By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to three days of music and snowy mountain views during WinterWonderGrass in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, happening March 5 to 7, 2027. The perfect atmosphere to enjoy live guitars, harmonicas, and banjos, with a craft beer in hand and good company by your side. 

This isn’t your average music festival. It’s a weekend filled with world-class bluegrass, jam, and roots music set against one of the West’s most beautiful mountain towns. It all runs on four simple ideas: Music. Brews. Mountains. Love. At WinterWonderGrass one minute you’re dancing to a string band in the snow and the next, you’re wandering a historic downtown soaked in the spirit of the Old West. 

The 2027 lineup is stacked, starting off with Colorado’s own jam-band icons, The String Cheese Incident, whose blend of bluegrass, rock, and funk creates one big dance party. Trampled by Turtles blends banjo, mandolin, fiddle, upright bass, cello, and acoustic guitar into a whirlwind of folk and Americana that hits with the force of a rock show.

The Kitchen Dwellers will bring their progressive bluegrass sound with a psychedelic twist. Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country takes classic country and crosses it with exploratory jams. If you love acoustic music, catching The Jerry Douglas Band is a must, since Douglas is a master of the resonator guitar. BoomBox adds a fresh, groove-heavy flavor to the weekend. When you’re ready to slow down, Hayes Carll delivers sharp, witty, heartfelt storytelling. 

You can also catch Magoo, Shadowgrass, The Brothers Comatose, Bronwyn, Pickin’ on the Dead ft. Rob Eaton, Johnny Mullenax, Tray Wellington, WinterWonderWomen, Ben Chapman, DUG, Silas Herman, Water Tower, 65 North Pickers, Heads All Empty, Broken Compass Bluegrass, Jay Roemer Band, Liver Down The River, and The Flattops during WinterWonderGrass. 

Keep an eye out for Lindsay Lou, who joins the festival as Artist at Large. She’ll pop up across the weekend for special collaborations and surprise moments. Those sets are what make WinterWonderGrass feel one of a kind.

When the sun goes down, the music spills into town with late-night shows around Steamboat Springs. These smaller, more intimate sets let you get close to the artists, keep the dancing going, and soak up the town’s lively après scene. It’s a festival that takes over the whole town in the best way. 

Steamboat Springs got its name from its natural hot springs, and they’re world-famous for good reason. After a day of dancing in the cold, few things beat sinking into steaming mineral water while snow falls around you. The hot springs make the perfect reset between sets. Warm up your toes, rest your legs, and get ready to do it all again. 

A little planning goes a long way toward making your March mountain festival unforgettable. Start by booking your lodging early. You can learn more here. Steamboat is a popular winter destination, and rooms go fast during festival weekend, so the sooner you lock in a place to stay, the better. When it comes to packing, think in layers, because mountain temperatures can swing quickly. Base layers, a waterproof shell, warm socks, and gloves will keep you comfortable from chilly mornings to snowy evenings. 

WinterWonderGrass Steamboat 2027 is shaping up to be a memorable weekend with an epic lineup and a community that feels like home. There’s no better way to celebrate winter in Colorado. Don’t wait until tickets are gone. Grab yours now at winterwondergrass.com/steamboat 

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to three days in the open Virginia sky, surrounded by good people, great music, and a landscape that feels magical. Save the date for Valley of the Seven Stars, happening October 9–11, 2026, where the fields of Arrington, VA, will transform into an experience unlike any other. 

Seven Stars is a weekend devoted to community, connection, and shared experiences, with three days of music taking place in an outdoor area set up for wandering, dancing, and meeting your new favorite people. The festival embraces the idea of camping. Instead of heading home after the final performance, you stay, you rest, and then you wake up, ready to go again. 

GRiZ will be performing as the headliner at the 2026 event with three sets! He has a reputation for combining electronic funk, EDM, and future funk into a unique sound of his own. What distinguishes him is that he uses a live saxophone, incorporating it directly into his electronic productions so that each track has a soulful and human touch. His concerts are vibrant, high-energy occasions, featuring powerful bass, impressive visuals, and a crowd that feels like a family. 

Artists like Clozee, Ganja White Night, Gramatik (Street Bangers Set), Late Night Radio, A Hundred Drums, A Little Sound, Avello, Casey Club, Flamingosis, Flozone, Frankly Dope, G Jones, Honeycomb, Jilli, Know Good, Mocha, Never Dull, Probcause, Richard Finger, Sully, The Sponges, Two Guys and many more will also perform. Click here to view the full lineup. 

Every festival pass gives you three days of music, community, and adventure. It also includes access to the Seven Stars Campground, so your basic camping spot is covered from the start. GA is your all-access ticket to the music and the grounds. You get the full three-day experience plus campground access.

Experience Seven Stars as the weekend you talk about all year by taking the 3-Day VIP Festival Pass, which includes early arrival on Thursday, entry to the official Welcome Party, a private VIP lounge with indoor seating, charging stations and views of the outdoor stage, free refreshments, air-conditioned restrooms, express entry lanes, daily early access to the venue, early shopping for merchandise and on-site pickup, a merchandise concierge service, an exclusive VIP gift, and a dedicated event host. To learn more about either pass option click here. 

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to Yahn Dawn, returning September 18 to 20, 2026. Celebrate the end of summer in Buena Vista’s meadows with three nights of Pretty Lights plus a stacked lineup of legends and emerging artists. With sunny days by the creek, relaxed beach time, and a one-of-a-kind community, this weekend is all about making memories.

Pretty Lights is the musical project of Derek Vincent Smith, who has changed the way people think about electronic music. Starting in Colorado, this Grammy-nominated producer and DJ created a unique sound by mixing hip-hop, funk, soul, and blues with electronic layers. His music feels both nostalgic and modern, with each track blending vintage sounds, deep bass, and soulful melodies to tell a story. With eye-catching visuals, live instruments, and a lively atmosphere, Pretty Lights makes every concert unforgettable. 

Gramatik joins the lineup, blending live instruments with energetic electronic sounds to give his music a human feel that many digital tracks miss. Soulful guitar riffs and vintage samples, mixed with sharp, glitchy beats create music that feels rich, layered, and full of emotion. LP Giobbi is a DJ, producer, and pianist recognized for mixing house music with live instruments and upbeat dancefloor energy. She is known for bringing together musical skill and club culture, making her sets and tracks both uplifting and immersive.

Emancipator is an electronic music producer who mixes downtempo beats with live instruments like violin, guitar, and piano. His mellow, atmospheric sound blends trip-hop, ambient, and chill electronic styles. Completing the lineup is RJD2, MADHAUS, Thought Process, pheel., Saturna, TF Marz, Homemade Spaceship, Paul Basic, and many more! 

With a GA wristband, you get three nights of Pretty Lights shows (Friday to Sunday), plus full access to the beach, creek, and all the campgrounds. It’s simple, fun, and has everything you need for a great weekend. 

Looking for more comfort? The VIP wristband gives you everything in GA, plus a long list of extra perks: an exclusive festival poster, a commemorative gift bag, early access to merchandise, first entry to the venue so you can grab the perfect spot, a VIP fast-lane at both venue entrances, and dedicated VIP restrooms and a bar inside the venue.

Looking for the best experience? The VIP Total Fascination 2-Person Package is designed for two; this package lets you skip the setup and get comfortable right away. You’ll arrive at a ready 16-foot Bell tent in a special VIP campground, nestled among the Pinion Pines and closest to the venue.

Camping is at the heart of Yahn Dawn, so picking your setup is part of the fun. Keep in mind that camping and parking passes are sold separately from admission wristbands (except for the Total Fascination package), and they’re priced per campsite or vehicle, not per person.

Want to get even more from your weekend? Buy a Thursday Early Arrival pass and come to the campgrounds starting Thursday, September 17 at noon. It’s a great way to set up camp, settle in, and enjoy the calm before everyone else arrives. Flying in or coming from the city? You can let someone else do the driving. Official Meadow Creek shuttles run to and from Denver International Airport and Downtown Denver. 

Whether you’re rolling in with a tent, gliding into a glamping dome, or going all out with Total Fascination, now’s the time to make it official. Grab your wristband, claim your campsite, and get ready for three magical nights of Pretty Lights in the Colorado mountains.

By: Aryonna Richard 

The 2026 Avon FreeFall Bluegrass Festival is back, bringing a lineup full of talent you won’t want to miss. From October 9 to 11, Nottingham Park in Avon, Colorado, will come alive with three days of music, fresh mountain air, and the unique community spirit that bluegrass creates. Whether you’ve loved bluegrass for years or are just discovering it, this year’s festival has something for everyone. 

The complete lineup for the 2026 Avon FreeFree Bluegrass Festival is out. Railroad Earth, Ross James’ Electric Deadgrass with Nicki Bluhm, Alex Koford, Garrett Sayers, and Bill McKay will be performing, along with special guests Bill Nershi and Paul Hoffman. Nicki Bluhm, the Nershi Hann Trio with Lauren Nershi and the Colorado Contingent, and Henhouse Prowlers are also set to play during the three-day event in the heart of Eagle Valley. Music will keep going until 9:00 pm each night, giving you lots of time to enjoy everything. 

This is the perfect time to get your tickets. Early bird prices are still at their lowest for the year: 3-Day GA Pass: from $90 | 3-Day VIP Pass: from $299 (includes a designated entrance, two drink tickets per day, luxury restrooms, dedicated viewing area, and more.) Prices will increase soon, and single-day tickets will be available in the next few weeks. If you’re sure you’ll attend, buying now is the best way to save.

Make a weekend of it: the FreeFall Bluegrass Festival’s official lodging partners have you covered with comfortable rooms and easy access to the music. Pick the spot that fits your style and settle in for three days of great bluegrass music in a breathtaking location. 

The Westin Riverfront is just a short walk from the venue, so you’ll be close to everything all weekend. Studio King Suites and Traditional Two Queen Rooms are both $239 per night. Book your room by September 25, 2026 to lock in your accommodations at this price. Call 1-970-790-2000 to reserve your stay.

Also a short stroll from Nottingham Park, The Christie Lodge makes getting to and from the festival simple. Festivalgoers save 20% off the best available rate on all room types for stays from October 7 through October 14, 2026. It’s a flexible, easy choice whether you’re coming for the weekend or extending your trip. Book your stay here.  

A short bus ride away in scenic Beaver Creek Village, Beaver Creek Lodge offers a relaxed mountain base just minutes from the festival grounds. Special discount details are coming soon, so keep an eye out if you’d like a little distance from the crowds without missing a beat.

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy three days of unforgettable music in one of Colorado’s most beautiful settings. Get your early bird tickets, start planning your trip, and get ready to make memories at the 2026 Avon FreeFall Bluegrass Festival.

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to Darker Waves, a festival where legendary bands and rising artists come together in one unforgettable place—the Pacific coastline. Don’t miss the legendary event in Huntington Beach, California, on November 14, 2026. If you’re a fan of alternative, new wave, post-punk, or dark synth, now’s the perfect time to start planning your trip.

Darker Waves brings together classic sounds and a stunning beach setting. You can’t miss the combination of moody synths, sharp guitars, steady basslines, and fresh ocean air. The location gives the festival a unique feel. Huntington Beach City Beach offers wide-open skies, a cool sea breeze, and a bold contrast to the dark, moody energy of the music. 

No matter if you come for nostalgia, to discover something new, or to soak in the atmosphere, Darker Waves gives you an experience where community and sound come together. Headlining the event is Morrissey, an artist known for expressive vocals and a unique lyrical style that mixes wit, introspection, and emotion. His sound and image have influenced many generations, making him a lasting figure since the 1980s. 

The Smashing Pumpkins add to the legendary lineup. This alternative rock band is fronted by Billy Corgan, who sings, plays guitar, and writes songs. Their mix of powerful riffs and dreamy layers helped shape the sound of the 1990s, especially with albums like Siamese Dream and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. Additional artists include Simple Minds, Bad Religion, Adam Ant, The Psychedelic Furs, Soft Cell, and many more! 

Tickets are now on sale, so grab your spot at Darker Waves early. To help you plan, the festival has several options for different kinds of attendees. You can use a layaway plan if you want to pay for your ticket over time. GA+, VIP, and Ultimate VIP tickets are available for a more premium festival experience. You can also bundle your tickets with a hotel package to make planning even easier.

Darker Waves brings together music, atmosphere, and a great location. On November 14, 2026, fans who love darker sounds and classic hits will gather in Huntington Beach for a live show with a unique style. If this sounds like the perfect event, get your tickets now.

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to the 34th Annual High Sierra Music Festival happening July 2-5, 2026. Get ready for four days of epic performances and a strong feeling of community. This year, the festival is taking over a new location in beautiful Grass Valley, California at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. You can look forward to the same amazing energy and variety of music that have made this event special for over thirty years. From funk and reggae to bluegrass and soul, there’s something for everyone. 

Set in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley offers a gorgeous backdrop for nonstop fun. The tree-lined grounds offer plenty of shade and a perfect spot for camping and dancing. Grass Valley has great facilities for big crowds, but still feels close to nature. There’s lots of space for camping, easy-to-reach stages, and plenty of room to wander between shows. 

This year, you can catch legendary reggae pioneers Steel Pulse and enjoy the classic funk grooves of Cymande. Also performing is The Word, a dynamic band known for its fusion of rock, blues, and gospel, creating a soulful, electrifying sound. Six-time Grammy-winning musician, producer, and composer Don Was will perform with his new group, Don Was and the Pan-Detroit Ensemble.

Don’t miss your chance to catch Dumpstaphunk, a band that has secured its reputation as one of the most respected New Orleans musical institutions. Also performing is Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, headed by renowned saxophonist Karl Denson. The group blends funk, jazz, soul, and rock into a genre-defying musical experience. The lineup also includes rising stars. You’ll hear international acts like BALTHVS and Tijuana Cartel, the heartfelt voice of Judith Hill, and many more.

The 2026 High Sierra Music Festival offers flexible ticket options. You can choose a 2-day or 3-day pass to suit your schedule and budget. If you plan to purchase one of these passes, be sure to act fast. There are only a limited number of partial-weekend tickets, and they usually sell out quickly. Learn more about ticket options here.

When the sun sets and the main stages close, the music keeps going. High Sierra Music Festival’s late-night lineup brings exclusive, high-energy shows. If you want to see certain artists, you can buy late-night tickets for $30 each. For those who want the full experience, the Night Owl pass is $99 and gives you access to all four nights of late-night shows. 

The High Sierra Music Festival has something for everyone, with activities that make lasting memories for all ages. Adults over 21 can enjoy The Swirl, a daily beverage-tasting event featuring specialty beers, wines, and spirits. The festival also promotes creativity and self-expression with daily costume themes. For relaxation yoga, movement, and sound bath sessions are available, while RhythmetriX offers group drumming experiences that combine music, movement, and mindfulness. 

The High Sierra Music Festival offers several accommodation choices to meet various needs. Every multi-day pass includes on-site camping, available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you want more comfort, you can choose on-site RV passes, FestivALL RV passes, or stay at the nearby Grass Valley Family RV Resort. FestivALL hotel packages with shuttle service are also available.

The 34th Annual High Sierra Music Festival is set to bring together music lovers, nature, and community in a big way. With a mixed lineup, flexible ticketing, and activities for all ages, it’s an event you won’t want to miss! Head to the festival’s website to get your 2-day, 3-day, or full-weekend pass. Don’t forget to add Night Owl passes and Family Camp Parking while they’re still available.