Colorado Best Food and Drink Festivals

Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant culture. But it's not just the mountains that draw visitors, the Centennial State has a remarkable food and beverage scene. Whether you're a foodie, oenophile, spirits enthusiast, or beer connoisseur, there's something for everyone. Let's dive into some of the top festivals across the state.

Aspen Food & Wine Festivals: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Mountain Majesty

Aspen Food & Wine Classic: June
 

This culinary festival in Aspen brings together food enthusiasts, chefs, and wine experts for a weekend of indulgence and education. Held at various venues throughout Aspen, including the Grand Tasting Pavilion in downtown, the event attracts over 4,000 attendees. This year, the festival showcased more local vendors than ever, with up to 50 local businesses participating in the Grand Tastings. Notable local participants included Tuesday Foods, Bosq, Sundae, Pollinator Chocolates, and Madame Ushi.

 

Attendees can sample a wide variety of dishes and beverages, from tikka masala and Thai green curry to fine wines and artisanal chocolates. The event also features cooking demonstrations, wine seminars, and special dinners, with celebrity chefs like Andrew Zimmern, Bobby Flay, and Guy Fieri making appearances.
 

Aspen Mactoberfest: September

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The annual celebration of macaroni and cheese returns to Aspen's Restaurant Row on East Hopkins Avenue. Local restaurants will compete in the Ultimate Mac & Cheese Showdown, vying to create the most innovative and delicious dishes. Laura Werlin, known as Aspen's "Cheese Lady," will serve as the VIP judge, while attendees can also cast votes for their favorite entries.

 

The event, which drew nearly a thousand people last year, is free and open to the public. Beer and seltzer will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the Mother Pucker women's hockey team. 

Vail Craft Beer & Wine Festivals: A Mountain Retreat to Enjoy Some Great Vino and Brew

Vail Craft Brew Classic: June

 

A true beer lovers festival in Vail Village, has become a beloved summer tradition for craft beer enthusiasts. Featuring over 50 breweries from across the state, the event offers an all-inclusive tasting experience of beers, wines, ciders, seltzers, and spirits. Attendees can sample a wide variety of craft beverages while enjoying live music performances, though specific lineup details for the upcoming event have not yet been announced. Food trucks are on-site to provide sustenance alongside the libations, creating a well-rounded culinary experience.

 

The festival includes a competition element, with breweries vying for the People's Choice and Judge's Choice 'Best Beer of Summer' awards. As Colorado's highest altitude beer tasting event, it offers a unique opportunity to savor craft brews against the backdrop of stunning mountain views.

​Vail Wine Classic: August
 

This classic wine festival in Vail, brings together over 100 wineries from around the world, offering attendees a chance to sample fine wines from regions like Napa Valley and Tuscany. The event features Grand Tastings held at the picturesque Vail Mountain Resort, where wine enthusiasts can meet vintners and expand their palates. Beyond the tastings, the festival includes expertly paired dinners and lunches, as well as unique experiences such as wine hikes and lifestyle events. Classroom-style seminars hosted by winemakers and sommeliers provide opportunities for attendees to deepen their wine knowledge.

 

The festival attracts over 2,500 visitors, who can enjoy a variety of food pairings alongside the extensive wine selection. While specific musical performances are not mentioned, the event offers a perfect blend of mountain beauty and wine appreciation in a resort destination setting.
 
Vail Oktoberfest: September

 

Prost! This Bavarian-inspired celebration returns to Colorado's picturesque mountain town this September. Held over two weekends in Lionshead Village and Vail Village, the festival attracts thousands of visitors eager to experience authentic German culture. More than 20 vendors offer traditional fare such as bratwurst, schnitzel sandwiches, pretzels, and pierogies, alongside a variety of German beers. Live entertainment includes performances by Vail's own Helmut Fricker & The Rhinelanders, Denver Kickers Schuhplatters, The Polkanauts, and The Average German Band.

 

Visitors can participate in various competitions, including stein lifting, keg bowling, and a bratwurst eating contest. The event also features a dedicated children's area with activities like pretzel necklace making and live entertainment for younger attendees.