Atascadero Colony Days celebration announces new October dates
Change reflects coordination between Colony Days and Atascadero Fall Fest
– The Colony Days Parade and Annual Community Celebration will take place on a new date in 2026, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, in downtown Atascadero, according to a press release.
The morning parade is set for 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by a full day of community activities in the downtown area. The date change follows the 2025 event, which was affected by significant rainfall, and reflects coordination between Colony Days and Atascadero Fall Fest.
Organizers said October aligns with the original historical timeframe of Colony Days and allows the two events to take place together. The updated schedule brings the parade and the fall festival into a shared weekend of activities.
The 2026 Colony Days Parade will feature the theme “Wild About Atascadero!” and will focus on the area’s natural environment, wildlife, and community identity.
After the parade, activities will continue with the Atascadero Fall Fest Carnival in the Sunken Gardens and nearby downtown locations. Together, Colony Days and Atascadero Fall Fest will span the weekend with events open to residents and visitors.
The event is free and open to the public.
The Colony Days Committee acknowledged volunteers, sponsors, community partners, and City support teams for their continued involvement in the event.
Atascadero Fall Fest will mark its sixth year as a three-day carnival in the Sunken Gardens from Oct. 16–18. Activities include carnival rides, games, vendors, breweries, and live music.
Fall Fest hours are scheduled from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16; from noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17; and from noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18.
More information about Colony Days, including parade participation and updates, is available at www.colonydays.org. Information about Atascadero Fall Fest is available at www.AtascaderoFallFest.com.
