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.
Try the Wheel: Date Night / Friends Night | Ages 15+ First Friday Art Walk | June 5; 5:30-8:00 PM Spin the wheel with friends or a partner in this relaxed, beginner-friendly evening of clay play. No experience needed for an evening of laughter and clay-splattered memories. Instructor: Lauren Roullier $50 Non-Member | $42 Member
Build your skills in both wheel throwing in this daytime 5-week series. Beginner and Intermediate levels welcome. Instructor: Lauren Roullier $200 Member | $250 Non-Member
Friday, May 29th | 6:00 - 8:00 PM Celebrate the beauty of nature in this hands-on watercolor workshop focused on painting wildflowers. Participants will learn techniques for creating soft washes, layering colors, and capturing the delicate shapes and textures of blooms. Guided instruction will help you develop both your technical skills and personal style, whether […]
Saturday, May 9th | 3:30 - 6:30 PM Celebrate Mother's Day with a hands-on workshop led by local artist Shana Vogel. Participants will create their own resin jewelry-perfect for gifting or keeping-and enjoy root beer floats as they work. This kid-friendly class offers a relaxed, creative environment for kids and moms to spend time together. […]
Happy little trees await! Join artist Sarah Sharsmith for a joyful and relaxed night of painting inspired by the legendary Bob Ross. Follow along step-by-step as you create your own serene landscape using Bob's signature techniques-gentle brushstrokes, fluffy clouds, and of course, plenty of happy accidents. Location: GAC Blue Box Theatre Instructor: Sarah Sharsmith $50 […]
Saturdays, 10:00 - 4:00 PM | All Artists + Mediums Welcomed 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 up to 20 […]
Boots + Ballroom will take place on Friday, April 24th, from 6:00-8:30 PM at the Gunnison Arts Center Blue Box Theatre. Join us for lessons from 6:00-7:00 PM, followed by open dancing from 7:00-8:30 PM. Bring your friends and enjoy an evening of music, a bar, and plenty of fun! This is a pay-what-you-can event, […]
Thursday, April 23rd | 5:30 - 8:30 PM Join local watercolor artist Karen Hill for an inspiring evening of color, creativity, and relaxation. In this workshop, participants will explore watercolor techniques to create a vibrant, beautiful painting. Karen will guide you step-by-step through blending, layering, and brushwork to help your artwork come to life-perfect for […]
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 […]
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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