The Llama

Telluride's Local Scoop for 2/29-3/4

Posted on February 29, 2012 by Hart

Happy Leap Day! An extra day to start planning your trip to Telluride!! Lots going on this weekend... not to mention, the 13"+ we've received in the past 48 hours. The San Juans are skiing soooo well right now. Check out video on the bottom of the blog from yesterday's powdery face-shots. Lots going on in the Summer Festival world... discounted tickets and lodging available for Jazz Fest and Blues & Brews listed below! Came for the winter... stayed for the summer! Have a great weekend.

Wednesday, February 29^th – Telluride Jazz Early Bird Tickets – Today’s the last day to get $99 passes to the 2012 Telluride Jazz Festival on August 3-5, 2012. After today, they will go up to the regular rate of $135. This year’s lineup is one for the books – Victor Wooten, Funky METERS, Soulive, Roy Hargrove Quintet, Roberta Gambarini, Jon Cleary, Astral Project, Marco Benevento Trio, Soul Rebels, Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds and many, many more. Have Spotify? Listen to our Jazz Fest 2012 Playlist here: http://open.spotify.com/user/telluridefests/playlist/3tXYfUHPoQKONM4Uc17k3y

For more info and to purchase discounted festival tickets, visit: http://telluridejazz.org/

For discounted lodging and up to 15% off, visit: http://www.telluridelodging.com/15-select-festivals

Wednesday, February 29^th – Tim O’Brien – Grammy Award Winner Tim O’Brien will play a solo acoustic performance at the Sheridan Opera House tonight! Tim is an American folk & bluegrass icon who’s graced his presence numerous times in Telluride Town Park at many of Bluegrass Fests over the years. This show is sponsored by the Telluride Music Store and will start at 6:00pm. Reserved seats are $28. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit: http://sheridanoperahouse.com/events/tim-obrien-solo-concert

Thursday, March 1^st – Telluride Blues & Brews Tickets on Sale – Renowned as one of the most scenic and intimate music festivals in the country… Telluride Blues & Brews is one of Telluride’s favorite summer festivals for locals and visitors. Can you beat an eclectic mix of blues, rock, funk… with a Grand Tasting of 50+ microbreweries… with 13,000 foot mountains as a backdrop??? No… no, you can’t. Tickets for Early Bird, VIP, Juke Joint, Camping, Campground Vehicle and RV passes will all go on sale at 10:00am MST. Early Bird 3-Day passes are going for $145 and the VIP 3-Day passes are $385. These will sell-out extremely fast! Also, we’re offering discounted Early Bird lodging – Hotel rooms starting at $175/night and 3^rd night FREE in Mountain Village!!

For more info on discounted lodging, visit: http://www.telluridelodging.com/early-bird-blues-brews-specials-starting-175night-mountainside-inn

For festival information or to purchase tickets, visit: www.tellurideblues.com

Friday, March 2^nd – Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band concert – Asheville, NC based funk band is back! They played on Town Park stage this past fall at the 2011 Telluride Blues & Brews Festival and rocked the entire crowd. Get ready for Mohawks, Saxophones, loud bass and a funky good time. If you’re in town this Friday night… GOTO the Llama for this awesome show! Doors open at 9:00pm and tickets are $10 in advance. For more info, check YMBFBB on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/yomamasbigfatbootyband

Saturday, March 3^rd – TAB Gala Fashion Show – The biggest night of the winter is back. The Telluride AIDS Benefit hosts the Gala Fashion Show which features local models and AIDS activist displaying the latest lines from Perry Ellis to Diane Von Furstenberg in a New York-like production. These are the hottest tickets in town… if you don’t already have a ticket, you might be out of luck. BUT! The Town of Mountain Village will be streaming the March 3^rd event LIVE on their website! Visit: http://www.townofmountainvillage.com/index.aspx?nid=452

tags: AIDS Benefit, colorado, concert, discounted lodging, fashion show, lodging, rentals, telluride, Telluride Blues & Brews, Telluride Jazz Festival, The Llama, tickets, Tim O'Brien, Town Park, Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Week, 2/8-2/12

Posted on February 8, 2012 by Hart

Hope everyone has enjoyed the freshies this week! We sure do love those weather forecasts that call for 3-6" and we end up getting 14"+!!! With the Gold Hill Chutes, Palmyra Peak, Bald Mountain and more now open... the skiing has truly been "Unmatched". Congrats to the Giants for winning the Super Bowl, thanks to National Geographic for naming Telluride one of the 'World's 25 Best Ski Towns', Ullr for hooking up the snow... and we look forward to a fun-packed weekend! Here's your Top 5 Best Things to do in town this Weekend:

Wednesday, February 8^th – Friday, February 10^th – Alice Underground – Don’t expect Wonderland! The Telluride Theatre presents an original play that follows Charles Dodgeson down the rabbit hole into wonderland and tracks his transformation into famed writer, Lewis Carroll. The show is FREE! Seating is limited… so, get there early! Each night the show takes place at the Palm Theatre (Telluride High School) and starts at 8:00pm. Donations greatly accepted! Come cheer on Telluride.com’s very own & writer of the original music, Sam Burgess.

Thursday, February 9^th – Super Cut: 39 Years of Telluride in Ski Movies – To celebrate all the snow we’ve received lately… The Sheridan Opera House, Telluride Historical Museum and Travis Julia Presents will host a compilation of ski film footage and commercials featuring our beautiful town over the past 39 years. Then on Friday, February 10^th, the national premiere of Legend of Aahhhs! Individual night tickets are $15 a piece, plus $2 per ticket fee. Shows start at 8:00pm at the Sheridan Opera House. Two great nights of what we love the most… deep, deep powder. Come out to these fun local screenings and as always, THINK SNOW!!

Thursday, February 9^th – Eliot Lipp and Mike Dillon Band- Lipp's signature sound, a crossbreed of 90's Hip Hop and House, 70's Funk fusion as well as classic Electro, has and will continue to break down barriers and transpose trendy scenes. Mike Dillon is a percussionist, vibraphonist, bandleader and jam artist who’s played with Critters Buggin, Les Claypool’s Fancy Band, Garage A Trois and many more. If you’re looking to party down to some great electronic, Hip-Hop and House music… Head up to The Llama on Thirsty Thursday! Show starts at 10:30pm and tickets are $15.

Saturday, February 11^th – Chocolate Lovers’ Fling – One of our favorite winter events is finally here! The 17^th Chocolate Lovers’ Fling is an annual fundraiser for the San Miguel Resource Center featuring chocolate desserts from premiere regional chefs, live music by DJ Harry and a HUGE dance party. This year’s theme “TV Land” will inspire some great costumes – dress as your favorite old TV show character, cartoon, game show, reality TV and more. The Fling will go down at the Telluride Conference Center from 7:30-11:30pm. Don’t be late… early bird gets all the delicious chocolate. Eat treats, bid at the silent auction & cash raffle and dance your butt off… all for a good cause. Tickets are available at Two Skirts on Main Street or at www.sanmiguelresourcecenter.org. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door. One of the best parties of the year!!! See you at the Fling!

Sunday, February 12^th – Emmitt-Nershi Band – We’re excited to have a couple bluegrass legends, Colorado locals and Telluride regulars back to town… Emmitt-Nershi Band will rock out The Llama this Sunday night! Drew Emmitt from Leftover Salmon and Bill Nershi from the String Cheese Incident always know how to bring a good party to town. You know how we Tellurider’s love our Bluegrass music... time to get the party started and warm-up for the Summer Solstice! Doors open at 9:00pm and tickets are $15 advance, $17 at the door. For more info, visit www.emmittnershiband.com

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Weekend, 2/2-2/5

Posted on February 2, 2012 by Hart

More SNOW in the forecast!! "The next winter storm will impact Eastern Utah and Western Colorado late tonight through Thursday"... "snow accumulation... 6-12 inches". YESSS. Keep. it. coming. Don't forget we're giving away two tickets to the SOLD OUT Telluride AIDS Benefit Fashion Show (March 3rd) and 2 nights lodging at the Aspen Street Inn!!!! Seriously?? This is amazing. One of the best events of the Winter. Scroll down our blog for more details and to enter! Here are your Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this weekend:

Thursday, February 2^nd – The Great Funktier – What better way to kick off the much anticipated weekend… than with a little funk and dancin’ at The Buck?! Your favorite local band will rock out the Last Dollar Saloon tonight for all those wishing to party down... and the best part, it’s FREE! Mix a little Panic, Lionel Richie, some original tunes, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, a pink Zoot suit… and what do you get? A funky good time with The Great Funktier. Show is free and will start around 9:30-10:00pm. Be there… or be square! (And tip your bartenders) www.thegreatfunktier.com

Thursday, February 2^nd – DJ Paul Basic – Featured on Pretty Lights record label, Colorado producer Paul Basic has developed his own brand of beats, drums and basslines. He’ll be bringing his electro hip-hop movement to The Llama… in his quest for domination of the global dance floor. Grab a Bridal Veil Pale Ale at the bar and dance the night away to this Colorado native. Show is at 9:00pm, $7 at the door. Download his record, ‘The Mirror’ at: www.prettylightsmusic.com/therecordlabel/index.html

Friday, February 3^rd – Trout Steak Revival – Trout Steak Revival is one of the Front Range’s hottest new bluegrass bands...and will be pickin’ at the Bean this Friday night. “Stomp your heels, drink canned beer, and get down to their bluegrass inspired mountain music. After all, we do live in the mountains. You can even download and listen to their original EP here. Friday, Feb. 3rd @ 9:30 P.M. $5 Cover at the door with $6 Boilermakers.” For more info and events at the Bean, visit: www.thesteamingbeantelluride.com

Friday, February 3^rd – Saturday, February 4^th – Ski, Wine and Dine Festival – You know how we like our festivals here in Telluride… Ski, Wine & Dine will be a celebration of fun, food, and wine in Mountain Village. Two days of Grand tastings, Seminars, and Winemaker dinners. Sunday, enjoy a spectacular Super Bowl party with the Patriots vs. Giants on a projection screen accompanied by a BBQ feast. Proceeds from the festival will benefit the Telluride Nordic Association. For more info, schedule, registration and more, goto: www.skiwinedine.com

Sunday, February 5^th – Super Bowl Sunday – Giants vs. Patriots. Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN. Coverage starts at 6:29pm ET on NBC. Four years ago, the New York Giants pulled off a huge upset, defeating the heavily favored New England Patriots to win the 2008 Super Bowl. Remember that unforgettable helmet-catch by David Tyree??? We just hope it’s a good game. If you’re a Patriots fan… goto Brown Dog Pizza. I’m sure they will be getting rowdy. Cornerhouse, Tomboy Tavern and Smuggler’s are also great places to catch the game and some grub.

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Week, 1/26-1/31

Posted on January 26, 2012 by Hart

Wow... what a week it's been in Telluride. My legs are still sore. Our much needed 2 foot dump came this past week... showering the people with powder. Sunday were some of the best turns in a while. 1st tracks down Stairs with waist-deep powder is a life changing experience. You should try it out. This weekend we have some great live music (go figure) in town. Get ready for a great February coming up: Comedy Fest, Chocolate Lover's, Gay Ski Week and hopefully a plethora of more days like last Sunday. Here's your Top 5 to do this weekend in T-ride:

Friday, January 27^th – Ladysmith Black Mambazo – The Palm Theatre is proud to present the Grammy Award winning South African a capella singing group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo. They rose to worldwide prominence as a result of singing with Paul Simon on his 1986 album, Graceland, and have won multiple awards, including three Grammy’s. They were formed back in the 60’s and have become one of South Africa’s most prolific recording artists. We’re honored to have them in town! Show starts at 7:00pm, advance tickets are $20 for children, $32 for adults. Tickets may be purchase at www.telluridepalm.com or by calling 970-369-5669. For more information, check out their website at: http://www.mambazo.com/

Friday, January 27^th – San Juan Field School Fundraiser – The Sheridan Opera House will host an event to support the San Juan Field School, a branch of the San Juan Outdoor School – a field school responsible for all of the avalanche education and training that happens in the Telluride area. These guys and girls teach life saving techniques at their Level I and Level II Avalanche courses… and they need your help to raise money and keep the education going. If you ever think about stepping foot in Bear Creek or any other backcountry terrain… you need the skills and knowledge the San Juan Field School provides. Fundraiser, movie, raffle, gear and more! Tickets are $10, sold at the door, 7:00pm-10:00pm. For more information, visit: www.sanjuanfieldschool.com

Friday, January 27^th – Oakhurst – Denver, CO based “Rocky Mountain Guerilla Grass” band, Oakhurst, will rock out The Llama this Friday night. Take a string band and swap out the fiddle player for a groovy drummer and you’re well on your way to understanding their sound. A mixture of Bluegrass and Rock n’ Roll… these guys have shared stages with Leftover Salmon, Yonder Mountain String Band, Emmitt-Nershi Band and many more of our “Telluride regulars”. Grab a tasty Telluride Brewing Company beer at the bar and party down to this danceable concoction. Doors open at 9:00pm and tickets are $10 in advance. For more information, check out their website at: www.oakhurstmusic.com

Saturday, January 28^th – KOTO Lip Sync – The annual lipsync competition is BACK at the Sheridan Opera House. These are the hottest, most sought-after tickets in town. Watch dozens of locals perform hilarious, choreographed routines to your favorite 80’s, 90’s and current hit songs. Last year, we were graced by the presence of Lady Gaga, Susan Boyle and many more ridiculous performances & outfits. 8:00pm – 10:00pm, call KOTO for tickets and/or questions at: 970-728-4334.

Tuesday, January 31^st – Toubab Krewe – The Llama welcomes back the Asheville, NC based instrumental band, Toubab Krewe. Their style includes a pinch of African percussion mixed with the music of Mali… with a touch of jam band. “TK” has performed at some of the largest music festivals in the nation, including Bonnaroo, MerleFest, Music on the Mountaintop, Rothbury and Jam Cruise. Doors open at 9:00pm and tickets are $10 in advance. For more information, check out their website at: www.toubabkrewe.com

tags: band, concert, Denver, fundraiser, KOTO, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Lipsync, live music, Oakhurst, San Juan Field School, sheridan opera house, The Llama, Toubab Krewe

Take a Day Trip to Ouray and Top Things to do in Telluride this Week, 1/4-1/9

Posted on January 4, 2012 by Hart

Each week this month, we’ll be featuring some of our favorite neighboring towns you need to check-off your bucketlist. Southwest Colorado has so much to offer… and some of the most amazing activities, towns, day trips and people in the country! This week we’re featuring Ouray, Colorado - “Switzerland of America”. Make Telluride your home base and take an easy day trip (60-70 minute drive) over to this beautiful box-canyon town. Here are some of the best things to check out:

Thursday, January 5^th – Sunday, January 8^th – Ouray Ice Festival – The biggest Ice Festival in North America is back! We love our neighboring town of Ouray and this weekend they will host an eclectic gathering of ice climbers, gear manufacturers and ice climbing enthusiasts from all around the world. Festival events are held in and around the Ouray Ice Park, located in the Uncompahgre Gorge. Over 100 events in the 4 days, the Ice Festival will showcase the best of ice and mixed climbing talent in the world, clinics, films, free events, auctions, social gatherings, exhibitions and more.

2012 Ouray Ice Festival Guide Part 1: http://ourayicepark.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Ice-Festival-2012-Program_Part-1.pdf
2012 Ouray Ice Festival Guide Part 2: http://ourayicepark.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Ice-Festival-2012-Program_Part-2.pdf
2012 Ouray Ice Festival Map: http://ourayicepark.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Ice-Festival-2012-Map-Final.pdf
2012 Ouray Ice Festival Clinic Schedule: http://www.scribd.com/doc/76406886/2012-Clinic-Template-V6-8
For more information, visit the Ouray Ice Park online at: http://ourayicepark.com/ice-festival/

Ouray Hot Springs – What better way to relax than to soak in the clear warm waters of the Ouray Hot Springs. Several soaking sections at a variety of temperatures ranging from 96 to 106 degrees, a lap pool, diving area, large slide, shallow section for children and a water volleyball game area. This is great for the kids and the perfect way to rest your ski legs! For more information, hours of operation and more, visit: http://www.ouraycolorado.com/discover-ouray/hot-springs-pool.php

Wiesbaden Hot Springs – Another awesome natural hot spring known for its peaceful atmosphere, “casual elegance” and European flair. The best part… the Vaporcave! A deep soaking pool with 109 degree water surround by rock walls. For more information, visit: http://wiesbadenhotsprings.com/

Ouray Brewery – The Ouray Brewery is open daily with fine food, outstanding craft brews and a rooftop patio. Try a Box Canyon Brown Ale or a San Juan IPA… our favs. The perfect end to your day trip of relaxation and exploring in our neighboring box-canyon town. For more information, visit: http://ouraybrewery.com

And now back to the other Top 4 to do in Telluride this weekend…

Thursday, January 5^th – First Thursday Art Walk – Celebrate the arts in downtown Telluride as dozen of venues open their doors from 5pm-8pm to introduce new artists, exhibits and galleries. The Ah Haa School for the Arts, Kamruz Gallery, Lustre, The Steaming Bean, Stronghouse Studios, Telluride Gallery, The Wilkinson Public Library and more venues will participate in this fun event. For more information, call Telluride Arts at 970-728-8959… or visit www.TellurideArts.org

Saturday, January 7^th – Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit – Jason is back! After his awesome performance at the 2011 Telluride Blues & Brews Festival this past September… he returns to the more intimate Sheridan Opera House for another rockin’ good time. Whether he’s playing with the Drive By Truckers, Justin Townes Earl or his current band, The 400 Unit… Isbell brings soul, rock, country and blues to every note he plays and every lyric he writes. This show is going to be siiiiiick. Buy your tickets today. For more info, visit www.SheridanOperaHouse.com and give a shout-out to Isbell on Twitter: @JasonIsbell

Sunday, January 8^th – The Wailers Revolution Tour – Raaaasta at the Llama! The Wailers Revolution Tour is taking over The Llama this Sunday night. Get ready to dance to Jamaican reggae, ska and rocksteady jams! Tickets are $27 in advance and $30 at the door. Buy your tickets today at The Wizard on Main Street because it will fill up FAST! Doors open at 9:00pm.

Monday, January 9^th – Ski into History with Johnnie Stevens – Ski with the legend Johnnie Stevens as he explains the history or the ski resort, cool facts and interesting stories. And the best part… it’s FREE! RSVP in advance with the Telluride Museum @ 970-728-3344 x 2 or visit www.telluridemuseum.org

tags: & The 400 Unit, Art Walk, Brewery, colorado, concert, Historical Museum, hot springs, Jason Isbell, live music, Ouray, Ouray Ice Festival, Ouray Ice Park, sheridan opera house, ski, southwest, telluride, The Llama, The Wailers, Wiesbaden

Top 10 Best Things to do in Telluride over the Holidays! 12/21-12/28

Posted on December 21, 2011 by Hart

Ho Ho Ho! We can't believe Christmas is almost here. Time for family, good food, football and SNOW! White Christmas?? The forecast is calling for snow till Friday. There would be nothing better than a Christmas powder day. WAHOOO! We wish all of you the happiest holidays from Telluride! Enjoy spending time with your loved ones and SKIING!

Wednesday, December 21^st & Thursday, December 22^nd – Fox on the Fairway – Jeb Berrier and the Sheridan Arts Foundation present the annual Second Stage holiday play. This year’s show is a tribute from Ken Ludwig (Lend Me A Tenor, Moon Over Buffalo) to the great English farces of the 1930s and 1940s, The Fox on the Fairway. Jeb and his local cast are hilarious. And it's the last two nights to catch the show! Tickets are $16 and the show starts at 8:00pm at the Sheridan Opera House.

Wednesday, December 21^st – Taking Root – The Wilkinson Public Library will host another FREE film: “Taking Root: The Vision of Wangari Maathai”. This film documents the dramatic political confrontations of the 1980s and 1990s in Kenya. Follow Wangari’s movement to safeguard the environment, defend human rights and fight government injustice.

Thursday, December 22^nd – WAR HORSE – Steven Spielberg’s brand spankin’ new epic adventure will make an exclusive screening to the Telluride community. Young Albert enlists to service in WWI after his beloved horse, Joey, is sold to the cavalry. Albert's journey takes him out of England and across Europe as the war rages on. Great book and it's going to be a GREAT movie with Spielberg behind the camera. This holiday sneak peek is presented by Disney and the Kennedy Marshall Company. The film starts at 7:00pm at the Michael D. Palm Theatre (High School). Advance tickets available at www.telluridepalm.com.

Friday, December 23^rd – Warren Miller Ski Film – Travis Julia Presents: Warren Miller’s “Like There’s No Tomorrow” ski film at the Sheridan Opera House. This adrenaline-fueled, action-packed, powder-slaying film will sure get you excited about the winter ahead. Southwest Colorado has some of the best conditions in Colorado currently… so keep doing your snow dance! Door prizes, free swag and raffle for a pair of skis! The film will show at 6:00pm and 9:00pm at the Sheridan Opera House and tickets are $15. For more information, visit Travis Julia Presents on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TravisJuliaPresents

Saturday, December 24^th – Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade – One of our favorite Christmas traditions is back. The annual torchlight parade will take place on Saturday evening at 6:00pm. Watch skiers and snowboarders carry torches down the mountain into the Mountain Village Core. Check it out, it’s beautiful!

Monday, December 26^th – Mountainfilm’s Shorts in Winter – Mountainfilm’s annual holiday event is a great family-friendly program with winter-themed short films for all of you outdoor enthusiasts. Doors open at 5:30pm and films will come on at 6:00pm at the Sheridan Opera House. Tickets are $10. Come watch some amazing films and support an amazing festival. For more information, visit: www.mountainfilm.org

Monday, December 26^th – George Winston in concert – Solo pianist, George Winston, will perform at the Michael D. Palm Theatre on Monday night… performing his melodic piano recordings, Vince Guaraldi’s Peanuts pieces (kids love these songs) and much more! Tickets are $20 for children and $28 for adults. A great event for the entire family! For more info, visit: www.telluridepalm.com

Tuesday, December 27^th – Joe Pug in concert – Chicago native, Joe Pug, is a singer-songwriter blowing up on the indie-folk scene. Some describe his style and music as: Woody Guthrie meets Bob Dylan meets Johnny Cash meets Bruce Springsteen meets Steve Earl. That’s a pretty good combination! His solo acoustic performance will open the Sheridan Arts Foundation’s annual Holiday Concert Series fundraiser. The lineup this year is stellar! Tickets are $23 for reserved seats. For more information, visit: www.sheridanoperahouse.com

Wednesday, December 28^th – Marrakesh Express in concert – Like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young? Then you’ll love the world’s only touring, headline-quality CSNY tribute band! Take it back to the late 1960’s at the Sheridan Opera House at 8:00pm. This concert is seated and is $25 general, $35 prime reserved. Rock on.

Wednesday, December 28^th – Orgone in concert – Los Angeles Funk/Soul/Afro-beat band is back in town. Last time they played at The Llama, it was a huuuge dance party. Come down Wednesday night for a funky good time at The Llama. $10 pre, $13 door. For more info, visit: www.llamatelluride.com

Have a happy holidays, a great time in Telluride and a GREAT time on the slopes!

tags: concert, film, George Winston, Joe Pug, Marrakesh Express, Mountain Village, Mountainfilm, Orgone, sheridan opera house, The Llama, top 10, Torchlight Parade, Travis Julia Presents, WAR HORSE, Warren Miller, Wilkinson Public Library

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this week, 12/5-12/11

Posted on December 5, 2011 by Hart

How was everyone's weekend?! We had a great one here... 9+ inches, lifts 5 & 6 opened and Tebow dominated the Vikings! TEBOWING! Town is hopping and it's only going to get better. Lots going on this week... holiday events, live music and preparing for the World Cup. The course is beginning to look great and a couple athletes came in town over the weekend to begin training and ski some powder stashes. @LindsJacobellis reports: "Had a great day at #Telluride, fresh pow and afternoon training". Here's a photo from the course construction under Lift 4. Looking good fellas... keep up the good work. Have a great week!

Wednesday, December 7^th – Noel Night – Get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy town-wide specials, holiday treats, tree lighting, caroling and more all day long for the 25^th Anniversary Telluride Noel Night. This is the perfect time to get your discounted Christmas shopping done as many local businesses will have “grab bag” discounts – 10%, 20%, 30%... even up to 50% off certain goods! For an entire list of special events and each local business’ participating, check out: http://www.visittelluride.com/festivals-events/calendar/2011-12-07/noel-night

Wednesday, December 7^th – Bluegrass Festival Tickets on Sale – FESSSTIVAAAL! Your favorite Summer Solstice party will be going down this year on June 21^st -24^thso get your tickets early because it will definitely sell-out! 2012 Telluride Bluegrass Tickets go on sale at 9am MST on Wednesday… just in time to get that special someone the best Christmas present they’ve ever received. Seriously. If you haven’t been to the Bluegrass Fest before… it’s a must-do bucketlist item for anyone! SOOO much fun. For more info and to buy tickets, click here: http://www.bluegrass.com/telluride/

Thursday, December 8^th – The Great Funktier @ The Llama – These funky monkeys are back and ready to party. They rocked out the Moon over Thanksgiving… and they’re ready to break it down Thursday night at The Llama. Come dance your butt off and make sure you preview their new EP Hunting Season on iTunes. A teaser video will launch on their Facebook Page this week. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/thegreatfunktier

Friday, December 9^th – Jingle Jam & Tree Lighting Ceremony – The Town of Mountain Village will host their own “Noel Night” called Jingle Jam all day Friday. Celebrate in the Village with a tree lighting ceremony, sit with Santa Claus, holiday music, free ice skating, special holiday deals all day and cookies! Ski all day, grab an après drink and then get your Christmas shopping done. Free ice skating and cookies??! We’re there! For an entire list of special events and each local business’ participating, check out: http://www.visittelluride.com/festivals-events/calendar/2011-12-09/jingle-jam-annual-tree-lighting-ceremony

Saturday, December 10^th – Old Fashioned Christmas at Schmid Ranch – The Telluride Historical Museum will host the Old Fashioned Christmas Party at Schmid Ranch this weekend from 1-5pm. Enjoy a bonfire, tree cutting, Santa Claus, horse drawn carriage rides and more holiday fun. For more info or directions to the ranch, go to the Museum’s website: http://telluridemuseum.org/

tags: bluegrass festival, Christmas, colorado, holidays, Jingle Jam, Mountain Village, Noel Night, Old Fashioned Christmas, Schmid Ranch, telluride, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, The Great Funktier, The Llama, tickets, top 5, tree lighting ceremony, What to Do

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Week, 11/22-11/26

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Hart

Time to make turns my friends! Lots going on this week... and it's not going to slow down anytime soon. SUPER excited about slappin' on the skis and making some turns this week. Time to reflect on what you're thankful for... and eat lots of TURKEY!!! mmmm we loooove turkey! But seriously, we're extremely thankful for this beautiful place we live in, the wonderful people that visit us every year, the amazing locals who help everything run and much more. Thank you for being Fans of Telluride.com and we hope to have you in town SOON! What are you waiting for??

Tuesday, November 22^nd – Kick-off Party: RED – The Telluride Gallery of Fine Art is having an all RED exhibit featuring 30 local artists with over 30 original works of art. Silent Auction, red wine and good times @ 5:30pm at the Main Street gallery. Don’t forget to wear RED! www.telluridegallery.com

Wednesday, November 23^rd – Donation Day – The Telluride Ski Resort will open its lifts for Donation Day, a tradition that raises money for the Telluride Ski and Snowboard Club (TSSC). Make the first turns of the season for a good cause - 100% of ticket sales go to the TSSC scholarship and financial aid fund. Donation Day will run from 9am to 4pm and lift tickets will be $25. Tickets can be purchase at the Mountain Village ticket office at the base of Lift #4. Free coffee, doughnuts and hot chocolate for all skiers and boarders!

Thursday, November 24^th – SKI Resort opens & Thanksgiving Day – and it begins… the Ski Resort officially opens for the 2011/2012 Ski Season! Is there any better way to spend time with family and friends?! Give thanks, make turns and eat lots of turkey… that’s Telluride’s mantra. We’re so thankful for our beautiful home, loving friends & guests, an amazing summer season and look forward to a safe and deep winter! www.tellurideskiresort.com

Friday, November 25^th – The Great Funktier @ the Moon – Fly Me to the Moon Saloon is back! When’s the last time you partied at the Moon?? It’s been a while. Your favorite local band, The Great Funktier, is going to drop a Friday night funk bomb. Also, they’ll be releasing their brand spanking new 5 song EP “Hunting Season”. There won’t be any more tryptophan in your system from Thanksgiving… so come down to the Moon for a good time! Be there @ 9:30pm. www.facebook.com/TheGreatFunktier

Saturday, November 26^th – Back to Shred Bash @ The Llama – Never Summer and Alternative Edge presents… ‘Shred ‘em All’ video premiere. Come down to The Llama Saturday night for a killer snowboard film, DJ Essential, a chance to win a Never Summer snowboard, free shwag, 2 for 1 Well drinks all night and more! Come celebrate the opening of the ski/snowboard season in style.

tags: colorado, Donation Day, film, Fly me to the Moon, Never Summer, season, ski, telluride, Telluride Gallery of Fine Art, Telluride Ski Resort, The Great Funktier, The Llama

Telluride Brewing Company Opens!

Posted on October 18, 2011 by Hart

The much-anticipated Telluride Brewing Company has finally opened its doors. Last Friday, TBC invited thirsty people over to its Grand Opening out on Society Drive. We toured the brewery, tasted their new brews (Redfish Ale and Rye #1), filled up a couple growlers, and celebrated with happy locals. With 12+ more brews in the works, a Tasting Room at The Llama, Bridal Veil Rye Pale Ale cans being printed in Denver… these guys are hittin’ the ground running. Congrats to Tommy and Fish for such an awesome venture and microbrewery!

Visit them online at: http://www.telluridebrewingco.com/

Visit them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/telluridebrewing

tags: beer, colorado, microbrew, telluride, Telluride Brewing Company, The Llama

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Weekend, 9/28-10/2

Posted on September 27, 2011 by Hart

Fall in Love! One of my favorite times of the year to be in Telluride - the leaves are bright yellow, orange & red; perfect temperatures to get outside and hike/bike/fish/camp/anything; the best views (and rates) to play golf at the Telluride Golf Club; and the best part... winter is right around the corner! The Fall foliage is peaking here in Southwest Colorado... that's why we've given you the Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Weekend... so you can get out, and explore, experience, and enjoy all that our beautiful town has to offer. Hope you will take us up on it... because these gorgeous colors won't last long! Have a great weekend.

Wednesday, September 28^th - Sunday, October 2^nd – Telluride Photo Festival – The 2^nd annual festival is back… and the weather, fall colors and location couldn’t be any prettier. All week, Telluride welcomes renowned outdoor and adventure photographers, amateur photographers and photography enthusiasts in a weeklong event geared toward workshops, seminars, portfolio reviews, exhibits, symposiums and more to help hone in your photo-taking capabilities. There isn’t a better place or time of the year to welcome all our photography junkies back to town! For more information, schedule, tickets & more, visit: http://telluridephotofestival.com/

Thursday, September 29^th – Battle of the Bands – The Llama presents the 1^st annual Telluride Battle of the Bands on Thursday night at 9:00pm. Our very own, Sam Burgess, will be there rocking out… “By day, I may be a mild mannered vacation rental sales agent, but by night, I moonlight as a crime-fighting, world-saving bass player for the league of local Telluride musicians, otherwise known as Shade & Honey”, says Burgess. Show starts at 9:30pm and its $5 at the door – “because livin’ ain’t easy, and rock ‘n roll ain’t free. Come proud, and be loud”! We’ll be there… supporting our FAVORITE local band, Shade & Honey… see YOU there! Check out and ‘Like’ them on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ShadenHoney

Friday, September 30^th – SOLITAIRE – The Nugget Theatre will show one of the best ski films of the year. Sweetgrass Productions will present their new film, “SOLITAIRE: A Backcountry Skiing, Snowboarding, and Telemark Film” this Friday night at the Nugget. You might have seen some of their work at the Telluride Mountainfilm Festival… but if you haven’t, these guys make AMAZING Ski and Snowboarding films. Sweetgrass just recently took home the Best Cinematography award at Montreal’s IF3 for SOLITAIRE, a two year project completely shot in South America. The 2011/2012 Winter Ski Season is right around the corner… come kick it off in style! Movie starts at 8:30pm, but get to the Nugget early! Click here for more info... or watch the trailer at the bottom of the blog. http://www.sweetgrass-productions.com/solitaire.html

Friday, September 30^th – Scott Cossu Concert – The Sheridan Opera House’s last concert of the summer season will take place this Friday, with a small silent auction and cocktail party preceding the show. Scott Cossu, is an internationally renowned pianist, recording artist and composer reigning from Greenfield, Ohio. His Jazz, Boogie and Blues piano set should be highly relaxing and enjoyable! We thank the Sheridan Opera House staff for bringing us such an amazing lineup this summer! Also, any ticket holder to attend the silent auction (7-8pm) will receive a free glass of wine to celebrate another great season. Scott's trio will start after the silent auction (8:00ish) and play till 10:00pm. Tickets are $16. For more info, visit: http://www.sheridanoperahouse.com/events/fundraiser-scott-cossu-concert

Saturday, October 1^st – Fall Tilt Bike Race – The 12-Hour Endurance Downhill Mountain Bike Race is back this weekend in Mountain Village. Hope you have a comfy bike seat… because this race & course are gnarly. The race begins Saturday, October 1^st at 8:00am and finishes at 8:00pm. The winners of the challenge are determined by the total number of laps completed in a 12-hour period. Sounds easy, right? Think you have the skillz? Come prove it! Practice and meetings will take place on Friday. Good luck to all our racers! For registration info, schedule and more… visit: http://www.falltiltintelluride.com/

If you're thinking about making the trip up to Telluride this weekend... we have special Fall rates for you! Call us to book a hotel or kitchenette room at the Mountainside Inn for $79/night + tax. $79?? You can't even get prices like that in Denver, Phoenix or any other major city. Call us today at: 877-507-9695

tags: battle of the bands, Fall Tilt, festival, mountain biking, Scott Cossu, shade & honey, sheridan opera house, ski film, Solitaire, Sweetgrass Productions, Telluride Photo Festival, The Llama, this week, top 5

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Weekend, 8/19-8/21

Posted on August 19, 2011 by Hart

Can you believe its August 19th?? Time flies when you're having fun... LOTS more fun this weekend. Live music, mushrooms, great weather, hiking and more. Our Summer Festival season isn't slowing down anytime soon... more fun to look forward to: Labor Day weekend, Film Festival, Imogene Pass Run ("fun"), Blues & Brews, Horror Fest and LOTS more! For now... check out the Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this weekend:

Thursday, August 18th - Sunday, August 21st - Telluride Mushroom Festival - Shroomfest is ON! A mushroom walks into a bar... the bartender says to him, "We don't serve your kind here". The mushroom gets up to leave... before he walks out, he turns back to the bartender and says, "Well...why not, I'm a pretty fungi". Da-dum-chhh! Alright... Fungophiles from all around the world are here in Telluride for the 31st Annual ShroomFest - forays, lectures, dining identification, seminars, cooking classes and of course, the mushroom parade! Don't forget to check out the famous Mushroom Parade Saturday at 5:30pm on Main Street. It's hilarious. For more information and schedule, visit: www.shroomfest.com

Friday, August 19th - Orgone - The Llama presents Orgone in concert TONIGHT! This Los Angeles based band traveled to our box canyon for a night full of funk, soul, afrobeat and jams. "Orgone seamlessly slides through multiple styles and dynamic performances... the group continuously injects whatever they play with a heavy brand of raw funk power". That sounds nice... we'll be there. If you're in town tonight, this is a MUST SEE! Watch a clip of Orgone at the end of the blog! $10 pre-show, $13 at the door. Show starts at 10:00pm!

Friday, August 19th - Sunday, August 21st - Shakespeare in the Park: "As You Like It" - The Telluride Repertory Theatre Company presents "As You Like It" by 18 local Telluride thespians (Directed by local funny man, Jeb Berrier). Performances start at 7:30pm on Telluride Town Park Stage. Tickets are $12 and are available at Wizard Entertainment on Main Street. Come support some local theatre in lovely Town Park!

Saturday, August 20th - 3rd Annual KOTO Community Garage Sale - Your favorite local radio station, KOTO, presents "Fun in the Sun" Community Garage Sale at the Wilkinson Public Library from 9:00am-3:00pm on Saturday. Come on down, sell your own stuff and get great local deals! I'm hoping to pick up an awesome neon pink onesie...

All weekend - Camping and Hiking - There are still wildflowers to be found... and looks like the rain will hold up for the most part. Get out and check out some of the amazing hikes right in our backyard. Here are a few we recommend: Ajax - starts at the top of Bridal Veil Falls, moderate-difficult hike (3-4 hours) to the peak of Ajax (overlooking town). Silver Lake - starts at the top of Bridal Veil Falls, moderate-difficult hike (2-3 hours) leading to a high-alpine lake filled with trout. Alta Lakes - a beautiful lake perfect for overnight camping or a day-trip for lunch (30 minutes outside Telluride), free camping & campfire friendly. ENJOY!

Hope everyone has a great weekend! If you haven't planned your trip to Telluride yet... get ON it soon!

tags: Ajax Peak, Alta Lakes, camping, colorado, concert, festival, hike, hiking, KOTO, live music, Mushroom Festival, Orgone, Shakespeare, shroomfest, Silver Lake, telluride, The Llama, theatre, thespians, Town Park

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Weekend, 8/11-8/14

Posted on August 11, 2011 by Hart

How can you rate the Top 5 BEST Things to do in Telluride? That's a tough one... remember to get outside and HIKE! We're guessing this will be the peak weekend for wildflowers - scroll down for some gorgeous pictures from local hikes. BUT, here is a good breakdown of the BEST Things to check out this weekend here in beautiful Telluride, Colorado:

Thursday, August 11th - The Great Funktier - Your favorite local jam band is back at The Buck! After a solid performance at the Telluride Cajun Festival... The Great Funktier is ready to breakout some new jams at a FREE show at The Last Dollar Saloon (The Buck) tonight. It's their last time they play in town before thier first big festival gig at Music on the Mountaintop in Boone, NC on August 27th. Come one, come all. Check them out at: www.facebook.com/TheGreatFunktier

Thursday, August 11th - Saturday, 20th - 38th Telluride Chamber Music Festival - The Telluride Chamber Music Festival has been bringing music to Telluride since 1973, offering close up and personal live performances. Festival director Roy Malan is also the concertmaster with the San Francisco Ballet. Chamber Music Festival will kickoff with a FREE Picnic & Concert (6:00pm) in Town Park starting at 5:00pm Thursday night. Check out some of these amazing live shows at the Sheridan Opera House this weekend! For more information, visit: www.telluridechambermusic.org

Friday, August 12th - Sunday, 14th - Telluride Festival of the Arts - Come celebrate visual and culinary arts this weekend in Mountain Village! 5,000 local, regional, and national visitors will celebrate various events including Saturday's "Grand Tasting", cooking seminars, spirits and wine. Culinary enthusiasts and fine art aficionados come together to share a common passion for food, art and entertainment. Come eat some delicious food, admire beautiful artwork and get your drink on. One of the best festivals held in Mountain Village! For more information, visit: www.TellurideFest.com

Friday, August 12th - LIVE Music - There's a lot of great live music in town this weekend... two shows NOT to miss: The Brothers Comatose and Papa Grows Funk. The Steaming Bean presents: The Brothers Comatose from San Francisco, CA. Come check out this rowdy string bluegrass band on Friday night starting at 9:30pm. Hop right across the street and check out New Orleans funk band, Papa Grows Funk at The Llama! This will be a funky good time... bring your dancing shoes! Show starts at 10:00pm, $13 pre-show, $15 at the door.

Saturday, August 13th - Eric Brace & Peter Cooper with Phil Lee and Tom Mason - The Sheridan Opera House is proud host Americana quartet Eric Brace and Peter Cooper with friends. This show will blend sizzling Dylan-esque rock and roll, country & western and mid-sixties British Invasion with an old fashioned historic Opera House. What more can you ask for? Come check out this killer show at 8:00pm on Saturday night. For more information, check out: www.sheridanoperahouse.com

Want to visit us in paradise this weekend?? Give us a call at 877-507-9596 for the most affordable lodging in Telluride. Have a GREAT weekend!

tags: arts, Chamber Music Festival, colorado, concert, festival, Festival of the Arts, Grand Tasting, live music, Mountain Village, sheridan opera house, telluride, The Great Funktier, The Llama, top 5, wine

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Weekend, 6/2-6/5

Posted on June 2, 2011 by Hart

Summertime... summertime! It feels amazing here in Telluride and its only going to get better. After an amazing and inspiring Mountainfilm weekend... our Summer Festival season continues this weekend with Balloon Fest and Heritage Fest!

Thursday, June 2nd - Museum Opening with Squidshow Theatre - The Telluride Historical Museum's summer exhibit, "Layin' Down the Law: Lawmen, Outlaws and Crimes" will showcase the wildest characters & legends that have come through the Telluride region. The SquidShow Theatre, Telluride's local thespian group, will perform an original play "Cops, Crimes and Criminals: A History of the Most Notorious". A Wine & Cheese party will kick off at 5:00pm and the play will begin at 6:00pm at the Telluride Historical Museum. Come kick off the season in style with some local history!

Friday, June 3rd - Otis Taylor live at The Llama - You might have caught his awesome set at the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival... Otis is back baby! This American Blues musician can play literally anything - Guitar, banjo, mandolin, harmonica and more. This will be a great live show at The Llama on Main Street starting around 10:30pm. Also, catch his performance Saturday, June 4th on the brand new Durango Blues Train produced by the crew over at Telluride Blues & Brews. Boxcars, Blues, and Microbrews... all while partying on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! For more information, check out: http://www.durangobluestrain.com

Saturday, June 4th - Telluride Balloon Rally - At sunrise, the skies above Telluride fill with colorful hot-air balloons (weather permitting). Saturday night, Main Street closes down so these beautiful balloons can light up the night sky in the amazingly beautiful Main Street glow. Want to ride one of the balloons? Head down to Town Park on Saturday & Sunday early morning to help volunteer. A couple lucky volunteers will be able to soar above our box canyon! For more info on the Telluride Balloon Rally, visit http://www.facebook.com/pages/Telluride-Balloon-Festival/106676956046581

Sunday, June 5th - Saturday, June 11th - Wild West Fest - The 20th Annual Wild West Fest is a weeklong celebration of the Western Arts, culture, and customs that brings inner-city youth along with musical performances from across the nation to T-ride. Fun activities such as stagecoach rides, ranch tours, horseback rides, cookouts, hikes, art workshops, gold panning exhibition, Butch Cassidy Reenactment, teepee building, and lots more! For a complete list of activities, visit: http://www.visittelluride.com/festivals-events/calendar/2010-06-07/wild-west-fest

Sunday, June 5th - Bob Schneider in Concert - The Sheridan Arts Foundation's Wild West Fest kicks off with a concert by country artist Bob Schneider. Austin based, Schneider, has produced 11 albums including his most recent album A Perfect Day. He will perform a solo acoustic concert in the seated historic Sheridan Opera House at 8:00pm. Tickets ar $28 and all proceeds benefit the Wile West Fest mentorship program. For more info, visit: http://www.sheridanoperahouse.com

Hope everyone has a great and beautiful weekend! We look forward to having you in town soon... Check out our current lodging specials here to start planning your trip to paradise: http://www.telluride.com/lodging/specials

'Like' us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/TellurideCO

tags: Balloon Rally, Heritage Fest, Historical Museum, live music, sheridan opera house, SquidShow, telluride, The Llama, Town Park, Wild West Fest

Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride this Spring, 3/23-4/3

Posted on March 23, 2011 by Hart

Spring is here. The winter ski season is winding down... still good skiing & hiking to be had and still time to prefect your goggle tan. Get it while you can! Here are the Top 5 Best Things to do in Telluride the remaining 11 days of the ski season, 3/23-4/3:

Wednesday the 23rd & Thursday the 24th - 127 Hours - The Telluride Film Festival presents a special two-night performance of Danny Boyle's, 127 Hours. I was lucky enough to see the World premier this past September during the Telluride Film Festival when Danny Boyle, James Franco, and Aron Ralston were in town... and boy was it intense. I was gripping my armrests for 2 hours straight. Most know the story, but its follows a young mountain climber who becomes trapped under a boulder while canyoneering in Moab, Utah (only 2 hours from Telluride) and resorts to desperate measures in order to survive. Wednesday night's show is at 5:30pm and Thursday's is at 8:00pm, both showing at the Nugget. If you haven't seen this movie yet... it lives up to the hype and is very entertaining, go see it.

Thursday the 24th - Historic Pub Crawl - The Telluride Historical Museum presents the last "Historic Pub Crawl" of the winter ski season. Beth Roberts does a great job explaining Telluride's history all while exploring some of town's historic watering holes. Reserve your spot today because it will sell out! Call the Museum at: 970-728-3344, ext 2. Discover our colorful past and cheers to history! Check out a video of the Historic Pub Crawl from The Telluride Newb at the bottom of this blog.

3/23-4/2 - Live music at The Llama - The Llama has seriously stepped it up this winter on the late night scene. Rarely do you walk by and there's not someone jamming out on stage (big thanks to Kathleen, Tom and Kyle!) Lots of more music the next two weeks: 3/23 - Acoustifunk, 3/24 - Vinyl Meningitis, 3/25 - Zobomaze, 3/26 - DJ Logic, 3/27 - Fort Knox Five, 3/30 - Lily von Shtupp, 4/1 - Cedric Burnside & Lightning Malcom, 4/2 - Rowdy Shadehouse Funk Band. Also, have you been to The Llama for Happy Hour? It's awesome. 3:00pm - 6:00pm: $2.50 tacos, $6 Burgers & Rolls, and cheap drinks. Check it out.

Saturday the 26th - For the Love of All Animals Disco Ball - The Sheridan Opera House turns into a disco dance hall on Saturday night all while benefitting 3 local animal shelters. Dress up in your best disco outfits to win dinner for two at the Cosmopolitan or just come as yourself and support this great cause. There will also be an auction featuring flat screen tv's, cruiser bikes, and more, all benefitting the Telluride Animal Foundation. Additionally, there will be an adoption day in front of the Opera House all day Saturday... stop by and pet some fluffy puppies and kittens or even take one home. For more information, visit: http://tellurideanimalfoundation.org

Friday, April 1st - KOTO Street Dance Celebration - Come party down on Main Street for the end of the season Street Dance and Pink Flamingo Party. The local radio station, KOTO, will put on a couple free concerts (Ralph Dinosaur and The Great Funktier) on Main Street with New Belgium beer, and a costume contest judged by KOTO. Come celebrate the end of a terrific ski season!

The Telluride Ski Resort will close on Sunday, April 3rd. Thanks to everyone for a great season and we look forward to having you in town this summer for a festival or next winter for some more pow!

Here is a video of the Historic Pub Crawl from The Telluride Newb:

tags: 127 Hours, colorado, happy hour, live music, museum, Palm Theatre, Spring, telluride, Telluride Film Festival, Telluride Ski Resort, The Llama, The Telluride Newb, this week, top 5

Lubriphonic = FUNK

Posted on March 23, 2011 by Hart

Seasoned veterans of Chicago's funk and blues scene, Lubriphonic knows how to put on a damn good show. They played at the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival a couple years back and I've been itching to see them again ever since. Well... they brought the house down at The Llama the other night. After leaving a very good (but more mellow) Elephant Revival show at the Sheridan Opera House last weekend, it was time to step it up. I was getting antsy. I could almost hear Lubriphonic's ripping guitar solos the second I walked out of the Opera House. These guys are soulful, unique, and exciting to see live. The beers were flowing like wine and the entire Llama was partying down. With face-melting guitar solos, horns blaring, a bass player who looks like Mr. T, tight drums, and a guy tickling the ivory... these guys know how to bring the funk. We always enjoy having them in town and can't wait to have them back.

tags: Chicago, concert, funk, live music, Lubriphonic, The Llama