Winter Park, Colorado, is a visually stunning mountain community with something to offer all visitors. The city’s picturesque landscape and many outdoor activities have helped to create a unique getaway destination.
While you may think of Winter Park as only a wintertime playground, the summers here offer a comprehensive list of fun and adventurous things to do. Close proximity to parks such as Rocky Mountain National Park, Arapaho National Forest and Indian Peaks Wilderness Area mean that you have access to a variety of outdoor landscapes. Whether you're looking to go mountain climbing or on a fishing excursion, it's all here. If you're a fan of beer and brewing, try visiting one of the local breweries like Moffat Station Brewery & Restaurant, where you can sample and learn about their unique beer creations. While the city only has 1,000 full time residents, the constant influx of tourists has cultivated a unique and growing culinary scene. You’ll find a variety of different eating establishments such as Hernando's Pizza Pub, Pepi Osaka's Fish Tacos, and Deno's Mountain Bistro. Even though this is a smaller community, that doesn't mean they don't know how to celebrate. Winter Park is home to some can’t-miss community events and festivals like the Winter Park Beer Festival.
Rolling steadily into its seventh year, the Winter Park Beer Festival attracts thousands of people into the city each year. This over 21 event showcases beer tastings from 45 different breweries from the city, state, and all over the country. The festival is held at scenic Hideaway Park, which is nestled right in downtown Winter Park. The great vistas at the park only enhance the relaxing and welcoming atmosphere of the event.
It’s not just about the beer here. You’ll encounter plenty of food options, a selection of live music and find opportunities to meet many new people. Few vacation locations can get you away from it all, while providing a extensive list of fun things to do. Let the Winter Park Beer Festival be your introduction to the great vacation destination that is Winter Park, Colorado. We got the chance to speak to Jen Radueg, Event Director from Radiate Live Events LLC, to talk about the Winter Park Beer Festival.
RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.
JR: This is the 7th year for the Winter Park Beer Festival. We are expecting around 3,000 people in attendance.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?
JR: Most of our patrons are adults over 21, who are married, single and friends; we see everyone. Kids are allowed, but the main focus is adults over 21.
RAL: What makes this event unique?
JR: Hideaway Park in downtown Winter Park is a great venue. The vibe in the park and at the event is laid back and people really like that. We bring in live music and also have a karaoke stage and other fun activities.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event.
JR: Guests will enjoy a fun weekend of craft beer tastings from 45 local, regional and national breweries! The best way to experience the Winter Park Beer Festival is to get into town on Friday evening. Guests can pick up their VIP or tasting cups early at Moffat Brewery and Restaurant inside the Winter Park Mountain Lodge from 5-8:00 pm on Friday. Saturday, the event starts at Noon for all pre-purchased ticket holders. During the first hour of the event, the breweries will be pouring seasonal ales or special releases for the pre-purchased ticket holding guests. At the door sales start at 1:00 pm for anyone wishing to purchase tickets the day of the event.
There are great dining options in Winter Park and at the Festival! Come hungry to enjoy delicious food from The Spot Grill (paninis), Original Funky Fries (fries, kabobs), Chet’s Grille (Cajun), Nickie’s Quickies, plus yummy samples from Buck Wild and Climax Jerky.
There will be live music on the stage from CASTRO, High5, and Colony Funk from 12-5:00 pm! Make sure to take advantage of the camp chairs that Winter Park has available to use for free during the event. Bring a blanket and relax on the lawn.
If Karaoke is your thing, then you definitely won’t want to miss the Sapporo Karaoke stage at the Winter Park Beer Festival. Take the stage to belt out your favorite tunes throughout the event! After beer fest ends, the party doesn’t stop. Guests will want to head over to the Winter Park Pub for the official after-party. The Dewey Paul Band will be entertaining starting at 6:00 pm Guests can enjoy great food and drink specials and the Winter Park Pub claims that they have the “Best Burgers in the Universe”. We’ve had them and can attest that they’re pretty tasty!
Sunday, enjoy a hike or bike ride in Winter Park before you have to head home for the weekend. Guests can visit the Winter Park Chamber for details on all the activities in Town.
RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?
JR: The best place to find the deals for the Winter Park Beer Festival is here. The Winter Park Mountain Lodge has great deals for the event with their Winter Park Beer Fest Stay & Play Package. Rates start at $99.00 based on room type and include four draft beer vouchers at Moffat Station Brewery located right inside the hotel. They offer some pet friendly rooms. And, the Moffat Brewery is on the property, so it’s a great way to stay and enjoy some local craft brews! Call 970-726-4211 to book and mention “beer festival” rates.
Guests can also check out Stay Winter Park with one bedroom rates starting at $113 per night (excluding Beaver Village Condos). Beaver Village Condos starting at $148 per night. To book, call 800-216-6535 and mention “beer fest lodging”.
RAL: What does the event mean to the community?
JR: This event has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike. There’s plenty of lodging in Winter Park, but it is recommended to book lodging in advance, especially if you want lodging in Town. The Winter Park Beer Festival has partnered with and supported the Grand Foundation as an event partner for the past five years. Additionally, the Beer Festival partners with the Samantha Remington Angel Heart Foundation which serves families in the greater Colorado area.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
JR: If guests enjoy a great mountain town and enjoy craft beer, this is a perfect getaway! There’s something special about the Town of Winter Park and the music venue the event is held in. It’s a very fun, easygoing and relaxing vibe. We’ve had bachelor and bachelorette parties, reunions, wedding parties, birthdays and more at the Festival. It’s a great way to enjoy a day in the mountains and get to know a bit more about craft beer in a relaxing environment for an affordable price!
For more information about the Winter Park Beer Festival, please visit their website.