It’s getting hot in Denver. I try not to whine, after all, I spent two summers in Florida, where the billowing heat of the asphalt wafted up my nostrils and burned my dainty nose hairs.

Crested Butte is pretty cool, and it really should be cool in August. Check this out. See you there.

The Crested Butte Arts Festival, celebrating the visual, performing and culinary arts at 8,885 feet, takes place this year from August 3-5 along Historic Elk Avenue. Featuring 175 of the nation’s finest visual artists, the CBAF must be experienced to be believed. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the festival will host a special “Friday Night Under the Lights” opening event from 5-9 pm.

There is truly something for everyone, including the Ragged Mountain Entertainment stage, Oskar Blues and Cupcake Vineyards’ Beer & Wine Pavilion, Art Alley for kids, Viking Culinary Demonstration Tent and artist demonstrations throughout the weekend. Add to that a day of biking with local legends Dave Wiens and Doug Bradbury, handcrafted cocktails from Colorado’s hottest distilleries and a special Farm To Table dinner in Mt. Crested Butte and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unforgettable summer weekend in Crested Butte!

1-800-412-7310. To learn more about the arts festival, visit crestedbutteartsfestival.com.