This Weekend in COS: Dahlia Days Saturday and Youth Fishing Derby Sunday

If the week has been a long one, the weekend offers two good options for Colorado Springs families to get outside together before the September chill becomes autumn in earnest.

Saturday: Dahlia Days at Gather Mountain Blooms

Gather Mountain Blooms, located at 5210 S. U.S. 85/87 in Colorado Springs, hosts Dahlia Days on Saturday, September 12 from 8 AM to noon. Admission is $10, and families can pick a cup of cut dahlias to bring home for $30.

The morning includes more than flower picking. Food options on-site include 4th Avenue Crepes for brunch and Good Gracious Coffee. There is also a mini makers market with local vendors. The event runs only from 8 AM to noon, so arriving early is worthwhile — both for the best dahlia selection and for the full experience. Tickets are available at simpletix.com.

Sunday: Pikes Peak Youth Fishing Derby

The Pikes Peak Youth Fishing Derby returns on September 13 at Crystal Creek Reservoir, approximately 6 miles up Pikes Peak Highway. The event is free for registered youth anglers ages 6 to 15, and parents and guardians accompanying them also get in at no charge.

Fishing runs from 8:30 to 11 AM. Afterward, there are awards for participants followed by a complimentary lunch. The first 100 registered youth receive a free gear package — fishing rod, tackle, and more. Colorado youth under 16 do not need a fishing license, so there is no barrier there for families who are new to fishing.

The event is organized by Pikes Peak – America's Mountain, Colorado Springs Utilities, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and includes a skills demonstration before fishing begins, so families who have never fished before will have guidance. Registration is limited and may already be filling — check the Pikes Peak – America's Mountain website or the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for current availability.

Planning Notes

For Dahlia Days: dress in layers — mornings at 5,000 feet in mid-September can be cool, especially before 9 AM. The location on S. U.S. 85/87 has parking on site.

For the fishing derby: Crystal Creek Reservoir is at approximately 9,600 feet elevation. Bring a jacket for the family, sunscreen (altitude intensifies UV exposure), and a water bottle for everyone. Parking along Pikes Peak Highway requires a Pikes Peak America's Mountain daily fee unless you have an annual pass.

What's Next

Looking ahead, the Pikes Peak Regional Airshow returns to the Colorado Springs Airport on September 19–20. And the Colorado Springs Cool Science Festival runs October 3–18, with a free all-ages Carnival Day on October 3 at UCCS. Both are worth putting on the calendar now while the fall season is still open.