Nicole Grimaldos The WinterWonderGrass Festival returned to Steamboat Resort from February 28 to March 2, 2025, celebrating its 12th annual gathering. This three-day event harmoniously blends authentic bluegrass music with Colorado’s finest craft beers, featuring performances from renowned acts like Trampled by Turtles, Leftover Salmon, and Yonder Mountain String Band. Festival-goers can enjoy music across four stages—three nestled within heated tents alongside amenities such as a kids’ zone, food trucks, a VIP area, and a coffee bar. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a craft beer aficionado, WinterWonderGrass offers an immersive experience that embodies the spirit of Colorado’s vibrant culture.
DAY 1
The 2025 WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, commenced on Friday, February 28, with an exhilarating lineup of bluegrass and roots music. Attendees were treated to performances by headliners such as Trampled by Turtles, The California Honeydrops, and Lindsay Lou. The festival’s unique atmosphere was enhanced by its setting at Steamboat Resort, where three of the four stages were nestled within heated tents, providing warmth and intimacy amidst the winter landscape.
Beyond the captivating music, festival-goers indulged in daily tastings from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, featuring a selection of Colorado’s finest craft beers, ciders, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. The event also offered a variety of amenities, including a kids’ zone, food trucks, a VIP area, and a coffee bar, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all attendees.
The opening day set the tone for a weekend filled with community, music, and the vibrant culture of Colorado, embodying the festival’s spirit of blending authentic bluegrass tunes with local craft beverages.
Shadowgrass
Shadowgrass is a dynamic bluegrass band hailing from the Blue Ridge Mountain regions of North Carolina and Virginia. Formed by young musicians, they quickly gained attention for their fast picking and fresh arrangements. The band consists of Luke Morris (mandolin), Madison Morris (fiddle), Kyser George (guitar), Clay Russell (banjo), and Evan Campfield (bass). Each member brings a unique influence, contributing to their innovative sound that respects traditional roots while exploring new musical territories.
Notably, Shadowgrass’s Instagram reels went viral in 2022, boosting their popularity and leading to a headlining tour in 2023. They’ve graced stages at prominent venues, including the Pearl Street Warehouse in Washington, D.C. In October 2024, they released their sophomore album, “All That Will,” showcasing their evolving artistry. Currently, Shadowgrass is touring across the United States, with upcoming performances in cities like Nashville, Indianapolis, and Chicago, continuing to captivate audiences nationwide.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
The Po’ Ramblin’s Boys
The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, formed in 2014 in the Smoky Mountains, embody authentic bluegrass with a modern edge. Initially the house band at Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, they’ve evolved into a Grammy-nominated group recognized for their heartfelt sound.
In August 2024, they released “Wanderers Like Me,” an album reflecting their decade-long journey and blending bluegrass with honky-tonk influences. Following the departure of founding guitarist Josh Rinkel, the band welcomed John Gooding in October 2024. Shortly after, Max Silverstein joined as their new fiddler, completing the lineup. Currently, they continue to tour, captivating audiences with their energetic performances and dedication to bluegrass traditions.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Pickin’ on the Dead
Pickin’ On The Dead is a Colorado-based bluegrass ensemble that masterfully reinterprets the Grateful Dead’s music through acoustic instrumentation. Led by acclaimed guitarist Tyler Grant, the group infuses traditional bluegrass elements into classic Dead songs, creating a unique and captivating sound.
In February 2025, they delivered a memorable performance at the WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Looking ahead, the band is scheduled to perform at BajaWonderGrass in El Sargento, Mexico, on April 24, 2025, and at the Fox Theatre in Boulder, Colorado, on May 30, 2025. These upcoming shows highlight their ongoing commitment to blending bluegrass flair with the timeless music of the Grateful Dead.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Sam Bush Band
Sam Bush, born in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a pioneering figure in progressive bluegrass, often called the “Father of Newgrass.” As a teenager, he won the National Oldtime Fiddler’s Contest three times in the junior division. In 1971, he co-founded the New Grass Revival, blending traditional bluegrass with rock and jazz elements. Throughout his career, Bush has collaborated with artists like Emmylou Harris, Lyle Lovett, and Béla Fleck.
In 2024, Bush celebrated his 50th appearance at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, highlighting his enduring influence in the genre. He continues to tour with the Sam Bush Band, captivating audiences with energetic performances. Notably, they are scheduled to perform at the Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, from June 26-28, 2025.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Kitchen Dwellers
Kitchen Dwellers, formed in 2010 in Bozeman, Montana, are a progressive bluegrass band known for their high-energy performances and unique “galaxy grass” style. The group consists of Torrin Daniels (banjo), Max Davies (guitar), Shawn Swain (mandolin), and Joe Funk (bass), each bringing diverse musical influences to their sound.
In 2024, they released their fourth studio album, “Seven Devils,” produced by Glenn Brown, showcasing their evolving artistry. After a health hiatus, mandolinist Shawn Swain rejoined the band in January 2025, resuming live performances. They recently headlined a New Year’s Eve show at Wilmington’s Brooklyn Arts Center, supporting Asheville’s Salvage Station’s recovery from Hurricane Helene. Looking ahead, Kitchen Dwellers will perform at the KettleHouse Amphitheater in Montana on August 9, 2025, alongside the Infamous Stringdusters and Leftover Salmon
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Day 2
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, the WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, continued its celebration of bluegrass music and community spirit. The day’s lineup featured performances by the Kitchen Dwellers, Sam Bush, and Pickin’ On The Dead, among others.
The second day exemplified the festival’s commitment to blending authentic bluegrass tunes with local craft beverages, fostering a sense of community and connection among attendees.
Mountain Grass Unit
Mountain Grass Unit, hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, is a dynamic bluegrass quartet known for their innovative sound. The band features Drury Anderson (mandolin, vocals), Luke Black (guitar, vocals), Josiah Nelson (fiddle, vocals), and Sam Wilson (bass, vocals). They blend traditional bluegrass with influences from country, jazz, funk, rock, and metal.
In September 2024, they released the EP “Runnin’ From Trouble,” showcasing their musical growth. They’ve performed at festivals like Renewal, DelFest, and WinterWonderGrass, expanding their audience. In February 2025, they announced a 50-date “Runnin’ From Trouble” summer tour, including venues like Terminal West in Atlanta and Tipitina’s in New Orleans.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
The Brothers Comatose
The Brothers Comatose, formed in 2008 by siblings Ben (guitar, vocals) and Alex Morrison (banjo, vocals), are a San Francisco-based string band renowned for their energetic performances and tight harmonies. The lineup also includes Gio Benedetti (bass, vocals), Philip Brezina (violin), and Ryan Avellone (mandolin). They blend traditional bluegrass with rock and country influences, delivering a foot-stomping, back-porch spirit.
In October 2024, they released the single “Runnin’ on Back,” inspired by a dream of Alex Morrison. In November 2024, they performed in Montana, including shows at The ELM in Bozeman and The Wilma in Missoula.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country
Daniel Donato, a Nashville native, began his musical journey busking on Lower Broadway before joining the Don Kelly Band at 16. He later developed his unique “Cosmic Country” style, blending traditional country with improvisational elements.
In 2023, Donato released “Reflector,” showcasing his evolving artistry. He continues to tour extensively, with recent performances at venues like the Taft Theatre in Cincinnati. Additionally, Donato’s Cosmic Country will join Railroad Earth and Yonder Mountain String Band for a summer tour in 2025.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Leftover Salmon
Leftover Salmon, formed in 1989 in Boulder, Colorado, emerged from the fusion of Vince Herman’s Salmon Heads and Drew Emmitt’s Left Hand String Band. They pioneered the “jamgrass” genre by blending bluegrass with rock, Cajun, and jazz influences. The current lineup features founding members Herman (guitar, vocals) and Emmitt (mandolin, vocals), along with Andy Thorn (banjo), Greg Garrison (bass), Alwyn Robinson (drums), and Jay Starling (dobro, keyboards).
In 2025, Leftover Salmon is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a nationwide tour, including a special performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on May 26, 2025. This milestone underscores their enduring influence in the jamgrass scene and their commitment to delivering high-energy performances that continue to captivate audiences.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Day 3
On March 2, 2025, the final day of the WinterWonderGrass Festival in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Attendees experienced an unforgettable lineup of bluegrass and roots music. The day featured performances by renowned artists such as Trampled by Turtles, The California Honeydrops, and Yonder Mountain String Band. Additionally, festival-goers enjoyed sets from Pickin’ On The Dead, Pixie & The Partygrass Boys, The Fretliners, WinterWonderWomen, Arkansauce, The Langan Band, Damn Tall Buildings, and The Little Moon Travelers.
Pixie & The Partygrass Boys
Pixie & The Partygrass Boys, formed in Salt Lake City, Utah, blend bluegrass with pop, punk, and funk influences. The band comprises Katia “Pixie” Racine (vocals, ukulele), Amanda B. Grapes (fiddle, vocals), Zach Downes (upright bass), Ben Weiss (mandolin, vocals), and Andrew Nelson (guitar, vocals).
Originating as ski enthusiasts hosting house parties in the Cottonwood Canyons, they have evolved into a nationally touring act. Their performances are known for high-energy antics, engaging audiences with sing-along anthems and humorous outfits.
In November 2024, they released their self-titled album, “Pixie & The Partygrass Boys,” under Americana Vibes. The album showcases their dynamic range, blending heartfelt songwriting with energetic instrumentation.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Winterwonderwoman
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Yonder Mountain String Band
Yonder Mountain String Band, formed in 1998, is a progressive bluegrass group based in Colorado. The founding members—banjoist Dave Johnston, bassist Ben Kaufmann, and guitarist Adam Aijala—came together in the 1990s, blending traditional bluegrass with rock, jazz, and other genres to create a unique sound. Over the years, the lineup has evolved, with fiddler Allie Kral and mandolinist Jeff Austin contributing to their dynamic performances.
In 2025, Yonder Mountain String Band continues to innovate and captivate audiences. They are set to co-headline a summer tour with Railroad Earth and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, with performances scheduled from July 6 to July 20. The band remains committed to delivering high-energy shows that honor their bluegrass roots while exploring new musical territories. Their enduring influence and dedication to their craft solidify their status as pioneers in the progressive bluegrass movement.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
The California Honeydrops
The California Honeydrops, formed in Oakland, California, blend retro-soul, R&B, funk, and blues. They began performing in Oakland’s subway stations, quickly gaining attention for their vibrant energy and unique sound.
Lead singer and trumpeter Lech Wierzynski, born in Warsaw, Poland, brings a distinctive flair to their performances. The band has shared stages with legends like B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, and Buddy Guy. They have also graced major festivals, including Outside Lands and Monterey Jazz.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Trampled by Turtles
Trampled by Turtles, formed in 2003 in Duluth, Minnesota. They are a progressive bluegrass band known for blending traditional bluegrass with rock and folk influences. The lineup includes Dave Simonett (guitar, lead vocals), Tim Saxhaug (bass, backing vocals), Dave Carroll (banjo, backing vocals), Erik Berry (mandolin, backing vocals), Ryan Young (fiddle, backing vocals), and Eamonn McLain (cello, backing vocals).
The band has released ten full albums, with three reaching No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard bluegrass chart. Their 2022 album, “Alpenglow,” received critical acclaim for its innovative sound. Recently, they collaborated with Alan Sparhawk of Low on a new album, set for release on May 30, 2025. The first single, “Stranger,” was released on March 18, 2025.
Photos by Nicole Grimaldos. Copyright © 2025 Nicole Grimaldos ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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