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.
Join Madeline and Matt Shugert for an evening exploring the many voices of the saxophone, one of music's most versatile and historically polarizing instruments. Though often associated with jazz, the saxophone has a rich place in classical music and traditions around the world. Through a program spanning Baroque transcriptions, French Impressionist works, and classic and […]
At just 18, Bella Rayne is a self-taught guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter whose sound is quickly turning heads across the country. Born in the mountains of North Carolina and raised along the rugged coast of Mendocino, California, she blends rock and Americana with the improvisational spirit of the jam-band tradition, creating a sound that feels […]
On June 19 and 20, 2026, Crested Butte will be hosting its first-ever speed puzzling competition at the Center for the Arts Crested Butte. Speed puzzling is a fast-growing competitive sport where competitors race to assemble a jigsaw puzzle the quickest. June 19 will have a tournament of Jigsaw Puzzle Chess (a quick one-on-one race), […]
Crested Butte, CO based Floodgate Operators know a thing or two about getting the party started. Founded in 2018, Floodgate Operators have grown from a dive bar bluegrass act to a force of original music and showmanship which has earned them praise throughout the Rocky Mountain West. The band has released three records, Drought Driven […]
Join filmmaker Bjarne Salen for a special evening screening of three unreleased episodes from his new series Fika With Bjarne. Filmed in a raw, cinematic style, the series follows Bjarne as he steps into the everyday lives of athletes and public figures, leading to intimate conversations over a traditional Swedish "fika": a simple coffee break […]
In preparation for the Speed Puzzle Competition on June 19 + 20, join us for a playful, fast-paced evening of puzzles, friendly competition, and community connection. Whether youÕre a seasoned speed puzzler or just in it for the fun, this interactive event invites you to jump in, team up, and test your skills across a […]
Why do so many persistent myths, superstitions, and folk beliefs arise? Why does our social brain love stories that feel true over facts that are true? Shane's newest show explores how the weirdest, funniest misunderstandings in human history come from our very human minds. Expect to laugh and learn in equal measure as we explore: […]
The Mountain Words Festival is a multi-day literary festival featuring readings, workshops, kids' events, parties, panel discussions, and more. It offers a variety of paid and free events. Join us this Memorial Day weekend and meet some of your favorite authors!
Discover the magic of making more with less at our community potluck inspired by Something from Nothing: A Cookbook by Alison Roman! This collection celebrates the art of cooking with what you have-turning pantry staples and everyday ingredients into dishes that feel abundant, satisfying, and full of flavor. Pick up a copy at Townie Books […]
Join us for the opening reception of the Crested Butte Community School Art Show. Led under the instruction of Nathan Motsinger, these talented students are ready and excited to show the community all the hard work they have put into their artwork over the past year. Come support these emerging artists, connect with fellow community […]
We're celebrating the flavors of tradition with a community potluck inspired by Mediterranea: Life-perfected Recipes from Grandmothers of the Mediterranean by Anastasia Miari! This cookbook gathers time-honored dishes passed down through generations, bringing the warmth, wisdom, and soul of Mediterranean kitchens to our table. Pick up a copy at Townie Books or borrow ours, sign […]
Join us for a playful, fast-paced evening of puzzles, friendly competition, and community connection. Whether you're a seasoned speed puzzler or just in it for the fun, this interactive event invites you to jump in, team up, and test your skills across a variety of puzzle challenges. We'll have a range of puzzle difficulties available […]
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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