If you're like us at Steamboat Lodging Company, you loved the Steamboat Springs Hot Air Balloon Rodeo. We were all hoping to catch this colorful spectacle this year, but unfortunately we've got a bit of bittersweet news: the beloved event is not taking place in 2026. But do not fret! Summertime in Steamboat is still packed full of fun events, adventurous activities, and you can still go up in a hot air balloon over the Yampa Valley!
While we’ll certainly miss seeing dozens of vibrant hot air balloons dotting the Yampa Valley sky, there’s no reason to pack away your summer vacation plans. Steamboat Springs remains one of Colorado’s best summer destinations, and there's still plenty of adventure, live entertainment, and Western charm waiting for you. In fact, summer in Steamboat might just surprise you....
For more info about Steamboat Summer Events CLICK HERE!
Wild West Balloon Adventures
Address: 753 Dougherty Road, East Highway 40 Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Phone: (970) 879-9191
Email: [email protected]
During your visit to our tiny slice of mountain heaven, take your vacation to new heights with a premier hot air balloon ride with Wild West Balloon Adventures. Whether you’re looking for the perfect moment for your romantic getaway, a group event, or a fun family activity, nothing beats this memorable experience in the sky!
Steamboat Oktoberwest
When: September 11th – 12th, 2026
Where: Downtown Steamboat & Gondola Square at Steamboat Resort
Tickets: Buy Tickets HERE!
Steamboat OktoberWest is being held in Steamboat Springs for another fun-filled year! Celebrating the 17th year in 2026, Steamboat OktoberWest is a celebration of craft beer in our beautiful mountain town. With an anticipated 30 brewers and between 1,000-1,500 beer enthusiasts in attendance, this lively event will include live music, food, and festivities.
Lucky 8 Ranch
Address: 23850 Tobiano Trail Oak Creek, CO 80467
Phone: (970) 846-8766
Email: [email protected]
Tucked away in the hills beyond Steamboat Springs, CO in a little town called Oak Creek, is an incredible 3,000+ acre ranch, home to Colorado’s largest buffalo restoration project. The Lucky 8 Ranch has been family owned and operated since 2014 and hosts over 500 head of bison (and growing) along with horses, alpacas, llamas, and chickens. Lucky 8 Ranch is the only touring Buffalo Ranch in Colorado, so we are so incredibly fortunate to have this right in our backyard!
Steamboat Food & Wine Festival
When: October 1st – 4th, 2026
Where: Variety Of Locations Around Steamboat Springs, CO
Tickets: On Sale Now!
Revel in delight at The Steamboat Food & Wine Festival this fall in Steamboat Springs. This popular event is back – and bigger & better than ever! Rooted in collaboration, Steamboat Food & Wine Festival pairs admired chefs not only with renowned winemakers, but with each other. With gourmet food samplings, wine tastings, world-renowned chefs & world-class offerings, this event is a no-miss while visiting Steamboat Springs this fall.
Stay With Steamboat Lodging Company
Sure, the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo may be temporarily postponed, but Steamboat Springs continues to deliver everything that makes Colorado summers so memorable. From rodeos and concerts to mountain adventures and hot springs, there's more than enough to keep your summer plans soaring. So while you won't see hot air balloons floating overhead, you'll discover something even better, a mountain town that's full of life, fun events, unique experiences, and even stay in a fabulous vacation rental with Steamboat Lodging Company. So pack your adventure gear, bring your camera, and come experience summer in Steamboat Springs. The balloons may be gone, but the fun is very much still here!
For more info about Steamboat Springs, CO check out these other great resources:
Top 15 Restaurants in Steamboat Springs
9 Best Hiking Trails in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Free Summer Concert Calendar