Top Festivals in Colorado 2025: A Celebration of Nature, Culture, and Adventure

Overview of Festivals in Colorado 2025

Colorado, known for its majestic Rocky Mountains, vibrant arts scene, and adventurous spirit, is a state that truly knows how to celebrate. From music festivals nestled in scenic landscapes to food and craft beer events that reflect its culinary prowess, Colorado's festival calendar is as diverse as its terrain.

Colorado's festivals are a reflection of its cultural richness and natural beauty. From the famous Telluride Film Festival and the Aspen Music Festival to quirky events like the Frozen Dead Guy Days, the state’s celebrations embrace both tradition and whimsy. Summer brings outdoor music and art festivals to stunning mountain towns, while winter sees ice sculpture competitions and snow-filled carnivals.

The state's commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship shines through in events like the Great American Beer Festival in Denver and the Durango Arts Festival. Whether you're strolling through historic streets, hiking to a mountain stage, or savoring craft brews, Colorado offers something for everyone.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

Colorado's festival map for 2025

List of Festivals in Colorado - Calendar 2025

Note: Festival dates and similar events in this state are updated frequently, and times may change. Please report any date errors in the article in the comments below.

January

Winter X Games

• Date: January 23–26, 2025
• Location: Aspen, CO
• Significance: The pinnacle of extreme winter sports, attracting world-class athletes and adrenaline enthusiasts.
• Activities:
  • Snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobile competitions.
  • Live music performances by popular artists.
  • Interactive sponsor villages with activities for attendees.
  • Opportunities to meet and get autographs from athletes.
• Tickets: General admission is free; VIP passes available online.
• Transportation: Shuttle services from Aspen and Snowmass Village; limited parking at the venue.

February

Steamboat Winter Carnival

• Date: February 7–11, 2025
• Location: Steamboat Springs, CO
• Significance: One of the oldest winter carnivals in the U.S., blending outdoor sports with small-town charm.
• Activities:
  • Ski joring (horses pulling skiers down snowy streets).
  • Nighttime ski performances featuring lighted suits.
  • Snow sculpture competitions and parades.
  • Fireworks display over Howelsen Hill.
• Tickets: Free for most events; some activities require registration.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; shuttles provided to main venues.

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March

Frozen Dead Guy Days

• Date: March 7–9, 2025
• Location: Nederland, CO
• Significance: A quirky festival inspired by the unusual tale of a cryogenically frozen man.
• Activities:
  • Coffin races and polar plunges.
  • Live music stages featuring local and national acts.
  • Costume contests and quirky workshops.
  • Local food and craft beer vendors.
• Tickets: Day passes and weekend packages available online.
• Transportation: Limited parking; rideshare services and shuttles recommended.

April

Colorado Chocolate Festival

• Date: April 25–27, 2025
• Location: Denver, CO
• Significance: A sweet celebration of chocolate, featuring treats from Colorado’s best chocolatiers.
• Activities:
  • Chocolate tastings and pairing workshops.
  • Live cooking demonstrations by pastry chefs.
  • Chocolate sculptures and art exhibits.
  • Vendors selling truffles, brownies, and unique cocoa creations.
• Tickets: General admission available online and at the door.
• Transportation: Accessible via Denver public transit; parking garages nearby.

May

Great American Beer Festival (Spring Edition)

• Date: May 16–18, 2025
• Location: Denver, CO
• Significance: A celebration of craft beer, showcasing brewers from Colorado and across the country.
• Activities:
  • Beer tastings and brewery tours.
  • Pairing sessions with gourmet food.
  • Workshops on homebrewing and beer history.
  • Live entertainment and games.
• Tickets: Available online; VIP packages include exclusive tastings.
• Transportation: Light rail and bus services recommended; limited parking downtown.

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June

Telluride Bluegrass Festival

• Date: June 20–23, 2025
• Location: Telluride, CO
• Significance: A renowned music festival set against the stunning backdrop of the San Juan Mountains.
• Activities:
  • Performances by bluegrass legends and emerging artists.
  • Instrument workshops and jam sessions.
  • Food vendors offering local and organic cuisine.
  • Camping and outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
• Tickets: Weekend passes and single-day tickets available online.
• Transportation: Shuttle services from nearby towns; limited parking in Telluride.

Denver Chalk Art Festival

• Date: June 8–9, 2025
• Location: Larimer Square, Denver, CO
• Significance: A vibrant celebration of street art and creativity.
• Activities:
  • Artists creating intricate chalk masterpieces directly on the streets.
  • Live music and performances.
  • Food trucks and art markets.
  • Family-friendly zones with interactive art activities for kids.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Parking garages available downtown; public transit highly encouraged.

July

Cherry Creek Arts Festival

• Date: July 4–6, 2025
• Location: Cherry Creek North, Denver, CO
• Significance: A premier arts festival celebrating visual, culinary, and performing arts in the heart of Denver.
• Activities:
  • Artist exhibits showcasing paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works.
  • Culinary demonstrations by local chefs and wine tastings.
  • Live performances by dancers, musicians, and theater groups.
  • Kids’ ArtZone with interactive workshops and activities.
• Tickets: Free admission.
• Transportation: Public transit and rideshare services are encouraged; parking garages are available nearby.

Rodeo and Frontier Days

• Date: July 20–28, 2025
• Location: Cheyenne, CO (near the Colorado-Wyoming border)
• Significance: A classic Western celebration, often called the “Daddy of ’Em All” rodeos, steeped in cowboy traditions.
• Activities:
  • Professional rodeo events, including bull riding and barrel racing.
  • Parades featuring horses, floats, and cowboy performers.
  • Nightly concerts from country music stars.
  • Western-themed markets and food stalls.
• Tickets: Rodeo tickets available online; general festival access is free.
• Transportation: Ample parking available at the venue; rideshare options for evening concerts.

August

Colorado State Fair

• Date: August 23–September 2, 2025
• Location: Pueblo, CO
• Significance: A showcase of Colorado’s agricultural heritage, family fun, and cultural performances.
• Activities:
  • Livestock shows, rodeos, and equestrian competitions.
  • Carnival rides, games, and family-friendly attractions.
  • Concerts from a variety of music genres, including rock, country, and pop.
  • Food vendors offering classics like funnel cakes, turkey legs, and regional specialties.
• Tickets: General admission and concert tickets available online.
• Transportation: Free parking at the fairgrounds; shuttles available from downtown Pueblo.

Telluride Mushroom Festival

• Date: August 15–18, 2025
• Location: Telluride, CO
• Significance: A unique festival celebrating all things fungi, from foraging to culinary arts and medicinal uses.
• Activities:
  • Guided mushroom foraging hikes in the San Juan Mountains.
  • Cooking demonstrations and tastings of mushroom-inspired dishes.
  • Workshops on mushroom cultivation and mycology research.
  • Parades and live music performances with a quirky, fungi-themed twist.
• Tickets: Passes available online; early registration recommended for workshops and hikes.
• Transportation: Shuttles provided from nearby towns; limited parking in Telluride.

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September

Telluride Film Festival

• Date: September 1–4, 2025
• Location: Telluride, CO
• Significance: One of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, attracting filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles globally.
• Activities:
  • Premieres of award-winning films and documentaries.
  • Panel discussions with directors, producers, and actors.
  • Outdoor screenings in the stunning mountain setting.
  • Networking events and receptions for industry professionals.
• Tickets: Passes available online; early booking is essential.
• Transportation: Shuttle services provided; parking is extremely limited.

Colorado Mountain Winefest

• Date: September 21–22, 2025
• Location: Palisade, CO
• Significance: Celebrating Colorado’s wine industry in the picturesque Grand Valley.
• Activities:
  • Wine tastings from local wineries and vineyards.
  • Food pairings featuring fresh, regional ingredients.
  • Vineyard tours and grape stomping activities.
  • Live jazz and acoustic music performances.
• Tickets: General admission and VIP packages available online.
• Transportation: Ample parking available; shuttles provided from nearby hotels.

October

Great American Beer Festival (Fall Edition)

• Date: October 3–5, 2025
• Location: Colorado Convention Center, Denver, CO
• Significance: The largest beer festival in the U.S., showcasing craft breweries from across the country.
• Activities:
  • Tastings of thousands of beers from over 800 breweries.
  • Brewery competitions and award ceremonies.
  • Educational seminars on brewing techniques and beer styles.
  • Exclusive sessions for VIP ticket holders.
• Tickets: Available online; early booking strongly recommended.
• Transportation: Accessible via public transit; parking garages nearby.

November

Durango Arts Festival

• Date: November 10–12, 2025
• Location: Downtown Durango, CO
• Significance: A celebration of Colorado’s artistic community, set in the charming historic streets of Durango.
• Activities:
  • Art exhibits featuring local painters, sculptors, and photographers.
  • Live demonstrations and workshops on pottery, painting, and jewelry-making.
  • Music and theater performances in outdoor and indoor venues.
  • Food trucks and vendors offering regional flavors.
• Tickets: Free admission to exhibits; workshop fees vary.
• Transportation: Parking available downtown; public transit options limited.

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December

Breckenridge Ullr Fest

• Date: December 7–9, 2025
• Location: Breckenridge, CO
• Significance: A winter festival paying homage to Ullr, the Norse god of snow, celebrating ski culture and community spirit.
• Activities:
  • Parade with floats, costumes, and community performances.
  • Bonfires and traditional ceremonies to summon snowfall.
  • Ice skating, sledding, and winter games for families.
  • Craft beer tastings and local food vendors.
• Tickets: Free general admission; some activities may require fees.
• Transportation: Free shuttles within Breckenridge; limited parking downtown.

Conclusion

Colorado’s festivals in 2025 capture the essence of the state’s adventurous and creative spirit. From high-altitude music events to quirky cultural celebrations and world-class food and drink festivals, the Centennial State offers experiences that are both memorable and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring the Rockies or enjoying Denver’s urban energy, Colorado’s festival calendar has something for everyone.

FAQs About Colorado Festivals 2025

1. What are the must-see festivals in Colorado?

• Iconic events include the Telluride Film Festival, Winter X Games, and Great American Beer Festival.

2. Are Colorado festivals suitable for kids?

• Many festivals, like Steamboat Winter Carnival and Cherry Creek Arts Festival, are family-friendly.

3. When is the best time to visit Colorado for festivals?

• Summer and fall offer the most events, but winter festivals like Ullr Fest and the Winter X Games are unique experiences.

4. How do I get tickets for Colorado festivals?

• Tickets are usually available online; popular festivals like Telluride Bluegrass Festival sell out quickly, so early booking is advised.

5. What’s special about Colorado festivals?

• Colorado festivals embrace the state’s natural beauty, adventurous lifestyle, and cultural diversity.

6. Are there free festivals in Colorado?

• Yes, many events, such as the Denver Chalk Art Festival and Durango Arts Festival, offer free admission.

7. How can I travel to festival locations in Colorado?

• Public transit, shuttles, and rideshare options are often available; parking can be limited in popular areas.

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