You told us you wanted What’s Happenin’ stickers — so we’ve been quietly working behind the scenes on brand-new designs (yes, Rocky may or may not be involved 🐐).

The question is…

FoCo in spring just hits different. The patios come alive, bikes outnumber cars, and the mountains start calling your name again. If you’ve been waiting for that “okay, winter’s over” feeling… this is it.

Here’s your What’s Happenin’ guide to making the most of spring in Fort Collins 👇

🚲 1. Ride Like a Local (Because We Are One of the Most Bike-Friendly Cities)

As a Platinum-Level Bicycle-Friendly Community, Fort Collins doesn’t just like bikes — we live them.

Cruise the Spring Creek Trail or the Poudre River Trail, both paved and perfect for a sunshine spin. No bike? No problem. Stop by Downtown Bikes for a rental or hop on Spin Bike Share and explore 285+ miles of lanes and trails.

Spring joy ride = mandatory.

🌸 2. Chase the Crabapple Blooms

For a few short, magical weeks, pink and white blossoms take over town.

Stroll around Colorado State University and through Old Town for peak bloom vibes. Pro tip: bike the neighborhoods for a full flower tour before the petals disappear.

🌄 3. Sunrise (or Sunset) at Horsetooth

There’s no bad sky in Fort Collins — but this one’s elite.

Head to Horsetooth Reservoir for painted skies reflecting off glassy water. Want extra credit? Hike up to Horsetooth Rock for the highest overlook in the area.

Bring layers. Stay for the colors.

🍻 4. Sip the Spring Seasonals

Patio weather + craft beer = FoCo math.

Swing by Odell Brewing Company for their spring releases (hello, citrusy, sunshine-ready pours). Many local breweries roll out fresh seasonals this time of year — lighter, brighter, and perfect for soaking up rays with your dog at your feet.

🎭 5. Catch a Spring Show

Spring refreshes the stage scene, too.

See dance, comedy, or live theatre at The Lincoln Center. Or check out local gems like Bas Bleu Theatre Company, CSU University Theatre, and OpenStage Theatre & Company.

A cozy night out before patio season fully takes over.

🪁 6. Fly a Kite (Yes, Really)

That steady spring breeze? Use it.

Head to Spring Canyon Park or Twin Silo Park and look up — chances are someone’s already airborne. Keep an eye out for the annual Kids in the Park Festival for live music, food trucks, and sky-high color.

🏃 7. Sign Up for a 5K (Or Just Cheer Loudly)

FoCo has been named one of America’s healthiest cities — and spring race season proves it.

From 5Ks to half marathons (hello, Horsetooth Half), events pop up all season long. Even if you’re not running, it’s hard not to get inspired watching the community show up.

🎨 8. Take an Art Walk Around Town

Spring makes wandering feel productive.

Fort Collins’ Art in Public Places program turns the city into an outdoor gallery — murals, sculptures, painted utility boxes, and the iconic Pianos About Town scattered everywhere. Self-guided art walk? Say less.

🛍 9. Refresh Your Wardrobe (Old Town Edition)

Spring cleaning, but make it fashion.

Browse boutiques in Old Town Square, grab garden goodies at The Perennial Gardener, or swing by Front Range Village for the bigger brands. Fresh season, fresh closet.

🐣 10. Say Hi to Baby Animals

If you see tiny geese waddling behind stressed-out parents, congrats — it’s officially spring.

Visit The Farm at Lee Martinez Park for hands-on farm fun and baby animal sightings. Bonus: stroll the nearby Poudre Trail while you’re there.

Spring in Fort Collins isn’t just a season — it’s a reset button.

Whether you’re biking, blooming, sipping, hiking, or just chasing sunsets, there’s no shortage of ways to lean into the sunshine.

Monday, February 16

Tuesday, February 17

Full-time

Fort Collins dates hit that sweet spot between charming and adventurous. Wander Old Town Fort Collins for coffee, shops, and easy people-watching, or keep it classic with a picnic at City Park. Craft beer lovers can settle in at New Belgium Brewing, while outdoorsy pairs can chase sunset views at Horsetooth Reservoir.

👉 Vote and we’ll share the top picks—chosen by locals—in an upcoming issue. 💌