With its pristine alpine surroundings and proximity to cities located along the Front Range, Nederland is a favorite mountain destination for Coloradans and visitors alike. If you’re considering a trip here, these top events are worth planning your visit around.
Tucked away beneath towering peaks not far from Rocky Mountain National Park, Nederland looks and feels like it’s a universe away from the crowded city of Boulder, yet it’s just a half hour’s drive away. It boasts the natural beauty of Colorado’s best-loved mountain destinations but without the steep prices and pretentious attitudes.
While staying in the area, consider spending the night at one of Nederland’s top-rated hotels. From fitness festivals to what’s undoubtedly hailed as Colorado’s weirdest party, here are the top events in Nederland in chronological order:
Nederland Farmers Market
It’s an absolute joy to shop for fresh produce, bread and pastries, meats and cheeses, and handmade offerings crafted by local makers in this gorgeous mountain setting. Nederland’s annual Farmers Market delivers a stellar outdoor market experience from May through September.
You’ll find everything here you’d expect from a charming small-town farmer’s market, plus premium spirits made by the local Gold Dirt Distillery. It’s an excellent way to spend a Sunday morning whether you’re gathering fresh ingredients for your next big meal or are content to take in the sights and sounds of the market in the cool mountain air.
Bi-weekly Sundays, mid May to early October| nederlandfarmersmarket.org
High Peaks Art Festival
The High Peaks Art Festival is held in June every year, featuring work from a talented cast of local and national artists. You’ll find a broad range of works to revel in here, from ceramics to paintings to photographs and sculptures. It’s a great opportunity to support and enjoy art in a gorgeous mountain setting.
late July | highpeaksartfestival.com
Nederland Jazz & Wine Festival
Head to the Nederland Jazz & Wine Festival in honor of fine Colorado wine, world-class jazz from Colorado, artisan vendors of Colorado, and mountain scenery. It’s held annually at Chipeta Park in Nederland each August.
Hear live music from 11 am to 5pm as you imbibe from the wonderful assortment of Colorado wineries, cideries, meaderies, distilleries, and breweries.
late August | nedjazzwine.com
NED*NED Trail Fest
This beloved 30-year tradition is a half marathon that treks through gorgeous single-track mountain trails surrounding Nederland. If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly race, NED*NED is sure not to disappoint.
Dogs on leashes are invited to join the race, and costumes are encouraged––the more absurd the better. The race usually takes place in September right as the leaves begin to change.
early September | nednedtrailfest.com
Holiday Mountain Market
This charming holiday event benefits Nederland Area Seniors, a nonprofit that helps enhance the quality of life of local seniors.
With a diverse selection of handmade items like art, food, jewelry, clothing, music, books, crafts, candles, and beauty products, this is a great chance to support Nederland makers, get your holiday shopping taken care of, and pick something nice up for yourself while supporting a great cause at the same time.
In a word, Nederland is eccentric, and the unique items created by its residents are thought-provoking, interesting, and informed by the natural beauty surrounding Nederland. You’ll find things you can’t get anywhere else at this fun holiday market.
early December | nederdays.com/holiday-mountain-market
Located just 16 miles west of Boulder, but in a world of its own, Nederland is known and loved in Colorado for its natural beauty and alternative and welcoming personality.
A stellar place to experience during any time of the year with fantastic shops and restaurants, to check out, warm, rugged people to meet, and a sprawling alpine wilderness nearby to explore, Nederland is a truly unforgettable place.
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