As the weather gets warmer, the nights get longer, and the seasons are changing, summers in Colorado are anything but ordinary. Although Colorado is known for its mountains and ski season during the winter, there are still many events going on around the state during the summer. Whether it is in the mountains or at a concert in the city, there is always something to do.
1. Film on the Rocks (Begins May 22, 2017; Events added throughout the summer)
Watch movies under the stars at Red Rocks Amphitheater at Film on the Rocks and enjoy a live concert and comedy performance. Though this is not a formal festival, it is still an annual event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre that is exciting for all ages.
2. Manitou Springs Colorado Wine Festival (June 3, 2017, in Manitou Springs, CO)
30 local wineries participate in this festival to showcase their wines in southern Colorado near Colorado Springs. Enjoy wine, the great scenery at nearby places like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, and beautiful Colorado weather.
3. Telluride Bluegrass Festival (June 15-18 2017 in Telluride, CO)
Down in southwest Colorado, Telluride is a beautiful mountain town. This annual festival is perfect for all bluegrass fans and features the music of other genres.
4. Food and Wine Festival (June 16-18 2017 in Aspen, CO)
Hosted by Food & Wine Magazine, this festival offers a classic culinary adventure up in the mountains of Colorado.
5. Country Jam Colorado (June 15-18 2017 in Grand Junction, CO)
All the best of country music, right in the mountains of Colorado.
6. Denver Greek Festival (June 16-18 2017 in Denver, CO)
A taste of Greek culture, right here in Denver with authentic Greek food, drinks, dancing, and music.
7. Greely Stampede (June 23- July 4, 2017, in Greely, CO)
Country music and western culture collide in northern CO with country music, rodeo, bull riding and much more.
8. Colorado Brewers Festival (June 24- 25 2017 in Fort Collins, CO)
50 Colorado breweries participate to showcase their handcrafted beers in downtown Fort Collins.
9. Colorado Music Festival (June 29- August 4 in Boulder, CO)
Classical music is showcased at this festival, featuring performances from the Colorado Music Festival Orchestra for 6 weeks in Boulder, CO.
10. Winter Park Jazz Festival (July 15-July 16, 2017, Winter Park, CO)
Head to the mountains in Winter Park during the summer to hear some jazz and enjoy the views.
11. Hot Air Balloon Rodeo (July 8-9 2017 in Steamboat Springs, CO)
Colorado’s largest hot air balloon festival is in Steamboat Springs, CO in July. Hundreds of hot air balloons are launched into the air and there are also events around town.
12. Crested Butte Wildflower Festival (July 7-16 2017 in Crested Butte, CO)
Wildflower hikes, photography, 4x4 tours, and mountain views are perfect for the outdoor lover.
13. Global Dance Festival (July 21 and 22 in Denver, CO)
The best of EDM music takes over in Denver at Sports Authority Field for this two-day music festival.
14. 51st Annual Evergreen Fine Arts Festival (August 26-27 2017 in Evergreen, CO)
Ranked in the top 100 art festivals in the country, this festival is perfect for fine arts lovers.
15. Colorado Classic (August 10-13 2017 in Colorado Springs. CO)
Professional cyclists will participate in this 300-mile race beginning in Colorado Springs, CO, go through Denver, and end in Breckenridge, CO. There will be 18 cycling teams participating with 6 members each. The Denver portion of the race features art, music, and food, all perfect for viewing the race.
