Telluride, Colorado’s 5 Best Fests
Bluegrass, Jazz, Food & Art, Mushrooms and Film
Visitors from all over the world descend upon the mountain town of Telluride for events as varied as the highly regarded Film Festival and the unusual Mushroom Festival.
The small mountain town of Telluride, Colorado, celebrates so many annual festivals, it’s hard to pick just five favorites. From May to October, more than a dozen special events are held in Telluride, nestled in the glorious San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado.
Here are my picks for the five best:
Telluride Bluegrass Festival: June
Bluegrass lovers from across the country—even the world—make their home Telluride Town Park for four days of live music. Dubbed “Festivarians,” attendants revel in the beautiful outdoor setting; campgrounds fill quickly, so book your spot ASAP. Don't forget your picnic blanket or tarp and low-to-the-ground chairs. In 2007, artists include the Counting Crows, Emmylou Harris, Alison Krauss and Los Lobos. 800-624-2422; 2007 dates: June 21-24.
Telluride Jazz Celebration: August
Also held in Town Park, the annual Jazz Celebration features greats like John Scofield, Trio Beyond, John Medeski, Arturo Sandoval, Bill Frisell Trio, and the Roy Hargrove Quintet. In the evening, performers share their talents at local bars. The intimate venue means visitors can mingle with some of their favorite jazz musicians. 970-728-7009; 2007 dates: August 2-5.
Telluride Festival of the Arts: August
Food and art come together at this three-day celebration throughout Telluride’s Mountain Village. Watch celebrity chefs share their secrets and take part in fun workshops like “The Ultimate Martini” and “Ultimate Sushi and Sake.” Different restaurants host a wine and appetizer progressive meal. Artists give demonstrations and display their work, and live music can be heard throughout the village. 970-182-5424; 2007 dates: August 17-19.
Telluride Mushroom Festival: August
Hands down the area’s most unusual celebration, the Mushroom Festival brings together scientists, fungophiles, landscapers and the curious to discuss the food item. Fungi aficionados foray for mushrooms, eat them and learn how they affect the environment. Sign up early for the popular forays. 970-728-8312; 2007 dates: August 23-26.
Telluride Film Festival: September
This world-renowned fest is unusual because the program—what’s being shown and who’s being honored—isn’t revealed until the festival begins. The top-secret nature of the event only adds to its allure. Movie premieres, classics, seminars and discussions with the world’s leading filmmakers and stars draw thousands of visitors—tripling the size of tiny Telluride every Labor Day Weekend. 510-665-9494; 2007 dates: August 31 to September 3.
Other awesome festivals include the colorful Balloon Rally and family-friendly Wild West Fest in June, the bizarre Nothing Festival in July, the Chamber Music Festival in August, Blues & Brews in September, and Oktoberfest in October. Visit Telluride’s Official Visitor’s Guide for more information.
Also read about more fabulous festivals around the world: Denver, Colorado; Sydney, Australia; Paris, France; Athens, Greece.
