We invite you to experience the beauty of Crested Butte
during a weekend of cultural celebration at
Colorado’s premier high-country arts event!

• Auction Preview Party
  Art Auction Tent, Friday (7/31), 6:00pm
  Mingle with fellow Friends of the Fest at opening night reception.
  Opportunity to pre-purchase auction items prior to opening of auction.
• Friends of the Fest Lounge 
  Live Entertainment Venue, Friday – Sunday during festival hours.
  Enjoy access to our Friends of the Fest Lounge where you can find a seat in the shade and enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks.
• 2026 CBAF Commemorative Poster 
  Take home a beautifully designed keepsake of the 2026 event, perfect for framing!  Claim poster at the Friends of the Fest Lounge during festival hours.
• Friends of the Fest Community Gatherings
  Receive invitations to future Friends of the Fest meet-ups and events.

From humble beginnings, the Crested Butte Arts Festival emerged from the vision of a small but passionate group of locals identifying themselves as the Crested Butte Society. In the late 1960s, these founding members were driven by a shared desire to preserve town’s architectural heritage, while also nurturing the vibrant artistic spirit taking root in the valley.

Guided by this vision, the Society organized the first Crested Butte Arts Fair in 1971. The event created an annual platform for local artists to share their work, earn income, and connect with the broader community, enriching cultural life in an otherwise rural setting. What began as an informal gathering of mostly local artisans selling handmade crafts has since evolved into one of the most respected and competitive juried fine art shows in the Western United States.

Doug Demusz

Doug Demusz, a passionate lifetime member of Colorado's outdoor community who enjoys backpacking, adventure cycling, backcountry skiing, along with creating music, and a well rounded appreciation of literature, and community events.