There is no shortage of things to do around the Arkansas Valley this weekend, with events ranging from outdoor recreation and farmers markets to art shows, Pride celebrations, and educational programs.
Free Fishing Weekend
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is inviting anglers of all ages to participate in Free Fishing Weekend on Saturday and Sunday. Colorado fishing license and Habitat Stamp requirements are waived, allowing anyone to fish Colorado’s streams, lakes, and reservoirs at no cost. All other fishing regulations remain in effect.
First Friday in Downtown Salida
Downtown Salida art galleries will celebrate First Friday tonight with the theme “Down by the River.” Visitors can enjoy extended gallery hours, artist demonstrations, live music, and opportunities to meet local artists.
2nd Chance Art Sale
The Salida Council for the Arts will host its annual 2nd Chance Art Sale on Saturday beginning at 9 a.m. at Box of Bubbles. Previously owned artwork will be available at discounted prices, with most pieces ranging from $10 to $50. Proceeds support local arts grants and scholarships.
Turner Farm Opens for the Season
Turner Farm and Apple Orchard opens for the season Saturday. Visitors can tour the historic homestead and 116-year-old orchard every Saturday throughout the summer.
Salida Farmers Market Opening Day
The Salida Farmers Market opens Saturday at Alpine Park, located at F and Fifth Streets. The market will feature local produce, handmade crafts, and live music.
Pride Month Celebrations
Ark Valley Pride will host Pride festivities Saturday at Riverside Park from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Activities include live music, a resource fair, and a parade.
Meanwhile, the BV Pride Coalition will host the inaugural Seven Peaks Pride event Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at McPhelemy Park, featuring a potluck picnic, games, live music, and a sidewalk parade.
National Trails Day Cleanup
Salida Mountain Trails and Chaffee Rec Adopters will conduct a National Trails Day cleanup in the Burmac area on Saturday. Volunteers will remove trash and debris from illegal campsites along Burmac and Powerline Road from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Drone Olympics in Buena Vista
The Mountain West UAS Club will hold its June meeting Saturday featuring a Drone Olympics competition. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to noon at the Buena Vista Drone Training Park and is open to pilots of all skill levels, as well as spectators.
Buena Vista Farmers Market
Buena Vista Heritage will host its weekly Farmers Market on Sunday at Turner Farm from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., including a Kids’ Market.
Sunday Science Presentation
The Central Colorado Humanists will present its monthly Sunday Science program at 10 a.m. Sunday at A Church. Speaker John Mattingly will discuss “The Inefficiency of Our Food System,” examining how food is produced and transported and exploring potential alternatives with audience participation.
Whether you’re looking to get outdoors, support local artists and vendors, celebrate Pride Month, or learn something new, there are plenty of activities happening across Chaffee County this weekend.



