Check out this year’s Summit Chamber guide to seeing and supporting our local arts scene!
Our neck of the woods may be known for mountain landscapes and resorts, but did you know that Summit County is also becoming a thriving hub for arts and culture?
The arts scene in and around Summit County is drawing quite a bit of attention for its innovative take on traditional mountain town art – as well as inviting some big names to the area to showcase their latest projects!
This 2025 guide will give you an insider’s look at some of the best artistic experiences available throughout Summit County – and how to get involved yourself!
Visual Arts: Galleries and Exhibition Spaces
Breck Create Arts District
Right in the heart of Breckenridge’s creative community is the Breck Create Arts District – a certified district within the Colorado Creative Industries Creative District program. The campus of renovated historic structures now functions as studio spaces, exhibition venues, and artistic gathering places.
Currently on display through March 16, 2025, is “Our River Flowing From Our Eyes,” – an exhibition showcasing works by artists Camille Hoffman and Gyun Hur. You won’t want to miss out on this early-year exhibit of art – it’s setting the stage for the rest of the world-class art experiences Breck Creates will be bringing.
There are also new Breck Create public art installations to visit, including:
- “Indy Sunset” by Jason Dreweck and Teresa Hansen
- “Together” by Joshua Gannon
- “Bird Lady” by Phillip Glashoff
The Arts District is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm (with extended hours until 8pm on Tuesdays). Stop by the Art + Info center at 136 S. Main Street to learn more about current exhibitions and upcoming programs.
Arts Alive Gallery
Located at 101 E Main Street in Frisco (across from the Historic Park), Arts Alive Gallery is a cooperative gallery managed by the Summit County Arts Council.
The gallery showcases an eclectic mix of work from local artists – with mediums ranging from watercolor, oil, and acrylic painting to ceramics, photography, fiber arts, and jewelry.
One of our favorite parts of Arts Alive is its focus on local scenery and wildlife, with many unique pieces you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, the gallery is operated by the artists themselves, giving visitors a chance to connect directly with creators.
Art Spot Silverthorne Makerspace
One of Summit County’s newest and most exciting art destinations is the Art Spot Silverthorne Makerspace. This community-focused creative hub at 401 Blue River Parkway is owned and operated by the Town of Silverthorne and was a long-time vision of the Silverthorne Art Board.
The Art Spot serves as Silverthorne’s primary place for artistic expression, with spaces equipped with supplies for making art, teaching, learning, gathering, and celebrating. Best of all, visitors can come and browse for free or become a member for expanded access.
A top spot to visit is the Art Spot’s Maker’s Market, where you can shop handmade items from local artists or participate in their “Art Spot on the Go” program, with monthly art classes hosted at various Silverthorne businesses.
Performing Arts: Music, Theater, and More
Riverwalk Center
Breckenridge’s premier performance venue, the Riverwalk Center, offers a year-round schedule of concerts and events in its 750-seat, heated indoor space. Upcoming highlights include G. Love & Special Sauce on March 14 and the BoDeans on June 27, 2025.
The Riverwalk Center is always bringing new artists to town, so you’ll want to stay up to date at their website or via the Breck Create ticket office at 136 S. Main Street.
Theatre SilCo
In partnership with the Town of Silverthorne, Theatre SilCo produces ongoing theatrical performances at the Silverthorne Performing Arts Center. The theater is committed to bringing diverse programs to the stage – ranging from classic to contemporary productions that showcase local talent and bring professional theater to our mountain community.
Hotel Frisco Live Music
For a more intimate musical experience, check out the live music events at Hotel Frisco. With a wide range of musicians and performers stopping by monthly, it’s one of the best ways to wind down after a long day on the slopes or while shopping in town.
Interactive Art Experiences: Workshops and Classes
Want to get your hands on some art of your own? Summit County offers a variety of ways to roll up your sleeves and create masterpieces through classes and workshops for all skill levels.
Breck Create Workshops
Breck Create offers an extensive education schedule with classes in:
- Ceramics/Sculpture: From beginner wheel throwing to open studio time, ceramic enthusiasts can find multiple weekly options.
- Drawing/Painting: Beginner drawing series, watercolor techniques, and acrylic painting classes are regularly available.
- Craft/Artisanal: Try your hand at mosaics, wire-wrapped jewelry, or Ukrainian egg decorating (Pysanky).
- Specialty Workshops: Glass/metal working, printmaking, writing, and music classes round out the offerings.
We love the Breck Create’s Precious Plastics initiative – which transforms plastic waste into art. The “Mix Workspace” allows community members and visitors to participate in this innovative sustainability project while creating something beautiful.
Art Spot Classes
The Art Spot’s calendar is filled with options for artists of all ages, including oil painting series, beginner potter’s wheel classes, intro to ceramics, and jewelry making. Their “Beginner’s Mindset” series is particularly welcoming for those new to artistic pursuits.
Must-See Art Attractions
Isak Heartstone: The Breckenridge Troll
While planning your upcoming art tour of Summit County, make sure to add a visit to Isak Heartstone, the beloved wooden troll sculpture created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
Located along the Trollstigen Trail, this 15-foot gentle giant has become one of Breckenridge’s most photographed attractions.
Silverthorne’s Mural Tour
Take a self-guided tour of Silverthorne’s growing collection of murals. These vibrant public artworks bring the town’s landscape to life – and you can enjoy them year-round as part of your art stroll downtown.
Seasonal Art Events
Breckenridge International Festival of Arts (BIFA)
Mark your calendar for BIFA, a celebration that transforms Breckenridge into an interdisciplinary arts landscape.
This multi-day festival features cutting-edge installations, performances, and exhibitions that inspire and engage participants by integrating adventurous arts experiences and the natural environment.
First Fridays and Art Strolls
Throughout the year, communities across Summit County host regular arts celebrations. Silverthorne’s First Fridays and Art Strolls invite visitors to explore galleries, enjoy pop-up performances, and meet local artists in a festive atmosphere.
How To Support Local Artists
One of the best ways to engage with Summit County’s arts scene is to support local artists through purchases and memberships – and to help spread the word of our growing arts scene! Here are some great ways to get involved right now:
- Become a Member: Organizations like Breck Create and the Summit County Arts Council offer membership programs that provide benefits while supporting their missions.
- Gift Art Experiences: Consider giving the gift of creativity through class registrations or gallery gift cards.
- Attend Events: Your presence at performances, exhibitions, and workshops directly supports the artists and venues that make our creative community thrive.
- Volunteer: Many arts organizations welcome volunteer support—a great way to get involved while meeting like-minded community members.
Arts as Economic Vitality in Summit County
As a member of the Summit County Chamber of Commerce, supporting the arts isn’t just about cultural enrichment – it allows you to play a role in contributing to community-wide economic vitality.
Our local arts organizations employ residents, attract visitors, and enhance the quality of life that makes Summit County such a special place to live and visit.
The Summit Chamber encourages all businesses to engage with the arts community through sponsorships, partnerships, and active participation. Together, we can ensure that creativity continues to flourish in our mountain paradise!
Want to learn more about arts organizations and upcoming events? Visit the Summit Chamber website or contact us at (970) 668-2051.
