Copper Mountain’s Annual Union Peak Festival Returns Sept. 5-7

Union Peak Festival returns to Copper Mountain for its fifth year Sept. 5-7, celebrating the convergence of sport, community and art. The weekend will feature free live music performances, an art hub, athletic activities and community gatherings. This year’s headliners for the event are Third Eye Blind and The Roots. Guests looking to elevate their festival experience can purchase a Full Weekend VIP Pass, offering exclusive stage viewing areas, complimentary snacks, daily drink tickets, festival swag and more.
Headline Performances
An unforgettable weekend of live music in the Rockies kicks off Friday, Sept. 5 with Third Eye Blind, bringing their iconic alternative rock sound to the main stage in Copper's Center Village. Since 1997, San Francisco's Third Eye Blind have recorded ten best-selling studio recordings, two live releases and assembled one career retrospective selling 12 million records worldwide. On Saturday, Sept. 6, The Roots will take the stage for a memorable performance blending hip-hop, soul and funk. The Roots are known for a jazzy and eclectic approach to hip hop featuring live musical instruments, and the group's work has consistently been met with critical acclaim. The Roots currently serve as the house band on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. All music performances are free to attend and are presented by High Noon and the Play Forever Foundation.
Festival VIP Pass
Festival goers are encouraged to purchase a VIP pass for exclusive concert viewing access, drink tickets and access to an exclusive VIP lounge stocked with snacks and all-day non-alcoholic drinks. VIP pricing will increase on Aug.1, so now is the best time to upgrade the festival experience. A Full Weekend VIP Pass is available for $400 a person and includes the following benefits:
- Exclusive front-of-stage viewing for all main stage performances
- Access to a Pepsi Zero-Free Lounge and deck with a viewing area complete with snacks and non-alcoholic beverages available all day throughout the weekend
- Breakfast buffet on Saturday
- Three daily drink tickets to be used at select locations throughout the day with dedicated bars
- Swag items include a YETI Hotshot insulated bottle, a Union Peak long sleeve shirt and a festival poster
- Free entry to Summit Up 5K Run
- One scenic chairlift ride
- Convenient free reserved parking (while supplies last)
Guests who choose to lodge at Copper during the festival weekend can save $100 on a Full Weekend VIP pass. Guests must book a minimum stay of two nights to be eligible to purchase a discounted VIP pass. A Single Day VIP Pass for either festival day can also be purchased for $200 per person. Purchase a VIP pass for the best pricing before Aug. 1 at CopperColorado.com.
Festival Programming
With a packed lineup of elevated activities, Union Peak Festival looks to bring athletes and creative-minded individuals together for a weekend of mountain adventure. With events ranging from a high alpine 5K race, a Woodward Rail Jam, Yoga & Brunch and more. For those eager to get on snow, the weekend kicks off Friday, Sept. 5 with the final Rail Jam of the season at the Summer Hike Park presented by the Village at Copper Merchants. Skiers and riders will hit a variety of rail features, showing off their tricks and competing under the summer sun. Guests can register to compete in the Rail Jam at CopperColorado.com. The Summer Hike Park is expected to be open through Sept. 7, marking another full summer on-snow at the Athlete’s Mountain.
Then on Saturday morning, the Summit Up 5K presented by Mammut challenges participants with two high-altitude courses. Runners can choose between the classic 5K route climbing 640 feet from Aerie to the base of the Storm King lift, or the more demanding 5K Challenge Course up the Storm King Trail, with 725 feet of elevation gain, rock steps and steep features. After the run, guests are encouraged to stick around for a Pop-Up Party at Aerie to celebrate with music and refreshments. Sign up to run in the Rockies at CopperColorado.com.
On Sunday, wind down the festival weekend on the mountain with Union Peak Yoga & Brunch presented by Subaru at Copper's mid-mountain lodge, Aerie. Take in spectacular views of the Gore and Ten Mile ranges from the deck as yogis move through the morning flow. Brunch and mimosas will be served after the morning yoga session. Registration is available at CopperColorado.com and includes a scenic lift ride on the American Eagle, a guided yoga class at the lodge and brunch. Guests can also purchase tickets for brunch only.
Festivalgoers can also stop by the Art Hub on Friday and Saturday to browse local makers, interactive exhibits and unique installations in Center Village. Colorado creatives are invited to showcase their art at the festival by submitting an application here. Beyond the main events, guests can enjoy free programming throughout the weekend including mountain bike meet-ups and Center Pose yoga in the village on Saturday and Sunday. Copper’s summer activities are also open throughout the weekend including the Rocky Mountain Coaster, WreckTangle, Go-Karts and Bumper Boats.