calling all artists

The Mt. Crested Butte Chili and Beer Festival is looking for original artwork for the 28th Annual Festival, taking place September 12, 2026, in the Town of Mt. Crested Butte at the base of Mount Crested Butte.

DETAILS

Each year, our mountain town gathers for one of the most beloved celebrations of the season — a day filled with chili, Colorado craft beer and brews, live music, costumes, and community.


We’re calling on artists to submit original artwork inspired by this moment in the mountains.
We’re looking for artwork that feels funky, nostalgic, playful, slightly unhinged, and full of late-summer mountain soul.
If it looks like it belongs on a vintage festival poster pulled from a dusty wall — and still smells faintly of chili and beer — you’re doing it right.


Think:

Sun-faded posters, bold colors, hand-drawn type
Bikes, boots, dogs, wildflowers, and dusty trails
Chili cook-offs, Colorado craft beer, and music echoing off the peaks
Golden aspens, cool mountain air, and the feeling of fall just around the corner
Locals who show up in costume just because

Selected artwork will be featured on official festival posters, merchandise, and promotional materials.

ARTIST PRIZE

  • The first three submissions will be awarded (2) VIP festival tickets.
  • The selected Winner will receive a $500 cash prize and two (2) VIP festival tickets.
  • All Submissions must be received no later than May 15, 2026.
  • We will announce the winner by Memorial Day weekend.

REQUIRED TEXT ELEMENTS ON ARTWORK

All items listed below must be part of the design of the poster.  Clear and visible.

  • 28th Annual
  • Mt. Crested Butte Chili and Beer Festival
  • September 12, 2026
  • Presented by Crested Butte / Mt. Crested Butte Chamber of Commerce and Town of Mt. Crested Butte


All submissions must be 100% original, unpublished artwork, and not infringe on existing copyrights or trademarks. 

The file should be submitted as a high-quality digital image in no more than 6 colors. 

Submit a high-resolution digital file (minimum 300 DPI)

Recommended dimensions: 11” x 17” (portrait style / vertical ONLY)


To apply click on the link below.