Last Weekend Picks Before D49 School Starts Monday — COS Family Events Today and Tomorrow

For D49 families, this is it — the last free weekend before the school year starts Monday. If you're looking for a way to close out summer, two solid options are within reach today and tomorrow, plus a lower-key backup if you'd rather stay closer to home.

Today: Colorado Renaissance Festival — Final Day

The Colorado Renaissance Festival wraps up its 2026 season today, August 2, at 650 W Perry Park Ave in Larkspur. Hours run through 6:30 p.m., so there's still a full day left if you head out this morning.

Larkspur sits right on I-25 between Colorado Springs and Denver — about 30 minutes north of downtown COS. The festival draws tens of thousands of visitors each summer with medieval entertainment, artisan crafts, food (including the iconic turkey legs), costumed performers, jousting demonstrations, and activities across all ages. This is the last opportunity to go this season — it won't be back until next summer.

If your kids have been asking to go and the summer slipped by, today is the day to make it happen.

Tomorrow: Colorado Springs Sunday Market

The Colorado Springs Sunday Market returns to Acacia Park tomorrow, August 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.

The market features more than 60 vendors selling local produce, artisan goods, handmade items, and food. Live music is typically part of the experience. Acacia Park is in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, making it an easy morning outing — bring a tote bag and plan to browse. For families with young kids, it's a manageable length and the open-air setting keeps things relaxed.

Given that D49 starts Monday, Sunday morning at the market is a genuinely pleasant way to ease into the back-to-school week.

Also: U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame

If you'd rather something lower-key or want a backup plan, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame offers guided experiences starting at noon daily through August. It's a good option for families who want an educational outing without committing to a full day out. Check their site for current hours and tour availability.

What's Next

D49 families have until Monday morning. D11 families have until August 12, and D20 families until August 17. Whether you spend today at the Renaissance Festival or tomorrow morning at the Sunday Market — or skip the outings entirely and do one last pool day — this is the weekend that closes the summer chapter. Enjoy what's left of it.