Summit County is known for its snowy slopes but did you know it also has a thriving arts community? Home to hundreds of galleries, performance spaces, public art, classes and workshops for all ages and experience levels, Summit County hosts artists from all over the world all year long. Learn more about the annual festivals celebrating art in all its forms that call Summit County home.
Breckenridge International Festival of Arts (Breckenridge, August)
Inspired by themes of environment and mountain culture, this 10-day program celebrates music, dance, film, and visual arts. Featuring workshops, classes, exhibitions, performance art and so much more - including the return of a friendly troll - Breckenridge International Festival of Arts has something for everyone. Family-friendly and hosts both free and ticketed events.
Wave: Light + Water + Sound (Memorial Day Weekend, Breckenridge)
Kicking off the warmer months is BreckCreate’s Wave: Light + Water + Sound, a four-day festival featuring interactive artworks, installations and musical performances. Breckenridge’s waterfront Blue River Plaza transforms into a nearly unrecognizable outdoor exhibition area.
Breckenridge Snow Sculptures (January, Breckenridge)
Just because there is snow on the ground doesn’t mean Summit County forgets about its incredible artist community. Over the course of five days, artists from around the world hand-carve massive, 20-ton blocks of snow into detailed works of art to create an outdoor art gallery. Free and perfect for families.
Main Street to the Rockies Art Festival (Frisco, August)
Frisco’s Main Street plays hosts to over 80 national and regional artists featuring glass, sculpture, mixed media, painting, photography, jewelry, ceramics and more. Pick up a piece to take home as a beautiful reminder of your time in Summit County.
Lake Dillon Arts Festival (July + August, Dillon)
Hosted in historic downtown Dillon accepts only 85 artists for this juried fine art and fine craft show featuring paintings, sculpture, jewelry, woodcrafts, fiber arts, photography, ceramics and more. Free admission, music, and giveaways against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Dillon.
Keystone River Run Village Arts Festival (July, Keystone)
Shop for your one-of-a-kind piece of art at the Keystone River Run Village Arts Festival. This event is free and open to the public, featuring artists from around the world as well as those that call Summit County home.
Book your Summit County vacation today with River Ridge Rentals to celebrate the love of art! Don’t forget to pack an extra suitcase for everything you’ll be bringing home.
Photo credit to Town of Breckenridge and Howard Allen Events.