Explore events and things to do in Gunnison and Crested Butte, from weekend festivals and live music to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, there’s always something happening in the Gunnison Valley. Find events happening today, this weekend, and throughout the year across every season. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Gunnison and Crested Butte.
Looking for events this weekend? Browse upcoming happenings below.
A Pair of Textured Mugs Ages 15+ Saturday, January 17 5:00-8:00 PM Learn handbuilding and texture techniques to create your own unique and customized ceramic mugs-perfect for your morning coffee ritual. Instructor: Kristin Gruenberger $60 Non-Member | $50 Member
Settle in for a relaxed evening of figure drawing designed for all skill levels, this laid-back session offers a welcoming space to practice capturing the human form. With a live model, gentle guidance, and a calm creative atmosphere, you'll have the freedom to explore gesture, proportion, and expression at your own pace. Location: GAC Blue […]
Ski straight from the slopes of Mt. Crested Butte to the Elevation Hotel for an engaging après-ski history talk with renowned Colorado historian Dr. Duane Vandenbusche. Discover the rich skiing heritage of the Gunnison Valley through archival images and stories Explore the rich skiing history of the Gunnison Valley through archival images and stories from […]
Evening Wheel Throwing | Ages 15+ Session 1: 6 Tuesdays January 20-February 24. 5:45-8:45 PM End your day creatively while learning wheel techniques, trimming, and glazing in a supportive setting. Beginner and Intermediate levels welcome. Instructor: Lauren Roullier $300 Non-Member | $255 Member
Thursday, January 22nd | 5:30 - 8:30 PM Join local artist Deirdre Jones for a relaxing evening of painting, sipping, and creativity! In this winter-inspired class, participants will create a serene snowy acrylic landscape step-by-step - perfect for beginners and seasoned painters alike. Enjoy a cocktail or two as you unwind, connect with friends, and […]
Warm up this season with our local Soup Series, featuring beloved local "celebrity" chefs sharing their favorite recipes, techniques, and culinary stories. Each session spotlights a different chef as they guide you through creating a signature soup from scratch. Participants will chop, simmer, taste, and learn hands-on tips for building bold, comforting flavors at home. […]
Saturday Clay Day | Ages 6+ Valentines January 24. 12:00-2:30 Kids explore clay while making the above-themed creations. Drop-off or parent participation welcome. Instructor: Coco Warren $45 Non-Member | $38 Member
Apres Clay | Ages 15+ Saturday, January 24. Valentine Clay 4:30-6:30 PM Celebrate the season of love by sculpting Valentine-inspired clay pieces. Instructor: Alaina Holcombe $45 Non-Member | $38 Member
Spend a focused hour drawing everyday objects in a relaxed, supportive setting. Explore composition, proportion, and shading while practicing observation skills and developing your personal style. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, creative drawing session. Location: GAC Upstairs Art Classroom Instructor: Karolina Szumilas
3 Wednesdays, January 28th - February 11th | 5:30 - 7:30 PM Discover the beauty of everyday objects in this still-life watercolor workshop. Participants will explore composition, light, and color while learning foundational watercolor techniques. Karen will guide students step-by-step as they create their own finished still-life painting, with room for personal expression. Location: GAC […]
Lights in the Valley is a 2 day healing arts fair in the Gunnison Valley, Jan 30th & 31st 2026 featuring local practitioners, mini-sessions, workshops, and a community market. The fair is free and open to the public, with ticketed workshops and a Friday night headliner!
Mountain Roots invites kids ages 10-14 to join our Kids Cook! courses, designed to inspire and educate teenagers about the world of culinary arts. Our classes feature fun themes, cooking from scratch, and plenty of tasting. With different recipes each week, kids learn skills to cook delicious meals that are nutritious, organic, and locally sourced […]
Gunnison Valley is also host to several beloved annual events. A classic winter event is The Alley Loop, a Nordic ski race that doubles as a costume contest. In fall, Mt. Crested Butte hosts the famous Chili and Beer Festival. Every summer in Gunnison, a crowd gathers to watch America’s fourth-oldest rodeo, Cattlemen’s Days. There are also festivals in Crested Butte that celebrate local art, music, wildflowers, and more. Attending an annual event is a good way to connect with the culture of the Gunnison Valley. You might even create a new tradition for you and your family and friends!
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