The Best Season to Get Married in Colorado
Colorado can be a lush mountain paradise one moment and a snowy winter wonderland the next, offering something for every lover of the outdoors. So when it comes to choosing the best season to get married in Colorado, the answer isn’t always straightforward.
As a wedding photographer based in the state, I’ve had the privilege of capturing celebrations across every season and at a variety of elevations. Over time, I’ve found that each season brings its own unique magic. Join me as we explore how the changing weather and landscapes shape weddings that are as stunning as they are unforgettable.
The Best Season to Get Married in Colorado (And Why It’s Location-Dependent)
Best Overall:
Every couple has a different vision for their wedding, and Colorado’s diverse landscapes and elevations mean there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. That said, late summer to early fall—roughly late August through early October—is often the best overall choice, especially for mountain weddings. The weather tends to be more stable, with a lower risk of afternoon thunderstorms. Plus, the mountain light is stunning, and depending on your venue’s elevation, you might even catch peak fall color.
Runner-Ups:
June: Long, lush days and vibrant scenery, though afternoon thunderstorms are fairly common.
January/February: Ideal for couples dreaming of a winter Colorado wedding. These months often bring sunshine, snow, quieter vendor calendars, and cozy vibes—along with the potential for lower pricing.
Of course, the “perfect” season depends on your location. Colorado is highly elevation-driven, so the ideal timing for a Denver wedding isn’t necessarily the same as for Estes Park or Breckenridge. Temperatures can vary by up to 30 degrees, and foliage timing and weather conditions shift significantly depending on elevation.
With that in mind, let’s dive into a detailed, season-by-season look at what you can expect—and how each season could shape your Colorado wedding.
Choosing the Best Season for Your Colorado Wedding
Spring (March-May)
Snow is still possible in March and April, and even into May at higher elevations (see Alex and Wyatt’s snowy May wedding in Littleton!). As winter snowpack melts, mountain towns enter mud season from April through June. During this time, expect windy days along the Front Range and noticeable temperature swings. If you’re hoping for a pop of color in your portraits, keep in mind that alpine wildflowers don’t reliably bloom until May or June, with the highest-elevation blooms appearing the latest.
Summer (June-August)
Expect afternoon thunderstorms most days between 2–5 p.m., especially in July and August. Alpine ceremonies, like Maggie and Jon’s, are at the highest risk for lightning, so having a solid Plan B is essential. Consider scheduling your ceremony and even portraits for late morning or early afternoon. Even then, sudden downpours can roll in and require a last-minute pivot, it’s all part of the adventure in Colorado’s majestic mountains!
Denver tends to be hot in the summertime, while mountain towns stay noticeably cooler. Both locations attract heavy tourist traffic, which can drive up lodging and transportation costs. In late summer, wildfires are an additional consideration. A flexible plan can help you fully enjoy your celebration, even on a “smoke day.”
Fall (September-November)
As the season progresses, days grow shorter and nights cool quickly, especially in the mountains. If your reception will be outdoors, consider providing blankets or patio heaters to keep guests comfortable. Peak aspen color is brief and elevation-dependent, typically occurring from mid-September through early October. And while it may seem far-fetched, snow is possible as early as late September in some high-elevation locations, so keep an eye on the forecast!
September often offers the best balance of mild weather and fall color potential. That said, the crisp golden atmosphere of October and the cozy vibes of November are equally appealing, though the risk of snow increases. Keep in mind this remains a busy season, especially in popular mountain towns. Weekends book up quickly, so be sure to secure your venue and lodging well in advance.
Winter (December-February)
Winter brings sub-freezing temperatures and wind chills at higher elevations, along with shorter days. Travel delays and road closures aren’t uncommon, especially along I-70 or mountain passes. While you and your guests won’t be comfortable outdoors for long, particularly in standard formal attire, Colorado winters have a quiet, understated beauty, with bright-white snow and softly diffused sunlight.
One of the perks of winter? Fewer crowds! Even in ski towns, you’ll have more space to spread out and fully enjoy your destination. Venues and vendors often have greater availability during this season as well. If your favorite venue is booked solid through summer and fall, consider exploring winter dates—you might be pleasantly surprised by what you find!
So, what’s the best season to get married in Colorado? It all depends on the vibe you’re going for.
Spring: Moody skies, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds
Summer: Long days, lush greenery, and comfortable temperatures
Fall: Golden aspens, epic sunset lighting, and reliable weather
Winter: Snow, cozy indoor receptions, and a ski-town romance vibe
Denver Events to Consider When Planning Your Wedding
Once you’ve considered the seasons, it’s also important to account for location-specific factors—especially if your wedding will be in or near Denver. The city hosts events year-round that can impact traffic, parking, and venue availability. The following are particularly important to keep in mind:
Major Sports Games: Denver is home to four professional sports teams—the Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets, and Avalanche—whose seasons overlap and span most of the year. Home games can significantly increase traffic and limit parking near downtown venues and hotels.
Large Public Festivals & Street Closures: Parades, races, and city-wide events can affect access to downtown areas. Denver’s Special Events Calendar is the best official resource for checking planned street closures.
Red Rocks or Downtown Concerts: While concerts aren’t tied to a specific season, their impact can be substantial. Nearby hotels often book up quickly, and rideshare availability can be limited on concert nights.
Colorado Wedding Seasons at a Glance
Whew—that was a lot of information! Now that we’ve reviewed the seasons and location considerations, here’s a quick reference to help you pinpoint the best season for your Colorado wedding at a glance.
Best Overall: September
Best for Long Days: June
Best for Fall Color: Mid-September through early October (elevation-dependent)
Best for Snow: January through February
Most Storm-Prone: July through early August (afternoons only)
Most Unpredictable: April through May (mountains only)
Depending on the type of wedding you’re envisioning, I hope you’ve discovered the best season to get married in Colorado. Whether it’s a winter soiree tucked into a cozy ski lodge or an outdoor summer celebration beneath the mountain sky, it would be my honor to capture it. I specialize in true-to-life, documentary-style wedding photography, the kind that tells your story authentically and preserves all the little, in-between moments.
Sound like a perfect fit? Reach out to learn more about my packages or to reserve your wedding date. I can’t wait to chat!
