Beginning over 25 years ago in a parking lot of a Whiskey Creek restaurant, Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza has since grown into a four-day festival of California’s best sips and scenery. Mammoth Festival gets its name from its location in Mammoth Lakes, a California town just outside of Yosemite, where you’ll find that an assortment of outdoor activities, craft breweries and live music is a fast way to fill up a four-day itinerary.
The blues was a later addition, not introduced by the festival organizers until its second year. Now, it’s become a staple of the festival, with over 20 blues musicians set to take Mammoth’s two stages this year. Headliners include Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Larkin Poe and Samantha Fish.
For its other lineup — the alcoholic one — Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza will see nearly 80 breweries and over 150 craft beers and ciders this year. What’s more, unlimited pours are also offered during a few hours of Grand Tasting each day. Some vendors include Transmission Brewing, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, JuneShine and even the local Mammoth Brewing Company, which has offered craft beer tours in the past. The beer tasting is only held on Saturday and Sunday, giving you two days to rest and recover.
Outside of the festival, attendees are encouraged to explore Mammoth Lakes’ outdoor excursions: horseback riding, canoeing, golfing, hiking, fishing and mountain biking, to name a few. A blogger from The Bruery said it best: “You don’t think we could go all the way to Mammoth and not do something outdoorsy?” Plus, a few hours of sun and sweat is one way to work off a hangover.
The Specs
- More than 6,000 people attend.
- Tickets are available for 1-day, 2-day and 4-day passes, with costs ranging from $55 to $300 depending on date and duration.
- 4-day early entry passes cost $425 and grant attendees an hour headstart into the festival for all four days.
- 4-day VIP passes cost $975 and grant attendees access to VIP lounges, viewing deck, stage pit and restrooms.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to California here.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza?
The local Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is only 8 miles away from town.
What should I bring with me? What should I leave?
Bring: low-back chairs, sunscreen, water bottles, ID and fanny packs.
Leave: weapons, umbrellas, lawn furniture, pets, aerosol sprays, recording equipment and outside alcohol. Outside food and drink is permitted though, so feel free to load up on snacks beforehand.
Should I carry my wallet?
Bring your photo ID, but leave the credit cards in the car. Upon entry, you’ll receive an RFID wristband which you’ll connect to your credit card and use for cashless payments throughout the festival.
Is ADA parking available?
ADA parking is available near the festival grounds on a first-come, first-served basis. ADA-accessible port-a-potties are also available at the grounds.
Who is playing at Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooza?
Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Larkin Poe, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Samantha Fish, Elvin Bishop & Charlie Musselwhite of 100 Years of Blues, Robert Randolph Band, Walter Trout, Shemekia Copeland, Ally Venable, Eddie 9v, Robert Jon & The Wreck, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Con Brio, Leon Creek, Chris Pierce, Ghalia Volt, Dirty Cello, The Amazing Wildcats, King Tree & The Earthmothers, Harlis Sweetwater, David Rosales & His Band of Scoundrels, Katie Knipp, Andrew Webber Blues Band.
2023 Poster
