Craft Shows & Fairs in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs' craft scene is anchored by two distinct communities: the historic arts district of Old Colorado City on the west side of town, and the creative hub of adjacent Manitou Springs. Both sit in the shadow of Pikes Peak and draw visitors from across the Southern Front Range. The city's outdoor recreation identity and military heritage create a consumer base that supports American-made, handcrafted goods in a way that's distinct from other Colorado cities.
Colorado Springs' Craft Show Scene
The OCC Craft Fair runs weekly on Saturdays from June through October at the Old Colorado City History Center. For visitors exploring West Colorado Avenue's Victorian-era galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, it provides a reliable weekly market anchor throughout the summer season.
The Commonwheel Artists Co-op shop in Manitou Springs sells work by local Colorado artists year-round — not a periodic event but a permanent marketplace.The Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Art Festival in adjacent Manitou Springs is the Pikes Peak region's premier annual art event. Juried artists set up in Memorial Park over Labor Day weekend, and admission is free. Commonwheel Artists Co-op — the organizer — opened its gallery in 1974, and the 2026 festival is its 52nd.
The Front Range Maker's Market in Monument (15 miles north) has hosted seasonal markets with local Colorado makers; check the organizer for current dates.
Country Fairs & County Events Near Colorado Springs
The El Paso County Fair runs in summer, reflecting the county's split character — urban and suburban on the west, agricultural in areas like Calhan and Peyton on the east. Livestock, 4-H, craft exhibits, and commercial vendors.
The Colorado State Fair in Pueblo (45 miles south on I-25) is a legitimate day-trip destination. Running late August through Labor Day weekend at the Colorado State Fairgrounds, it has hosted agricultural and craft exhibitions since 1872. The Colorado State Fair Holiday Bazaar — a separate event with 150+ vendors — extends the Pueblo draw into the holiday season.
Best Times to Visit Colorado Springs for Craft Events
June–October is the outdoor season. The OCC Craft Fair runs every Saturday in that window. The Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Festival (Labor Day weekend) is the marquee annual event. November–December has a growing holiday market calendar. Visit Colorado Springs (visitcos.com) lists area events as they're confirmed each season.Nearby Cities for Craft Shows
- Manitou Springs — 5 miles west; Commonwheel Artists Co-op year-round; Labor Day Art Festival; gallery corridor
- Denver — 70 miles north via I-25; full Front Range maker market calendar
- Pueblo — 45 miles south; Colorado State Fair (August–September) and Holiday Bazaar
- Boulder — 100 miles north; Pearl Street markets, Firefly seasonal events
- Monument — 15 miles north; Front Range Maker's Market seasonal events
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best craft shows in Colorado Springs, Colorado?
The Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Art Festival in Manitou Springs is the standout annual event — a juried, free-admission festival held for more than 50 years.
The OCC Craft Fair in Old Colorado City runs weekly on Saturdays in summer, making it the most accessible recurring option. The Commonwheel Artists Co-op shop in Manitou Springs provides year-round handmade retail.
When do craft shows happen in Colorado Springs?
The outdoor market season runs June through October. The OCC Craft Fair is weekly during those months. The Commonwheel Labor Day Festival anchors the Labor Day weekend. Holiday craft fairs emerge November–December on the visitcos.com listings.
Are there country fairs near Colorado Springs?
The El Paso County Fair is the local option. The Colorado State Fair in Pueblo (45 miles south) is the major regional event — more than 150 years of history and a craft exhibition alongside traditional fair programming.
Is there a handmade market scene in Colorado Springs?
Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs together form the core of the area's handmade market scene. Commonwheel Artists Co-op (since 1974) and the long-standing OCC Craft Fair are the key touchpoints. Colorado College contributes ongoing arts community energy.
Find Events in Colorado Springs
Browse upcoming craft shows, handmade fairs, and artisan markets in Colorado Springs on CraftShow Events — including Old Colorado City, Manitou Springs, Monument, and the broader Pikes Peak region.