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?
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?
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, Sept. 9, 2023
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
Sept. 15–17, 2023
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
Sept. 15–17, 2023
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
Sept. 21–23, 2023
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
Sept. 29–30, 2023
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.
La Veta Oktoberfest
Oct. 7, 2023
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, Jan. 4–6, 2024
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, Jan. TBA, 2024
More than 30 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, Feb. 25, 2024
Sample local-favorite breweries like Twisted Pine and Upslope alongside nationally recognized craft beers from Lagunitas, Deschutes and more at a tasting party designed to beat any winter blues that may have sprung up between beer fests.
WinterWonderGrass
Steamboat Springs, March 3–5, 2024
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?
Discover more awesome fall and winter happenings, additional fall festivals in Colorado and get the scoop on the top winter beers at breweries across the state.
