Aspen Music Festival: Classical Excellence in the Rockies
Weekly summer concerts at alpine gondola Red Lady Stage—includes family openers on holidays like July 4th.
Event details
The Music on the Mountain Series, a beloved summer staple in Crested Butte, Colorado, is an event that embodies the vibrant spirit and natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Known to locals and repeat attendees simply as Music on the Mountain or the Mt. Crested Butte Summer Concert Series, this free outdoor music event is a must-visit for anyone who loves live music, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere.
The event is designed for a diverse audience, catering to families, music enthusiasts, foodies, and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing summer evening. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to Crested Butte, Music on the Mountain offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy quality time together, while music lovers get to groove to a variety of genres from local and touring bands. Foodies will appreciate the array of food and beverages available, making it a perfect spot for all ages.
The Music on the Mountain Series kicks off on June 25, 2025, and runs every Wednesday until August 13, with a few exceptions. Each concert begins at 5:30 PM and goes on until 8:00 PM, ensuring a delightful evening under the Colorado sky. The schedule is packed with exciting performances, including The Record Company on June 25, the Floodgate Operators on July 4, and other notable acts like ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra) on July 16, Artikal Sound System on July 23, Sons of Habit on July 30, North Mississippi Allstars on August 6, and King Stingray on the final date of August 13.
The venue for this spectacular event is the Red Lady Stage at the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area. Located in the heart of Mt. Crested Butte, this stage offers a picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, creating an idyllic setting for an evening of music and relaxation. To get to the venue, visitors can fly into the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport and then take a short drive or local transportation to Mt. Crested Butte. The area is also accessible via highways, making it convenient for those driving from nearby towns.
The Music on the Mountain Series is a unique and unforgettable experience that combines live music with the breathtaking beauty of the Crested Butte landscape. The series features a mix of local opening acts and headlining bands, ensuring a diverse and engaging musical experience. The Grammy Award-nominated trio The Record Company, for instance, brings a dynamic bluesy sound, while the Floodgate Operators offer energetic bluegrass music that resonates deeply with the local culture.
What makes this event truly special is the all-encompassing atmosphere it provides. The Red Lady Stage is set amidst lush green lawns where attendees can spread out blankets and camp chairs, creating a cozy and communal vibe. Food and beverage vendors are on site, offering a variety of local specialties and refreshments that complement the music perfectly. Whether you are sipping on a craft beer, savoring local cuisine, or simply enjoying the music with family and friends, Music on the Mountain is an event that promises an evening filled with joy and memorable moments.
The setting itself is a major draw, with the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, adding a magical touch to the evening’s festivities. This natural beauty, combined with the energetic and supportive community that gathers for each concert, makes Music on the Mountain an event that is not to be missed.
In essence, the Music on the Mountain Series is a celebration of music, community, and the natural beauty of Crested Butte. It is an invitation to immerse yourself in a vibrant summer evening, surrounded by good music, delicious food, and the warmth of community, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.