Summer in Colorado is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of festivals to tantalize your taste buds. From BBQ Challenges to Wine Classics, there’s something for everyone. The Summer Food & Wine Festivals in Colorado offer an array of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a mountain town experience or an urban city adventure, these festivals have it all. Enjoy the best local cuisine and drinks while taking in the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
May
RARE, The Denver Steak Championship, May 25
The Denver Center for Performing Arts Complex & Sculpture Park
1736 Speer Blvd, Denver, CO 80204
Take advantage of the juiciest night of the year on May 25, 2023, at Denver’s RARE Steak Festival — the ultimate food festival! Hosted by the team behind Denver’s most sought-after culinary events, this one-night-only event promises a fun-filled evening for all your senses. Enjoy 25 of the region’s top steak bites and cocktails while competing head-to-head for the title of Top Steak. Get your tickets today – raresteakfest.com went on sale on March 15!
Blues, Brews, & BBQ, Beaver Creek, May 26–28
210 Offerson Rd Avon, CO 81620
Get ready for summer with Beaver Creek’s Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival happening May 26th-28th! Enjoy delicious BBQ, craft brews, and live music in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Make memories this Memorial Day weekend with your family at Beaver Creek. Visit BeaverCreek.com for more information.
June
Whiskey + Doughnuts, June 10
Denver, CO
The Whiskey Throwdown & Doughnut Showdown on June 10, 2023, in Denver, CO! This once-a-year event is a can’t-miss opportunity to experience an incredible mix of sugary treats and finely made spirits. Sample more whiskey and doughnuts than you could imagine in one afternoon, all from local vendors and creators. Meet the changemakers of the rapidly growing local distilling and doughnut scene – don’t miss out! You won’t find a more delicious combination anywhere else in the world – find out more at www.whiskeydoughnuts.com.
Colorado BBQ Challenge, Copper, June 15–17
509 Copper Rd, Frisco, CO 80443
Get your bibs ready for the Colorado BBQ Challenge – this year, and it’s moving up to Copper Mountain! Enjoy all your favorite finger-licking, lip-smacking BBQ dishes and much more. Plenty of summer activities around Copper, like The Rocky Mountain Coaster and Woodward Wrecktangle. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the Ribs & Jibs rail jam or the 5k Bacon Burner run. It’s not just about the BBQ – it’s about heart-pumping thrills too! Visit coppercolorado.com for more info.
Aspen Food & Wine Classic, June 16–18
350 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611
It’s an iconic event: Celebrate 40 years of culinary talent, trends, and recipes that have made the Classic a must-visit experience over four decades. Don’t miss out on three incredible days of cooking demonstrations, wine & spirit tastings, and panel discussions led by the world’s top chefs and beverage experts—it’s already sold out! But don’t worry, and there are always scalpers. Visit classic.foodandwine.com for more information.
Telluride Wine Festival, June 22–25
The Telluride Wine Festival is rolling out an all-new Culinary Village this year. Check out their website for more details telluridewinefestival.com and prepare for an epic 2023! With wine, women, and song at center stage, it’s sure to be a celebration like no other.
July
Top Taco, Downtown Westminster’s Center Park, July 13
10455 N Sheridan Blvd, Westminster, CO 80020
Taste your way through the best of Denver’s culinary scene at Top Taco! Sample unlimited taco tastes and signature tequila cocktails from some of Denver’s finest restaurants, then join in crowning four categories of awards: Top Creative Taco, Top Traditional Taco, Top Vegetarian Taco, and Top Cocktail. Dance to five stages of fantastic music, explore creative tequila lounge areas, or visit the mezcal tasting tent – take advantage of the can’t-miss summer event that always sells out fast. Check out Top Taco for all the tasty details!
Keystone Wine & Jazz, July 15–16
100 Dercum Square, Keystone, CO 80435
Explore the delectable delights at this year’s River Run Village Wine Festival! Experience a classic experience with hundreds of wines to savor, jazz music playing in the background, and delicious food dishes from near and far. Remember to get your Wine-tasting glasses and food passes for an even more memorable experience. With the 2 Glass 1 Food Pass ticket, you can share the experience with a friend too! Get all this and more at the River Run Village Wine Festival today! Check out keystonefestivals.com for more information.
Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival, July 28–30
Join us for the Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival, and experience wine-tasting in a beautiful mountain-side vineyard! You’ll be able to explore an array of varietals from top wineries – everything from soft and smooth to bold and daring. Make sure to attend Friday’s VIP wine pairing dinner, Saturday’s Grand Tasting, and Sunday’s Brunch & Vines. Visit gobreck.com for more information!
August
Chicken Fight! Fest, Elitch Gardens, Aug. TBD
2000 Elitch Cir, Denver, CO 80204
Get ready for a night to remember at Denver’s premier amusement park! Indulge in the city’s top restaurants as chicken wings, fried chicken, Bourbon chicken, tacos, and sandwiches compete to claim the title ‘best in chicken.’ Enjoy perfectly paired cocktails while you sample unlimited tastes from dozens of your favorite Denver restaurants. Watch bartenders battle it with creative concoctions and compliment them with free-flowing beer and refreshments. Round off the night with live Country, Bluegrass, and Blues on five stages. Enjoy all the rides, roller coasters, and more—all included with one ticket! Check out ChickenFightFest.com now for more information.
