The Best Music Festivals In Colorado: The Ultimate Guide

Colorado is known for its picturesque mountains, outdoor recreation, and vibrant music scene. From bluegrass to rock-n-roll, Colorado hosts some of the best music festivals in the country. Whether you are a local or a tourist, attending a music festival in Colorado is a must-do experience. In this guide, we have compiled a list of the best music festivals in Colorado that you should not miss!

1. 🎶 Telluride Bluegrass Festival

The Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a four-day event that takes place in June every year. The festival has been around for over four decades and is considered one of the premier music festivals in the world. The festival takes place in the scenic town of Telluride, nestled in the San Juan Mountains. The festival features bluegrass and Americana music, along with workshops, jam sessions, and outdoor activities.

History of Telluride Bluegrass Festival

The Telluride Bluegrass Festival was started in 1974 by a group of musicians who wanted to create a community of artists and fans who shared a love for bluegrass music. The festival was an instant success and has grown into a major event that attracts thousands of fans from around the world.

What to Expect at Telluride Bluegrass Festival

At the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, you can expect to see some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world. The festival features both established and up-and-coming artists, and there are plenty of opportunities to hear music throughout the day. In addition to the music, the festival features workshops, contests, and other activities that allow you to connect with other fans and musicians.

2. 🎸 Red Rocks Amphitheatre Concert Series

The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a world-renowned concert venue that is situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The venue features natural rock formations that provide excellent acoustics and breathtaking views. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre hosts a summer concert series that features some of the biggest names in music.

History of Red Rocks Amphitheatre

The Red Rocks Amphitheatre was built in 1906 and has been hosting concerts ever since. The venue was originally used for religious services and other community events, but it quickly became known as one of the best places to see live music. The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including The Beatles, U2, and The Rolling Stones.

What to Expect at Red Rocks Amphitheatre Concert Series

The Red Rocks Amphitheatre Concert Series features a wide range of musical genres, from rock to hip-hop to electronic dance music. The venue is known for its incredible acoustics and stunning views, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers. In addition to the concerts, the venue also hosts fitness classes, movie screenings, and other events throughout the year.

3. 🎤 RockyGrass Festival

The RockyGrass Festival takes place in July every year and is held in Lyons, Colorado. The festival features traditional bluegrass music and is known for its intimate setting and beautiful scenery. The festival has been around for over 40 years and has become a must-attend event for bluegrass fans.

History of RockyGrass Festival

The RockyGrass Festival was started in 1973 by Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass music. The festival was held in various locations before settling in Lyons, Colorado. The festival has grown over the years and has become a popular destination for bluegrass fans from around the world.

What to Expect at RockyGrass Festival

At the RockyGrass Festival, you can expect to see some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world. The festival features main stage performances, as well as workshops, contests, and other activities. The festival also features a campground where fans can connect with other fans and musicians.

4. 🎵 WinterWonderGrass Festival

The WinterWonderGrass Festival takes place in February every year and is held in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The festival combines bluegrass music with winter sports, making it a unique and exciting event. The festival features some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world, along with skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.

History of WinterWonderGrass Festival

The WinterWonderGrass Festival was started in 2013 by Scotty Stoughton, a musician and ski instructor. Stoughton wanted to create a festival that combined his two passions: bluegrass music and winter sports. The festival was an instant success and has grown over the years.

What to Expect at WinterWonderGrass Festival

At the WinterWonderGrass Festival, you can expect to see some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world. The festival features main stage performances, as well as pop-up shows and jam sessions. The festival also features skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities, making it a unique and exciting event.

5. 🎼 Jazz Aspen Snowmass

The Jazz Aspen Snowmass festival takes place in August every year and is held in Snowmass, Colorado. The festival features jazz, blues, and soul music, along with food, drinks, and other activities.

History of Jazz Aspen Snowmass

The Jazz Aspen Snowmass festival was started in 1991 by James Horowitz, a jazz fan who wanted to bring world-class music to the Roaring Fork Valley. The festival has grown over the years and has become a major event that attracts music lovers from around the world.

What to Expect at Jazz Aspen Snowmass

At the Jazz Aspen Snowmass festival, you can expect to see some of the best jazz, blues, and soul musicians in the world. The festival features main stage performances, as well as workshops and other activities. The festival also features food, drinks, and other vendors, making it a great place to spend a day or two.

6. 🎵 Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest

The Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest festival takes place in August every year and is held in Fort Collins, Colorado. The festival features a wide range of musical genres, including rock, blues, and folk music. The festival also features food, drinks, and other activities.

History of Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest

The Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest festival was started in 1989 by a group of music lovers who wanted to bring live music to Fort Collins. The festival has grown over the years and has become a major event that attracts music lovers from around the state.

What to Expect at Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest

At the Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest festival, you can expect to see a wide range of musical genres, from rock to blues to folk music. The festival features main stage performances, as well as food, drinks, and other vendors. The festival also features a kid’s area, making it a great place for families.

7. 🎶 Four Corners Folk Festival

The Four Corners Folk Festival takes place in September every year and is held in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The festival features folk and acoustic music, along with workshops and other activities. The festival takes place in a beautiful natural setting, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

History of Four Corners Folk Festival

The Four Corners Folk Festival was started in 1996 by a group of musicians who wanted to create a festival that celebrated folk and acoustic music. The festival has grown over the years and has become a major event that attracts music lovers from around the country.

What to Expect at Four Corners Folk Festival

At the Four Corners Folk Festival, you can expect to see some of the best folk and acoustic musicians in the world. The festival features main stage performances, as well as workshops and other activities. The festival also features food, drinks, and other vendors, making it a great place to spend a weekend.

8. 🎸 UMS (Underground Music Showcase)

The UMS (Underground Music Showcase) takes place in July every year and is held in Denver, Colorado. The festival features indie and underground music, along with workshops and other activities. The festival takes place in various venues throughout the city, making it a unique and exciting event.

History of UMS (Underground Music Showcase)

The UMS (Underground Music Showcase) was started in 2001 by a group of music lovers who wanted to create a festival that celebrated indie and underground music. The festival has grown over the years and has become a major event that attracts music lovers from around the country.

What to Expect at UMS (Underground Music Showcase)

At the UMS (Underground Music Showcase), you can expect to see some of the best indie and underground musicians in the world. The festival features main stage performances, as well as workshops and other activities. The festival also features food, drinks, and