a 30’ x 10’ immersive tunnel that takes you on a journey from the Headwaters to the Lower Watershed. Along the way, you’ll encounter sights, sounds, and even smells from the natural river environment. It’s like stepping into a living storybook of the Cache la Poudre. This is a can’t-miss attraction that’s great for all ages.
🎶 New Belgium Outdoor Stage
Bring your dancing shoes! The New Belgium Outdoor Stage will host four amazing local bands throughout the day. It’s the perfect soundtrack for your festival experience—whether you're relaxing in the grass or dancing with friends and family.
Schedule:
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12:15 PM – Cary Morin Duo
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1:30 PM – Antonio Lopez
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2:45 PM – Desiderata
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4:00 PM – Slow Caves
🍔 Food Trucks & New Belgium Brews
No festival is complete without good eats and cold drinks. Grab a delicious bite from a local food truck and enjoy your favorite New Belgium brews on tap. There’s something for every taste, and plenty of space to kick back and savor the festival vibes.
🏕️ Exhibitor Booths
Explore over 60 local exhibitors showcasing their work, sharing stories about their connection to the Poudre River, and offering hands-on activities, giveaways, and swag. From conservation groups to local businesses, this is a great way to engage with Fort Collins' vibrant and passionate community.
🎉 Festival Bingo
Don’t forget to stop by the Welcome Tent to pick up your Poudre RiverFest Bingo Card! Visit the booths and activities listed on the card to collect stamps, and return it to the tent for a chance to win a fantastic prize. Plus, the Bingo Card is a great way to make sure you see everything at the festival.
Whether you’re coming for the music, the learning, the food, the free yoga and paint classes, or just to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors with your community, Poudre RiverFest is an unforgettable celebration of all the things that make Fort Collins—and our river—so special. We can’t wait to see you there! For more information, visit their website here.
