To kick off the Ouray Ice Festival the Colorado Tourism Office has selected Ouray to be the first of many drone shows in 2026 to commemorate America’s 150/ Colorado 150 celebration. Since it is Ouray’s 150th, we wanted to celebrate in a new way with this drone show. You can view this from the RAB Pool Party at Twin Peaks Lodge or standing on the west side of Main Street.

Ski competition, yard games, and free food at Lee's ski hill from 12-3 pm.

Competition includes slalom, downhill, and jump contests for kids and adults. Athlete sign-up at 11:30 am.

Block party from 3-7 pm on 6th Avenue with fire pits, music, food vendors, and libations.

1-7 PM | 6th Ave.

Stroll, shop, and soak up local creativity featuring handmade goods, and live music by DJ Straylight. Upgrade your afternoon with wine from Noue DuBois Winery and charcuterie from The Sunny Side ($32) as you browse and connect with the makers behind the work.

6 PM | Wright Opera House
472 Main St.

Attend the premiere screening of the PBS documentary Ouray: Echoes in the Canyon. Admission is free for the first 180 attendees. Following the film, guests are invited to stay for a Q&A discussion with the director and producers.

10 AM–2:30 PM | 421 Main St.
Start at Centennial Park next to the Ouray Elks Lodge
(Tour leaves at 10:15)

Step back in time and experience the rich history of Ouray. Discover the stories that shaped Ouray through guided tours of historic buildings and live portrayals of some of the town’s most prominent historical figures. Local actors will bring history to life as they share the experiences, memories, and personalities of early Ouray residents.

8 PM | Fellin Park

Listen to the Ute Creation Story as told by Larry Cesspooch, and deepen your understanding of the people, cultures, and stories that have shaped the Ouray area for generations.

See the debut of a film celebrating Ouray’s 150 years.

Celebrate Independence Day in Ouray with community traditions, live music, and family activities.

July 3 | 6–10 PM
Fellin Park
Ouray Fire Benefit Concert
Kick off the holiday weekend with a live concert in Fellin Park benefiting the Ouray Volunteer Fire Department, the team that makes the annual fireworks show possible. Admission is $10.

July 4 | 7:30 AM
Ouray Community Center
Ourayce 10K
Start the day with a scenic footrace around Ouray. Registration is available day-of at the Community Center. Entry fee is $35.

July 4 | 10 AM
Main Street
Parade
Join the community for one of Ouray’s favorite Fourth of July traditions on Main Street. Bring your patriotic spirit, and remember: West side = Wet side!

July 4 | 11 AM
Fellin Park
Kids Games
Keep the celebration going with family-friendly games, activities, and prizes at Fellin Park. All ages are welcome.

July 4 | 2 PM
Intersection of Main Street & 6th Avenue
Water Fights
Don’t miss the famous Ouray water fight tradition featuring powerful fire hoses, friendly competition, and plenty of excitement. Spectators: be prepared to get splashed!

July 4 | 9:15 PM
Throughout Town
Fireworks
End the holiday with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the canyon skies at dusk. Personal fireworks are not allowed in the City of Ouray.

Watch the Hardrock mining competition and learn the history of mining in Ouray.

Catch the historic jeeps roll through town.

7-11 PM | Beaumont Hotel, 505 Main St.

Guests are invited to an elegant evening honoring the rich history and enduring spirit of this historic mountain community.

Hosted in one of Colorado’s most storied landmarks, the Ouray 150th Gala will commemorate Ouray’s sesquicentennial with an evening of celebration, history, and timeless charm. Guests are encouraged to attend in black tie attire or historical period dress as a tribute to the generations who helped shape the town’s legacy.

General admission tickets are $100.

4–8 PM | Fellin Park

Celebrate 150 years of Ouray with an evening of live music.

Headlining the celebration, Big Head Todd and the Monsters will bring their signature blues-infused rock sound to the stage, performing fan favorites including “Bittersweet,” “Broken Hearted Savior,” and “Circle.” Opening the evening, Hazel Miller & The Collective will deliver an energetic mix of soul, jazz, and blues led by legendary Colorado vocalist.

Food and beverage vendors will be available on-site. No outside alcohol is permitted. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and dress for October weather, as the concert will take place rain or shine.