by Lisa Marie Mercer

Created on: February 12, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

While everyone knows that the "purple mountains majesty" thing was inspired by Pikes Peak, here in Summit County, we know that this really describes the mountains of Keystone. When Shakespeare asks his beloved, "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" we understand that the only reason he did not write "a summer's day in Keystone" is because it would mess up the iambic pentameter. After the rough winds shed their darling buds of May, the mountains of Keystone shed their winter whites. Those strange folks that hate the snow bid farewell to their winter of discontent, and glorify in the summer sun of Keystone.

Enough already with the poetry! What's so great about summer in Keystone? A summer vacation in Keystone, Colorado gives you the chance to enjoy the great outdoors, without having to endure the great humidity. Bikers and hikers, as well as artists and athletes gather in this mountain paradise to enjoy a diverse medley of summer activities. Let's explore!

Kumbaya, Keystone

Late June brings the World Music Festival to Keystone, Colorado. The River Run at Keystone Resort becomes a United Nations of Music and Dance. You'll hear reggae bands, West Indian Music, Calypso and South American music. Feast on a variety of ethnic cuisines, and then work off the calories in a belly dance class. Don't want your kids to see you? No worries. Send them off to play in the inflatable bounce arena, or have them take an island crafts workshops. Are music, dance crafts the answer to world peace? Who knows? But I do think it's so groovy that people are getting together at Keystone.

I've Got a Right to Sing the Blues

As long as you don't sing off key! If you prefer your music "homegrown," consider the Blues Festival and Art Show. Slither through the streets of River Run while you enjoy the sensational sounds of sultry blues. There's an art show and competition, as well as an abundance of food tasting opportunities. If you eat too much, join your kids in Energy Alley, where you can play in the inflatable bounce houses. You can even try blowing up the automatic pilot. Or not.

Introducing the Keystone Hillbillies

August brings an Appalachian spirit to Keystone. No, we're not talking about a man named Jed. It's the Keystone Beer and Bluegrass Festival. Over 30 microbreweries show their stuff, while country and bluegrass musicians entertain. Don't like country music? Well. It usually sounds better after a few cold ones! If you like to sleep all night and work all day, you might want to enter

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>