Every summer in Grand Lake, something special happens. As the weather peaks and the crowds arrive, a beloved celebration returns that captures both the wild spirit of the Old West and the shining pride of classic American cars. It’s called Buffalo Days, and it’s more than just a small-town festival. It’s a weekend-long experience full of history, food, fun, and chrome.
Whether you’ve been coming for years or it’s your first time in town, the 2025 edition of Buffalo Days is the perfect excuse to spend a full weekend in the mountains. Grand Lake comes alive with parades, cookouts, family games, and the ever-popular Car Show featuring Corvettes and vintage rides from across the region.
What Is Buffalo Days?
Buffalo Days is one of Grand Lake’s longest-running traditions. Held every August, it pays tribute to the town’s pioneer roots and frontier character. It’s a throwback to when Grand Lake was still wild, with bison roaming the land and mountain settlers carving out lives by the lake.
Over the years, Buffalo Days has grown from a simple community gathering to one of the biggest summer events in Grand County. Today, it blends local tradition with modern fun. There are pancake breakfasts, community cookouts, themed contests, games for kids, and the famous parade down Grand Avenue.
Locals dress up in cowboy hats and boots, and tourists quickly catch the vibe. This is not a buttoned-up event. It’s a come-as-you-are celebration of everything this mountain town stands for.
The Car Show: Classics, Corvettes, and More
What makes this weekend truly unique is the Grand Lake Car Show held alongside Buffalo Days. Featuring everything from lovingly restored Corvettes to rare collector vehicles, this show turns the town center into a museum of horsepower and style.
Lined along the streets, polished to perfection, the cars are more than just eye candy. Owners are often nearby, ready to share the history behind each vehicle, the restoration process, or just a story or two about the road. You’ll see multi-generational families admiring the same cars, and enthusiasts snapping photos of details only real gearheads notice.
The Car Show brings a whole different energy to the weekend. It’s not about speed. It’s about passion, care, and the shared love of craftsmanship. Whether you’re a casual observer or a car buff, there’s something deeply satisfying about seeing that many beautiful machines in one place.
Why This Weekend Is Worth Planning Around
Mid-August in Grand Lake is peak season. The weather is warm but not hot, the lake is perfect for paddleboarding or boating, and the evenings are made for strolls and bonfires. Buffalo Days brings everyone outside. The town feels like one big backyard party where locals and visitors are all invited.
Events are spread out throughout the weekend, which makes it easy to build a full itinerary. You can catch the pancake breakfast in the morning, stroll the car show mid-day, then stick around for live music or dinner by the water.
There’s something for every age group. Families with kids will love the games and performances. Couples will find the mix of nature and local culture perfect for a weekend getaway. And groups of friends will have no trouble filling a full day with activities and conversation.
Stay Close to the Fun at The Jabberwocky
If you’re looking for a place to stay that matches the character of Grand Lake but gives you comfort and quiet at the end of the day, The Jabberwocky is your answer. Located nearby in Winter Park, this mountain lodge-style retreat offers cozy accommodations with a modern twist.
While Buffalo Days fills the town with energy, The Jabberwocky gives you space to recharge. It’s close enough to be convenient but far enough to offer peaceful evenings and restful mornings. You can spend the day at the parade, admire vintage cars in the afternoon, then return to a warm, quiet space that feels just right.
Book Your Stay While Rooms Last
Buffalo Days is one of the busiest weekends in the area, so lodging fills quickly. If you’re thinking about joining the fun this August, the time to plan is now. Make it a weekend you’ll remember for years—not just for the parade or the car show, but for the full experience of mountain town life.
Book your stay at The Jabberwocky today and enjoy the best of both worlds: small-town charm and mountain comfort, all in one unforgettable trip.
Visit The Jabberwocky and start planning your summer escape.
