The Ultimate Handbook: Your Complete Guide to the 46th Annual Telluride Jazz Festival
Get ready to be blown away by the incredible music that fills the box canyon of Telluride, as world-class jazz musicians take center stage. But it's not just about the music, there are special events planned to complement the festival, providing an immersive experience for all attendees. Aside from the town park, there’s the town of Telluride itself. Nestled amidst breathtaking mountains, it offers impressive dining options, unique shopping experiences, and an endless supply of outdoor activities to enjoy during the weekend. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic and create memories that will last a lifetime at the Telluride Jazz Festival!
To ensure that you have the best experience possible, our staff has put together a comprehensive festival guide of pro tips, tricks, and how-to’s for the most epic weekend ever. Explore all the information in our Insider’s Guide below.
Weather
Mid-August - Historic Average Temperatures: Low 46 High: 73
Summer is a beautiful time in Telluride! Lush hillsides come alive, adorned with a breathtaking display of vibrant wildflowers. Alpine landscapes provide a stunning backdrop, offering some of the most awe-inspiring views in the entire Rocky Mountains. However, with the high altitude comes unpredictable weather. In Telluride, the weather can be sporadic. Expect an unpredictable mix of weather during the month of August. Sunshine, rain, overcast and everything in between should be expected.
With that in mind, Festival veterans know it’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Nothing beats a tarp when things are looking wet. We recommend bringing waterproof, quick-dry and insulating layers in case of inclement weather. Sunshades and outdoor chairs are also welcome and encouraged!
Packing for the Festival
Each day of the Festival, the gates open in the mid-morning and the event spans into the evening. During the daytime, weather can be mild and perfect for tee shirts, sandals and shorts. UV rays can be higher than you’re accustomed to and the air is dry, so we recommend that you bring sunscreen and a water bottle to fill at free water stations located throughout the venue.
We also recommend that you bring waterproof, quick-dry and insulating layers in case of precipitation. The Telluride Town Park field can become muddy with rain or snow so wearing waterproof boots and wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks is also encouraged.
Sunsets during this time of year typically happen around 8:20 pm and can be stunning; however, be prepared for the quick drop in temperatures. Even on a warm day, temperatures can swing more than twenty degrees in a matter of hours. We recommended that you bring a change of clothing layers for this evening shift. Hats and long underwear are all great items to bring to the show in a backpack. We’ll have sweatshirts and beanies for sale in the merchandise booth if you need extra layers.
Basic Packing List:
Valid photo ID
Sunscreen/Hat
Lawn chairs (no high-back lawn chairs are permitted between the sound booth and the stage).
Tarps/Blankets (no bigger than 20' X 20'). Please share your tarp when you're not using it.
Sunshade tents are only permitted on the back perimeter of festival grounds) in shade alley.
Coolers with unopened plastic water/soda bottles and cans, and unopened food items are allowed (coolers will be subject to search).
Camera (no professional photo equipment allowed)
Strollers are allowed
Warm clothes (August can be chilly in Telluride), dress appropriately.
Rain gear (festival goes on rain or shine)
What NOT to bring!
No glass on festival grounds
No pets on festival grounds or in the campground (Strictly Enforced)
No alcohol may be brought into the festival - beer, wine and cocktails are available for purchase.
No illegal drugs
No unlicensed vending
No professional photo equipment, video cameras or video recording equipment
No frisbees
No shelled nuts (seriously)
No weapons
What we provide on the festival grounds
Free drinking water (Be an environmental steward and please bring your own water bottle).
Port-a-potties (and plenty of them)
Hand sinks
Be green! Trash, recycling, and compost stations (please help keep the scene clean)
Lost & Found (located underneath the big white tent at the festival entrance)
ATM (located adjacent to the Festival Store directly on the right as you walk into the main grounds)
A wide variety of food and craft vendors
Beer, wine and cocktails are available for purchase
Kids Area
Medical Tent (East edge of the festival grounds - campground side). EMT’s have basic supplies like ibuprofen and sun block
Getting Here, Parking & Getting Around Telluride
Telluride is located 8,750 feet high in the beautiful San Juan Mountains! Travel by car on scenic mountain roads or fly into one of our regional airports to enjoy the festival.
Colorado drivers can find current road conditions by visiting the CO Department of Transportation's website, click here. For recorded phone information please call (303) 639-1111 or toll-free (877) 315-7623.
We encourage attendees to arrive, park and use our free transportation system to get around town. We provide parking staff to help direct you into a spot for the weekend. After that, our free Galloping Goose bus system, along with the one-of-a-kind, scenic gondola system between Telluride and Mountain Village, Dial-A-Ride services in Mountain Village and other custom transportation options make getting around a breeze. The festival late night venues, bars, restaurants and shops are located a quick stroll from the festival grounds.
Festival Camping
Camping at the Telluride Jazz Festival is a righteous experience! The beautiful Town Park Campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the festival atmosphere while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow campers. Located just a short stroll from the festival, it's the perfect spot to unwind after a day filled with incredible live jazz performances. However, it's important to come prepared, as the nights can get chilly in this mountainous area. Packing appropriately-rated sleeping bags and gear will ensure a comfortable night's rest. And in the event of rain, a ground cloth or tarp can work wonders in keeping things dry and cozy.
FESTIVAL CAMPGROUND HOURS OF OPERATION: THURSDAY, AUGUST 10 AT 2:30PM - MONDAY, AUGUST 14 AT 11:00 AM.
A campground host will be on duty throughout the festival to answer questions and provide assistance when needed.
Campsites are first-come, first-serve. You cannot reserve a specific site. Please note that festival camping is more of a social experience than a wilderness experience. Expect camping to be close to your neighbors. A campground host will be on duty to help you find an available campsite and to answer any questions. Please respect your neighbors.
The campground is open 24 hours a day. You may arrive and set up camp 24 hours a day.
Children 11 and under are free. Children must be accompanied by adult supervision.
Restroom and shower facilities are available in the campground (flushing toilets and all). There is a $3 charge to run a hot shower for 5 minutes and $1 for additional time. Shower tokens are needed, which can be obtained from a token machine outside the shower buildings that converts $1, $5, $10 and $20 bills only - no coins or credit cards.
Box Office - Tickets & Wristbands
Exchange your tickets for wristbands (required for entrance) at the Festival Box Office. Please arrive to the box office as early as possible! Avoid waiting in lines and exchange your tickets for wristbands earlier in the day.
The Festival Box Office is located at 300 E Pacific Street next to the Telluride Post Office. The Box Office is open during the week of the Festival, and the hours of operation are listed below:
Thursday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Festival Like a Pro
In addition to the Main Stage, the Telluride Jazz Festival offers a variety of special event programming to keep you busy all weekend!
The “Society Stage” at Elks Park
Located in the heart of historic downtown Telluride, across from the courthouse, the grassy outdoor amphitheater at the Society Stage will host a series of interactive performances by student bands throughout the festival weekend. These performances give attendees and locals a chance to interact with festival artists while learning about jazz culture, history and methods.
Brought to you by the generous support from the Dalton Family Foundation, Dworbell Inc., the Raynier Institute & Foundation and The Telluride Foundation.
Jazz After Dark
On Friday and Saturday nights, after the festival ends in Town Park, we continue the music with “Jazz After Dark” shows located in various venues throughout Telluride. One pass allows entry into three different shows.
Doors for Patron Pass-holders open at 9:30 pm. Doors for GA pass-holders open at 9:45 pm. Shows start at 10:00 pm.
Friday, August 11, 2023 - Jazz After Dark ($)
Butcher Brown - Sheridan Opera House
Shamarr Allen - The Moon At O'Bannon's
Annie Booth Sextet - Telluride Elks Lodge
Saturday, August 12, 2023 - Jazz After Dark ($)
Lady Wray Sheridan Opera House
Keyon Harrold The Moon At O'Bannon's
Takuya Kuroda Telluride Elks Lodge
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 whichever 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.
The Patron Pass includes entry into all Jazz After Dark Shows and priority early entry.
Jazz On Main
When the streets come alive with the sound of Jazz!
Join us for "Jazz On Main" on August 10th from 4-6 pm, to kick off the 46th Annual Telluride Jazz Festival. Four lively venues, conveniently located within walking distance of each-other on Main Street will host a variety of live jazz bands. Making for a truly welcoming Main Street atmosphere as the town of Telluride fills with energy. 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.
Morning Jam
“Morning Jam” on Saturday and Sunday from 9-10 am at the Telluride Arts HQ
If you have an instrument and love playing it, come join us for a jam session! Bring your horn and get ready to play with other musicians. Start your Telluride Jazz Festival mornings off with live jazz music at Morning Jam at the Telluride Arts HQ on Main Street. Attendees can enjoy performances led by students from Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse in the heart of downtown Telluride, steps away from the “Society Stage” at Elks Park and minutes away from the Telluride Town Park Main Stage.
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 first come first play, with a sign up sheet. The music jams will go from 9 - 10 am on both Saturday August 12 and Sunday August 13 and are open to the public.
First Note Yoga Sessions
Namasté! Relax, Breathe Deep And Decompress At The Free First Note Yoga Sessions
Wake up to liberating, restorative movement in the crisp, refreshing mountain air. Guided by professional instructor Annika Kristiansen, the smooth yoga flow is designed to improve your health, performance, and overall well being. The class blends playful exercises of balance and strength with flexibility and power in a welcoming format. Kristiansen’s practice and teachings of being and seeing that she enthusiastically shares with her students extend beyond the mat.
Guests of all skill levels are welcome to join. New to yoga or considering for the first time? Join in and discover the healing power of yoga.
Location: Telluride Elks Park - Colorado Ave and S Oak St (inclement weather location - Sheridan Opera House)
Time: August 12 & 13 from 8:30 - 9:30 am (Saturday and Sunday of the Festival)
What to Bring: Water, Yoga Mat, Towel and Active Wear (Come with or without - these items are not mandatory to join in the class)
Historical Walking Tour
Due to popular demand we've added a second historical walking tour! Discover the rich history of Telluride with a free tour the morning of Saturday, August 13. Sign up here!
Take a leisurely stroll through Telluride and learn about the town's past and present. This tour is a great way to start your day and gain a deeper appreciation for the unique ambiance and culture of Telluride! Presenter and long-time resident Ashley Boling will guide visitors through Telluride’s storied past and celebrated landmarks. Ticket holders can meet at 9 am in front of the Courthouse, across from Elks Park on Colorado Ave (Telluride’s Main Street).
All festival pass holders receive free admission to the Telluride Historical Museum throughout the event. Don't miss the "Festival Capital of the Rockies" exhibit showcasing 50 years of festivals. Show your festival wristband for museum entry. The Museum is located at 201 W Gregory Ave.
New Orleans 2nd Line Parade
Second Line Parades are a 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.
On Sunday, August 14 at Noon, join the Festival staff, attendees and Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse at Elks Park for a Second Line Parade down Main Street all the way to Telluride Town Park. Everyone is welcome! Colorful floats, costumes, beads and decorations are all welcome as attendees join in on the march through town.
The Final Waltz
After St. Paul & the Broken Bones closes down the Main Stage Sunday, August 13, the festival concludes with a special performance by The Soul Rebels at Sheridan Opera House. There is nothing the body can do under the influence of drums, brass and funk, other than to get up and vibrate along with the tsunami of sound that emanates from this New Orleans band.
Drinks at the Festival
We know that great music requires great drinks. A variety of craft beer, wine, and cocktails are available all weekend long to keep festival spirits high! Sierra Nevada delivers again with an array of craft beers to get acquainted with. Grab a classic Pale Ale, or fan favorite Hazy Little Thing IPA. Try new additions like a wild Strainge Beast Hard Kombucha, or this year’s Oktoberfest collaboration beer with German brewery Kehrwieder.
Patron and VIP Experience pass holders will be treated to an open bar featuring a menu of specialty craft cocktails!
Patron and VIP Craft Cocktails
The sophisticated menu of craft cocktails at the 2023 Telluride Jazz Festival is the perfect touch to round out the elegant Patron and VIP Experience. The extensive selection of craft cocktails featuring premium vodkas, gins and tequilas prepared by Andrés Vargas-Johnson, will keep you feeling festive all day long. From original creations like Deep Creek, The Weenie Wasatch, and Prospect to twists on classics like Satchmo's Bloody Mary & Maria Bar the menu is an inventive masterpiece. See the full menu below and get all of the details here.
Festival Food
If you're a foodie, prepare for food heaven! The delicious food vendor menus at the Telluride Jazz Festival will keep your taste buds satisfied all weekend long.
Renowned Telluride Chef Will Nolan has curated a top-tier food experience for Patrons. 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 and an unmatched festival package that you don’t want to miss!
Explore like a Local
Hands down, Telluride is one of the best towns in the world for outdoor recreation! With towering 13,000 foot Rocky Mountain peaks and 160,000 acres of pristine wilderness with trail systems, waterfalls and more all surrounded by alpine mountain views. There are endless adventures for novices to pros alike. Click here to explore the local and regional opportunities for hiking, biking, stand-up paddleboarding, fly fishing, horseback riding, shopping and more!
Hiking - If you’re up for adventure, there are plenty of beautiful hikes starting directly from downtown Telluride to explore: Bear Creek Trail is less than one block from Town Park (S. Pine Street) and is a perfect beginner trail up to a waterfall.
If you seek a more challenging hike, check out the Jud Wiebe Trail (N. Aspen Street) which takes you to a gorgeous overlook of the entire town.
Mountain Biking - Miles of mountain bike trails span the Telluride box cannon. Beginners should start with the Valley Floor Trail.
Experienced bikers might consider the Prospect Trail Loop off of the Telluride Mountain Village Gondola.
Scenic Off-Road Drives - Many scenic paved and backcountry roads weave through the peaks and valleys of Telluride. For those without a four-wheel drive car, HWY 145 South towards Dolores offers stunning views of the Telluride Valley, Wilson Mesa and Lizard Head Pass.
Those with a four-wheel drive, high clearance cars can consider a trip to Bridal Veil Falls.
Ride the Gondola - The only FREE transportation of its kind in the country, Telluride’s Gondola is a must-do while visiting during the week. Get out up top (Station San Sophia) to hike around or ride the Gondola down into Mountain Village to check out the local bars, shops and restaurants. The Gondola starts running each day at 6:30 am and goes until midnight on Thursday, 2:00 am on Friday and Saturday, and midnight on Sunday of the Festival weekend.
Paddleboarding - Located 27 minutes South of Telluride, Trout Lake offers stunning paddleboarding with beautiful alpine views. Paddleboards can be rented locally at different outdoors shops.
Fly-Fishing - Telluride is an angler’s paradise. Alpine lakes, creeks and rivers are frequent throughout the Telluride region. For more information about fly-fishing click here.
For more information about hiking, diving, paddleboarding, fly-fishing and biking in Telluride’s visitor guide.
Shop and See
Historical downtown Telluride is home to an abundance of unique merchant shops and art galleries. From boutique clothing stores, inviting art galleries, and unique Victorian architecture, it’s easy to spend a day exploring, and getting that retail therapy fix we all need!
Where To Stay
From vacation rentals, to hotels, luxurious to budget lodging, to festival camping, there’s a place to stay for every type of festival-goer in Telluride. View a list of our lodging partners for a variety of accommodations and special lodging deals in Telluride and Mountain Village.
LODGING
At the Festival, you'll find accommodations with intimate Victorian settings or modern design elements—all just steps away from award-winning restaurants. You have the option to stay in the Town of Telluride or head to Mountain Village and discover well-appointed lodging with town access via the free Gondola System and on-site, full-service spas.
FAQs
You've got questions, we've got answers
What do I do with my ticket when I get to the festival? What can I bring to the festival? What facilities are provided on the festival grounds? Which handicap facilities are provided? Can we bring our pets? Is smoking allowed? Are there Showers/Bathrooms? ADA accessible?
Check out our FAQ Page for all of the info you'll need to enjoy your time at the Telluride Jazz Festival.