As winter draws near in Steamboat Springs, there’s one event that has music lovers and mountain-goers alike buzzing: WinterWonderGrass. What started in 2013 as a grassroots gathering has grown into one of the most beloved music festivals in Colorado, offering a unique combination of bluegrass, craft beer, and sustainability efforts, all set against the majestic backdrop of Steamboat’s snow-covered slopes.
The Spirit of WinterWonderGrass
WinterWonderGrass isn’t just a music festival—it’s an immersive community experience. From February 28 to March 2, 2025, festival-goers will flock to the mountainside to experience three days of live music, local craft beers, and a deep connection to nature. What sets WinterWonderGrass apart from other festivals is its commitment to preserving the environment and supporting local non-profits. Each year, the festival donates one dollar for every ticket sold to organizations focusing on sustainability, community, and disaster relief efforts. And with a strong emphasis on reducing its environmental footprint, the festival diverts more than 85% of waste from landfills and eliminates single-use plastics on-site.
2025 Lineup: A Bluegrass Wonderland
For the 2025 edition, WinterWonderGrass has curated a lineup that blends iconic bluegrass acts with fresh faces who are pushing the genre’s boundaries. Headlining the festival is Minnesota’s own Trampled by Turtles, whose fusion of high-energy bluegrass and rock has made them festival favorites across the country. Their ability to switch between frenetic pace and heartfelt ballads is sure to captivate both long-time fans and first-time listeners.
Colorado’s own Leftover Salmon returns to bring their signature “polyethnic Cajun slamgrass”—a blend of bluegrass, folk, and rock that defies categorization. They’ve been a staple of the Colorado music scene for decades and are known for their lively, unpredictable performances.
The Kitchen Dwellers are set to return to “the ‘Boat” with their high-energy bluegrass and jam fusion, making them a festival favorite. Their performance at WinterWonderGrass will be a highlight for fans of the progressive bluegrass scene, blending their distinct sound with the festival’s unique snowy setting
The California Honeydrops are another standout, blending the soul of New Orleans with funky, R&B-inspired jams. Their shows feel more like a joyous street party than a traditional performance, making them a perfect fit for the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
Sam Bush, often referred to as the “Father of Newgrass,” will bring his legendary skills on the mandolin, continuing his role as one of bluegrass music’s greatest pioneers. Whether you’re new to the genre or a lifelong fan, Bush’s presence is a must-see for anyone attending.
For a more cosmic twist on the genre, festival-goers can look forward to Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country. Donato’s sound takes traditional country and bluegrass and gives it a psychedelic twist, offering something that’s both familiar and innovative.
Yonder Mountain String Band (YMSB) will bring their improvisational spirit to the stage, continuing their legacy as one of the most progressive forces in bluegrass.
Fans of the festival will enjoy seeing special appearances from Kyle Hollingsworth with Picking on the Dead, Jon Stickley, and Kyle Tuttle, whose banjo-driven sound brings fresh energy to traditional bluegrass styles.
Emerging Talent and Local Heroes
In addition to the major headliners, WinterWonderGrass 2025 will feature emerging acts like The Little Moon Travelers, a band that blends folk, bluegrass, and Americana, making waves in the local Steamboat scene. And for fans looking for something a bit more eclectic, Pixie and the Partygrass Boys offer a fusion of bluegrass, punk, and pop that’s as fun as it is refreshing.
Festival-goers can also expect performances from Fireside Collective, known for their dynamic blend of bluegrass, roots, and folk, as well as Cousin Curtiss, a band mixing fingerpicking guitar with harmonica and foot percussion for a sound that’s as unique as it is captivating.
For those who appreciate collaborative efforts, RiverWonderGrass All-Stars will unite artists from across the lineup to create unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime performances, drawing on the communal spirit that defines WinterWonderGrass. And, fan favorites, the all-female supergroup known as WinterWonderWomen will return in celebration of the incredible talent and influence of women in the genre, and it’s sure to be one of the festival’s most inspiring performances.
Get Ready for the 2025 Experience
As WinterWonderGrass prepares to welcome thousands of fans to Steamboat Springs once again, the festival’s emphasis on community, environmental stewardship, and a love for authentic bluegrass ensures it will be another unforgettable year. The festival is a reminder of what makes Steamboat special—its strong connection to nature, its deep musical roots, and its commitment to giving back.
In anticipation of WinterWonderGrass 2025, Steamboat Springs is hosting an exciting Lineup Announce Party tonight, October 9th, at the Old Town Pub. The evening will feature live performances from Billy Failing and local favorites, The Little Moon Travelers. This free show promises to set the stage for WinterWonderGrass’s highly anticipated return, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and music starting at 6:30 p.m.
Billy Failing is best known for his progressive bluegrass style, blending traditional roots with modern influences, while The Little Moon Travelers bring their local charm and unique sound, making for a perfect prelude to the festival vibe. It’s a celebration of the growing momentum behind WinterWonderGrass, which has become synonymous with stellar bluegrass music, cold beer, and the best of the Steamboat community spirit.
Tickets for WinterWonderGrass 2025 are on sale now, or you can ENTER TO WIN a pair of tickets right now in the Steamboat Locals App. Get one entry in our giveaway now by downloading or opening the app and clicking on the giveaway image, and then get an additional entry when you visit our table at tonight’s Lineup Announce Party!
