One of winter’s most anticipated events in the Rocky Mountains is WinterWonderGrass Music Festival, held annually at Steamboat Resort in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Perfectly timed during peak ski season, the festival coincides with Steamboat’s legendary Champagne Powder® snow, giving visitors and locals alike a reason to celebrate both mountain culture and live music.
WinterWonderGrass is a three-day festival blending bluegrass, craft beverages, and alpine adventure. Attendees can enjoy 30 artists across four stages — including a mountaintop stage at Thunderhead Lodge — plus free daily beer, whiskey, and seltzer tastings, late-night shows throughout town, a family-friendly kids’ zone, local food trucks, and more.
Now in its 13th year, WinterWonderGrass returns to Steamboat Springs February 27–March 1, 2026, with a free Welcome Party in Gondola Square on February 26. The festival sells out every year, so secure tickets early and use this guide to plan the ultimate winter music weekend in Steamboat.
What to Bring to WinterWonderGrass
Pack light, but plan ahead. A small backpack or fanny pack is ideal for festival essentials like snacks, waterproof layers, and extra socks. All bags are checked at the entrance, so outside alcohol and glass containers are not permitted.
Be sure to bring:
- An empty reusable water bottle (free refill stations are available)
- Your commemorative stainless-steel festival mug (included with 3-day passes)
- Lip balm, sunscreen, and hand warmers
- High elevation sun and winter weather can be deceiving — a little preparation goes a long way.
What to Wear: Festival Fashion Meets Ski-Day Practicality
Layers are essential for WinterWonderGrass. While music tents are heated, the main stage is outdoors, so dress as you would for a day on the mountain — with added personality.
Helpful tips:
- Skip cotton; opt for wool or technical fabrics
- Wear comfortable, weather-ready footwear
- Bring extra socks (Merino wool recommended)
- You’ll move frequently between stages, and no one wants to miss a crowd-favorite set because of cold or wet feet. Extra socks = no regrets.
What Not to Miss at WinterWonderGrass
With nonstop entertainment all weekend, these insider tips will help you experience the best of the festival:
Tent “Tweener” Sets
Often referred to as tent bangers, these between-set performances inside the heated tents are known for surprise collaborations and high energy. Many festivalgoers discover new favorite artists here.
Free On-Mountain Shows
From 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, ride the gondola to Thunderhead Lodge for free performances by WinterWonderGrass artists while skiing or riding.
Grass After Dark
When the main festival wraps up, the music continues with late-night indoor shows at venues around Steamboat Springs and on the mountain. These intimate, high-energy performances are a highlight of the weekend.
Camp Coletrain Pop-Ups
Coletrain Music Academy returns with acoustic music workshops for kids and adults, plus free Public Picks on Saturday and Sunday at the Steamboat Grand Hotel. Don’t miss the All-Star WinterWonderGrass Public Pick from 12–1 p.m., open to all skill levels.
The Merch Tent
Shop early — popular items and sizes often sell out before Sunday.
What to Eat & Drink
WinterWonderGrass features a rotating lineup of local food vendors, offering everything from hearty comfort food to lighter fare, gluten-free options, vegan dishes, and sweet treats. Festival gates — and food vendors — open daily at 2:00 p.m.
Four pop-up bars are scattered throughout the festival grounds, each with its own vibe. The Soapbox is a favorite stop for hot beverages, including their signature spiked whiskey mocha, a perfect warm-up between sets.
Free water refill stations are available throughout the venue — bring your reusable bottle and festival mug to stay hydrated (and enjoy larger pours with a 3-day pass).
Where to Stay, Shop & Unwind in Steamboat Springs
Check out these local businesses for some special discounts with your WinterWonderGrass wristband! If you’re in the mood to stretch out those ski and dance muscles before another big day of WonderGrassing, head to Out Here Yoga for a live music yoga class featuring WinterWonderGrass artists! Schedule coming soon.
For more information on WinterWonderGrass Festival, click here.
