If you’ve never heard of Frozen Dead Guy Days, buckle up — because this isn’t your typical small-town festival. Estes Park goes all in for this legendary winter celebration, turning the entire town into a high-energy, slightly outrageous, totally unforgettable cold-weather playground.
Live music? Yes.
Coffin races? Absolutely.
Costumes, cocktails, icy plunges, and wild fun? You bet.
Here’s what the weekend looks like:
Friday: Costumes, Cocktails & A Blue-Themed Bash
Things kick off Friday afternoon with the Frozen Dead Guy Days Bar Crawl, and it’s exactly as fun as it sounds. Starting at 2pm, you’ll bounce between local bars with themed drinks in hand, surrounded by people in creative (and sometimes hilariously ridiculous) costumes. The energy is contagious, and with free shuttles running, it’s easy to hop from stop to stop without missing a beat.
Later, if you’re in the mood for something a little artsy (but still delightfully weird), the Dead of Winter Art Exhibit at Aspen & Evergreen Gallery offers a creative spin on the festival’s playful, macabre spirit. Think community vibes, wine in hand, and art that celebrates the strange in the best way.
Then comes the glam: The Royal Blue Ball at The Stanley Hotel. Picture live music, bold blue outfits, dramatic décor, and a costume contest that brings out some serious creativity. It’s elegant, high-energy, and one of the weekend’s can’t-miss signature events.
Saturday: Coffins, Costumes & Full Festival Mode
Saturday morning starts strong with the Cryogenic Cannibal Chase 8K — a costumed race that’s equal parts athletic and absurd. It’s fast, it’s funny, and the crowd loves it.
By noon, the main festival takes over the Estes Park Events Complex. This is where the iconic coffin races steal the spotlight. Teams in themed costumes sprint while pushing decorated coffins through the course — and yes, it’s as chaotic and entertaining as it sounds.
Add live music, frozen-themed games, local food vendors, craft drinks, and interactive activities for all ages, and you’ve got a full day of nonstop winter fun.
Sunday: The Polar Plunge (If You’re Brave Enough)
Sunday brings the grand finale: the Polar Plunge Pavilion Party at The Stanley Hotel. Participants dress up in creative costumes and dive into icy water to raise money for a great cause. Spectators cheer, DJ Mack keeps the energy high, and everyone leaves soaked but smiling.
Wrap it all up with Bands & Bloodys Brunch, because nothing says “festival recovery” like live music and a spicy Bloody Mary.
Stay at Murphy’s Resort
Rest up at Murphy’s Resort after all your Rocky Mountain adventures! Murphy’s Resort is the ideal choice for your stay regardless of what brings you to Estes Park. Located within walking distance to Lake Estes and Estes Park Golf Course, plus just minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park, our family-friendly hotel offers the best location for doing it all.
Enjoy top-notch amenities, awesome service, and comfy rooms. Rest and relax after a long day on the mountain by soaking in our outdoor hot tub or cozying up by the fire pit. Either way, your restful and cozy retreat awaits you at Murphy’s Resort.
