Colorado ranks among the states with the most craft breweries. It also has the fifth highest number of craft distilleries. We really like our independently-made alcohol in these parts. When things get chilly in the Rocky Mountain state, warm yourself up from the inside out with these great craft beer and spirit festivals.
Great American Beer Festival – Denver
Oct. 3-5
The 38-year-old Great American Beer Festival is held in the Colorado Convention Center and offers over 68,000 attendees the chance to sample beer from 800 breweries. Hundreds of craft breweries will compete for awards. Plus, there are parties, happy hours and talks.
La Veta Oktoberfest – La Veta
Oct. 5
If you weren’t waiting, finger hovering over your mouse, to purchase Great American Beer Festival tickets in the first 30 seconds that they went on sale, don’t worry! Head to La Veta and take in Oktoberfest instead. You’ll enjoy beer and wine, food vendors, music, and dancing in the street.
Oktoberfest Amped – Grand Junction
Oct. 12
Sample beer and cider from over 20 venues, grab a snack from food vendors, take in some live music, and watch the Weiner dog races.
Breckenridge Crafts Spirits Festival – Breckenridge
Oct. 18
Sample the wares of 40 craft distillers, attend distilling workshops, and party after-hours.
Bloody Mary Festival – Denver
Oct. 20
Sample bloody marys and local food at the EXDO Event Center.
Rocky Mountain Craft Spirits Festival – Estes Park
Oct. 26
Enjoy complimentary pours from craft distillers, as well as live music and bar games.
Fall Back Beer Fest – Estes Park
Nov. 2
Celebrate an hour of extra sleep by putting that well-rested energy to good use. Fall Back Beer Fest offers unlimited samples of 100 beers from 30 breweries. Attend brewing workshops, refuel from food trucks and dance to bluegrass music.
Big Beers, Belgians & Barleywine Festival – Breckenridge
Jan. 9-11
2020 marks the 20th anniversary of this beer festival, which is beloved by Colorado home and craft brewers. In addition to beer tasting, there are brewing workshops and seminars that teach you everything from the perfect beer and cigar combo to the yoga of brewing.
Ullrgrass Music & Beer Festival – Golden
Jan. 24-26
Honor the Norse god of winter with beer from 20 craft breweries, food and bluegrass.
Winterwondergrass – Steamboat Springs
Feb. 21-23
Plan a fun-filled weekend with beer tasting, bluegrass and a home brew competition.
Winter Craft Beer Festival – Boulder
March 2
Like unlimited craft beer samples, music, food and fun? Take a break from your routine and support the local craft beer community.