July in Fort Collins
Local Events & Community Resources for CSU Residents
Welcome to July, Rams!
Summer is in full swing, and Fort Collins has plenty to offer. Whether you’re taking classes, doing research, or simply enjoying the season, this guide will help you make the most of your time in our amazing community.
4th of July Celebrations
Summertime in Fort Collins has a lot to offer, especially close to one of the loudest holidays in the United States: Independence Day. The 4th of July lands on a Saturday this year, which means a full day and night of fun activities such as barbecues, swimming, and of course lighting off fireworks (legally of course).
City Park Fireworks Show
The city’s signature fireworks display over City Park Lake. Gatherings start at 6:00 PM and the show begins at dusk (approx. 9:00 PM). — arrive early for a good spot.
There are also other fireworks displays in Loveland, Timnath, and Windsor.
- Loveland at the Ranch Events Complex at 9:15 pm with patriotic music playing on the radio at 96.1 KISS-FM, and will also be hosting food trucks and events throughout the day.
- Timnath hosts theirs at 9:30 pm at the Timnath Reservoir.
- Lastly, Windsor hosts theirs at the Windsor Lake Boardwalk Park at 9:15 pm, also with food trucks, live music, and other fun celebrations throughout the day starting at noon.
Old Town Independence Day Parade
Annual parade through Old Town starting at 9:00 AM. Expect road closures along College Ave and Mountain Ave. Live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the day in Old Town Square.
Heads up for CSU residents:
- Personal fireworks are illegal within Fort Collins city limits. Violations may result in fines.
- MAX bus service runs extended hours on July 4th – check the Transfor website for the holiday scheudle.
- Parking near City Park fills up fast; consider biking or taking the bus.
Farmers Markets
July is peak season for Colorado produce. Don’t miss these local markets.
Market
When
Where
Larimer County Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, 8 AM – 12 PM
Old Town Square
Midweek Market
Wednesdays, 10 AM – 2 PM
1001 E. Harmony Rd
Pro tip: Bring cash and reusable bags. July highlights include Colorado peaches, sweet corn, heirloom tomatoes, and local honey.
Summer Festivals
Tuesday Picnics in City Park
Join your neighbors every Tuesday at City Park for a relaxed community picnic. Bring your own food, a blanket, and enjoy the outdoors. A wonderful way to meet fellow CSU residents and explore one of Fort Collins’ most beloved green spaces. Also, don’t miss the historic Fort Collins Trolley rides running on select days through City Park — a fun and charming way to experience the city!
Summer Outdoor Movie Nights
Free outdoor movie screenings and community picnics on select Friday evenings in July. Click here for more information.
Local Hiking Destinations
Fort Collins is a hiker’s paradise. Here are some top trails near campus.
Trail
Difficulty
Highlights
Pineridge Natural Area
Easy
Flat, family-friendly, views of Horsetooth Reservoir. Great for morning walks before the heat.
Lory State Park
Moderate
6.8 miles round trip, panoramic views. Start early to beat afternoon heat and thunderstorms.
Lory State Park
Strenuous
Varied terrain, wildlife sightings. Purchase a parks pass or borrow a week free pass from library. Dogs must be on-leash.
Hiking safety:
- Start early — Colorado afternoons bring rapid thunderstorms, especially in July.
- Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
- Download trail maps offline before heading out — cell service can be limited.
Community Safety Reminders
Heat Safety
July temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity between 11 AM and 3 PM, use sunscreen, and check on neighbors — especially elderly residents or those without air conditioning.
Afternoon Thunderstorms
Colorado’s monsoon season brings fast-moving storms, often in the afternoon. If hiking, be off exposed ridgelines by noon. If outdoors, seek shelter immediately if you hear thunder. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming outdoor activities.
Fireworks Safety
Personal fireworks are prohibited within Fort Collins city limits — this includes sparklers. Violations can result in significant fines. Enjoy the free City Park fireworks display instead. To report unsafe fireworks use, contact Poudre Fire Authority at (970) 416-2870.
Wildlife Awareness
Keep dogs leashed on all trails. Do not feed or approach wildlife. Store food properly when visiting Horsetooth Reservoir or Lory State Park. If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run — make yourself appear large and back away slowly.
Rooted in Nature: Growing a Sustainable Future
Celebrating sustainability, biodiversity, and the natural beauty surrounding our CSU community.
A Place to Pause and Connect
This peaceful pathway and seating area invite residents to slow down, enjoy fresh air, and reconnect with nature. Green spaces like these support physical and mental well-being while encouraging walking, bicycling, outdoor recreation, and community interaction.
Protecting Our Natural Resources
Along the pathways, local ponds, trees, and waterways provide habitat for wildlife and contribute to a healthy ecosystem. These natural areas help improve air quality, support biodiversity, and remind us of the importance of environmental stewardship. All around Colorado State University Housing.
On-going events
Every Tuesday until September 15th, City Park hosts the FoCo Food Truck Rally where there are dozens of food trucks ready to serve everyone, and there’s live music for entertainment. It starts at 5:30pm and runs until dusk.
If you are into supporting local farmers and businesses, Fort Collins hosts their farmers market every Sunday and Wednesday from 10am-2pm off of Harmony Road and Lemay. There’s also the Larimer Country Farmer’s Market hosted in Downtown Fort Collins every Saturday from 9am-1pm.
Many cities also host free live concerts every week with some being hosted right at CSU on select Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30pm featuring different bands every time. Windsor also has a concert series hosted every Thursday at the Boardwalk Park on Windsor Lake from 6:30-8:30pm. Downtown Fort Collins also has live music in the town square on Thursdays starting at 7pm every week. Go dance and enjoy some nice entertainment.
