Telluride Winter Events Guide

It's more than world-class skiing

September 25, 2019

Telluride in the Winter

Festivals, concerts, and more

Telluride's summer festivals and attractions are known around the world, but the coming of snow doesn't mean the festivals end. The Telluride Blues and Brews Festival could be considered the last true summer festival, and all after that skew toward fall festivities and winter attractions. 

Here's a look at everything going on in Telluride this winter, in addition to the famous ski slopes.

Winter Events Guide

Telluride Festival of Cars and Colors
September 26-29
Art Walk
First Thursday of every month
Original Thinkers
October 3-6
Telluride Horror Show
October 11-13
Telluride Fire Festival
December 6-8

Mind Blown at the Madeline
Every Friday and Saturday between November 29 and April 4th
Holiday Cabaret 
December 20-24
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade  
December 24
New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks
December 31
KOTO Lip Sync
January 25

Telluride Festival of Cars and Colors - September 26-29

The Telluride Festival of Cars and Colors is a beautiful way to see the changing leaves of the surrounding mountains while enjoying a world-class automotive show. Now entering its 5th year, the festival is a gathering of the world’s finest cars.

Last year’s event included a War Bird aviation exhibit in addition to classic cars and motorcycles, as well as plenty of family-friendly activities and live music. For a truly unforgettable experience, register to take part in the Million Dollar Highway Road Rally, where you’ll join the likes of other auto collectors driving through some of southwest Colorado’s most iconic towns, all with a backdrop of the changing aspens.

Art Walk - First Thursday of every month

The Telluride Art Walk is an excellent experience where locals and visitors mingle in some of the town's best art galleries. On the first Thursday of every month, pick up a free Galler Guide, which lets you take a self-guided tour through galleries in town. 

The event takes place from 5-8pm and is often frequented by representatives from local businesses, where you can learn more about Telluride over a glass of wine and the backdrop of great local art.

Original Thinkers - October 3-6

Billed as a way yo build a community of original thinkers, this new festival welcomes speakers, films, art, and performances meant to delve deeper into some of the biggest and most transformative ideas of the 21st century. 

Gather with fellow original thinkers all over Telluride's beautiful Mountain Village neighborhood for the ultimate storytelling experience. (Photo courtesy of Original Thinkers)

Telluride Horror Show - October 11-13

You've probably heard of Telluride's famous Film Festival, (known locally as The Show), but did you know the party continues in October? The Telluride Horror Show welcomes all things gore and lore with three days of new and classic horror film showings. 

Get in the Halloween spirit surrounded by the beauty of Telluride in the fall.

Telluride Fire Festival - December 6-8

Part Burning Man, part small mountain town party, The Telluride Fire Festival is a feast for senses, and unlike anything else that comes to the box canyon. Art, sculptures, performances, and more, all involving fire, parade through the town and illuminate its beauty by night. 

Check out the video to the right of this unique festival, and if you need a place to stay in town, look through all our Downtown Telluride rentals

Mind Blown at the Madeline - Every Friday and Saturday during ski season

Much more than your typical magic show, Mind Blown at the Madeline provides an intimate experience in a small theater that rivals the greatest illusionist shows of Vegas. Recommended for ages 12 and up, it's a show written to leave adults speechless. No children under the age of 8 are allowed. 

The Madeline Hotel is located in Mountain Village, in the heart of everything during ski season. For lodging options, check out all our Mountain Village luxury rentals

Telluride Holiday Cabaret - December 20-24

Picture the traditional holiday variety show, and give it an extra dose of all things Telluride. That's what you can expect from the Telluride Holiday Cabaret at the Telluride Theatre's Black Box. If you're headed to Telluride for a Christmas stay, this is a must-see.

Christmas and New Year's Eve Torchlight Parades

From 6:30 to 7:30 on Christmas and New Year's Eve, watch from town as skiers descend down Coonskin and Telluride Trail with red torchlights. The dazzling display lights up the snow and gives the mountain an alpenglow feel as you prepare for the celebrations to come. 

Wany a truly unique perspective? Head to the San Sophia Gondola station and time your descent for when the riders are heading down the mountain. You'll see the glow of town, the streaks of red, and the stars above. 

KOTO Lip Sync - January 25

If you're in Town on the evening of January 25, head to the Sheridan Opera House at 9pm for the KOTO Lip Sync event, sponsored by local radio station KOTO. Grab a Flatliner from the New Sheridan Bar, and let the shenanigans begin. 

Telluride Comedy Festival - February 13-16

The Telluride Comedy Festival has the same reputation as any of its famous summer counterparts, and attractions top talent from all over the country. A winter festival since 1999, the event takes place over President's Day every year, and is sponsored by the Sheridan Arts Foundation. 

Click here for updates, a full schedule, appearances, and more

Telluride Gay Ski Week - February 22-29

Telluride Gay Ski Week promises seven days of skiing, dancing, fun, and excitement, all in the breathtaking beauty of the San Juan mountains. Every year, participants enjoy daily skier/boarder meet ups, cocktail parties, DJs, live music, Oscar watching parties, and more. 

Click here for a full schedule of events.

Telluride Tribute Fest - March 16-17

Consider this the biggest cover band party in Telluride, taking place right during the buzz of Spring Break. This is a truly unique event put on by the Sheridan Arts Foundation. 

Click here for updates, lineups, and more.

What to Expect

Take a quick tour of Telluride in the Winter

From Town to Mountain Village, winter in Telluride is truly magical. 

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