Every summer, a few hallmark experiences mark the changing of the season: In June, wildflowers bloom across the foothills. In July, farmers' market stands become kaleidoscopes of ripe fruits and vegetables. In August, music lovers unfurl their picnic blankets across the lawn of local farms, shops, and even homes in anticipation of big stars and homegrown talents alike. Here’s where to catch a few tunes before summer’s end.
Catch it While You Can
Don’t miss the Mapleton Porch Fest on September 21, where residential porches in one of Boulder’s most historic neighborhoods transform into stages for local performers. Stroll the neighborhood from noon to 4 pm to hear everything from bluegrass to classic rock. Learn more at MapletonHillPorchFest.com.
At 63rd St. Farmstead, tucked into the northeast corner of town, a pastoral farm field, illuminated by string lights, sets the stage for performances by local musicians. Bring a blanket and plan to buy a farm-fresh, wood-fired pizza while you’re there. See the lineup on Instagram @63rdst.farmstead.
A Big Time in a Small Town…
Drive west of town, and you might be surprised to find yourself at some of the area’s best venues. To wit, Jamestown Mercantile offers live music every Friday and most Thursdays. Eats and drinks start at 5 pm, and music begins at 7 pm. Check out the calendar to learn more: JamestownMercantile.com.
Gold Hill is another mountain-town destination for one-of-a-kind live music events, where both the Gold Hill Inn and the Gold Hill Store & Pub play host to a variety of musicians, particularly bluegrass, folk, and Americana acts. Get all the details at GoldHillInn.com and GoldHillStore.com.
A Little Further Flung…
While the city is a destination for many of the can’t-miss shows this summer, plenty of good times and good tunes can be found just a few miles outside of town. Take, for example, the Lyons Folk Fest, which, with its three days of live music and camping, is a bucket-list event for Coloradans. From August 8 to 10, locals and tourists alike will pile into the riverside venue to catch once-in-a-lifetime bluegrass acts. Learn more at Bluegrass.com/Folks.
It’s hard to beat the sound of a Colorado river, but the performances at the Mishawaka Amphitheater put up stiff competition. Situated alongside the Cache la Poudre River, this historic venue boasts a stacked lineup of acts and events big and small. Note: With its prime location deep in the Poudre Canyon, parking can be a bit tough, so get the full scoop on music schedules and shuttles at TheMishawaka.com.
On Saturday, August 23rd, head up to Nederland to catch the city’s annual Nederland Jazz & Wine Festival, where, in addition to imbibing on beverages from regional wineries, cideries, meaderies, distilleries, and breweries, you can enjoy a full day of live jazz from national, regional, and local acts. Learn more at nedjazzwine.com.