Quick Info
When: First weekend in August (typically). Where: Elk Avenue, downtown. What: 175+ artists, live music, food. Admission: Free to browse.
Each August, artists and craftspeople descend on Elk Avenue for one of Colorado's premier art shows. The Crested Butte Arts Festival transforms downtown into an open-air gallery, with 175+ booths showcasing painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and crafts. Against the backdrop of the colorful Victorian storefronts, it's a uniquely Crested Butte event.
The Art
The festival is juried, meaning artists are selected based on quality. You'll find:
- Painting: Oils, watercolors, acrylics—many featuring Colorado landscapes
- Sculpture: Metal, wood, glass, and mixed media
- Photography: Fine art prints, often of regional subjects
- Jewelry: Handcrafted pieces from established and emerging artists
- Ceramics and pottery: Functional and decorative works
- Fiber arts: Weaving, textiles, and wearable art
Artists come from across the country, though Colorado artists are well represented. Many pieces feature mountain themes that resonate in this setting.
Festival Details
Hours: Typically Saturday and Sunday, 10am-5pm. Some events extend into Friday evening.
Location: Elk Avenue is closed to traffic, becoming a pedestrian walkway lined with artist booths. The festival extends from one end of downtown to the other.
Admission: Free to browse. Prices for artwork range from affordable crafts to significant investments in fine art.
Live music: Stages throughout town feature live performances. Local food vendors supplement the permanent restaurants.
Tips
Book lodging early. This is one of the busiest weekends of summer. Hotels fill months ahead—reserve as early as possible.
Arrive early. Morning crowds are lighter. Serious collectors often arrive when booths open.
Bring cash. While many artists accept cards, cash speeds transactions and some smaller vendors prefer it.
Combine with outdoor activities. August is excellent for mountain biking and hiking. Make it a full weekend.
Getting There
Elk Avenue closes to traffic during the festival. Parking is available on side streets and in designated lots. The free bus from Mount Crested Butte is an easy option if you're staying at the mountain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it family-friendly?
Yes. Children are welcome, and some activities cater to families. The open-air setting makes it easy to manage kids.
Can we bring dogs?
Usually yes, on leash. Check current festival guidelines—policies may vary.
What if it rains?
The festival continues through light rain. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in August—bring layers and expect brief showers.
How crowded is it?
The most popular weekend of summer. Expect crowds, especially Saturday afternoon. Early mornings and late Sunday are less busy.