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. 

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to the Rise & Vibes Music Festival, a three-day event happening May 29 to May 31, 2026, with an Early Entry Upgrade available on Thursday, May 28th at Tico Time River Resort near Durango, Colorado. Set along the Animas River, the festival brings together roots music, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community.

This festival is located in one of the Southwest’s most beautiful river valleys, with the venue sitting along the border of Colorado and New Mexico. The scenery encourages you to relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy nature. Cottonwood trees create a natural canopy that gives cool shade, while the bold red cliffs create a dramatic backdrop.

Rise & Vibes is all about the uplifting power of music; conscious roots and reggae artists take the stage to share messages of unity, peace, and positivity. This year’s festival will feature Thievery Corporation, Collie Buddz, and The Hip Abduction as headliners. The duo, Rob Garza and Eric Hilton, are known for mixing dub, trip-hop, reggae, and world music to create their own sound. Their lyrics often focus on politics, culture, and global unity. Collie Buddz stands out for his captivating voice and upbeat rhythms, blending reggae and hip-hop. He sings about love, resilience, and island life, which connects with fans around the world. The Hip Abduction is a lively band combining reggae, indie rock, and world music. 

Music creates the atmosphere, but the outdoor activities turn the weekend into a real adventure. The Animas River is perfect for anyone who loves the water, regardless of experience. In the afternoons, you can cool off with a dip in the river between sets. If you enjoy floating on the water, try stand-up paddleboarding for a calmer way to explore the river. If you’re looking for more excitement, the festival features two large waterslides that drop straight into the river. 

Staying true to its spirit, the event invites you to care for your mind and body through yoga, ecstatic dance, outdoor wellness activities, and connecting with others. The 82-acre Tico Time Riverside Resort offers sandy beaches for swimming and volleyball, as well as beautiful hiking trails. Rise & Vibes helps you find your balance so you can leave the weekend feeling truly refreshed.

The festival has plenty of accommodations for every kind of adventurer. You can camp by the river, or, if you want more comfort, book an RV site, car camping spot, glamping tent, or a cabin. Hot showers, tasty food, and one-of-a-kind craft vendors will help make your stay easy and enjoyable. Don’t miss out on this special event where the mountains meet the river. Get your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable experience. 

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to the 5th Annual HESTIVAL, returning to Hotchkiss, Colorado, May 1-3, 2026. Get ready for a weekend of outdoor adventures and camping beneath the stars in blossoming apple orchards.

The purpose-driven festival is partnering with The Conservation Alliance to protect the public lands where we play, connect, and camp. When you purchase your ticket, a portion goes to raising awareness and funds for the wild spaces we treasure.

HESTIVAL gives you an all-inclusive, family and dog-friendly experience packed with mountain culture and community connection. Spend your days hiking, biking, relaxing by the water, or indulging in cider tastings and happy hours. Live music and entertainment will fill your nights. Enjoy a lineup including Mama Lingua, Jeremy Garrett Bluegrass Band, Coffis Brothers, and John Craigie.

HESTIVAL exists to celebrate camping of all varieties and backgrounds. From glamping tents and orchard sites to RVs, truck campers, and overland rigs set against mountain backdrops, there is a place for every camper at HESTIVAL, from first timers to seasoned vets.Get your tickets now for the ultimate weekend in the Colorado sun that combines natural beauty and epic live performances.

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to Tico Time Country Festival 2026, an unforgettable celebration of music, community, and nature. From June 26 to 28, the event will take place at the beautiful Tico Time River Resort, just 20 minutes south of Durango, Colorado. Set along the Animas River in the scenic Four Corners region, the festival offers a relaxed, riverside music experience.

Tico Time Country Festival is a community-owned fundraiser that supports the local non-profit Pura Vida For Good, which runs programs focused on unity, wellness, and sustainability. Guests can enjoy a friendly festival atmosphere with great live music, camping, and plenty of activities.

The headliners are Paul Cauthen, a soulful singer-songwriter who mixes country, rock, gospel, and blues. Randy Rogers Band delivers high-energy country performances, featuring soulful vocals and heartfelt songwriting. Larry Fleet stands out with his soulful voice and honest storytelling. He combines classic country with touches of blues and gospel for a sound that feels both fresh and timeless. Adding to the lineup are Giovannie & The Hired Guns, Tanner Usrey, Jason Boland & The Stragglers, Blake Whiten, Willow Avalon, Rattlesnake Milk, and many more talented musicians. 

The  3-Day General Admission Pass includes walk-in camping and a gear shuttle. Snag an Early Entry Upgrade for $30, and you can arrive on Thursday to get the best camping spots and join the pre-party at the Pavilion Stage. There are also dedicated spaces for anyone looking for a sober camping experience, including shared RV sites, car camping, glamping packages, and air-conditioned cabins. 

Cadillac Ranch will keep the party going all weekend with games, activities, interactive contests, and photo opportunities during the day, plus late-night events in the pavilion after the main stage wraps up each night. 

At Tico Time Country Festival, you’ll have the chance to meet new people and enjoy a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Soak up the beautiful views of the Animas River and the surrounding scenery. This isn’t just another festival. It’s a full weekend by the river with live country music, camping under the stars, water activities, food trucks, vendors, and more! You can spend your days floating on the water, dancing through the night, and making great memories with your friends all weekend. Get your tickets today and start planning your summer adventure. 

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By: Aryonna Richard 

Get ready for a weekend loaded with music, community, and breathtaking scenery. Blackspy invites you to the Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival, a tradition where top musicians and passionate fans come together for three days you won’t forget. This year’s event takes place from June 5 to 7, 2026, so mark your calendar and get your tickets. 

For more than 16 years, the Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival has been a key part of Colorado’s summer music scene. It started as an intimate gathering and has grown into a top event, attracting talent from across the country while retaining its small-town feel. The setting is a big part of what makes the festival special. Riverbend Park in Palisade is surrounded by orchards, vineyards, and beautiful scenery. The Colorado River runs right next to the park, making it a peaceful and scenic spot.

The 2026 festival brings together an epic lineup from the bluegrass and roots scenes. National headliners will perform alongside some of the best rising artists. Friday night’s headliner is Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country. Donato is recognized for his guitar playing, soulful singing, and fresh approach to music. His band offers a mix of classic and modern sounds. Andy Frasco & The U.N. will headline Saturday night. This energetic band, led by Andy Frasco, blends rock, blues, funk, and soul to create a party vibe. Their shows are full of humor, emotion, and a contagious sense of fun. Shinyribs is a lively band led by frontman Kevin Russell. Their live shows are memorable, bringing laughter and emotional connection. Based in Austin, Texas, Shinyribs has built a loyal fan base with their original style and exciting performances. 

The Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival has both premium and general camping areas just for festival guests. With a camping pass, you can relax and enjoy the weekend without worrying about travel. If you prefer not to camp, the Grand Valley has many places to stay. You can choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts, or other campgrounds nearby. Palisade and the surrounding area are also famous for their wineries and outdoor activities, so could plan to stay longer and explore.

At the Palisade Bluegrass & Roots Festival, people come together to make new friends while enjoying great music and sunny weather. Whether you love bluegrass or are just discovering it, you’ll feel right at home in the lively crowd. Early-bird tickets are on sale now, and since the festival is growing in popularity each year, they’re expected to sell out quickly. Get your tickets soon so you can be part of this unique celebration. 

By: Aryonna Richard 

For more than thirty years, the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival has brought together music lovers and nature enthusiasts for an unforgettable weekend. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Planet Bluegrass Ranch in Lyons, Colorado, this beloved event, taking place August 7th-9th, features three days filled with music, camping, and inspiration.

With a great lineup of artists, including Jesse Welles, a musician recognized for his soulful voice and heartfelt guitar riffs. He mixes folk, rock, and indie styles, creating music that feels honest and tells real stories. Big Richard is an all-female bluegrass group celebrated for their high-energy shows, tight harmonies, and unique sound. The band started in Colorado and blends classic bluegrass with modern styles. Ani DiFranco is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and activist recognized for her independent approach and unique mix of musical styles. She combines folk, rock, punk, and jazz in her songs and has released more than twenty albums on her own label, Righteous Babe Records. 

Junior Brown, Valerie June, Steve Poltz, The Strumbellas, S.G. Goodman, Bobby Alu, Tommy Prine, and John McCutcheon add to the mainstage lineup with a mystery artist being revealed soon. Read more about the 2026 lineup here. There’s something for everyone, whether you love folk, bluegrass, or anything in between. 

Camping at the Folks Festival in Colorado is laid-back and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy the late summer. You can join song circles, meet new friends, and start your day with music or the calming sounds of the nearby creek. Each camper needs a camping pass, and you’ll need a vehicle pass if you plan to camp with your car. The festival also promotes eco-friendly habits with its Sustainable Campsite Challenge, where you could win free passes for next year. Camping here is a fun way to connect with the festival community and take in the beautiful scenery. Plan your camping experience here.

No matter if you have been to the festival before or are coming for the first time, the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival is an experience you should not miss. Mark your calendar, get your tickets here, and prepare to be part of something special!