Colorado summers mean longer days, starlit evenings, and music that becomes the soundtrack to unforgettable memories. Whether you’re dancing through the streets of Denver, pitching tents beneath the stars, or journeying along the I-70 corridor in search of distant melodies, Colorado’s festival scene radiates pure summertime magic.
Denverites who thrive on urban rhythms can dive into celebrations like the Juneteenth Music Festival (June 14–15), when the Five Points neighborhood comes alive with nearly 5,000 spirited parade-goers, colorful vendors, and seemingly endless music. Those seeking a soundtrack with more grit should head to Punk in the Park (July 18–20), with legendary bands like Bad Religion and Dropkick Murphys rocking out against the Rockies. Paired with local craft beer tastings, it’s the perfect festival to ignite your inner rebel. Later in July, Denver’s beloved Underground Music Showcase (July 25–27) invites indie enthusiasts to wander city streets transformed into stages, with opportunities to listen to over 200 emerging bands.
When the city walls become too close and the call of the wild beckons, pack your tent and head west to Telluride for the renowned Telluride Bluegrass Festival (June 19–22). Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, festival-goers sway beneath open skies to Jason Isbell’s soulful storytelling and the Punch Brothers’ intricate harmonies. Rhythms on the Rio in Del Norte (July 31–Aug 3) embraces a slower TELLURIDE TUNES The Telluride Bluegrass Festival, pictured here, boasts big names like Lake Street Drive, Telluride Troubadour, Yonder Mountain String Band, Zach Top, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Toy Factory Project, and Alison Krauss & Union Station. tempo, blending sunrise yoga with vibrant performances by Andy Frasco & the U.N. and Kitchen Dwellers, creating the perfect balance of relaxation and revelry…