Some of Colorado’s greatest festivals happen in the summer. Great weather, bountiful harvests, and the green landscape are all to thank for the myriad festivals throughout colorful Colorado. Take the weekend and get out of town or day-trip to an outdoor event nearby. Here are some of the ones we are most looking forward to this summer and fall.
Telluride Bluegrass Festival
When: June 11 & 13, 17 & 20
Where: Telluride, Colorado
This famous bluegrass festival is back after a pandemic-prompted hiatus and Colorado music fans couldn’t be happier. Each year, this internationally-acclaimed festival brings some of the world’s best musicians to our state. Not only is the music wonderful, but the scenery is legendary with the San Juan mountains as the ultimate backdrop.
Crested Butte WildFlower Festival
When: July 9 – 18
Where: Crested Butte, Colorado
Did you know that Crested Butte is the wildflower capital of Colorado? Head to this beautiful mountain town in early July to take in Mother Nature’s colorful tapestry. The week-long event showcases awesome nature-related events like historic garden tours, a backcountry 4×4 photo tour, a wildflower ID walk, and even a hike to Aspen. Attending this festival is one of the best ways to experience all that Crested Butte has to offer.
Hot Air Balloon Rodeo
When: July 10 – 11
Where: Steamboat Springs
Watch colorful balloons ascend into a crisp blue summer sky each morning of the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo. Steamboat Springs in July is covered with pretty aspen trees and lush pines. After the balloons launch, attend Art in the Park to check out the work of various Colorado artists. Grab lunch and hike on one of Steamboat’s stunning trails. At night, walk among tethered balloons that glow like gigantic luminaries.
Vail Dance Festival
When: July 30 – August 9
Where: Vail, Colorado
Just as summer reaches its peak, the entire city of Vail comes alive once again with dancers of all types. From performances by the New York City Ballet to communal dances in the park, Vail Dance Festival is a can’t-miss event for fans of theater, dance, and performance art. Check out the schedule to see which of the events are most appealing to you and order tickets soon. This event is very popular and sure to fill up fast.
A Taste of Colorado
When: September 4 – 6
Where: Civic Center Park
This year, A Taste of Colorado is moving locations to Civic Center Park. This free event draws thousands of people to downtown Denver to sample fare from local restaurants, eateries, and cafes peppered throughout the Mile High City. Enjoy live music, face painting, shopping, and so much more at A Taste of Colorado.
Summertime brings warm weather, dry hiking trails, and a host of exciting events to Colorado. Fortunately for us, this year’s line-up is engaging and diverse, giving us an excuse to travel again. Let’s get out there and enjoy all that our beautiful state has to offer.