About Colorado's Summer Festivals in 2025

Colorado's summer is a vibrant tapestry of festivals celebrating music, culture, food, and the great outdoors. The list below highlights some of the key events of the summer festival season in Colorado. With a little more poking around, you will discover an ongoing host of events throughout Colorado. Check the events calendar to find events and festivals in your destination area. Here's your guide to some of the must-attend events across the state in 2026:

Music & Performing Arts Festivals

Telluride Bluegrass Festival – Telluride
June 19 - 21, 2026
Held during the summer solstice at Telluride Town Park in the stunning San Juan Mountains. Celebrating its 52nd year, this festival has earned a reputation as a prestigious and culturally significant gathering. The star-studded lineup offers a blend of traditional bluegrass with folk, Americana, and even rock influences.

Strings Music Festival – Steamboat Springs
Ongoing, 2026
Nestled at the base of Steamboat's mountains, this festival offers a diverse lineup ranging from classical symphonies to contemporary performances, all within an intimate 569-seat pavilion.

Colorado Music Festival – Boulder
Ongoing, 2026
Held at the historic Chautauqua Auditorium, this festival features world-class orchestral performances, including works by Brahms, Schubert, and Prokofiev.

Vail Dance Festival – Vail
July 31 - August 10, 2026
Experience a fusion of dance styles, from tap to ballet, with performances by renowned companies like Alonzo King's Lines Ballet at the Vail Dance Festival.

Jazz Aspen Snowmass – Aspen
Ongoing, 2026
Enjoy a mix of jazz, blues, and soul with artists like Tank and the Bangas and Christone "Kingfish" Ingram in the scenic setting of Aspen at the Jazz Aspen Snowmass.

Cultural & Community Festivals

Greeley Stampede – Greeley
June 24 – July 5, 2026
Celebrate Independence Day with PRCA-sanctioned rodeos, concerts, a carnival, and a grand parade in one of the nation's largest 4th of July festivals.

Paonia Cherry Days Festival – Paonia
July 4, 2026
This long-standing tradition features parades, games, arts and crafts, and musical performances, celebrating the region's cherry harvest.

Colorado Renaissance Festival – Larkspur
Weekends, June 13 – August 2, 2026
Step back in time with jousting tournaments, artisan markets, and medieval entertainment in a recreated 16th-century village.

Food & Drink Festivals

Outside Festival – Denver
May 28 – May 31, 2026
Highlighting Colorado's outdoor lifestyle, this festival features gear expos, adventure films, and live music, drawing attendees from across the nation.

Lake Dillon Beer Festival – Dillon
June 13, 2026
Sample a wide array of craft beers from Colorado's top breweries while enjoying live music against the backdrop of Lake Dillon.

Top Taco Denver – Denver
June 25, 2026
Savor creative taco and tequila pairings from Denver's best restaurants in this culinary competition and tasting event.

Film & Literary Events

Film on the Rocks – Morrison
Select dates, June – August 2026
Watch classic films like "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Shrek 2" under the stars at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, preceded by live music and comedy.

Aspen Summer Words – Aspen
June 21 - 26, 2026
Join literary enthusiasts for workshops, readings, and discussions with acclaimed authors in the picturesque setting of Aspen.

Mark Your Calendar

Whether you're a music aficionado, a foodie, or someone seeking cultural enrichment, Colorado's summer festivals offer something for everyone. Use our free itinerary tool to add festivals and events to your summer vacation schedule. There's no better way to enjoy your vacation time than by combining your favorite outdoor experiences with cultural events. Experience the spectacular mountain scenery, enjoy your favorite outdoor activities, and immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations that make Colorado's summers truly unforgettable.