Many of our new year’s resolutions include shaking up our routine, exploring more, or finding an activity or event that sparks a renewed zest for life. Fortunately, the great state of Colorado has plenty to do and see this upcoming year. In 2023, make it a point to attend any of these awesome festivals for the chance to connect with a new community, see a different area of this gorgeous state, and extend beyond your comfort zone.
When: 1/4 - 6
Where: Breckenridge
Beer-lovers travel from around the world to attend this renowned festival. Equal parts educational and celebratory, Big Beers invites brewers to show off their biggest beers. To be a big beer, the drink must meet the following criteria: have an ABV over 7%, be a Belgian-style brew, and be experimental in nature. Don’t miss the chance to hit the slopes and celebrate afterwards with a die-hard group of Belgian-beer lovers.
When: 4/5 - 8
Where: Vail
This annual festival brings together winemakers and restaurateurs to show off their thoughtfully-created drinks and eats. Taste of Vail celebrates this Rocky Mountain lifestyle and showcases the city’s restaurants and wineries. From its Mountain Top tasting to its educational and delicious Wine Dinners, Taste of Vail offers something delightful for every preference.
When: 4/19 - 23
Where: Carbondale
This adventure-focused film fest found solid footing during its first few years in Colorado. 5Point’s mission is to “ignite personal and communal adventure of all kinds” through sharing stories in film format created by filmmakers of all walks of life. Snag a ticket to its flagship festival this April and enjoy swapping adventure stories with a bunch of other outdoor enthusiasts in Carbondale, Colorado.
When: June, TBD
Where: Salida
Colorado’s largest and oldest whitewater festival returns for more fun in the sun. Boaters, kayakers, and stand-up paddle enthusiasts travel from all over to attend the “First In Boating on the Arkansas'' festival, commemorating the first recorded decent of the Arkansas River. Spend the entire weekend camping, dining, drinking, and watching the gnarliest of river rats race down the play park in homemade vessels.
When: 7/7 - 16
Where: Crested Butte
There’s no better time to be in Crested Butte than in the summertime. Visit this little mountain enclave during the 10-day Wildflower Festival and take in the myriad shades of green, purple, blue, and red that dot the surrounding hillsides. Pack a good pair of shoes and hit the trails to take in many varieties of wildflowers.
When: 9/23 - 25
Where: Paonia
You don’t need to travel to Napa Valley to explore cool wineries. Paonia, Colorado hosts its Mountain Harvest Festival each fall to showcase the amazing array of produce and wines that come from this Western Slope microclimate. Book a cute AirBnB, walk down historic mainstreet, or even get one last trip on the Colorado River with an experienced outfitter before dining and drinking your way through the festival.
This list could go on and on because our great state has so many awesome events that capture the adventurous spirit, innovative minds, and passionate culture of its residents. Weekend get-aways are a great way to inject some life and inspiration into the monotony of everyday life. But there’s nothing like coming back to the familiar sanctuary of home. VerraWest’s spacious apartments and welcoming atmosphere are easy to come home to after the busy-ness of life. Contact us today to learn more.