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.
Saturdays, 10:00 - 4:00 PM | All Artists + Mediums Welcomed April 4th + May 2nd Celebrate local creativity at the Sunni Gunni Art Market, a vibrant pop-up hosted by the Gunnison Arts Center and curated by local artists! Sip on your favorite drink, enjoy live music, and browse a dynamic mix of art from […]
Calling all poets, farmers, ranchers, and local food lovers--the Gunnison Valley Producers' Guild will be hosting its annual Farm & Garden Poetry Slam at the Gunnison Arts Center! Join your neighbors and local farmers on stage or in the audience as folks share original nature-based poems. The event will also feature a "Dress Like a […]
Thursday, March 26th | 5:30 - 8:30 PM Cozy up for a creative evening with local artist Gail Sovick as you learn to craft your own winter-inspired wool project! Using a variety of natural wool fibers, participants will explore techniques in felting, layering, and texture to create a soft, seasonal piece full of charm and […]
Get ready to get silly, creative, and a little bit messy! Wacky Wednesday is all about exploring art in the most playful way possible. Each week, kids dive into a new off-the-wall project-think upside-down drawings, unusual materials, goofy color combinations, and art prompts that spark big imagination. We'll experiment, laugh, try new techniques, and celebrate […]
Friday, March 13th | 5:30 - 7:30 PM Get creative with resin in this hands-on class led by artist Shana Vogel! Learn the basics of working with resin while designing your own unique set of coasters. Choose from a variety of colors, additives, and effects to make each piece your own. Location: GAC Upstairs Art […]
Move freely, feel deeply, and reconnect with your body through this liberating, judgment-free dance experience. Ecstatic Dance is a guided but unstructured movement practice set to a dynamic soundtrack, allowing you to express yourself, release stress, and find joy through rhythm and motion. No choreography, no experience needed - just come as you are and […]
Step onto the dance floor with confidence! This beginner-friendly class introduces the fundamentals of classic ballroom styles like the waltz, foxtrot, and swing. Learn basic steps, partner connection, and rhythm in a fun, supportive environment. No experience necessary & singles and couples welcome! Instructor: Nora Grant Tuition: $80/Individual Non-member, $68/Individual member. $160/Couples Non-member, $136/Couples member
Saturday, February 7th | 4:00 - 7:00 PM Celebrate friendship and creativity this Pal-entine's Day with three talented local artists! Shana Vogel will guide participants in creating sparkling resin Valentine's pieces. Sarah Sharsmith will lead a cozy session making felted hearts, and Dani Vitulli will teach participants how to craft hand-carved and printed Valentine's cards. […]
Winter Harmony: Snowfall Sessions Saturday, January 31 | 7:00 - 9:00 PM Join us at the Gunnison Arts Center for Winter Harmony - Snowfall Sessions - a cozy, curated night of live music featuring local musicians sharing original songs and stories. Think of it as an open mic meets a living room concert: relaxed, inviting, […]
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 […]
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
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
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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