Best Summer Mountain Festivals in the U.S.
Summer in the mountains is a magical time. It’s a season that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike to explore the rugged terrain and bask in the tranquility of alpine vistas. Away from the sweltering heat of the cities, mountain communities offer a refreshing respite, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty that surrounds them. It’s against this picturesque backdrop that some of the most exciting mountain festivals take place, each one weaving its own tapestry of culture, music and celebration.
These mountain festivals are more than just gatherings; they’re vibrant expressions of local identity and community spirit. From the foothills of the Appalachians to the peaks of the Rockies, these events serve as focal points for residents and travelers alike, drawing them together in a shared celebration of mountain culture. Here are our picks for the best summer mountain festivals in the United States.
Western United States
Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza
The Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza in Mammoth Lakes, California, happens every August. It blends blues music with craft beer. People come from all over to enjoy live music, beer tastings, and mountain activities. World-class blues artists perform against a stunning backdrop of snowy peaks and tall pine trees. It’s a memorable experience for those who love mountain life.
RockyGrass Festival
The RockyGrass Festival takes place in late July in Lyons, Colorado, along the St. Vrain River. It celebrates bluegrass music and mountain culture. Held annually at the Planet Bluegrass Ranch, the event showcases top artists and emerging talents. Attendees can enjoy workshops, jam sessions, and other activities celebrating acoustic music. Surrounded by cliffs and forests, they can soak in the soulful sounds of banjos, dobros, and upright basses amidst natural beauty.
Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival
The Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival happens every August in Alta, Wyoming, high in the Teton Mountains. It celebrates acoustic music and mountain culture. Held annually at the Grand Targhee Resort, the event features top bluegrass bands. Attendees enjoy the backdrop of majestic peaks and alpine meadows. They can relax on the slopes and listen to banjos, fiddles, and mandolins. The festival offers a laid-back atmosphere, stunning scenery, and world-class musical talent. Fans return year after year for the music, camaraderie, and mountain magic.
Telluride Bluegrass Festival
The Telluride Bluegrass Festival reigns supreme as one of the premier events in the world of bluegrass music. Held annually in June in the picturesque town of Telluride, Colorado, this legendary festival draws thousands of music lovers to its mountainous embrace. Renowned bluegrass artists take to the stage to captivate audiences with their soul-stirring performances. Beyond the music, the festival fosters a sense of community, with impromptu jam sessions springing up throughout the town and campgrounds.
Aspen Food & Wine Classic
Indulging in the culinary delights of the Rockies, the Aspen Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado, is a feast for the senses. Held annually every June in the picturesque resort town of Aspen, this prestigious event brings together top chefs, winemakers, and culinary experts from around the world for a weekend of gourmet tastings, cooking demonstrations, and exclusive dining experiences.
Eastern United States
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
The Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, is a mecca for music lovers amidst the rustic beauty of the Cumberland Plateau. Held annually in June on a sprawling farm, this iconic festival boasts an eclectic lineup of musical acts. Concertgoers can dance the night away to their favorite bands, explore interactive art installations, and savor delicious fare from food vendors. There’s everything from gourmet cuisine to down-home BBQ.
Green Mountain Bluegrass & Roots Festival
In the scenic countryside of Manchester, Vermont, the Green Mountain Bluegrass & Roots Festival every August beckons music aficionados to revel in the soulful strains of bluegrass. This beloved event features a stellar lineup of bluegrass bands and roots musicians from across the country. Revelers can kick back on the grassy hillsides and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this family-friendly festival.
White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues Festival
The White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues Festival takes place every August in Thornton, New Hampshire, amidst the stunning White Mountains. It’s a celebration of soulful music and mountain hospitality. Blues fans and music lovers come together for a weekend of electrifying performances, relaxed vibes, and outdoor fun. Attendees groove to blues bands from all over the country, enjoy local craft brews, and taste delicious BBQ from food vendors. The festival’s friendly atmosphere and scenic surroundings create a perfect blend of music, nature, and community spirit.
Cold Mountain Music Festival
The Cold Mountain Music Festival takes place in early June at Lake Logan in western North Carolina. It offers a weekend of music, nature, and relaxation. Hosted by Lake Logan Episcopal Center, the event features performances by nationally acclaimed artists in bluegrass, folk, and Americana genres. Attendees can enjoy music by the lake, or take part in outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and fishing. The festival provides a unique chance to unwind and connect with nature while experiencing Appalachian culture.
Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival
The Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival in Oak Hill, New York, is a beloved gathering of bluegrass enthusiasts every June. Set against the Catskill Mountains, it boasts an impressive lineup of bluegrass bands and acoustic musicians performing on multiple stages. Attendees can participate in workshops, dance to late-night jams, and explore the vibrant arts and crafts vendors.
Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
The Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion takes place annually every September in Bristol, which straddles the border between Virginia and Tennessee. It celebrates the musical heritage of the Appalachian region. Held every September in downtown Bristol, the festival features a diverse lineup of roots music. Attendees wander the streets, hopping from stage to stage to catch performances. Besides music, the festival offers workshops, dance lessons, and an artisan market showcasing local craftsmen.
FloydFest
Set amidst the rolling hills of southwestern Virginia, FloydFest is a multi-day celebration of music, art, and outdoor adventure every July that captures the spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This eclectic festival features a diverse lineup of musical acts spanning genres from rock and folk to blues and reggae. Attendees can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the Appalachian region, with workshops, art installations, and interactive experiences highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans.
