August 7-10, 2025 9 AM - 6 PM Daily
August 7-10, 2025 9 AM - 6 PM Daily
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
August 7-10, 2025, each day from 9 AM - 6 PM
August 7-10, 2025
Rodeo Road & Gregg Dr, Buena Vista, Colorado 81211, United States
(1 mile southwest of Buena Vista, Colorado)