Feeling the summertime blues? Change up your routine and check out some of the local summer music. There are plenty of budget-friendly, family-friendly, and fun-friendly music events within driving distance. So, pack your cooler, grab a blanket, and get ready for some awesome tunes.
Ouray Mountain Air Music Series
Every Thursday in June, you can enjoy some amps and ales on the lawn of Fellin Park (the greenest, and softest, lawn around due to the hot springs). Nestled in a box canyon with Abrams Mountain as the backdrop, the music almost reverberates off the canyon walls. Not to mention, it’s a great way to cool off. I highly recommend bringing a jacket, as it gets pretty chilly when the sun sets. Or, in the mood to turn up the heat? Enjoy the music from the comfort of the Ouray Hot Springs. Most of all, this event is fun for the whole family-including your four-legged friends! There’s only two more Thursdays in June, so get out there and enjoy yourself.
Ridgway Music Series
Dubbed the Gateway to the San Juans, Ridgway’s Music Series offers the tranquil setting of the Cimarron Mountains and large shade trees. Smaller than its counterpart in Ouray, Hatwell Park brings the community closer together. Since the lawn is smaller, dogs are not allowed in the concert area; however, don’t let this deter you from enjoying some of the best music in the area. Thursday nights in July have become renowned with quality acts and a grooving audience. If you bring the family, the playground is right next to the concert area, so the kids can let out the wiggles while you tune into the music. Since you’re close to town, hit up some of the local fare, such as Taco Del Gnar and True Grit. I recommend bringing some cash, as the beverage line can get rather long.
Montrose Summer Music Series & Charity Concert
Feel like staying close to home? Kick-off the first Friday of the month with this community enriched concert series. Set at the Black Canyon Golf Course, you can begin the day swinging your golf clubs, and by the end of the night, you’ll be swinging your hips. Though this event is family-friendly, it may be a great opportunity to call the babysitter and enjoy a night out on the town. If it were me, I’d pick up a pizza from Colorado Boy and dine picnic style on the golf course.
On June 29th, The Bridges Golf Club is providing a charity concert featuring some big names: Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw, and Colin Raye. The outdoor charity concert benefits the Montrose Community Foundation and the Dolphin House, organizations that help the Montrose community. So, grab your boots and hat, it’s gonna be hard not to tap your toe or boot-scoot to these guys.
Get Out There
Music is good for the soul, and it’s art for your ears. Whether you’re new to the area, or looking to move here, these free, local events are a great way to immerse yourself in the Western Slope culture. So, soak in the tunes, have a look around you, and feel the love from the local communities. After all, music can bring us all together.
