Bluegrass Bliss in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains: The High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival

For over two decades, the High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival has captivated music lovers in the tiny ranching community of Westcliffe, Colorado. This annual event, held under a giant tent at the end of Main Street, has become a beloved tradition, drawing thousands of people to the region each July to experience the best in bluegrass, old-time, and folk music.

Elevating the Heartbeat of Americana Music

A Breathtaking Backdrop for Bluegrass Brilliance

The High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival is set against the stunning backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. Festival founder and musician Ron Thomason likens the setting to the "Grand Canyon," but with the added beauty of the Wet Mountain Valley that stretches out before the festival grounds. Attendees can't resist the urge to step outside the tent and soak in the majestic scenery, captivated by the sheer grandeur of the surrounding landscape.

Honoring the Legends and Nurturing the Next Generation

The festival's lineup has long been a testament to the rich tapestry of bluegrass music, featuring both traditional and progressive acts, as well as old-time and folk performers. One of the most memorable moments came in the early 2000s when the legendary Ralph Stanley graced the stage, a testament to the festival's ability to attract the genre's most revered artists. But the festival's true heart lies in its commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians, with the High Mountain Hayseeds youth program providing hands-on workshops and performance opportunities for young aspiring artists.

A Labor of Love Fueled by Community Spirit

The High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival is a true labor of love, run entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers. Heidi Clare, Ron Thomason's partner and an accomplished old-time fiddler, describes this group as "very overqualified," but their unwavering commitment to the cause is what truly makes the festival thrive. From the hundred-strong crew that sets up and tears down the event each year to the tireless efforts of the organizers, the festival is a testament to the power of community spirit and the transformative impact of music.

Giving Back to the Community: More Than Just Music

The High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival is more than just a celebration of music; it's a platform for giving back to the local community. The festival's origins trace back to a group of families who came together to address the lack of healthcare access for children in the area. By organizing the festival and donating the proceeds, they were able to establish a local clinic and ensure that the region's youth had access to the medical care they needed. This spirit of community service has continued to this day, with the festival supporting various initiatives, including mental health and dental care programs.

A Finalist for the Prestigious IBMA Event of the Year Award

The recognition of the High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival as a finalist for the International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) Event of the Year award is a testament to the festival's enduring legacy and its impact on the broader bluegrass community. For Ron Thomason, this nomination is a source of immense pride, not just for himself but for the entire Westcliffe community that has rallied behind the festival year after year. The festival's ability to attract world-class talent, foster a sense of community, and give back to the local area has cemented its status as a true gem in the bluegrass festival circuit.