Breck celebrates suds with two upcoming beer fests

Year-after-year, Breckenridge hosts two of the top-rated beer fests in Colorado; one celebrating springtime and the other saluting summer.

Both are back and better than ever for 2014. The Breckenridge Spring Fever Beer Festival returns Saturday, April 5 and the Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival returns Saturday, July 26. This year, both events boast more breweries and expanded event options, and the July festival features a new location. The anticipated events also include several great elements participants have come to expect, including unlimited beer-tasting, free live music and vendor and food booths.

Described as events that celebrate brews, views and great live music in the heart of Breckenridge, Breck’s signature beer festivals are growing.

“We’re including breweries this year that have never participated in either of our Breckenridge Beer Festivals, so look for new names and a few surprises,” said Jen Radueg, events director for event producer Radiate Live Events & Always Mountain Time. “We’re also expanding both events to make the experience even better for attendees. This is our eighth spring beer festival and our ninth summer event and we can’t wait to unveil the changes and improvements.”

Live music at the Breck Spring Fever Beer Festival includes Jimkata, Mr. J and the Smooth Expressions and headliner Tatanka (presented by Breck Market and Liquor). Bands take the stage beginning at 12 p.m. and play until the event comes to a close at 5 p.m. Following the festival on Saturday, Three20South hosts an official event After-Party featuring Jimkata. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Live music on-tap for the Breck Summer Beer Festival includes Turkuaz and two additional bands, to be announced.

Ticket costs for both the Breck Spring Fever Beer Festival and the Breck Summer Beer Festival are $27.50 for unlimited tasting access if pre-purchased (spring festival tickets must be pre-purchased by Friday, April 4), or $35 if purchased the day of the event. VIP access passes, including a commemorative glass mug, VIP event entrance, covered seating, full beers and sodas, catered lunch, private restrooms and an on-site Cicerone, are $70 if pre-purchased (by Friday, April 4 for the Spring Fever Beer Festival), or $80 the day of the event. The 2014 Breckenridge Spring Fever Beer Festival benefits the Friends of Colorado Avalanche Information Center. The Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival supports High Country Conservation Center (HC3).

For more information about the events, visit breckenridgebeerfestival.com.