Destination Alpine Fall Festivals Coming Up - Vail Oktoberfest + Breckenridge Wine Classic

There are two upcoming high-altitude, Colorado mountain festivals that boast somm-lead hikes, Oktoberfest in a Bavarian town, iconic views, cooler temperatures and oftentimes less crowds.

• Vail Oktoberfest (8,150’, Sept 9-11 + Sept. 16-18 - photos here): The beloved Vail Oktoberfest is a Bavarian extravaganza of competitions (World Keg Bowling Champion, brat eating contest, costume contests), German delicacies, flowing German beer, traditional music and dance, children’s entertainment and more. This free, family-friendly event was named among the 10 greatest Oktoberfest celebrations in the U.S. by USA Today. NEW: Kid-toberfest. If running around a mountain town wasn’t fun enough, Vail Oktoberfest is doubling down on the kids activities this year. There will be free kids’ concerts, caricature artists, balloon animal artists, free arts and crafts, face painting and more. The two-weekend full schedule has just been released!
• Breckenridge Wine Classic (9,600’, Sept. 15-17 - photos here): In addition to the iconic Grand Tasting sessions that feature hundreds of wineries, breweries, distilleries, and epicurean purveyors, the Breckenridge Wine Classic’s innovative lineup includes a “Winemaker for a Day” experience, “Wine & Wildflower Hike,” and exquisite paired dinners with some of the country’s best vintners at five standout Breckenridge restaurants, including one at the ski resort. 

Trebles all round...