Best Colorado bluegrass music festivals 2023 (aside from Telluride)

The Telluride Bluegrass Festival celebrates a milestone 50th anniversary in June, but because the event is notoriously an instant sell-out, it’s improbable to find passes this close to the festival dates.

No worries, though, as Colorado is teeming with bluegrass music options throughout the summer months. Here are five festivals where you can get your pickin’ fix. (Note: This list does not include sold-out events such as Billy Strings’ Renewal in Buena Vista or RockyGrass Festival in Lyons.)

GoldenGrass Bluegrass Weekend – June 1-4

Live music and craft beer make an optimal pairing, and during the GoldenGrass Bluegrass Weekend at New Terrain Brewing Co. in Golden, the two will be inseparable. The brewery’s outdoor stage will host nearly a dozen local acts, such as Whitewater Ramble and Pick & Howl, as well as special events like yoga classes backed by live performances and attractions like face painting for kids and kids at heart. Music is free to enjoy and open to all ages, while the yoga class requires a ticket. Find more information at newterrainbrewing.com/golden-grass.

Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass – June 9-11

Music lovers looking for a road trip should consider the Pagosa Folk ‘N Bluegrass Festival, returning to its namesake town for a 16th year. The event, coming to Reservoir Hill Park, offers camping, morning yoga sessions, late-night jams, a kid’s tent, and of course a whole lotta pickin’ and stompin’. Headliners include Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Becky Buller and Sister Sadie. Feel free to enjoy the local hot springs while you’re in the area too. Find tickets (starting at $75 for single-day and $118 for three days) and more information at ksutpresents.org/folknbluegrass.

SnowyGrass Music Festival – July 14-16

Started in 2016, SnowyGrass Music Festival is as much about enjoying music as it is participating. The festival, which takes place at Stanley Park in Estes Park, includes workshops for aspiring banjo and fiddle players, as well as beginner lessons in jamming. Performers include Becky Buller Band, Special Consensus, Molsky’s Mountain Drifters. Find tickets (starting at $58 for single-day, $98 for two days, and $130 for three days) and more information at snowygrass.com/2023.

Rapidgrass Bluegrass Festival – Aug. 4-5

Idaho Springs will come alive with music this summer when the Rapidgrass Bluegrass Festival takes over the town’s Shelly/Quinn Baseball Fields. Hosted by local band Rapidgrass, the event features more than a dozen musicians over the course of two days. Friday’s entertainment is free, and kids get in free both days. Find tickets (starting at $25) and more information at rapidgrassfestival.com.

Rocky Mountain Folks Festival – Aug. 11-13