What to Expect at the Crested Butte Arts Festival
A guide to the open air gallery this year
For 47 years, the The Crested Butte Arts Festival has transformed Historic Elk Ave into an open air gallery featuring 165+ jury-selected artists displaying ceramics, oil paintings, photography, jewelry creation and more.
Over 12,000 art enthusiasts flock to the high country festival each year to partake in the weekend-long fest hosting local and national talent flaunting a diverse array of artistry.
Griffith Evans Jewelry
From August 2-4, 2019, the free event welcomes patrons to meander through different artist tents, enjoy delicious bites at the Culinary Court and groove to the sounds of local musicians performing on the Community Entertainment Stage. Guests are also encouraged to bid on original work that ultimately benefits Crested Butte’s Festival Art Outreach program.
Seth Katz
Engage your taste buds with food trucks and fine local restaurants at this gathered eating area. Fear not vegetarians and gluten free diners: there’s a place for you, too, with dietary options available from participating vendors. What's more, boozy concoctions are available inside the Community Entertainment State. Sample rum from Montanya Distillers, imbibe on creative alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails or go for a classic beer from one of the local breweries.
Western State Colorado University has teamed up with CBAF to appoint an "Emerging Artist" to unveil their own art display at the festival. This opportunity not only gives the student exposure, but also assists in furthering their education and professional experiences as an artist.
Leo and Dusty Atkinson
Art festivals sometimes feel like they might bore adolescents because of the lack of appreciation––that’s why this addition is ideal to get the whole family involved. Grab some paint brushes and delve into a totally hands-on activity that helps mimic the creations seen in the festival. The best part: leave with a new art piece that’s totally free.
Mark your calendars and head to Crested Butte for a fabulous art-filled weekend in August.
