Telluride Mushroom Festival

The Telluride Mushroom Festival, a celebration that has been enchanting attendees since 1981, is an event that embodies the fascinating world of mycology in one of the most breathtaking locations on Earth. Known to locals and repeat attendees simply as TMF, this festival is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the science, cuisine, and culture surrounding mushrooms.

At its core, the Telluride Mushroom Festival is for a diverse group of enthusiasts, including scientists, foodies, nature lovers, and families. The event attracts a wide range of attendees, from amateur mushroom enthusiasts to professional mycologists. Notable guests and performers often include renowned mycologists, chefs specializing in wild foods, and local legends who have spent years studying and foraging in the region’s unique alpine and subalpine environments.

The festival takes place from August 13 to August 17, 2025, in the picturesque town of Telluride, Colorado. The event is spread across various locations within the town, including town streets and Town Park. Each day is filled with a unique set of activities: Wednesday marks the pre-festival events and registration, while Thursday through Saturday are dedicated to the main festival programming. Sunday concludes with closing ceremonies and farewell forays.

Telluride, nestled in a pristine box canyon surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks, offers a stunning backdrop for the festival. The town’s elevation of 8,750 feet above sea level and its cool mountain air with warm days and crisp evenings create an ideal setting for both festival activities and mushroom foraging. To get to Telluride, attendees can fly into the nearest airports, such as Montrose Regional Airport or Durango-La Plata County Airport, and then use local transportation or drive via highways. It’s advisable to book lodging well in advance as accommodations fill up quickly during festival season.

The festival’s unique appeal lies in its rich array of experiences. One of the highlights is the wild foods dinner demo, where chefs showcase their culinary skills using freshly foraged mushrooms. The festival also includes workshops, lectures, and forays led by expert mycologists, allowing participants to delve deep into the world of fungi. Live music and cultural events add to the festive atmosphere, making the event an immersive experience that combines education, exploration, and community.

The setting of Telluride itself is a major draw, with its diverse ecosystems perfect for mushroom foraging and its natural beauty that includes towering mountain peaks and lush alpine landscapes. Attendees are advised to acclimatize to the high altitude, pack layers and rain gear due to the variable mountain weather, and plan their travel route carefully.

For those passionate about mycology, cuisine, and the natural world, the Telluride Mushroom Festival is an unparalleled experience. It offers a chance to learn from the best in the field, taste exquisite dishes prepared with wild mushrooms, and connect with like-minded individuals in a breathtakingly beautiful environment. Whether you are a seasoned mycologist or just beginning to explore the world of fungi, TMF is a celebration that will leave you inspired and eager to return year after year.