Colorado’s music scene is always vibrant, with some of the best festivals and concerts around. From mountain bluegrass in Telluride to EDM in Denver, there’s something for everyone! Here are the top 10 music festivals that Colorado has to offer:
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1. Colorado Music Festival
Boulder, Colorado
When: June-August (six weeks)
The Colorado Music Festival is a six-week concert series with the best classical music from around the world. Internationally acclaimed soloists, ensembles, and composers come to Boulder each summer for this festival.
There are also educational and interactive events, such as lectures and masterclasses that aspiring professional musicians can attend.
2. RockyGrass Festival
Lyons, Colorado
When: July (three days)
The RockyGrass Festival is the most iconic bluegrass festival in the United States. It takes place in Lyons, Colorado, and features some of the greatest bluegrass legends from across the country. Musicians who are starting out can join contests like instrument and band contests.
Guests have the option to camp, as many people enjoy staying up late to play music together at RockyGrass.
3. Country Jam Colorado
Grand Junction, Colorado
When: June (three days)
Country Jam Colorado is a three-day music festival that features all things country music. From country-pop to traditional bluegrass, this festival draws in fans from all over the state.
Camping and RV sites are available, you can also bring your inflatable swimming pools to cool off and relax.
4. Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Telluride, Colorado
When: June (four days)
The beautiful outdoors of Telluride provide a stunning backdrop for the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Enjoy four days of non-stop live music from Americana, bluegrass, folk, and country artists. With half a century under its belt, the event pulls in some of music’s biggest names.
Other than amazing performers and food options, there are workshop sets that allow aspiring musicians to learn from the pros.
5. Global Dance Festival
Denver, Colorado
When: July (two days)
Global Dance Festival brings in high-energy EDM artists from all over the world. As the largest music festival in Colorado, the event is held at Empower Field at Mile High. The stadium is usually packed with vibrant people for two days of dancing and raving.
The event also features interactive art installations, a silent disco, food trucks, and craft vendors to explore during the downtime.
6. Palisade Bluegrass and Roots Festival
Palisade, Colorado
When: June (three days)
The Palisade Bluegrass and Roots Festival combines bluegrass music with jam, Americana, and roots rock. Families are especially welcome to this festival as it offers activities such as paddle boarding, painting workshops, and distillery tasting.
7. The RIDE Festival
Telluride, Colorado
When: July (five days)
The RIDE Festival is a five-day extravaganza of rock music, art, and culture. Artists such as Pearl Jam, David Byrne, and Widespread Panic performed in the past.
Venues in Telluride offer a snapshot of the town’s history. Camping and lodging options are available near the town so that you’ll never have to miss a thing.
8. Telluride Jazz Festival
Telluride, Colorado
When: August (three days)
Telluride Jazz Festival is a three-day festival that is centered on jazz, funk, and soul music. Surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Telluride, festival-goers can enjoy a variety of artists from around the world. Camping sites are the best way to experience the event, as you can stay up late to jam with fellow festival-goers.
9. JAS Labor Day Experience
Aspen, Colorado
When: September (three days)
The Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Experience celebrates the music of some of the biggest names in jazz, country, alternative, soul, rock, and more. The event takes place over three days at Snowmass Town Park which has a breathtaking mountain view.
10. Sonic Bloom Festival
Rye, Colorado
When: June (four days)
The Sonic Bloom Festival is an electronic music festival that combines art and music. It features four days of visual arts, live performances, and DJs. This event draws in people from all over the world to create an epic atmosphere on the grounds of Hummingbird Ranch.
Camping, yoga sessions, artworks, and more are also available for you to enjoy during the festival. Through the Sonic Bloom Festival, attendees can connect with nature, arts, and music.
Conclusion
Between jazz, bluegrass, EDM, and folk music festivals, Colorado has something for every kind of music fan. From Telluride to Aspen and beyond, these amazing music festivals provide a unique opportunity to experience the best that Colorado has to offer.
So start planning your festival itinerary – you won’t want to miss out on any of these incredible events!
Telluride Bluegrass Festival Featured Image (Top) by: Simpsora, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
