August 7-10, 2025 9 AM - 6 PM Daily

Buena Vista Contin-Tail
Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show

Buena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral, & Fossil ShowBuena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral, & Fossil ShowBuena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show
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Buena Vista Contin-Tail
Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show

Buena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral, & Fossil ShowBuena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral, & Fossil ShowBuena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show
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  • COMMUNITY LINKS
  • PHOTO GALLERY
  • Vendors

Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!

Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!

Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!

Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!Colorado's Largest Outdoor Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show!

Buena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show

Set along the Continental Divide with the breathtaking Collegiate Range as its backdrop, the Buena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show is Colorado’s largest outdoor event of its kind. Held every year on the second weekend of August, the show takes place in a beautiful valley surrounded by 360-degree views of some of Colorado’s most spectacular mountains.


Each year, 80 to 100 vendors from across the country — and even around the world — gather to showcase a remarkable variety of gems, minerals, fossils, lapidary art, handmade jewelry, and more. Many of these vendors are miners, prospectors, and artisans who personally unearth, design, and craft the pieces they sell, offering not only beautiful treasures but also fascinating stories, expert knowledge, and a true passion for their craft.


Contin-Tail is more than just a shopping event — it’s a unique experience and a beloved tradition that began over 40 years ago. What started as a simple gathering of vendors swapping and selling out of their vehicle tailgates and trunks has grown into a vibrant community event. The name “Contin-Tail” is a blend of Continental Divide and tailgate, honoring the show’s humble beginnings.


With free parking, free admission, and fun for the whole family, Contin-Tail offers something for everyone. Whether you're a serious collector, a curious rockhound, or simply looking for a fun day in the mountains, you're sure to find something special — and make some great memories along the way.

Get Ready for Family Fun at the 2025 Show!

A Rockin' Time in August

A Rockin' Time in August

A Rockin' Time in August

  Join us August 7-10, 2025, for the Buena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show. The show runs daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, offering four full days of fun, discovery, and family-friendly activities. 

Where the Fun Begins

A Rockin' Time in August

A Rockin' Time in August

   Conveniently located just off Hwy 24 on Gregg Drive — only a mile southwest of Buena Vista, Colorado — the Rodeo Grounds provide a stunning setting with the majestic Mt. Princeton as the backdrop. (Cross CR 321 (Rodeo Rd) and look for the event tents on the left side of Gregg Drive.) Click here for Google map directions to the Rodeo Grounds

A Two-in-One Adventure

A Rockin' Time in August

Hands-On Activities for All Ages

  The 2025 Show is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever — packed with activities the whole family will love! This year, Buena Vista Gold Rush Days joins us at the Rodeo Grounds, creating a can't-miss, one-stop shopping and entertainment destination. 

Hands-On Activities for All Ages

Lapidary Demonstrations & Geode Cutting

Hands-On Activities for All Ages

Kids and adults alike can try their hand at gold panning, guided by the pros from Gold Prospectors of Colorado. Young rockhounds can dig for their own mineral specimens at the dig pit, then set off on a scavenger hunt to explore the show and meet our fantastic vendors. And for a little extra fun, stop by the face painting booth, where kids can transform into colorful creatures, glittery butterflies, or even junior prospectors ready for adventure!

Lapidary Demonstrations & Geode Cutting

Lapidary Demonstrations & Geode Cutting

Lapidary Demonstrations & Geode Cutting

Don’t forget to bring your favorite rock or mineral specimens — our mobile lapidary facility will be on-site to cut and polish your treasures while you watch. Or, pick out a geode and experience the thrill of seeing its hidden crystals revealed for the very first time. 

Food, Drinks & Local Flavor

Lapidary Demonstrations & Geode Cutting

Lapidary Demonstrations & Geode Cutting

Take a break and enjoy the delicious offerings at our beer garden and food court, hosted by the Buena Vista Chamber of Commerce. Grab a cold drink, savor tasty bites from local food trucks, and fuel up for more treasure hunting and shopping fun! 

Stay Close to All the Action

Stay Close to All the Action

Stay Close to All the Action

A limited number of overnight RV and tent dry camping spots are available — and at a very affordable rate! It’s a great way to enjoy the whole experience without missing a moment of the fun. Campers can apply online or in person. All campers must register upon arrival to receive their camping permit. Spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait — reserve your spot and make the most of your time at the show! 

Pets are Welcome

Stay Close to All the Action

Stay Close to All the Action

We’re happy to welcome well-behaved, non-aggressive pets to the show, as long as a responsible owner accompanies them. Please keep pets on a leash at all times — this is required by county and town regulations — and don’t forget to clean up after them so everyone can enjoy a safe and pleasant experience. For the safety of all, please do not leave pets or children unattended in vehicles. 

We'd Love to Hear from You

Stay Close to All the Action

We'd Love to Hear from You

Whether you’re interested in becoming a vendor, planning to attend, or have questions about camping at the show, click the Get in Touch button below or use the form at the bottom of this page to send us an email. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can! 

Get in Touch
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Come visit us in beautiful Buena Vista Colorado!

August 7-10, 2025, each day from 9 AM - 6 PM

For more information, please get in touch with us by using the form below:

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Better yet, see us in person!

August 7-10, 2025

Buena Vista Contin-Tail Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show

Rodeo Road & Gregg Dr, Buena Vista, Colorado 81211, United States

(1 mile southwest of Buena Vista, Colorado)

Copyright © 2025 Buena Vista ContinTail Rock, Gem & Mineral Show
All Rights Reserved.

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