Vail Summer Sessions Brings Two Days of Free Live Music to the Mountains

BY OnTheSnow Staff
May 22, 2026
Vail Summer Sessions Brings Two Days of Free Live Music to the Mountains

Sponsored by Vail Resorts

Returning July 24–25, Vail Summer Sessions presented by Toyota brings a full weekend of free live music to the base of Gondola One at Vail Mountain. Featuring performances by Magic City Hippies, Marlon Funaki, Miki Fiki, and more, the event pairs an eclectic music lineup with scenic alpine views and an upbeat après-style atmosphere. Free and open to all, Vail Summer Sessions is the perfect way to experience summer in the heart of Vail. 

Vail Summer Sessions Celebrates The Best Of Summer in Colorado 

While Vail is world-renowned for its Legendary Back Bowls and winter glades, the magic of Vail doesn’t end when the ski season ends. As the snow recedes, it reveals wildflower-filled alpine meadows, lush forests, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountain peaks that surround Vail. It all makes for the perfect backdrop to one of the most fun weekends at Vail during the heart of the summer.  

©Vail Resorts

The music kicks off late Friday afternoon with Magic City Hippies, self-described as ‘Miami’s indie-funk darlings’, along with Miki Fiki, an indie-pop project by Ted Hartog. Saturday will feature the genre-blending, multi-instrumentalist Marlon Funaki, with support from singer-songwriter Olivia Barnes. In addition to a great lineup of music, Toyota will also have fun activations and events happening at Lionshead and across Vail Village. 

The shows on Friday and Saturday don’t start until 4:45pm, so guests have all day to experience the best that Vail has to offer during the summer. Take the scenic gondola up above 10,000 feet for breathtaking views of the valley below and surrounding mountains. At the top, access miles of hiking. Bonus: Add a $30 lunch voucher for only $25 that can be redeemed at the top of the mountain for any food and drinks. For a little more thrill, purchase a bike haul ticket and rent a bike to hit any number of Vail’s mountain biking trails.  

©Vail Resorts

Epic Discovery, Vail’s Mountaintop Adventure Center located at the top of Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead, is a can’t-miss experience for families. Here, kids can enjoy the thrill of the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, go summer tubing, climb the 35′ rock climbing wall, and soar on the bungee trampoline.  

Plan Your Trip 

  • Getting there. Vail is an easy drive from Denver, located just two hours away. Alternatively, Eagle County Regional Airport is 35 minutes away. Once arriving, you largely don’t need a car since Vail is so pedestrian-friendly. 
  • Using your Epic Pass. Your 2026/27 Epic Pass comes with many great summer benefits, including free scenic lift rides, 20% off food and drinks, 20% off lodging, 20% off bike rentals, and 20% off transportation. 
  • Where to stay. Vail is home to incredible hotels, including The Arrabelle at Vail Square, The Hythe, and The Lodge at Vail. 

Head to Vail’s website for more details and a complete schedule of events.