Sponsored

Toast-Worthy Fall & Winter Brew Fests in Colorado

It’s no secret that Colorado is among the country’s capitals for craft beer. With more than 400 breweries across the state, there’s so much hoppiness to experience — and what better way than at a Colorado beer festival?

By: Colorado.com Staff Writer
Updated: September 19, 2024

From the amber leaves of fall to cozy amber ales, you’ll be able to not only taste a good portion of the state’s prized brews, but take in the charming mountain towns and colorful views that make fall a cherished season here. Starting in the early days of fall through the tailend of winter, find your perfect Colorado craft brew festival below.

Chili & Beer Festival 

Crested Butte, September
This charming former mining town celebrates a perfect culinary pairing on the side of a mountain each fall. Enjoy a bevy of Colorado-made beers, hot chili and amazing views.

Breckenridge Oktoberfest

Breckenridge, September
Breckenridge brings the Oktober spirit with this three-day tribute tribute to fall, beer and time-honored tradition. Strap on some lederhosen, pick up a commemorative stein and enjoy the golden glow of the aspen trees changing colors.

Telluride Blues & Brews Festival

Telluride, September
Each year, thousands of people gather in one of the state’s most picturesque valleys to enjoy what’s known as one of the most scenic and intimate music festivals in the country. Grab a local craft brew and cozy up on the lawn for live performances spanning blues, funk, indie, rock, jam-band, gospel and soul.

Great American Beer Festival

Denver, October
Colorado has hosted this premier U.S. beer competition for more than 40 years now, making it a bucket-list event for craft beer lovers. Tickets for this festival typically sell out quickly, so consider yourself lucky if you’re one of the few that are fast enough to grab 'em. 

Left Hand Oktoberfest

Longmont, September
Held in the beer garden of Longmont’s Left Hand Brewing, this annual German-themed celebration combines local brews with live music, brat-eating contests and more. You’ll even feel good about going to this festival knowing that the event’s proceeds go toward the Left Hand Brewing Foundation and local nonprofits.

Sponsored

La Veta Oktoberfest

La Veta, October
In the shadow of the Spanish Peaks, the tiny town of La Veta hosts a memorable party with German bands, beer and dancing in the streets. Eat, drink and be merry knowing that the proceeds from this 501c3 festival benefit those in need in Huerfano County, while providing scholarship funds to local graduates each spring.

Big Beers, Belgians and Barleywines Festival

Breckenridge, January
Why not pair a visit to one of the state’s best-known ski towns with a world-class beer festival? Tastings, seminars and a homebrew competition anchor a weekend of fun with fermentation.

UllrGrass Music & Beer Festival

Golden, January
Notable craft breweries and cideries join forces for a bottomless tasting session that’s part of a weekend of bluegrass music, food and fun honoring the Norse God of winter. Don’t leave your kids at home for this one — Sunday is a free family day at UllrGrass, featuring an UllrEgg Hunt, crafts activities and games.

Winter Craft Beer Festival

Boulder, February
Sample local-favorite breweries like Cerebral Brewing and Upslope alongside nationally recognized craft beers at a tasting party designed to beat any winter blues that may have sprung up between beer fests.

WinterWonderGrass

Steamboat Springs, March
Bounce between stages that showcase some of the top names in bluegrass and two heated beer-tasting tents showcasing Colorado-based craft breweries. There’s also a homebrew competition, if you’re ready to take your game to the next level.

Want More?

Find fall and winter happenings

Explore fall festivals in Colorado 

Check out top winter beers