The First-Timer's Guide

First Time Frozen?

Never been to Estes Park? Start here.

Six Steps Before You Go

Pick your days. Saturday, April 10 is the main festival.
Plan My Weekend
Get on the list. 2027 tickets aren't on sale yet.

Freeze the Date See Ticket Options
Book a bed. Stay the night and make a weekend of it.
See Lodging

Plan the drive. About 90 minutes from Denver. In 2026, the downtown garage (691 N. St. Vrain Ave) and Friday–Saturday shuttles were free.
Get the Shuttle Schedule
Dress for 7,522 feet. April highs near 53°F, lows near 27°F (National Park Service). Bring layers, warm boots, sunglasses, sunscreen and water.
See What to Bring
On the day. In 2026, gates opened at noon and the show ended at 9 PM. Re-entry was allowed. No ATMs; clear or clutch-sized bags only.
Read the FAQ

All ages are welcome. In 2026, kids under 2 got in free and children 2–12 had their own ticket.

Strollers and wagons weren't allowed, so bring a carrier. The races started at 1:15 PM.

Yes. The festival celebrates Grandpa Bredo, our guest of honor, with his family's blessing.

Nine words you'll hear

Grandpa Bredo: Our guest of honor.
Coffin Races: The festival's main event: seven-person teams race handmade coffins through a timed obstacle course.
The Corpse: The seventh teammate, who rides inside, jumps out mid-race for a challenge and dives back in.
Heats: Two teams race side by side, timed start to finish.
Crash and Burn: A judged award for the best wipeout.
Brain Freeze: A Fire Stage game.
Cold Stare: The costume contest.
Royal Blue Ball: A Friday costume dance party at The Stanley Hotel, a returning tradition.
Crawler Cup: The collectible tin cup from the Bar Crawl.