Plan Your Trip to the Mammoth Festival of Beers Bluesapalooza

April 23, 2026

The festival has a great vibe (and amazing beer and music) you simply won’t want to miss.

Every year, Mammoth Lakes transforms into a full-blown, amazing concert venue in preparation for the biggest party of the summer — the Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza.

Started in 1996, the annual festival has grown from a small, low-key affair to a signature event hosting more than 6,000 attendees. Held the first weekend of August, the event is a classic Mammoth Lakes' experience for music and beer lovers.

Note: While Bluesaplooza won’t be held in 2026, the event plans to return July 29 – August 1, 2027, for a special 30th Anniversary celebration!

Tickets for Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza

Whether you’re rocking out to a headliner, discovering a new favorite beer, hanging out with friends or just soaking up the atmosphere beneath the pines, Bluesapalooza is a recipe for good times. Tickets for the festival will sell out, and lodging and campsites fill up fast, so book early.

Choose from weekend-long ticket packages, including beer tastings, with the option of VIP or general admission tickets. Concert-only passes are also available.

Beer Tastings

The Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza is the largest craft beer festival on the West Coast. More than 80 distinct craft breweries pouring over 200 beers for the grand tastings on Saturday and Sunday. The beer lineup will definitely have something to suit every taste. Many of the brewers are on site, happy to tell you all about their beers while also enjoying the camaraderie of their colleagues in this close-knit industry.

The event also supports the California Craft Brewers Association, a nonprofit trade association representing the craft and specialty brewing industry in California.

man holding craft beer

Music Lineup

Since the beginning, Bluesapalooza has been committed to bringing the best of the blues to Mammoth Lakes, and the festival continues to gain notoriety and recognition in the blues world by showcasing both established and up-and-coming musicians.

Check out the lineup for a full list of performers.

Food & Retail Vendors

The food options at Bluesapalooza are always a highlight of the festival, so bring your appetite. Vendors offer a variety of cuisine, from American to Asian, Cajun, Mediterranean, Indian and more, including vegan options. Local restaurants will be well represented, with additional festival favorites returning from further afield.

Plus, plan to spend some time shopping the impressive retail areas for unique artisan items you won’t find anywhere else.

music festival vendors in forest

Tips for Attending Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza

Bluesapalooza happens rain or shine, or smoke, and the trees do provide some protection from the elements but be prepared for changes in the weather. When you’re packing your bag and planning your day, keep these tips in mind:

  • Wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water (pro tip: carry a reusable water bottle) to stay hydrated.
  • Remember that the Wood Site is located at about 8,000 feet in elevation and alcohol hits you quickly at altitude. Pace yourself and be sure to eat while tasting! (Pro tip: Pretzel necklace.)
  • The grounds are uneven and covered in wood chips, so closed-toed shoes are a must.
  • Only blankets or low-back beach chairs are permitted on the grounds.
  • Minaret Road will be closed between Main Street and Meridian Road with very limited paid parking spots available. Take advantage of extensive free transit, or walk or ride a bike instead.
Woman with guitar performing in front of crowd at music festival
Author
Betsy Temple-Truax
Betsy loves living and playing in Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra with her active family and friends. A passionate advocate for community recreation, Betsy never turns down an opportunity to swim, ski, paddle, travel or let someone else cook.
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