The Best Moab Events Throughout the Year
If you think Moab is just sweeping red‑rock vistas and world‑class trails, think again: every season brings a festival, race, or community gathering that turns this desert town into a celebration hub. Whether you’re planning your next road‑trip, family outing, or looking for a unique local experience—and especially if you want to combine it with a visit to Moab Giants—here’s your guide to the very best events Moab has to offer year‑round.
Winter: A Season of Music & Motion
Moab Music Festival – Winterlude
Dates: January 25 – February 1
What to Know:
This week‑long chamber music festival stitches concert halls and outdoor “floating” performances on the Colorado River into one harmonious winter escape. Expect engaging workshops, evening concerts under crisp desert skies, and informal “sips & sounds” gatherings to connect with fellow music lovers.
Discover Moab, Utah
Arches Ultra
Date: January 25
What to Know:
A multi‑distance trail run (9K up to 50‑mile), this race courses through Arches National Park’s iconic landscapes. It’s a low‑elevation, high‑scenery challenge—perfect for committed trail runners wanting a winter rush.
moab.net
Moab SyFy Film Festival
Dates: February 7, 14, 21
What to Know:
Free genre film screenings at local venues, complete with retro vibes and community cosplay. A great mid‑winter pick‑me‑up for sci‑fi fans and families alike.
Discover Moab, Utah
Spring: Trails, Pedals, and Art
Moab Run the Rocks
Dates: March 7–9
What to Know:
A three‑day stage race on singletrack around Moab—choose the full series or a single‑day distance (53K or 85K). It’s a true test of grit with desert vistas at every turn.
Moab Run The Rocks
Moab Skinny Tire Festival
Dates: March 8–11
What to Know:
A road‑cycling celebration that winds through Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point. Proceeds benefit the Moab Cancer Treatment Center, making every pedal stroke count.
Skinny Tire Events
ArtWalk
Dates: April 5 (also: May 3; August 1; November 7)
What to Know:
A self‑guided stroll through town’s galleries, studios, and public installations. You’ll discover local artists, pop‑up exhibits, and the vibrant creative pulse of Moab’s downtown.
Moab Artwalk
Easter Jeep Safari
Dates: April 12–20
What to Know:
The world’s premier off‑road gathering brings Jeep enthusiasts to Moab’s slickrock trails for nine days of guided runs and social events. Even if you’re not behind the wheel, you can watch convoys roll past or visit the expo.
HTR
Moab Rotary Car Show & Rod Run
Dates: April 25–27
What to Know:
Start your spring engines! Every April, Swanny City Park fills with the rumble of hundreds of classic and custom cars during the Moab Rotary Car Show. Whether you’re a vintage muscle fan or just love a shiny paint job, you’ll find something to ogle. The event also features live music, food trucks, vendor booths, and two lively Rod Runs that cruise the surrounding red rock roads. It’s family-friendly and free to attend—just bring your camera and maybe a folding chair.
Summer: Festivals & Family Fun
Barrels 4 Bucks
Dates: May 17–18 (also September 27–28)
What to Know:
Competitive barrel‑racing rodeo with cash prizes and live music at Swanny Park. Group info Facebook
Moab Arts Festival
Dates: May 24–25
Location: Swanny City Park
What to Know:
Artisan booths, live music, interactive art workshops, and family activities under the red rocks. AllEvents listing AllEvents
Canyonlands PRCA Rodeo
Dates: May 30–June 1
What to Know:
Three performances of PRCA‑sanctioned rodeo action—bareback, bull riding, barrel racing—at Old Spanish Trail Arena. Venue info (arena site).
The Crystal Festival
Dates: June 7–8
What to Know:
Gem, mineral, and fossil show with vendors, educational demos, and guided rockhounding. Facebook event Facebook
Moab Free Concert Series
Dates: Four Fridays – June 27; July 11; July 25; August 8
Location: Swanny City Park
What to Know:
Pack a picnic and enjoy free live music in a community picnic‑style setting. Discover Moab details
Grand County Fair & Independence Day
Dates: July 3–5 (Fair); July 4 fireworks at 9 PM
Location: Old Spanish Trail Arena & downtown
What to Know:
Carnival rides, livestock shows, roller‑derby, live music, and a fireworks show set to patriotic tunes. AllEvents details AllEvents
Fall: Spooky & Scenic
Barrels 4 Bucks (Fall Edition)
Dates: September 27–28
What to Know:
The autumn return of Moab’s barrel‑racing rodeo at Swanny Park—high energy for all ages. (same link as spring)
Moab Giants Jurassic Fright Nights
Dates: TBA (Typically late October)
What to Know:
After‑hours Halloween fun with costume contests, s’mores, spooky dino silhouettes, and special pricing. Past event preview Facebook
Moab Folk Festival & Moab Trail Marathon
Dates: Early November (2025 dates TBA)
What to Know:
Live folk music paired with a half‑marathon, 5K, and kids’ run. Festival info (Moab Happenings).
Planning Tips
- Book Early: Spring racing events and Jeep Safari spots fill up fast.
- Pack Layers: Desert days can be hot, and nights cool off significantly.
- Stay Hydrated & Sun‑Safe: Bring water, sunscreen, and hats for all outdoor gatherings.
- Combine Experiences: After a morning trail run, recharge with a stroll through Dinosaur Trail or a VR session at Moab Giants.
From snowy chamber concerts to summer starlit concerts, muddy trail races to Halloween dino‑frights, Moab’s calendar is bursting with experiences that celebrate community, art, sport, and dinosaurs. Mark your calendar, book your trip, and make Moab Giants the centerpiece of your adventure through time.
Happy exploring!