This weekend, June 17th & 18th, the Jazz Fest & Art Walk takes over Estes Park, where the sounds of jazz music fill the mountains with smooth melodies and art galleries display the best of local and national artists. Celebrate the arrival of spring in Estes Park with a visit during this entertaining weekend. There is plenty to do and see around the whole village and Rocky Mountain National Park! Create your own weekend escape, but here are our Top 5 Things to Do During Jazz Fest Weekend in Estes Park:

1. Attend the Estes Park Jazz Fest at Performance Park. Both Saturday and Sunday, local and national jazz musicians and bands take the stage for a weekend full of jazz music. Listen to jazz music highlighting its New Orleans roots to its diverse present of sounds. Bring your lawn chair to listen-in at Performance Park, the beautiful outdoor amphitheater located on the west end of downtown Estes Park. Sip on local wine from Snowy Peaks Winery and Turquoise Mesa Winery!

2. Browse the Estes Park art galleries during the Jazz Fest Art Walk. Galleries display unique artwork from photography to sculpture during this special weekend. Pick up Jazz Fest Art Walk gallery maps from the Cultural Arts Council to begin your self-guided tour!

3. Weather permitting, head up to the newly opened Rainbow Curve section of Trail Ridge Road. Just recently opened and cleared of snow, head up even further on Trail Ridge Road to take in the views of the "newly remodeled" Alluvial Fan from above. Weather does change quickly in the mountains, so check the status of Rainbow Curve before setting out. Reach Rocky Mountain National Park at 970-586-1206 (8am - 4:30pm daily)

4. Hike to Gem Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Gem Lake trail is one of the first trails in the area to have snow melted away by spring. Enjoy a snow-free hike along this beautiful 3.2 round-trip hike. We have reports all the snow along the trail is melted with just a few remaining spots at the lake!

5. View vintage cars at the Parade of Years Car Show. These one-of-a-kind cars will be traveling up to Estes Park on Saturday, May 17th and arrive at the Estes Park Senior Center around 3:00pm to park and meet & greet other owners and car enthusiasts.