If you’re seeking the heart and soul of Southwest Colorado this summer, we've got a roundup of some fantastic events that you wouldn't want to miss. Our local communities of Durango, Cortez, Mancos, and Dolores are great hosts for all the best summer activities of Colorado.
Why should you participate, you ask? The answer lies in the magical blend of nature, culture, history, and adventure that these events bring right to your fingertips. These are not just events; they're experiences. Experiences that expose you to the vibrant local culture, bring you closer to the land, and create unforgettable memories.
Whether you're a fan of live music, a food and wine connoisseur, an avid hiker, or someone who loves to immerse in local culture, Southwest Colorado has something in store for you. From the sweet melodies of bluegrass festivals to the thrilling races on the Animas River, from the awe-inspiring local art displays to the starlit nights in tranquil hot springs, each event tells a unique story about this beautiful region.
So, put on your summer hat, slather on some sunscreen, and get ready to dive headfirst into the rich tapestry of experiences that Southwest Colorado offers. By participating, you're not just observing, you're living the Southwest Colorado life, even if it's just for a few days. So come, immerse yourself in our traditions, meet our people, taste our food, dance to our music, and let Southwest Colorado's magic leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Stay tuned as we navigate through the top summer events that will make your visit to Southwest Colorado an adventure you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Montezuma County Events for June
Every Saturday starting at 7:30 AM
Come out to support our local farmers, artists, and businesses by visiting the Farmers Market at 20 S. Elm Street At the corner of Elm & Main In the Montezuma County Courthouse parking lot Cortez, CO 81321
Every Thursday from 4:00 to 6:30 PM
Located at Boyle Park at 150 E. Park Street in Mancos, Colorado. Come support our local farmers and artists while listening to live music.
The Dolores River Festival is a highlight of the summer in Southwest Colorado, celebrating the life and vitality of the beautiful Dolores River that courses through the heart of the region. This joyous event typically takes place annually in June and is known for its lively atmosphere, an eclectic mix of local and national music, and a wide range of activities that cater to all ages.
An immersive community affair, the festival focuses on promoting river stewardship, community engagement, and environmental responsibility, all set to the rhythm of live music that resonates through the natural amphitheater. Attendees can expect a plethora of live performances from an array of bands across multiple genres, filling the air with melodies as vibrant and diverse as the festival-goers themselves.
Come join us at the UTE Mountain Roundup at Montezuma County Fairgrounds on June 10th, 2023! This family-friendly event will be packed with fun activities for everyone. Enjoy a full day of horse events such as barrel racing, roping, and cutting competitions. You can also witness some of the best bull riding in the country with professional bull riders from all over competing for top honors. Other attractions include a mechanical bull riding competition, live music and dancing, craft vendors, food vendors, and more! Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience an exciting western lifestyle event that you won’t find anywhere else.
In 2019, the Mancos Creative District invited a group of burros and artists to come together to see what would unfold. We laughed, we painted, we sculpted, we enjoyed every minute of burro silliness. And we decided to do it again! This year we hold our fourth annual celebration of this cute, furry animal with art demonstrations, an animal art market, burro obstacle course and other burro antics, food trucks, music, and more.
iAM MUSIC Fest! celebrates and unites independent artists and community, reclaiming the spirit of collaboration. Our aim is to engage community, stimulate the local economy, encourage tourism, and showcase original music supporting local, regional, and touring musicians and artistic genres. All participants are encouraged to have roots in social justice, education, mentorship or a desire to strengthen the culture and community of the Southwest. Events will feature bands, visual and performing artists, and iAM MUSIC students, while establishing partnerships with local food, venues, and businesses.
Fenceline Cidery is partnering with iAM MUSIC FEST! to bring a festival to Mancos! Proceeds will be distributed back into the Mancos community. Use the link below to get your tickets!!!
Saturday’s festival features: NOSOTROS, J-CALVIN, BLUE HONEY, HELLO DOLLFACE, SHADOW TRAPP, DANA ARIEL AND THE COMING UP ROSES, JOHN HOFFMAN, ALEX ARMANDO RUIZ, ANNIE BROOKS, RYELL CARLIE, NU BASS THEORY AND performances by the Secret circus society
LaPlata County Events for June
Every Saturday starting at 8 AM
Situated in the heart of Durango, the Durango Farmers Market is a veritable treasure trove of fresh produce, locally-crafted goods, and community connection. Serving as a cornerstone of local agriculture and craftsmanship since its establishment over 25 years ago, this market operates with a simple but impactful motto: "We are local." This fundamental principle ensures that everything available for purchase, from the sun-ripened tomatoes to the hand-woven scarves, originated from within the region.
The Durango Farmers Market is open every Saturday from May through October, transforming the parking lot near the Transit Center into a bustling hub of activity and camaraderie. The hours of operation span from 8:00 AM to noon, providing ample time for locals and visitors alike to soak in the market's vibrant atmosphere and procure the freshest possible goods.
Have you ever pondered what Wonderland was like BEFORE Alice stumbled down the rabbit hole?
The Durango Circus presents a revival of our original circus-theatre story, CIRCUS IN WONDERLAND. Combining physical comedy, aerial arts, acrobatics, juggling, contortion, drama, stilts, live music, and so much more, there's something for everyone here, from young children to grownups who need an escape from modern reality...
Doors open at 1 pm for matinees, 6 pm for the evening shows.
The pre-show with aerialists, circus characters, live music, and juggling begins at 1:30 pm for matinees, 6:30 pm for the evening show.
Our full theatrical production will begin at 2 pm or 7 pm sharp.
Concessions will be available for purchase with cash or check, or you can purchase our Concessions Specialty Bundle here.
Please email us at info@daaacircus.com to reserve handicapped seating, as necessary.
The 40th Annual Animas River Days will be held from June 2nd, 2023, to June 4th, 2023! Started in 1983, this annual event has drawn in paddlers from all over the world and is held on the world-class whitewater of the Animas River. Events that are part of the Animas River Days include stand-up paddling, river surfing, freestyle kayaking, raft and kayak slaloms, a costume river parade, and more! For more information about the Animas River Days, visit their website at https://www.animasriverdays.com/.
