Can’t get enough of the Blues? Head to Greeley for one of northern Colorado’s most popular music festivals, Greeley Blues Jam, June 6 and 7 at Island Grove Regional Park.
Where to stay: Blues Jam is a turn-key event that offers spaces for tents, RVs and campers. If you prefer other accommodations, check out places to stay.
Climber hanging on rock wall while bouldering at the Cimbing Collective.
Day 1 - Friday
The festival starts off with a bang later in the afternoon, but it’s never too early to start the fun with breakfast or brunch at The Spotlight Cafe and Creamery, known for scratch-made breakfast burritos, teas, coffees and yes, ice cream! The crew at Spotlight puts you and your tastebuds at center stage.
While you’re in a musical mood, check out Greeley’s Downtown Sound Records and Tapes, well known for collectible, vintage and rare vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, 8-track tapes, hi-fi and stereo equipment and books.
Wander around Greeley’s bustling historic city center with many unique shops, such as The Downtown Oddity Parlor, offering unusual, strange and one-of-a-kind items. Just a few blocks away, you’ll find the Greeley History Museum, where you can check out a violin called the Stradivarius of the West made by local artisan George Fisk. The museum’s exhibits provide insight into early life on the high plains.
Then, head over to the Colorado Model Railroad Museum to hear the music of steam and whistles with more than 80 scale miles of track. Further along 8th Avenue is the Greeley Climbing Collective, where you limber up for an evening of dancing to the blues.
The musical extravaganza starts on Friday at 4:30 p.m. in downtown Greeley’s 9th Street Plaza. Featured bands include Blackcat Zydeco with Dwight Carrier and Erica Brown. Catch more acts later as you wander through historic Greeley’s go-cup district and visit 16 participating bars and restaurants, some with free entrance.
The Motet will be performing at the Greeley Blues Jam 2025
Day 2 - Saturday
Wherever you stay, make your way to one of Greeley’s best breakfast cafes, like Doug's Diner. The menu offers everything from exotic huevos socorro to traditional eggs benedict.
Make your way back to Island Grove Regional Park, where the entertainment starts at noon and goes through 9 p.m. with headline performers like The Motet, Elvin Bishop and Charlie Musselwhite, Eddie 9V, Jackie Venson, Ben Chapman and Meg McRee, and Guerilla Fanfare Brass Band.
And don’t worry, you won’t have to miss a moment of the music if you get hungry. A smorgasbord of food trucks will tantalize your taste buds throughout the day and evening. Enjoy some shade and a change of pace when you shop the onsite merchandise vendors offering Blues Jam souvenirs and other unique items to remember your visit.
Family of four playing at the LINC in the children's center.
Day 3 - Sunday
Today is the coda of your visit to Greeley. Nice and easy does it while you enjoy a relaxed morning at Aunt Helen’s Coffee House, known for its cozy vibe and creative menu. Sip on a handcrafted latte and dig into breakfast favorites like breakfast burritos, avocado toast, or their signature sandwiches. Perfect for easing into your final day.
Not far away is The LINC, an innovative, experiential learning center that’s not your mother’s public library. Walk off breakfast as you explore 62,000 square feet that include a makerspace, studios for art, recording and podcasting, and special areas for children and teens. We guarantee two things – you’ll have fun and want to return.
Come for the blues, stay for the city’s vibrant flair all year long.