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What’s on your summer bucket list? Bagging a fourteener? Hitting up as many alfresco music events as possible? Reading that 500-page novel that’s been gathering dust on your shelf?
Summer officially starts this month, so it’s time to start crossing off items on your seasonal bucket list. Whether you’re hoping to spend the warmer months basking in the sun with a brew in hand (see: Vail Craft Beer Classic or Snowmass Rendezvous) or you’d like to keep your brain sharp (Aspen Ideas Festival), heading to the mountains is the move.
Jump Ahead:
Aspen
Mountainside Music Festival
Aspen is getting in on the mountain music festival scene this year with the introduction of this brand-new event—and Aspen only knows how to go all out. That means the inaugural three-day festival has some impressive headliners: American Authors, Richy Mitch & the Coal Miners, and Pecos & the Rooftops. Each night will also feature vendor booths and food trucks. Oh, and did we mention it’s completely free? June 11–13; 6:30 p.m.; free
Food & Wine Classic
Any foodie worth their (Maldon) salt has had this event on their calendar since last year’s festival concluded. Gourmands can pick their own adventure, with tons of seminars and demonstrations to choose from, such as “Gettin’ Crispy with It: The Secrets of Japanese Frying,” “Ain’t No Vineyard High Enough: Majestic Mountain Wines,” and “Beyond Truffles and Caviar: What Luxury Means Now.” Culinary powerhouses including Bobby Flay, Maneet Chauhan, and Tyler Florence will be sharing their cooking secrets. But the can’t-miss events are the grand tastings, where the who’s who of the food and beverage industry will be offering elevated bites and sips. June 19–21; times vary; passes start at $2,250
Aspen Ideas Festival
If you walked into a space with Ken Burns, Jodie Foster, Katie Couric, and Laurie Santos, you might think you’re dreaming. But no, you’ve just found your way to this year’s Aspen Ideas Festival. Since 2005, the annual fete has gathered hundreds of the foremost thinkers in a variety of fields (politics, entertainment, science, tech) for curated conversations. You’ll also have the opportunity to join guided nature tours, art walks, field trips, and more. June 25–July 1; times vary; passes start at $4,200
Snowmass Rendezvous
We suggest you arrive at this fest sufficiently parched, because you’ll be drinking bottomless beer, cider, craft cocktails and (lots!) of water for four hours. You can expect pours from vendors including Juneshine, Uncle Tim’s Cocktails, OBC Wine Project, and Casa Lotos. Pace yourself by visiting gear demos and market booths in between bevvys. June 27; 4–8 p.m.; $49 per person
Crested Butte and Gunnison
Alpenglow Concert Series
If you’ve aged out of the all-night festival circuits and rowdy jam band gigs, this kid-appropriate music series is perfect for your music-loving family. Held before bedtime on Mondays, Crested Butte Center for the Arts will bring acts such as local bluegrass group Floodgate Operators, Arkansas-born singer-songwriter JD Clayton, and groovy seven-piece ensemble Hand Turkey for a series of tame lawn shows. June 15–Aug. 17; Monday 5:30 p.m.; free
Estes Park
Wool Market
It’s not just humans who have started packing away their puffers and bulky flannels for the summer: sheep, rabbits, alpacas, and other furry animals have also shed their layers in preparation for warmer days. At this market, you’ll get to see the results of their shearing, as dozens of natural fiber purveyors sell yarn, apparel, blankets, and jewelry. Curious guests can watch demonstrations and sit in on workshops to learn how to weave on a loom, make handcrafted brooms, and more. June 13–14; Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; free
Summit County
AirStage Après
Après doesn’t end when ski season does. This free music series invites recreationalists to stop by for some post-sweat-sesh sounds. Hike, bike, or bus to the Breckenridge Arts District for draft brews and live music from the likes of Frisco Funk Collective (June 25), Local Folk (July 23), John Berning Trio (August 6), and more. June 11–Sept. 17; 5–8 p.m.; free
Lake Dillon Beer Festival
What says summer more than drinking a cold beer by a body of water? At this lakeside festival, more than two dozen beverage makers—from Cerebral Brewing to Strange Craft to Angry James—will help you fulfill your warm-weather duty. Proceeds from the get-together will benefit the Colorado Brewers Guild. June 13; 1–4 p.m.; $49, designated driver tickets are $18
Vail and Beaver Creek
Rainbow Run for Global Running Day
On June 3, your steps won’t just count toward your daily fitness goals, they’ll help support Mountain Pride, a nonprofit that provides year-round resources for the Vail Valley’s LGBTQ+ community, during pride month. Dress in your most vibrant running garb before hitting the roads of Avon for a 3K or 5K run/walk. Stick around afterward for drink specials in the Westin lobby bar, which will also benefit Mountain Pride. June 3; 5:30 p.m.; free with a suggested donation to Mountain Pride
GoPro Mountain Games
Move over, snowsports. It’s time for runners, rafters, and rock climbers to shine. Competitors at the GoPro Mountain Games will show off their prowess in summer sports such as slacklining, mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, disc golf, and more. Even pups can get in on the action at Dog Town, where hardy hounds can compete in big air, speed retrieve, and dock jumping. Sign up for one of the contests, or attend for the live music (headliners include Mountain Grass Unit), art installations, kids activities, and endless competitions. June 4–7; times vary; free attendance, athlete registration costs vary
Vail Craft Beer Classic
This anticipated annual event exists at the intersection of all things Colorado: heady jams, flowing brews, and mountain scenery. Sign up for one of the grand tastings to sample suds from 20 breweries including Outer Range Brewing Co. and Left Hand Brewing Company, plus listen to live entertainment from outfits like the Scott Rednor Band. June 12–13; Friday 4–7 p.m., Saturday 2–5 p.m.; general admission starts at $67
Pride in the Park
Do Pride Month the mountain way in Avon. Start the day with a grounding yoga sesh, go gaga over fashionable pups at the “Pawshion Show,” watch high-flying stunts at a variety show, and round out the day with a drag performance. While you’re in the area, don’t miss Breck Pride, which runs June 11 to 13 and will have carnival-style games, an outdoor market, and live performances. June 14; noon–7 p.m.; free
Winter Park
Blues from the Top Festival
From American roots group the Wood Brothers to Mexican-American band Los Lobos, the musicians on this festival’s lineup will bring the blues to Winter Park. Over three days, hear rollicking licks from the likes of Jimmie Vaughan, Southern Hospitality, and Vanessa Collier. Upgrade to VIP tickets for a more luxe experience, including access to a private bar. June 26–28; times vary; starting at $87 for one day pass
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