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 mid-October at the Old Colorado City History Museum area. For visitors exploring West Colorado Avenue's Victorian-era galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, it provides a reliable weekly market anchor throughout the summer season.
Findings is an artisan collective in Old Colorado City that represents Front Range makers year-round — not a periodic event but a curated permanent marketplace.The Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Art Festival in adjacent Manitou Springs is the Pikes Peak region's premier annual art event. Over 100 juried artists set up along Manitou's tree-lined streets over Labor Day weekend. Attendance regularly exceeds 15,000 visitors from Denver, Colorado Springs, and mountain communities. Commonwheel Artists Co-op — the organizer — has been in Manitou Springs for over 40 years.
The Front Range Maker's Market in Monument (15 miles north) runs seasonal events with local Colorado makers, with a June 2026 edition featuring handmade goods from regional artisans.
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 — 100+ juried artists, 15,000+ attendees, 40+ year track record.
The OCC Craft Fair in Old Colorado City runs weekly on Saturdays in summer, making it the most accessible recurring option. Findings artisan collective on West Colorado Avenue 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 — nearly 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 (40+ years), OCC Craft Fair, and Findings collective are the three most established 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.