Just over a year from when Breckenridge took strict action and precausions to react to the COVID-19 virus that was sweeping our nation, and world, it’s beginning to look like things are resembling some semblence of ‘normal’.. Giving local residents and officials in Breckenridge a reason to feel confident and excited about this upcoming Summer (and Winter) season.
On May 13, 2021 the CDC surprised us all with exciting news that masks were no longer required in certain settings for fully vaccinated individuals. To mirror this guidance, the Colorado state Govenor announced that Colorado would be moving into ‘Level Clear’ on May 14, removing (most) state governed mask mandates.. Allowing the decision to now be dictated by County. Aligning with this announcement, Summit County & Breckenridge also announced they would loosen official enforced mask mandates and allow the decision to be one made by each individual business. This, with the previous announcement earlier in the month that most capacity restrictions would be scrapped, gives many hope that the Summer ahead will more closely resemble those of years before the global pandemic.
So what does this mean for those visiting Breckenridge this Summer?
Below is an overview of what you can expect during your Breckenridge Summer Getaway!
>> Mask Requirements –
Face masks/coverings will still be required in all government buildings & on public transportation (including the local Summit Stage, Breck Free Ride/Trolley & Ski Country Resort’s complimentary guest shuttle). Private owned businesses/entities will still have the right to require masks (or proof of full vaccination) at their discretion. While this may not be the case where you are from, we ask that you please respect our public health rules while in town. All Breckenridge businesses have the right to refuse service to anyone not wearing a mask or facial covering.
.. Locals tip – Just keep a mask in your back pocket, in case you need to rock it …
NOTE : Unvaccinated individuals are recommended to wear a mask when entering indoor public spaces per state executive order & CDC guidelines.
>> Walkable Main –
While last year the Breckenridge Town Council relaxed certain code restrictions to create ‘Walkable Main’ in Summer 2020, this Summer the council has decided against reinstating these same restrictions (and therefore ‘Walkable Main’) as bars and restaurants are allowed to begin operating at 100% capacity (with no more curfew restrictions). However, to offer a small expansion of outdoor space as we return to ‘normal’, temporary outdoor structures (on any approved private parking area or ‘soft’ space .. ie, grass or lawn area) will be allowed through September 30, 2021. These include outdoor dining set ups (including tents & gas firepits) as well as retail store displays.
>> Summer Pool Usage (Upper Village & Columbine Shared Pool Complexes) :
If staying at a Ski Country Resorts property, expect the same reservation system for both the Columbine Pool Center & Upper Village Pool Center to be in place. The system will open the morning of May 27th for reservations on May 28th.
>> Summer Events Outlook
While exact details are still forthcoming, major event producers that hit pause or got creative with pivots over the past year are looking toward a brighter events season.
• 4th of July :
The Breckenridge Events Committee has recommended moving forward with the July 4th parade and ancillary activities. The Breckenridge Tourism Office is currently developing a plan for the parade and working out the details.
*Plans would be reassessed if COVID metrics change and June 1st.
• Breckenridge Film Festival Sept 16-19 :
Breck Film will be celebrating its 40th anniversary September 16-19, 2021 in Breckenridge, CO and online. Breck Film plans to decide/announce how this year’s feistival will be delivered on June 1, 2021. Stay tuned!
• Breckenridge Wine Classic Sept 16-18 :
The Breckenridge Wine Classic is back and promises to offer a variety of experiences on the mountain, in restaurants, classrooms, and around town. Enrich your mind with new knowledge and enjoy food and wine while experiencing all that Breckenridge has to offer for your mountain weekend.
• Breckenridge Oktoberfest Sept 24-26 :
Breckenridge is eager to let the show go on this summer! Even though some large-scale event features like Oktoberfest’s Main Street party will not be on tap this year, guests can expect some creative celebratory alternatives while adhering to all required public health regulations.. Breckenridge will include in the celebration the 2nd Annual OktoberFEAST – a series of German-themed beer, wine and food pairings at a number of restaurants throughout town.
• Breckenridge Music Festival :
A little over a year has passed since Breckenridge Music had to cancel its plans for the summer (and the rest of 2020). Now, as capacity restrictions loosen, the nonprofit is gearing up for a busy summer. On the agenda : Indoor/outdoor Summer concert series, educational workshops, fundraisers and more. The organization will announce programming in waves. Stay tuned!
>> Summer Activities :
• Drive In Movies :
Yes, they’re back! Breck Film partnered with BreckCreate plans to, once again, offer the community a safe and affordable way to gather. Drive-ins are predicted to be every other weekend starting June 18th.
More Information : https://breckfilm.org/summer-drive-ins
• Bike In Movies (June 23, July 28, August 25) :
Every 4th Wendesday, June – August, enjoy outdoor screenings of classic movies “geared” for those on the go. Hike, bike, walk or bus to these free family friendly films set beneath a spectacular view of the 10-Mile Range and projected onto the AirStage’s 5×8 foot LED wall.
6pm at the Arts District Campus (S Ridge & Washington)
Peak 8 Basecamp at Epic Discovery
Opening on Friday, June 18, the Peak 8 Basecamp offers signature and family-friendly summer activities, located at the base of Peak 8 and easily accessed by the free BreckConnect Gondola from town:
• Scenic Rides: Offered on the Colorado SuperChair, taking guests to heights more than 11,000-feet above sea level.
• Mountain Biking: Lift-served mountain biking is available on the Colorado SuperChair.
• GoldRunner Coaster: Start your ride at an elevation of 10,230 feet, before racing down the mountain, hitting speeds of up to 25mph on 2,500 feet of elevated roller coaster track as you enjoy a thrilling journey around and through the forest. Ride single or with a friend.
• Alpine Slides: A classic favorite at Breck, choose between three exhilarating 2,600-foot-long slides and control the speed of your cart as you race down berms, turns and straightaways.
• Lil’ Climber Ropes Course: The kid-sized version of the Alpineer Challenge Course features ropes, bridges, logs and other kid-friendly obstacles and challenges for younger guests.
• Lil’ Flyer Zipline: The perfect introduction to ziplining for little flyers.
• Lil’ Nugget Tubing: Tubing isn’t just a winter activity. Hop on and get ready for a tubular time on this summer activity version of the winter classic.
• Silver Summit Climbing Wall: Explore the nooks and crannies of this 35-foot tall climbing wall designed with novice and beginner climbers in mind, so there is fun for all ages and abilities.
• Bungee Trampolines: Harness up and get ready to bounce, flip and soar towards the mountaintops.
• Mini Golf: Putt for fun or a hole-in-one on this scenic 18-hole miniature golf course.
• Mini Miner Gemstone Panning: The history of the gold rush comes alive at Peak 8 Base Camp. Pan for gems in this interactive sluice and take home your finds.
>> For more detailed information on current local COVID guidelines/restrictions and what Ski Country Resorts is doing to ensure your health and safety, visit our dedicated COVID-19 information page by clicking here.
