Hello, Estes Park! This week’s arts and culture calendar is packed with book events, music, and spooky fun. From family-friendly pumpkin crafts and trick-or-treating in the sky to live bluegrass, folk, and singer-songwriter sets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Of course, the centerpiece of the weekend is The Stanley Hotel’s legendary Shining Ball, which I’ll be attending on Saturday night and reporting back from the dance floor. Until then, here are our top picks for what’s happening around town.
‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ Event at Macdonald Book Shop
Celebrate the release of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Party Poopers” at Macdonald Book Shop (152 E. Elkhorn Ave.) on Friday, Oct. 24, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. This special “authorless” event features fun swag like bookmarks, activity pages, and a photo-op poster, plus the chance to pre-order the new book or pick up any title from the series already in stock. A free, family-friendly event perfect for young readers and fans of Greg Heffley’s adventures.
Playing Now at the Historic Park Theatre
The Historic Park Theatre is busy this weekend. They open the new faith-based film, “Souls on Fire,” on Friday, Oct. 24, which centers on a boy whose body is burned but lives to tell the tale and inspires his community. A Ghost Hunt, Ghost Tour, and History Tour are all scheduled for Friday. All weekend, the theatre hosts psychic readings with medium Rebekah Blackburn, an atmospheric experience inside the historic venue. Readings are first-come, first-served, starting at $38 (plus a $7 booking fee), or you can book online to reserve a spot. On Saturday, Oct. 24, there’s a Ghost Tour at 8 p.m. and then at 10 p.m. No Picnic presents “The Rocky Horror Picture Show—Movie & Live Cast.” There are also free screenings of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” on Saturday, Oct. 24, and Sunday, Oct. 25.
SnowBelt Duo at The Rock Inn
Catch the SnowBelt Duo at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66) on Friday, Oct. 24, from 5 to 8 p.m. Hailing from Estes Park, this bluegrass-inspired pair blends old-time, folk, and improvisational jams with a playful spirit. Expect original songs, fiddle-tune standards, and plenty of local charm as Max and Ann bring their lively mix of strings and vocals to the stage. No cover.
Chuck Sitero at the American Legion
Head to the American Legion Post 119 (850 N. St. Vrain) on Friday, Oct. 24, for live music from Chuck Sitero of High Lonesome, performing from 6 to 8 p.m. The Tavern’s bar and restaurant will be open, making it a great spot for dinner and a show. Plus, the Queen of Hearts progressive raffle kicks off at 6 p.m., with the jackpot drawing at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Pumpkins & Petals
Celebrate fall with a hands-on floral arranging class at the Estes Valley Community Center (660 Community Dr.) on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Instructor Julie Bunton will guide participants in creating a seasonal centerpiece using fresh flowers and a real pumpkin as the vase—perfect for Halloween parties or autumn décor. The $45 fee includes all materials, tools, and refreshments, and no experience is needed. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early to craft your own fall masterpiece.
Trick-or-Treat in the Sky
Celebrate Halloween with a view at the Estes Park Tramway (420 E. Riverside Dr.) on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kids and families can enjoy sky-high trick-or-treating, a costume contest with prizes, pumpkin decorating, a spooky photo spot, and seasonal treats like cider and hot chocolate—all included with your regular tram ticket. Dress up, bring the crew, and get ready for a Halloween adventure above the clouds.
Estes Arts District Pop-Up Fundraiser
Support the local arts community and score great deals at the Estes Arts District Pop-Up Fundraiser. Stop by the green building down the alley at 143 E. Elkhorn Ave. from 12 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, for a 50% off indoor “sidewalk sale.” Items include holiday gifts, home décor, and even some furniture, generously donated from the former Wonderful Things gift shop. All proceeds benefit Estes Park’s arts community.
Painting Class: Trick-or-Treat Canvas Bag
Get crafty this Halloween at Creativity Cabin (342 W. Riverside Dr.) with a special painting class on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 3 to 4 p.m. Participants can design their own canvas trick-or-treat bags using provided acrylics, choosing from two bag sizes and taking home a custom, washable masterpiece the same day. The class is open to all ages and makes for a fun seasonal activity. Pre-registration is recommended with a $5 deposit, credited toward your purchase. Register online at Creativity Cabin.
Haunted Mountainside Lodge
Get ready for spooky fun at the YMCA of the Rockies’ Haunted Mountainside Lodge on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 5 to 9 p.m. Families with little ones can start early with “Friendly Frights” from 5 to 6 p.m., designed for ages 2 to 6, before the lodge transforms into a full haunted experience from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free for YMCA guests, members, and staff, or $10 at the door for the public (cash or Venmo). Proceeds benefit day camp scholarships, making this a scare that supports a cause.
Jeremy Facknitz at the American Legion
Catch singer-songwriter Jeremy Facknitz live at American Legion Post 119 (850 N. St. Vrain) on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Known for blending folk-rock and jazz influences, Facknitz delivers intimate stories of life, love, and self-discovery through dynamic, high-energy performances. Tickets are $20.
The Shining Ball
Step into Stephen King’s eerie universe at The Stanley Hotel’s annual Shining Ball on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 7 to 11 p.m. Held in the historic Concert Hall, the night features DJ Mack spinning dance-worthy tunes, a photo booth, and themed concessions and cocktails. Guests are encouraged to dress as their spookiest Shining character, or any Stephen King creation, for a chance to win cash prizes in the costume contest. Tickets are $108.50 + tax, and space is limited, so book early for Estes Park’s most chillingly iconic Halloween party.
Greg Miles at The Rock Inn
Catch Estes Park’s own Greg Miles at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern (1675 Highway 66) on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 5 to 8 p.m. Known as both a visual artist and singer-songwriter, Miles blends wit, irreverence, and a wide-ranging repertoire. His sets are equal parts tongue-in-cheek humor and heartfelt musicianship, making for an unpredictable and always entertaining evening. Free to attend.
Sunday Dinner Live Music at Lonigans
Wrap up the weekend with good food, craft cocktails, and live tunes at Lonigans (106 W. Elkhorn Ave.). Every Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m., the pub hosts free live music with a side of storytelling in a family-friendly setting. A perfect way to end the week on a relaxed note.
“Reflections of the West” – Art Center of Estes Park
The Art Center of Estes Park member show, “Reflections of the West,” features watercolor works by Connie Schmidt and pastel and oil pieces by Pat Sebern. The free exhibit runs daily through Nov. 10, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 517 Big Thompson Ave.