Tarp runs, sunburns, cold beers and great music are the cornerstones of a good summer. The Marquee’s editorial team has scoured the state and beyond to find the best music festivals in the country that are still easily accessible to our Colorado music junkies. From Detroit to L.A., from Montana to Arizona what we’ve found are over 100 of the most magical events.
Most are a relatively easy drive and a few that are a little further but worth the trip. (For those keeping track, The UMS ranks as our closest festival, and Summer Meltdown in Darrington, Wash. is our furthest festival at just under 1,400 miles away. Note: All distances are calculated from the State Capital in Denver).
With this year’s guide we cover all of the crucial festivals this side of the Mississippi, a couple that are just across the river, all the notable festivals in Colorado, and, our favorite, the intimate festivals — the ones that won’t create sponsorship impressions for corporate America, but the ones that create lasting memories with you, your friends and your favorite bands. Stay hydrated, apply an extra layer of sunscreen, listen intently, but, most of all, have fun!
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