Photo: Emma Montanez

The four friends from Kansas City stood in the shade of Signe and Genna Grushovenko’s tent as Signe explained the inspiration for a large painting before them. “This one reminds me of my childhood,” one said. “It looks like it was painted just for us,” said another. The friends had driven from Kansas City to Denver to spend the weekend shopping for art at the 34th annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival, from July 4 to 6. “We heard this was the one festival you have to attend if you love art.” 

They weren’t alone. The streets of Cherry Creek North were filled with 260 exhibiting artists and throngs of festival goers throughout the three-day affair. The temperatures reached the mid 90s, but that didn’t deter Coloradans or out of town visitors from enjoying the many offerings: work from the artists, of course, but also 14 free live music performances; the always bustling Creation Station, where kids and families enjoyed free art activities all weekend; and even a pop-up silent disco, which had festival goers dancing in the street at the intersection of Fillmore and 2nd.

Cherry Creek Arts Festival Opening night. Delnaz Dance Ensemble from Bella Diva World Dance. | Photo: Liz Levy

“One of my favorite moments from this year’s festival was Saturday night, when more than 600 people gathered on Fillmore Plaza for a free and moving performance from the fantastic Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble,” said Tara Brickell, executive director of CherryArts, the nonprofit organization that produces the Cherry Creek Arts Festival.

Tara also noted some of the festival’s activations that may be less familiar to casual attendees but personify why the festival exists. “Another highlight was our Student Art Buying showcase on Saturday afternoon,” she said.

Photo: Emma Montanez

Each year, CherryArts works with two dozen Colorado schools through their Student Art Buying program. They provide curriculum that teaches students about the business of art, and then host student representatives from each school. CherryArts give each group of students $500 to spend on original art, which they take back to their schools for permanent display. Since the launch of this program, students from more than 450 schools have added more than 1,300 pieces of original art to their lobbies and hallways.  

Over on Steele Street, five of the artists at the festival were exhibiting their work at a major show for the first time. This quintet received $5,000 each and months of mentorship through the CherryArts Emerging Artist grant program. One of those artists—Eunjoo Kang, who grew up in South Korea but is now based in Mead, Colorado—won third place overall at the festival, a rare feat for an emerging artist. (See all the 2025 award winners here.)

Photo: Emma Montanez

The success of the Cherry Creek Arts Festival helps support the year-round work of CherryArts, and spurs tourism and tax dollars for Cherry Creek North and the city of Denver. This year’s artists generated more than $4.4 million in total sales. And those four friends from Kansas we met in the Grushovenkos tent were among thousands of out of towners who spent July 4 weekend in Denver, inspired by art.

The 35th annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival will take place from July 3 to July 5, 2026.

Photo: Frank Montanez

Photo: Beaver Creek Resort Company

The Alpine Table: Farm to Fairway is coming to Beaver Creek for two exclusive nights, August 22 and 23. This summer dining event at Red Sky Ranch is curated by the executive chefs of Beaver Creek’s iconic cabins. Guests can anticipate a five-course evening on the 18th hole of the Tom Fazio course, overlooking sweeping mountain views at sunset. Mountain Living sat down with Eric Dunn, manager of communications at Vail Resorts, to learn more about what to expect.

Photo: Beaver Creek Resort Company

What inspired The Alpine Table concept, and how does it reflect Beaver Creek’s mountain lifestyle and ethos? 

Eric Dunn: The Alpine Table was inspired by Beaver Creek’s passion for crafting unforgettable moments—where elevated dining, scenic beauty and intimate hospitality come together. Set amidst the natural splendor of the resort’s slopes, this new event series reflects the essence of the Beaver Creek lifestyle: refined yet relaxed, adventurous yet grounded in tradition. 

Drawing from the resort’s deep culinary roots and its growing presence in the MICHELIN Guide, The Alpine Table brings together Beaver Creek’s own culinary talent with guest chefs from acclaimed regional kitchens. Each experience is thoughtfully curated to reflect the personality of its alpine cabin setting, with menus that celebrate seasonal ingredients, creative storytelling and exceptional beverage pairings.   

How does cooking in the Colorado high country—especially at a place like Red Sky Ranch—influence culinary style or ingredient choices? What can guests expect?  

ED: Cooking at a place like Red Sky Ranch is truly one of a kind. Beyond the stunning views, we’re lucky to have access to incredible local produce and Colorado-raised beef. If you’re up early enough to make it to the Edwards Farmers Market, you’re in for a win. Fresh tomatoes, local cheeses and everything you need to create something beautiful and flavorful.  

High-altitude cooking definitely brings some unique challenges, but we’re here for it. It forces us to be creative and intentional. Guests can expect menus that are vibrant and fresh, built around what’s in season and what grows well in our valley. It’s about letting the ingredients speak for themselves while reflecting the heart of mountain cuisine. 

Photo: Beaver Creek Resort Company

What does “alpine cuisine” mean for this series, and how will it be interpreted on a  plate? 

ED: To us, alpine cuisine is about honoring where we live. Showcasing the beautiful valley, we call home with food that’s local, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Chef Jonathan Alonso and the other talented chefs he works with are sourcing ingredients straight from the farmers market, getting the good stuff and turning it into something really special. 

Whether it’s crisp vegetables grown just down the road or meats from nearby ranches, each dish is a celebration of where we live and what we love to cook. They are excited to bring this to the table in a way that feels both elevated and welcoming. 

What does this experience hope guests take away from this exclusive culinary evening? 

ED: We hope guests leave The Alpine Table experience feeling deeply connected to the food, the setting, and the spirit of the mountains. This series is about more than a remarkable meal; it’s about creating lasting memories in a truly intimate, elevated setting.

Reservations for the Alpine Table: Farm to Fairway dining experience are available on Beaver Creek’s website.

Red Deer 32×40 Bengoechea Woven Photograph. | Courtesy of Marcelo Bengoechea

On Thursday, July 24, 2025, Hygge Life will welcome Marcelo Bengoechea and his heartfelt exhibition Woven Together, a tribute to the woven photographic works of his late brother, Fernando Bengoechea—an acclaimed international photographer known for his work in major publications.

The evening event, held from 5 to 8 p.m., will debut Red Deer, a new piece that captures the quiet beauty of wildlife. All first-time wovens—including Red Deer, Wool, Blondie and Happy Monks—will be exclusive to Hygge Life by Marcelo through the end of August. Guests can also enjoy handcrafted, Argentine-inspired cocktails by Träkál and small bites.

Cabeza De Vaca 64×40. | Courtesy of Marcelo Bengoechea

Marcelo’s enduring connection to his brother Fernando is woven into every piece—each one a tribute to their shared creative spirit. “I made it my mission to keep his art alive by hand-weaving Fernando’s images myself. A collaboration between brothers—one in heaven and one on earth,” he says of the upcoming exhibition in an interview. “I follow his path, touching people with the art as I go, inspiring myself—and I hope others—to live life to its fullest potential.”

Wool 32×40 Bengoechea Woven Photograph. | Courtesy of Marcelo Bengoechea

Blondie 32×40 Bengoechea Woven Photograph. | Courtesy of Marcelo Bengoechea

Kevin Gullage and The Blues Groovers. | Photo: Steve Pope

The Vail Jazz Festival proudly announces its lineup for the 31st Annual Vail Jazz Festival, set to take place from Friday, August 29 through Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the picturesque Manor Vail Lodge, nestled at the base of Vail Mountain.

This Labor Day weekend tradition continues to captivate audiences with an exceptional lineup of performances and jam sessions, solidifying its reputation as a premier event in the jazz world. This year’s festival promises a dynamic array of musical experiences, featuring:

● Outdoor Performances under the Jazz Tent: All weekend long, the Jazz Tent at Manor Vail Lodge comes alive with high-energy, world-class performances from some of the biggest names in jazz. Kicking off Friday evening and continuing through the weekend, these unforgettable open-air shows promise nonstop musical magic in the heart of the mountains.

● Howard’s Hangout Club Series: This free series, taking place at the Fitz Bar + Bites inside the Manor Vail Lodge, offers intimate, late-night performances, making it the perfect venue for spontaneous jam sessions.

● Educational Initiatives: Continuing its commitment to jazz education, the festival will host the 30th Annual Vail Jazz Workshop, which fosters the next generation of jazz talent.

Dee Dee Bridgewater and The Memphis Soulphony. | Photo: Steve Pope

“The Vail Jazz Festival is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a community gathering that celebrates the rich tapestry of jazz music,” said Anneliese Swift, Executive Director. “We’re thrilled to bring together both legendary performers and emerging artists in such a breathtaking setting.”

Ticket Information: Tickets and passes for the 31st Annual Vail Jazz Festival are on sale now, including the full lineup and schedule.

About Vail Jazz: Founded in 1994, Vail Jazz is dedicated to the perpetuation of jazz through live performances and educational programs. The organization has been instrumental in bringing world-class jazz to the Vail Valley and nurturing young talent through its various initiatives, including the Vail Jazz Workshop, Vail Jazz Goes To School, and Jammin’ Jazz Kids.

Photo: Steve Pope

Photo: Courtesy of CherryArts

Every full-time artist got their start somewhere. Denver-based nonprofit CherryArts has been committed for decades to being that somewhere for more than one hundred artists through their annual emerging artists program. For the second year, CherryArts has awarded $5,000 grants to five artists in the early stages of their career, who will join 255 established artists from across the U.S. and three other countries, at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival this July 4 to 6.

The 2025 emerging artists are:

• Eunjoo Kang, a ceramicist based in Mead, Colorado, who blends traditional Korean pottery techniques with freehand building
• Rachel Meyers Hefferan, a textile artist who creates large-scale abstract weavings inspired by her work as a shepherd in Fennville, Michigan
• Kristen St. Clair, a Denver mixed media artist who explores the intersection of history, culture and humanity through a unique blend of ceramics, resin and found objects
• Benjamin Stanford, a figurative painter based in Denver who works primarily with oil
• Tricia Waddell, a Denver textile artist who specializes in soft sculptures and wall pieces

Eunjoo Kang. | Photo: Courtesy of CherryArts

“As an emerging artist, I am honored and excited to be part of the Cherry Creek Arts Festival,” said Kang. “I am eager to learn, grow and share my artistic journey while engaging with the inspiring creatives who make this festival such a meaningful experience.” Learn more about this year’s emerging artists here and watch a short film about the emerging artist program here.

In its 34th year, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival is one of the preeminent annual cultural events in Denver and among the most renowned fine arts shows in the country. Last spring, the event won the prestigious Gold Grand Pinnacle Award for best festival from the International Festivals and Events Association. This year’s jury selected 260 artists, 64 of whom are exhibiting their work at the festival for the first time.

Photo: Courtesy of CherryArts

“This year’s line-up reflects the innovation, diversity and excellence that make the Cherry Creek Arts Festival truly something special,” said Tara Brickell, executive director of CherryArts. The 2025 Cherry Creek Arts Festival includes free live music from a dozen artists, including a special performance from Cleo Robinson Parker Dance; free art activities for children at Creation Station; food and beverage offerings from more than 25 Colorado businesses; and the return of Student Art Buying.

DATES, HOURS and DETAILS:

This year’s festival is free and open to the public, as always and tickets are not required.

Friday, July 4, 2025: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., accessibility hour from 9 to 10 a.m.

Saturday, July 5, 2025: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday, July 6, 2025: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Photo: Courtesy of CherryArts

CherryArts is hosting an opening night party on Thursday, July 3, that includes a crowd-free shopping opportunity with a block full of artists, plus live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and drinks. VIP passes are available each day of the festival and include air-conditioned comfort at the VIP lounge, complimentary valet parking, a VIP lunch and more.

Photo: Courtesy of CherryArts

Photo: Courtesy of Sun Valley Museum of Art

The 44th annual Sun Valley Wine Auction will celebrate wine and benefit art and education with three days of immersive events in the Wood River Valley, June 24–26. The iconic event is the oldest charity wine auction in the United States and continues to bring people together from around the world in the name of art and wine. Since its inception, its annual Scholarship Program has awarded more than $1 million to support continued arts education.

This year, auction goers can enjoy three fun-filled days leading up to the highly anticipated Art & Wine Gala and Auction on Thursday, June 26. The celebration kicks off with a River Ranch Wine Walk and scenic wine tasting. Festivities continue midweek with an exploration of vintners throughout the Valley and an art talk at the Sun Valley Museum of Art on Thursday.

Individual packages—including Grand and Premier Cru tickets—as well as gala table options (Grand, Premier and Patron) are available.

Photo: Courtesy of Sun Valley Museum of Art

Fra Dana, On the Window Seat, oil on canvas, Montana Museum of Art & Culture, University of Montana

The nonprofit associations History Jackson Hole and AWARE: Archives of Women Artists, Research & Exhibitions have recently collaborated on a new exhibition titled Women Artists of the American West: Trailblazers at the Turn of the 20th Century, on view in the Cissy Patterson Gallery at the Jackson Hole History Museum.

At the cusp of the 20th century, the five women artists featured in this exhibition lived during a time of profound change in women’s roles in Western American society. Each artist offers a unique perspective that celebrates the lives of cowgirls, female friends and sisters—going beyond traditional representations of the West, which often center on cowboys, soldiers, gold miners and fur traders.

We spoke with Kirsten Corbett, exhibits and communications director at History Jackson Hole, and Lucia Pesapane, AWARE’s art historian and co-curator, to learn more.

Evelyn Cameron standing on Jim the horse, photograph by Evelyn Cameron, between 1905-1915, PAC 90-87.N274, Montana Historical Society

What are some standout pieces in the exhibition, and what do they reveal about the artists’ experiences?

KC: Photograph: Evelyn Cameron, Evelyn Cameron standing on her horse Jim, Montana Historical Society Research Center. Evelyn set up this photo of herself standing on her white horse, Jim. In it she projects strength and humor, positioning herself in a pose full of both power and play, looking directly into the camera with a broad smile on her face. The photo’s composition is outstanding with the shadow of both her camera and friend taking the photograph falling directly underneath the horse, revealing the photographic process as part of the image. The show’s curators intentionally selected several photographic self-portraits from both Evelyn Cameron and Lora Webb Nichols for the show.

Fra Dana, Storm Coming Down, No Date, oil paint on panel, 12.5 x 16.25 inches, Montana Museum of Art & Culture

KC: Painting: Fra Dana, Storm Coming Down, no date, oil on board, 12 ¼ x 16 inches, Montana Museum of Art and Culture. This petite yet impactful landscape depicts a storm blowing down from the mountains towards the plains and also reveals the artist Fra Dana’s intimate relationship with the landscape. Rather than a vertical piece depicting dominant peaks, the composition is horizontal and the mountains somewhat distant with an emphasis on the contrast between the bright yellow foreground and approaching dark storm on the horizon. The viewer feels almost as if they’re standing in the field with the clouds approaching.

Tell us more about the artistic styles or themes that distinguish their work from the dominant Western art of the time.

LP: The women artists of the 19th-century American West challenged traditional visual conventions. Their work does not feature the usual cowboys, soldiers, goldminers, or fur traders. Instead, they highlight cowgirls, female friendships, and sisterly bonds. Rather than glorifying dominance over the land, they offer a more intimate and nuanced perspective—smaller in scale, quieter in tone.

Elizabeth Lochrie, Untitled, No Date oil on canvas, 4.5 x 3.5 inches, Montana Museum of Art & Culture

What was the most surprising discovery during the research and curation of this exhibition?

LP: What struck us was these artists’ awareness of their own abilities and their skill in balancing artistic ambition with a life on ranches, shaped by concrete and often demanding needs. These women left valuable testimonies through diaries and notebooks, which provide insight into their daily lives and those of their contemporaries, highlighting shared experiences.

The exhibition will be on view in the Jackson Hole History Museum’s upstairs gallery through July 12, 2025. Hours and admissions are available at jacksonholehistory.org.

Josephine Hale, Untitled (Portrait), No Date oil paint on canvas, 30.5 x 26.25 inches, Montana Museum of Art & Culture

Jules Frazier Photographs. | Photo Courtesy of The Western Design Exhibit + Sale

16 artisans, designers, and authors are set to reignite the Western Design Conference Exhibit + Sale’s (WDC) newest Design Lecture Series – an ode to its nostalgic beginnings – this fall. The series is expected to inspire captivating conversations between creatives and guests that go beyond the surface of artistry. Guests are invited to learn about insider knowledge and wisdom from artisans, as well as participate in Q&A-style discussions throughout weekend of September 5th-8th, 2024.

In a recent interview, WDC’s Executive Director Allison Merritt says, “This year, in addition to the in-person opportunities to meet and shop the work of makers of some of the finest examples of American craft from across the country, we’re excited to return to our roots, once more highlighting the ‘conference’ piece of the Western Design Conference.” She continues, “We’re offering three days of 16 expert talks on a wide range of topics, and daily 2 p.m. happy hours in the adjacent WDC lounge, providing a creative space for attendees to collaborate, network and recharge while learning something new about the many facets of handcrafted Western Design.”

Photo Courtesy Of Elyse Allen Textiles

On Friday, September 6 from 10 am – 2 pm, hourly lectures will offer AIA and ASID CEU credits, with a special Creativity Panel moderated by one of WDC’s presenting sponsor, Planning Alternatives president Nathan Mersereau, and featuring select artisans – such as Elyse Allen, Doug Nordberg, Chrissy Glenn and Jonathan Ward. The Lecture Series’ 12 half-hour lectures will run from September 7th-8th.

Numerous lectures will also be complemented with book signings, including “Alpenglow – Outdoor Celebrations for Every Season” by Hillary Munro with photographs by Lisa Flood, “Wild Sugar” by Lindsey Johnson and Chase Reynolds Ewald, “Designing American Jewelry: From City Rhythms to Western Dreams” by Ellie Thompson, and “Iconic Photographs of the American West” by Jules Frazier.

Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance online and reference the complete list of the weekend’s event schedule.

Doug Nordberg And Scott Wilson. | Photo Courtesy of The Western Design Conference Design Sale

Tahoe Concours d’Elegance

Concours Docks. | Photo courtesy Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance

Event goers have anticipated North America’s premier wooden boat show for almost 50 years. From August 9th-10th, visitors can continue to see a curated selection of well-preserved and restored wooden boats by purchasing passes for both show and social events.

Spa Edgewood

Photo: Courtesy of Edgewood Tahoe Resort

Experience a weekend escape at Edgewood Tahoe Resort’s highly-acclaimed spa. Massage, facial treatments, speciality services and a beauty bar are among the several menu options to choose from. Reservations are required.

Christy Hill Restaurant

Photo: Courtesy of Christy Hill

A family-owned restaurant, Christy Hill brings a refined dining experience on the shoreline of Lake Tahoe, with sweeping panoramic mountain and lake views. Modern American cuisine with French, Italian and Mediterranean flavors inspire the menu’s ethos.

Eagle Falls

Photo: Courtesy: Visit Lake Tahoe

One of Lake Tahoe’s most sought out trails, Eagle Falls showcases the beauty of the great outdoors in every direction. From picturesque mountain views to breathtaking waterfalls, this is a trail not to miss.

Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series

Photo: Courtesy of Harveys Lake Tahoe

Each year, Harveys Lake Tahoe hosts the Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series at its 4,000-seat amphitheater with world-renowned musicians gracing the stage. Concert-goers can see Rod Stewart, Jon Pardi, Ryan Bingham, Pretty Lights, Alabama, Dan + Shay and Lainey Wilson to round out the season.