Much More Than Just A Jazz Festival…

August 9-11, 2025

World class performances from over 20 artists, intimate late night shows, a lively New Orleans 2nd Line Parade, historical walking tours, interactive jams, free morning yoga sessions, luxurious Patron and VIP Experiences featuring decadent culinary and cocktail components, and so much more under towering Rocky Mountain peaks - the Telluride Jazz Festival is well beyond your typical festival experience.

Located in the legendary Town Park in the breathtaking mountain town of Telluride, Colorado, the Telluride Jazz Festival is a 47 year old celebration of music set during the warm summer season. The Festival showcases three days and nights of world class jazz, funk, soul, folk and gospel, with a goal of community engagement and student education. The historical mining town of Telluride is nestled at the end of a lush canyon perched high in the Rocky Mountains at 8,750 feet, surrounded by 13,000 foot peaks and offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The Music 

Two Stages, Over Twenty Artists, Ten late night shows, Five Jazz On Main Venues, A New Orleans Second Line Parade

Once-in-a-lifetime soundtrack provided by acclaimed artists, Grammy Award winners, cutting edge innovators, rare super-groups, and some of the best student bands in the country, there’s no shortage of talent at the Telluride Jazz Festival. Picture yourself here enjoying over 20 bands on the Main Stage, “Society Stage” at Elks Park, historic late night venues and much more!

Our team strives to curate an artist lineup with a consistent, diversified and eclectic mix of jazz, funk, soul and more. Over the course of 47 years, notable performers have included Muddy Waters, Dizzy Gillespie, Mavis Staples, Chick Corea, Etta James, Herbie Hancock, Macy Gray, Bruce Hornsby, Irma Thomas, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, John Scofield, John Medeski, Ozomatli, Karl Denson, Jimmy Herring, Bill Frisell Trio, The Greyboy Allstars, Charlie Hunter, Glenn Miller Orchestra, Doug Lawrence (jazz) and many more.

Jazz On Main

Five Venues, Five Bands, A Great Way to Kick off the Festival

Kick off the Telluride Jazz Festival in style with Jazz On Main on Thursday, August 8 from 4-6 pm in the heart of historic downtown Telluride.

The official Jazz On Main venues will host live jazz bands setting a classy ambiance. All venues are located within walking distance of each other making for a truly vibrant Main Street atmosphere, the perfect way to set the mood for a weekend of world-class music, mountains and great memories. Jazz On Main is free and open to the public.

Patron Experience Opening Concert

A intimate evening of music for Patron Pass-Holders

The Patron Experience features a private opening concert at the historic Sheridan Opera House the night before the festival begins.

Set in the heart of downtown Telluride, the opening concert is part of the new Patron Experience which treats pass-holders to top-of-the-line festival amenities making for a truly elegant and memorable experience. The opening concert joins a fleet of fresh upgrades to the Patron Experience including a one-of-a-kind, on-stage seated viewing area accompanied by a full stage-side hosted bar. For more info or to purchase tickets, click here.

Society Stage Free Artist Performances

Free performances and more on the “Society Stage’ at Elks Park

These intimate and interactive shows with world class musicians and educators aim to further our mission of providing student education through music. All "Society Stage" at Elks Park events are free and open to the public. View the schedule here.

Brought to you by the generous support from the Dalton Family Foundation, Dworbell Inc., the Raynier Institute & Foundation, The Telluride Foundation and Telluride's Commission for Community Assistance, Arts, and Special Events (CCAASE).

Jazz After Dark

One Pass, Three Venues featuring performances in historic Downtown Telluride

On Friday and Saturday nights, after the festival ends in Town Park, we continue the music with “Jazz After Dark” shows located in various venues throughout Telluride. One pass allows entry into three different shows!

Jazz After Dark passes allow access to all venues for the night purchased. Be aware, Jazz After Dark passes do not guarantee entry to the show, all venues are first come, first served and based on the capacity of each venue. As they fill up, we direct you to which Jazz After Dark venues are not full. As the night goes on, crowds at the Jazz After Dark tend to rotate, so even if you can't catch the start of the band you want to see, there's a good chance you can catch the last half of their show. So, if there is one particular band you really want to see, get in line early for the show! After the shows begin, entry is dependent on capacity.

Morning Jam

A great way to start the day with live Jazz Music

Start your Telluride Jazz Festival mornings off with pleasant live jazz music. Morning Jam will offer a jazzy wake up to a full day of music on Saturday and Sunday of the Festival. Attendees can enjoy performance led by Jack Kotz and Bob Hemenger at Telluride Arts HQ.

Any and all musicians are welcome and encouraged to join in on the jam for an improvisational performance to get their day swinging. The jam will be will be first-come-first-play, with a sign up sheet. The music jams will go from 9-10 am on both Saturday and Sunday. The event is free and open to the public, coffee and food are available for purchase.

New Orleans Second Line Parade

Join a brass band, the festival staff and other attendees for a New Orleans tradition, Telluride style

Second Line Parades are a longstanding New Orleans tradition. Brass-bands take to the street, play and march. Onlookers who followed along to enjoy the music were known as the second line.

Join festival artists along with the Festival staff, attendees, and other artists for a Second Line Parade down Main Street all the way to Telluride Town Park on Sunday, August 14.

Everyone is welcome! Colorful floats, costumes, beads and decorations are all welcome as attendees join in on the march through town.

The parade starts at 12 pm from Elks Park.

The Final Waltz

Close down the festival in style at the Sheridan opera House

The Telluride Jazz Festival concludes on Sunday, August 11 with a special performance. Join us for this energetic show in what is sure to be a memorable way to end the Telluride Jazz Festival. Click here to get tickets.

Culinary Experience

General Admission Food Vendors

Savory, mouthwatering food menus to keep your taste buds satisfied all weekend long.

From delicious wraps, pizza, warm coffee and vegan options, the tasty food vendor menus will keep your taste buds satisfied all weekend long. Gluten-free? Vegan or vegetarian? No problem! Explore our food vendor selection and enjoy delicious food options throughout the festival. The 2024 food vendor menus will be announced in the coming months.

Patron Experience

A sensational 'Tour De Food' presented by chef Josh Klein

Putting an emphasis on high quality, locally-sourced and fresh ingredients, the Patron Experience features an eclectic food menu served in a cozy, covered Patron Lounge located backstage at the festival and an Opening Reception, “Dessert & Champagne”.

Welcome Reception, Thursday, August 12

Start your weekend off in style at the “Dessert & Champagne” Patron Opening Reception on Thursday, August 8. Patron pass-holders will be greeted to a host of culinary delights, along with live music from Telluride Student All-Stars Jazz Ensemble educator, Josh Quinlan. Throughout the evening, pass-holders will sample a variety of sweet treats and bubbles and have a chance to meet members of the Telluride Society For Jazz Board Of Directors. The reception will be followed by a special Opening Concert at the Sheridan Opera House.

Festival Weekend Dining, August 9-11

Backstage Dining Alongside Artists

Prepare yourself for a mouth watering culinary experience! Renowned Telluride Chef Will Nolan has curated a top-tier food experience for Patron pass-holders. As a well-known name in the local restaurant scene, Nolan is poised to offer superior cuisine to patron pass-holders. The result is sure to be a dining experience unlike any other, with quality ingredients, expert preparation, and a chef-driven focus on healthy and flavorful food. The Patron experience is nothing short of exceptional. Trust us, this is exclusive world class luxury that you don’t want to miss!

Drinks

STEP UP TO THE BAR AND GRAB YOURSELF A REFRESHING CRAFT COCKTAIL

Attendees can enjoy a wide selection of craft beer, wine and specialty cocktails from the Festival Bars through out the festival. VIP and Patron Experience pass-holders will enjoy complimentary bars curated by Beverage Director and Festival Mixologist Andrés Vargas-Johnson.

Craft Beer

Award winning craft beer from Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

The Telluride Jazz Festival is thrilled to team up with Sierra Nevada Brewing Company for the 2024 Festival! Founded back in 1980, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is one of America’s premier craft breweries today and is highly regarded for using only the finest quality ingredients. The pioneering spirit that launched Sierra Nevada now spans both US coasts with breweries in Chico, California and Mills River, North Carolina. Sierra Nevada has set the standard for craft brewers worldwide with impressive innovations in the brew-house as well as leading sustainability initiatives. Sierra Nevada is also an industry leader for artisan brewers worldwide taking home numerous awards for their wide variety of beers and ales, including the legendary Pale Ale.

Throughout the festival, you can discover a variety of their craft beers at the main bar, VIP and Patron bars!

Wine

With the final additions and finishing touches, we are excited to present the complete list of wine at the 47th Telluride Jazz Festival. From full-bodied reds with bold flavors to dry, zesty whites with a smooth finish, the 2022 wine list has something for every kind of wine enthusiast. The complete wine list will be announced in the coming months.

Cocktails

Attendees can enjoy classic mixed drinks featuring premium whiskey, tequila, vodka, gin mixed with high quality ginger beer, club soda, lemonade, tonic water and more will be available for purchase.

VIP & Patron Experience Specialty Cocktails

The sophisticated menu of craft cocktails is one of the most exciting Patron and VIP Experiences amenities! Our extensive selection of craft mixed drinks featuring premium vodka, gin, whiskey, and tequila will keep you feeling festive all day long.

Each drink is carefully thought out and conceptualized by festival mixologist Andres Vargas-Johnson. With years of experience behind the bar at Telluride’s top restaurants and now the newest bartender at Telluride's cutting-edge, award-winning bar and restaurant, "there...", Andrés Vargas-Johnson is a master mixologist and a true beverage virtuoso who has earned quite a name for himself through his inventive, handcrafted signature drinks.

Extending beyond the restaurant landscape, Andrés is lending his talents to the festival by creating an elevated assortment of craft cocktails designed specifically for Patron and VIP Experiences at the 46th Annual Telluride Jazz Festival. Stay tuned for the 2024 menu!

Activities

Free “First Note” Yoga Sessions

Start your morning off right with free First Note Yoga

Start your morning off right! Enjoy a fluid yoga flow, activating breath practice, liberating movement and playful exercises to discover new realms of embodied pleasure. Guests of all skill levels are welcome to join us on Saturday and Sunday mornings during the Festival weekend. Participation is free, no registration required. 

What to Bring: Water, Yoga Mat, Towel and Active Wear (Come with or without - these items are not mandatory to join in the class)!

For more info on First Note Yoga Sessions, click here.

Historical Walking Tour

Discover the past on Saturday morning at the Historical Walking Tour

Discover the past on Saturday morning at the Historical Walking Tour presented by the Telluride Historical Museum. Presenter and long-time resident Ashley Boling will guide visitors through Telluride’s storied past and celebrated landmarks. Walking Tour registrations are free; however, space is limited. Registrations open February 1. For more info, click here.

The Telluride Jazz Festival has partnered with the Telluride Historical Museum to offer free museum admission to pass and ticket holders during the festival weekend. Festival attendees will have the chance to visit the museum and learn about the region's rich Ute Native American heritage, mining, ski and festival history. Show your festival wristband for museum entry. The Museum is located at 201 W Gregory Ave. For more info, click here.

Outdoor Recreation

Towering 13,000 foot Rocky Mountain Peaks and Endless Wilderness

Hiking - Hiking is a great way to experience what Telluride is all about - the great outdoors! There are trails speckled all over the town, perfect for taking kids or trails that challenge even the most skilled adventurer. You will find something for everyone. For a list of trails and a map click here.

Biking - Telluride is a bike town. When you take notice of the hundreds of bikes parked on Main Street, that fact is hard to deny. In Telluride, you will find trails suitable for every skill level, from paved paths perfect for families to advanced single-track trails for mountain bikes. Explore the many great places to ride in and around Telluride, find your perfect trail here.

Stand-up Paddleboarding - SUP'ing is a great way to get out on the water and offers a NEW way to enjoy the outdoors. The activity benefits as a great core workout and increases skills of balance and agility. SUP'ing allows a wide range of athletic types to get involved and offers a short learning curve amid the most spectacular views around Telluride.

Fly Fishing - In Southwestern Colorado, rivers, ponds and streams are bountiful and teaming with fish. With waterfronts located minutes from your back door, fly fishing is a great way to spend your day before the show. There are a few things you might want to know before grabbing your waders and heading out the door. There are several outfitters in Telluride that offer half and full day guided trips.

Shopping

Amazing boutiques and outlets

Downtown Telluride is full of amazing shops and boutiques. Shelves are filled with trinkets, clothing, keepsakes and lots of Telluride merchandise. Stroll down Main Street and pop into stores as you take in the beautiful scenery all around you. Each shop is completely unique so visit them all where you will find smiling faces everywhere you go.

Education, Reduction and Advocacy

Telluride Jazz Festival is dedicated to keeping our environment clean and green. Join us in our commitment to ensuring a greener future for the Town of Telluride, our Festival and the planet.

The power of music to gather, evoke emotion and send a message is undeniable. At the Telluride Jazz Festival we’re committed to using the few days we have with our attendees and our resources to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility. The Telluride Jazz Festival puts the planet and sustainability as a top-tier of priority when doing business.

Through action and partnerships, we focus on waste reduction, environmental education and advocacy, energy offsets and earth celebration, with an overall goal to have the most positive impact as possible.

Reduction

The Telluride Jazz Festival has implemented the following programs to reduce our footprint at the festival and year-round

On-Site

No Single-Use Plastic Bottles

The United States uses roughly 50 billion plastic water bottles a year, and nearly 80% of them end up in the landfill. The Telluride Jazz Festival says no to single-use plastic water bottles, in-fact you won’t find one for sale in the festival. Instead we’ve built two free, convenient, easy to use water-stations in the festival grounds. Bring a water bottle or use a reusable cup, just say no to bottled-water.

No Single-Use Tasting Glasses and Compostable Beer Cups

Instead of using single-use plastic cups, the festival employs multi-use souvenir cups and compostable cups for beer, wine and cocktails at all festival bars.

Compostable and Recyclable Utensils

Every festival food vendor serves their food on compostable or recyclable plates and utensils reducing unnecessary plastic waste. We also utilize compostable dishware in the Patron Area and other festival catering areas. In collaboration with Eco-Action Partners, we were able to divert 62% of Compost and Recycling from our festival waste in 2018. We are committed to improving this diversion percentage in the future.

Compost and Recycle Stations

There are multiple staffed compost and recycle stations located throughout the Festival for proper waste disposal. Each station is manned by an environmental volunteer who helps determine if  trash can be recycled or composted.

Energy Efficient Pedestrian Travel

The Telluride Jazz Festival encourages attendees to carpool to Telluride, then park and leave their vehicle put for the weekend. With Telluride’s robust public transportation infrastructure this is a safe, simple and fun way to reduce carbon emissions. During the festival the Telluride Gondola offers free transportation to-and-from Mountain Village from 7:00 - 2:00 am each day. In town, the Galloping Goose offers complimentary rides on a 20 minute circuit, while the Wilkinson Public Library offers cruiser bike rentals.  

Year-Round

Low-Commuting Office

More than 75% of time, the festival’s full-time staff utilizes human-powered or public transportation options to commute to our office reducing carbon emissions.

The Telluride Jazz Festival has the goal of becoming carbon neutral and providing environmental education and advocacy over the next few years. To stay updated on sustainability happening at the Telluride Jazz Festival, sign up for our newsletter.

Education & Advocacy

Green Beer: Sierra Nevada Partnership

The festival is proud to partner with Sierra Nevada! Through use of renewable energy, biogas, sustainable building construction and more, Sierra Nevada is widely recognized as the most environmentally friendly production brewery operation in the world. Learn more about Sierra Nevada’s sustainability measures, click here.

Volunteers

Once inside the park, patrons find dedicated teams of environmental volunteers, helping to spread the green message by offering to take recyclables, filling water bottles at the filling stations, and helping fans to properly discard their waste in the correct bins near the vendor area.

Education and Outreach

Telluride Jazz Festival and its programs represent music education of the highest order

World class Jazz musicians bring their talent, skills, and knowledge to our community, sharing them all on the Town Park Main Stage, "Society Stage" at Elks Park, Jazz After Dark historic venues, Telluride School District and other regional education institutions. Jazz music, as America’s unique art form, is at the heart of our programming, and we are always looking for new ways to reach and grow our audience with ticketed and free performances.

The Telluride Jazz Festival is supported by contributors and sponsors like Raynier Institute and Foundation, Dworbell Inc., The Telluride Foundation, The Telluride Council for Community Assistance, Arts and Special Events (CCAASE) that make the following programs happen.

Telluride Student All-Star Jazz Ensemble

flagship educational scholarship program

Dedicated Jazz students are invited to send audition recordings of their musical skills to program directors Prof. Bob Montgomery and Josh Quinlan. These esteemed jazz performance educators accept elite musicians to travel to Telluride the week preceding the festival to work on compositions and study music together.

“Society Stage” at Elks Park

Free and Open to the public

Music education is at the core of the Telluride Society For Jazz and prominently on display during the festival weekend. Up-and-coming Jazz music students bring their talent, skills, and knowledge to the Telluride community, sharing them all on the Society Stage at Elks Park. These intimate and interactive artist sessions will help promote the Telluride Society for Jazz's mission of student education and music outreach. Taking place in the heart of historic downtown Telluride in the grassy outdoor amphitheater at Elks Park, these performances give you a chance to interact with artists and music students, all while learning about jazz culture, history and methods.

Regional and National Student Performances

High School and College Bands and Ensembles are invited to participate in the Telluride Jazz Festival. This program offers students travel subsidies, food, lodging, general and backstage admission to the Town Park so they may have the opportunity to interact with jazz legends and experience the production side of the event.

ABOUT CALEB CHAPMAN’S SOUNDHOUSE

At the Telluride Jazz Festival, students from Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse take their music skills to the next level with a team of world renowned music-educators. Over his 20+ years as a music educator, Chapman and his team have received a staggering amount of awards including 45 DownBeat Magazine Awards, 25 Best of State Medals in his home state of Utah and more. He has helped his students earn well-over $1,000,000 in scholarships and many have gone on to become professional musicians. More than just music, the Chapman’s Soundhouse program teaches students skills that are applicable to any career path they choose. We applaud Caleb’s efforts and look forward to hosting his student artists at the festival.