Summer in Loveland has a rhythm all its own, and it starts downtown. One Sweet Summer is the city’s signature seasonal series, bringing live music, festivals, family-friendly events and can’t-miss experiences to the heart of downtown from May through August. Centered around The Foundry Plaza and surrounding blocks, it’s a lineup designed to be easy to drop into, whether you’re planning a full weekend or just passing through for the evening.
Expect free concerts, pop-up programming, kids’ activities and signature events that make it just as appealing to visitors as it is to locals. It’s approachable, energetic and distinctly Loveland.
Start with the signature events
The One Sweet Summer series is anchored by standout events that are worth planning a trip around. From weekly concerts to signature festivals, here’s what’s happening this summer:
Bluegrass & Brews Festival
June 5-6
Now in its sixth year, this two-day festival brings together live music, local breweries and a lively downtown atmosphere. It’s a high-energy yet walkable experience that sets the tone for summer.
Kids on the Plaza
Wednesdays, June 10-Aug. 5,
Designed for families, this weekly event features free activities like lawn games, splash pad play and arts and crafts led by local partners.
Fitness on the Plaza
Saturdays, June 13-Sept. 5
This free yoga series welcomes all ages and skill levels to The Foundry Plaza, offering a relaxed way to start your weekend.
Ice Cream & Treats Festival
Friday, June 19
More than 15 local vendors serve ice cream, desserts and specialty treats in a family-friendly setting. Purchase tickets and get tasting servings from Loveland’s best dessert retailers, including Mary’s Mountain Cookies, Paciugo Gelato, Boozee Treats, Nothing Bundt Cakes and more.
Wednesday Night Concerts
Wednesdays, July 8-Aug. 26
This weekly concert series features local and regional talent, with food vendors and craft breweries creating an easy midweek dinner plan.
Symphony on the Plaza
Friday, Aug. 14
A performance by the Loveland Orchestra brings classical music outdoors for a standout summer evening.
Mark your calendars for these can’t-miss events, and start planning your perfect summer getaway.
Turn Bluegrass & Brews into a mini-vacation
If you’re coming in for Bluegrass & Brews, the smartest move is to stay for the weekend. Festival lodging packages make it easy to build a full weekend around the event. A few options to consider:
The Full Bluegrass VIP Experience
- Two-night hotel stay at Courtyard by Marriott Loveland
- Two VIP Festival Section Access at Vatos Tacos, including two Vatos or Macho margaritas, two street tacos, and chips and salsa
- Two Beer Taster Punch Cards for Bluegrass & Brews, featuring nine local breweries and one Meadery
- Colorado Coffee Package, including two lattes and two breakfast items from Colorado Coffee
The Pickin’ Weekend Package
- Two-night hotel stay at Hampton Inn Loveland
- Two Beer Taster Punch Cards for Bluegrass & Brews
The Rise and Shine Package
- Two-night hotel stay at Hampton Inn Loveland
- Colorado Coffee Package, including two lattes and two breakfast items from Colorado Coffee
- Two Beer Taster Punch Cards for Bluegrass & Brews
The VIP Pickers Package
- Two-night hotel stay at Courtyard by Marriott Loveland
- Two VIP Festival Section Access at Vatos Tacos, including two Vatos or Macho margaritas, two street tacos, and chips and salsa
- Two Beer Taster Punch Cards for Bluegrass & Brews
Vatos VIP Section
- Reserved seating at Vatos
- Includes two Vatos or Macho Margaritas, two street tacos, and chips and salsa
Live music is built into the season
Music is the backbone of One Sweet Summer. In addition to live music at The Foundry, additional events are scattered throughout town. Free concerts at Foote Lagoon create a laid-back evening experience where you can bring a blanket, grab food nearby and settle in as the sun goes down. The setting blends nature, art and community in a way that feels effortless. The Sounds of Centerra is another opportunity to enjoy live music in a beautiful environment.
Whether you plan your night around a show or simply follow the sound, it’s easy to make music part of your stay.
Build your own version of summer
One Sweet Summer isn’t about a single event. It’s about how everything connects. Start your day with coffee downtown. Spend the afternoon exploring Loveland’s sculpture parks or getting out on the water. Head back for dinner, then stay for a concert or event as the evening unfolds. Loveland makes that flow easy. With a thriving arts scene, nearly 200 restaurants and a walkable downtown, you don’t have to choose between experiences. You can move between them.