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11 Outdoor Summer Concert Series in Colorado

Colorado is filled with amazing outdoor events, and a numerous, fantastic music festivals and concert series. Whether you’re interested in bluegrass, folk, country, or jazz, there’s a musical showcase for everyone. Not sure you’ll be able to visit while a festival is taking place? Here are ten live music series that run throughout the summer, so no matter when you’re in town, you’ll have plenty of options. Even better, all ten are outdoor series so you can soak in the Colorado sunshine while enjoying the performances.

1. Red Rocks Summer Concert Series

When: Assorted Dates, May through September
Where: Morrison, CO
What: Colorado’s premier concert venue, Red Rocks hosts numerous national acts throughout the summer just minutes from downtown Denver. Enjoy live music surrounded by the stunning natural amphitheater.
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2. Denver Botanic Gardens Summer Concert Series

When: Assorted Dates, June through September
Where: Denver, CO
What: Catch a variety of national acts while surrounded by the verdant beauty of the Denver Botanic Gardens. Bring a seat as well as a picnic dinner and plan to purchase tickets well in advance.
Website 

3. Bands on the Bricks

When: Wednesdays, June through August
Where: Boulder, CO
What: Showcasing local musicians, this free summer concert series ranges from oldies to alternative music. An outdoor beer garden will feature local breweries as well as Rio Margarita’s.
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4. Lagoon Summer Concert Series

When: Wednesdays in July and August
Where: Fort Collins, CO
What: This summer event is hosted by Colorado State University and showcases local performers. Dog and family friendly, the 18 year old concert series is free.
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5. Bud Light Hot Summer Nights

When: Tuesdays, June through August
Where: Vail, CO
What: This free concert series is held at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail and hosts rock, country, bluegrass, and a variety of other musical genres. Food and drinks specials are available prior to the start of the show.
Website

6. ShowDown Town

When: Thursdays, June through August
Where: Eagle, CO
What: This free community event offers live music in Eagle Town Park as well as plenty of kids’ activities. Bring something to sit on and a picnic dinner. The summer’s line up has not yet been announced, so check back often.
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7. “Keepin’ It Free” Steamboat Springs Free Summer Concert Series

When: Select Fridays and Saturdays, June through August
Where: Steamboat Springs, CO
What: Located at Howelson Hill just outside of downtown Steamboat, the free concert series hosts a variety of acts. Food and beverages are available for purchase, and a play area is open for children. Bring your own seating.
Website

8. Alpenglow Free Outdoor Concerts in the Park

When: Mondays, June through August
Where: Crested Butte, CO
What: With musical styles ranging from bluegrass to big band to blues, this free concert series takes place surrounded by the Paradise Divide and Crested Butte Mountain. It is recommended that you bring your own seating and snacks.
Website

9. Sounds Exciting Summer Concert Series

When: Wednesdays in June and July
Where: Lakewood, CO
What: Held at the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation Amphitheater, this concert series hosts a variety of local and national acts. Food and beverages are available for purchase, but it is recommended that you bring your own seating.
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10. Summer of Free Music Concert Series

When: Thursdays, June through August
Where: Snowmass, CO
What: Presented by Jazz Aspen Snowmass and the Town of Snowmass Village, this free concert series showcases a variety of music genres including soul, blues, reggae, country, and funk surrounded by the views of gorgeous Fanny Hill.
Website

11. Ouray Mountain Air Music Series

When: Thursdays in June
Where: Ouray, CO
What: An assortment of Colorado and national acts with each week showcasing a different musical genre. All concerts are free with food and beverages available for purchase. Children and pets welcome.
Website



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