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GolfingBreckenridge Events Guide: Your Insider Look at Upcoming Attractions!
Annual events and festivals in Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, isn’t just a haven for outdoor adventure—it’s a vibrant hub of culture, celebration, and creativity that shines year-round. From dazzling Fourth of July fireworks to the whimsical Ullr Fest honoring the Norse fictitious god of snow, the town’s calendar is brimming with events that capture its adventurous spirit and artistic flair. Visitors can sip fine wines at summer festivals, marvel at world-class snow sculptures in winter, or cheer on elite athletes during challenging mountain bike races. If you’re ever wondering, “What’s happening this weekend?” you can be assured Breckenridge promises events each season and for every traveler.
Annual Celebrations with Fireworks
Independence Day Celebration
July 4, 2025
Downtown Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Over 15,000 spectators
Why Attend: This quintessential Fourth of July event combines a festive parade, live music, and athletic competitions. It culminates in a spectacular fireworks display (environmental concerns have limited these in recent years). The patriotic ambiance in the heart of Breckenridge is enhanced by its charming mountain-town setting. Nearby, enjoy farm-to-table dining at Rootstalk or cool off with locally brewed beers at Outer Range Brewing Company. Outdoor enthusiasts can also hike the Carter Park Trail before joining the festivities.
Who Should Go: Families, history buffs, and those seeking a classic Independence Day experience.
Winter Events
Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Championships
January 21–30, 2025
Downtown Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Over 5,000 visitors
Why Attend: Witness incredible artistry as teams from around the world carve 20-ton blocks of snow into magnificent sculptures entirely by hand. The enchanting setting of downtown Breckenridge enhances the spectacle, with its historic streets and the majestic Tenmile Range as a backdrop. Nearby, enjoy fine dining at Hearthstone Restaurant, renowned for its Colorado lamb, or sip craft beer at Broken Compass Brewing Company. Don’t miss outdoor ice skating at Maggie Pond or explore boutique shopping at the Breckenridge Arts District.
Who Should Go: Art enthusiasts, families, and anyone captivated by creativity and winter wonderlands.
Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas
December 2, 2025
Downtown Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Over 10,000 visitors
Why Attend: This heartwarming event kicks off the holiday season with a parade of Santas racing through Main Street, followed by the magical Lighting of Breckenridge, illuminating the town in festive splendor. Grab hot cocoa from Clint’s Bakery & Coffee House or dine on rustic American fare at Blue River Bistro. Warm up with après-ski drinks at Après Handcrafted Libations after sledding at Carter Park.
Who Should Go: Families, holiday enthusiasts, and those seeking small-town holiday charm.
Ullr Fest
December 12–14, 2025
Downtown Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Over 5,000 visitors
Why Attend: Celebrate the Norse god of snow with Breckenridge’s famed Ullr Parade, a massive bonfire, and various quirky activities like the Ullr Ice Plunge. This lively event honors Breck’s skiing culture with exuberance and flair. Stay for après-ski at Coppertop Bar & Café or dive into craft cocktails at Modis. Hit the slopes early to enjoy Breckenridge Ski Resort before the day’s festivities.
Who Should Go: Skiers, snowboarders, and anyone ready to embrace winter traditions.
Arts and Craft Shows
Breckenridge International Festival of Arts
August 9–18, 2025
Locations in Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Over 7,000 art lovers from all over
Why Attend: This 10-day celebration brings nature-inspired art installations, cutting-edge performances, and immersive workshops that showcase the connection between creativity and the stunning mountain environment. Explore exhibits at the Breckenridge Arts District, then indulge in pastries at La Francaise French Bakery. Guided hikes to Boreas Pass complement the festival’s theme.
Who Should Go: Art aficionados, families, and anyone curious about blending art and nature.
Breck Film Festival
September 19–22, 2025
RIVERWALK CENTER in Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Film enthusiasts and creatives from across the region
Why Attend: The Breck Film Festival offers a curated selection of thought-provoking films and engaging musical performances. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or a cinema lover, this festival provides an intimate, mountain-inspired setting for connecting with the arts. Catch screenings at the Riverwalk Center and enjoy coffee breaks at Cool River Coffee House. Afterward, explore nearby galleries in the Breckenridge Arts District or hike the Sawmill Reservoir Trail for scenic inspiration.
Who Should Go: Cinephiles, creatives, and anyone intrigued by storytelling in film and music.
Food and beverage festivals
Summer Beer Fest
July 20, 2025
Downtown Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Wine connoisseurs and food lovers
Why Attend: Pair Colorado’s craft beer culture with live music at this lively summer event. Sample dozens of local and regional brews while enjoying performances from local bands in a laid-back outdoor atmosphere. Head to Breckenridge Brewery for pre-event eats or savor artisanal pizza at Giampietro’s Pizza. After the festival, relax by the Blue River Plaza or browse handmade goods at local shops.
Who Should Go: Craft beer enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone looking for a fun summer outing.
Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival
July 26–28, 2025
Main Street Station & The Village at Breckenridge
Attendance: Over 7,000 art lovers from all over
Why Attend: Indulge in nearly 300 varieties of wine paired with gourmet offerings from local chefs. The festival’s outdoor setting amid the picturesque Rockies creates an unforgettable sensory experience. Don’t miss Ridge Street Wine for expert recommendations or savor French-inspired dishes at Aurum Breckenridge. Take a scenic gondola ride before toasting to the day’s discoveries
Who Should Go: Wine enthusiasts, couples, and anyone seeking an upscale culinary experience.
Breck Hogfest: Bacon & Bourbon Festival
August 30, 2025
Main Street Station & The Village at Breckenridge
Attendance: Over 3,000 foodies and spirits aficionados
Why Attend: Celebrate the ultimate pairing of smoky bacon and smooth bourbon. With live music and tasting stations galore, this festival brings a playful yet sophisticated energy to Breckenridge’s culinary scene. Try the signature bacon dishes at Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon or sample modern American cuisine at Relish. Nearby, take a historic walking tour to learn about Breck’s mining past before indulging at Hogfest.
Who Should Go: Bourbon lovers, food enthusiasts, and music fans.
Breckenridge Wine Classic
SEPT 13–15, 2025
Main Street Station & The Village at Breckenridge
Attendance: Over 2,500 lovers of fine wine and gourmet cuisine
Why Attend: Featuring wine tastings, seminars, and perfectly paired culinary delights, this festival is set against the stunning autumnal backdrop of Breckenridge. It’s a chance to savor the best of wine and food culture in a luxurious yet approachable environment. Explore award-winning dining at Hearthstone Restaurant or sip craft cocktails at Barney Ford’s Speakeasy. Between tastings, hike the Aspen Alley Trail to take in the vibrant fall colors.
Who Should Go: Wine aficionados, foodies, and those looking to experience Breckenridge in its fall splendor.
Music festivals
Five Peaks Music Festival
March 15–17, 2025
Riverwalk Center, Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Around 5,000 music fans from all over Colorado
Why Attend: A multi-day music festival featuring an eclectic mix of bands and solo artists against the serene backdrop of Breckenridge’s snowy peaks. The vibrant indoor and outdoor venues make it a unique winter event.
Who Should Go: Music lovers, couples, and après-ski enthusiasts.
Savor elevated pub fare at Breckenridge Brewery before dancing the night away. Daytime skiing at Peak 8 is the perfect warm-up to the performances.
Rock the Mountain Festival
September 6, 2025
Sherman Theater Outdoor Stage, Stroudsburg
Attendance: Around 4,000 visitors
Why Attend: An energetic day of live rock and indie music performances with food trucks, craft beer, and a laid-back festival vibe. The event highlights both local bands and nationally touring acts.
Who Should Go: Rock fans, groups of friends, and casual concert-goers.
Races
Firecracker 50
July 4, 2025
Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Hundreds of riders and cheering spectators
Why Attend: Kick off Independence Day with this thrilling 50-mile mountain bike race. Known for its challenging terrain and electrifying energy, the Firecracker 50 winds through scenic trails and serves as a spirited start to Breckenridge’s July 4th celebrations. Racers and supporters can refuel with hearty breakfasts at The Crown or celebrate post-race with craft beers at Broken Compass Brewing. Stick around for the parade and fireworks to complete the day.
Who Should Go: Competitive cyclists, endurance enthusiasts, and families eager to cheer on participants.
Breck Epic
August 11–16, 2025
Breckenridge, CO
Attendance: Elite cyclists and fans of high-adrenaline sports
Why Attend: This multi-day mountain bike race is a grueling test of skill and stamina, spanning six days and hundreds of miles of rugged Colorado wilderness. The Breck Epic offers a rare opportunity to experience the majesty of the Rockies on two wheels. Before the race, fuel up on fresh breakfast options at Amazing Grace Natural Eatery, and after a long day on the trails, celebrate at The Canteen Tap House and Tavern. For spectators, hiking trails near Boreas Pass offer fantastic vantage points to watch the competitors in action.
Who Should Go: Serious cyclists, adventure seekers, and supporters looking for epic views and intense action.
Frequently asked questions
Looking for a fun event to go to in Breckenridge? Let’s get some answers to questions you might have as you plan your visit!
Breckenridge hosts a variety of beloved annual events, including the Independence Day Celebration with a parade and fireworks, the Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas, and the quirky and snow-themed Ullr Fest in December. Each event combines the town’s vibrant community spirit with its scenic mountain backdrop.
Breckenridge is a hub for art and culture. The Breckenridge International Festival of Arts (BIFA) and the International Art Festival highlight innovative art installations, performances, and workshops. Film lovers flock to the Breck Film Festival in September for a mix of screenings and live music.
Absolutely! Foodies will love events like the Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival, featuring nearly 300 wine varieties and gourmet food pairings, and the Breck Hogfest: Bacon & Bourbon Festival, which offers a playful mix of smoky bacon dishes and bourbon tastings. The Breckenridge Wine Classic in September is another can’t-miss event for oenophiles.
Breckenridge offers incredible musical experiences, from the Five Peaks Music Festival in March to live performances at the Summer Beer Fest. Many festivals, like the Breck Film Festival, also integrate music into their programming, ensuring there’s something for every music lover.
The summer and fall months are packed with events like the Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival in July, the Breck Epic in August, and the Breck Film Festival in September. Winter visitors can enjoy festive events like the Ullr Fest and the Lighting of Breckenridge.
It depends on the event. Many events, such as the Independence Day Celebration and Lighting of Breckenridge, are free and open to the public. Ticketed events include the Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival, the Breck Film Festival, and the Breckenridge Wine Classic. It’s best to check individual event websites for details.