We're talking about long distance travel planning for music festivals and in particular, my up coming trip to Cottonwood Meadows in Buena Vista, Colorado (the venue has since been renamed Meadow Creek) for the Billy Strings Renewal Festival. But before we get into all that jazz grass, we'll cover the week's music festival news and announcements. I preview 5 upcoming festivals. From big and small, to close-to-home and far away, watch to listen to the episode to get inside of this little conspiracy.
What's inside Episode 08 of Music Festivals Podcast
The 2024 Billy Strings Renewal Festival will be held this month form September 27, 2024 - September 28, 2024, and I'll be flying into Denver that Wednesday to be ready for early entry to the grounds on Thursday morning. If you are dreaming of a music-filled getaway in the gorgeous landscapes of Buena Vista, Colorado, look no further - this is your music festival. Here is a short recap video from Renewal 2023 produced by the band that will show you around the festival venue. It's gorgeous...
I was fortunate to score a ticket to this sold-sold out highly anticipated bluegrass festival that will be held on the grounds Cottonwood Meadows. With Billy Strings headlining and Molly Tuttle and The Golden Highway on the bill with other top-notch pickers, this festival promises to be one for the books.
Photo Credit: 09-02-223 Cottonwood Meadows - Jesse Faatz
Nestled in the heart of Buena Vista, Colorado, Cottonwood Meadows is a stunning venue that has been hosting concerts for over a decade. Known for its pristine views of the Collegiate Peaks and nearby outdoor recreational activities, this venue is a hidden gem that's perfect for a music festival. The 277-acre property is surrounded by tall cottonwood trees and open meadow spaces, providing a picturesque backdrop for any event.
Photo Credit: Festival Venue Map for Cottonwood Meadows - Bonfire Entertainment
Cottonwood Meadows has managed to host big names in the music industry, including the Vertex and Seven Peaks music festivals. Despite some initial opposition from the local community, the venue has now firmly established itself as a prime spot for music festivals, even winning a lawsuit that attempted to put and end to the venue playing host Renewal.
For those who prefer the freedom to explore, renting a vehicle is a great choice. For this trip, I opted for a 2015 Mercedes Benz Sprinter van that I found on Outdoorsy.com This great mobile app and website was the perfect place to find a place to stay that already has all the conveniences I needed—cookware, onboard generator, and even a bathroom. If you're flying to camp, Outdoorsy is your app. But if camping is not your brand of nugs, the Cottonwood Meadows folks, along with festival producer Bonfire Entertainment offers shuttle services to and from local hotels.
The festival's venue champions sustainability, urging attendees to bring minimal plastic and practice leave-no-trace principles. Camping options range from car and RV spaces to more secluded tent sites.
Photo Credit: Leave No Trace at Cottonwood Meadows - Bonfire Entertainment
If you're heading to the fest to meet up and camp with friends, just remember to arrive together. And keep in mind that because of the local neighborhoods, there is no amplified music is allowed in the campground after 10:00 p.m. For the rest of the rules and more important thinsg you need to know about check out the Renewal FAQ on Bonfire's Website.
Photo Credit: Leave No Trace at Cottonwood Meadows - Bonfire Entertainment on Instagram
Don’t forget to subscribe to to the YouTube channel to get on-site footage of the venue and festival as well as campfire conversations with neighbors during my trip next week. If you like the show, please go ahead and rate the podcast I hope to be your neighbor at the next music festival!
Neighbor N8