D49 Fall Break Starts Today — Here's What to Do in Colorado Springs This Week

Quick Reference

D49 Break: The Details

District 49 fall break runs October 12 through October 19, with students returning on October 20. If you have kids in both D49 and D11, note that D11's fall break runs later: October 19-23, with students returning October 26. The staggered schedule means back-to-school timing will be different for each district.

The Colorado Springs Cool Science Festival — Final Week

If there's one thing happening in COS this week that's worth prioritizing, it's the Colorado Springs Cool Science Festival, which runs through October 18. The annual festival features more than 100 events across Colorado Springs, most of them free or low-cost, covering hands-on science, nature programs, engineering challenges, and STEM activities designed for all ages.

The timing couldn't be better. D49 families have kids out of school all week, and the festival's final days are often the most engaging. For a full schedule, check visitcos.com before you head out.

Pumpkin Patches and Outdoor Options

Venetucci Farm, a historic family-owned farm on the south side of Colorado Springs, runs their Pumpkin Fest on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. The outing offers fresh air, a pumpkin patch, cider, cornhole, and Jenga — a full afternoon without a screen in sight.

Colorado Kids Ranch in Monument is another strong option, particularly for families with younger children (ages 2-12). It's open through October 31, with admission running $18-20. Children 3 and under are free.

If you want something with a Colorado-specific twist, the Western Museum of Mining and Industry runs their Miner's Pumpkin Patch every Saturday in October. Kids can do hayrides, a hay maze, and gold panning — a genuinely different fall experience.

Indoor Backup Options

Colorado October weather can be unpredictable, and having an indoor backup plan matters. The YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region offers drop-in programs for kids during school breaks — check with your local branch for current availability and pricing. For a structured day, local recreation centers also offer swim and gym time that doesn't require advance sign-up.

What's Next

D49 students return October 20. D11 families have their own break coming up October 19-23. The Cool Science Festival runs through October 18 — if you're going, this week is the window. Halloween season ramps up considerably from here, with major events like Pumpkins in the Park (Bancroft Park, October 24) and Boo at the Zoo happening over the coming weekends.