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SCHEDULE LAUNCH IS JUNE 21st, 2026

Welcome to the largest wild mushroom happening in North America, the 46th Annual Telluride Mushroom Festival! This program of the Telluride Institute, a 501c3 non-profit, offers a plethora of events ranging from foray and mushroom ID sessions, to hands-on demonstrations and lectures—all led by regionally, nationally, and internationally-known experts, (and we cannot forget the wide variety of social and cultural events offered, along with the famous Mushroom Parade!) there is plenty for everyone, every day.

On this website, you can filter your search by events, venues, presenters, etc. Each year the Mushroom Festival features many wonderful presentations on “all things fungi.” Presentations on similar topics are grouped together at the same venue so that attendees interested will be able to spend more time learning and interacting, and less time walking between venues. See who else is interested in each event and interact with our extended Mushroom Family.

See you soon!
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Thursday, August 13
 

8:30am MDT

Foray with Blake Westman
Thursday August 13, 2026 8:30am - 1:30pm MDT
ONE FORAY PER FESTIVAL TICKET

Sneffels Highline Foray with Blake Westman

Step right out of Telluride's box canyon and push into the heart of the Mt. Sneffels Wilderness, climbing through aspen groves, spruce-fir forest, and subalpine meadows on one of the most spectacular mycological landscapes in all of Colorado. This one's for fungi folks who like to move!

We will cover 7 miles and 2,600 feet of elevation over 5 hours , starting at 8,900 ft and climbing above 11,500 ft. You need to be comfortable moving uphill at altitude for extended periods. If you're coming from low elevation, please give yourself at least a full day in Telluride to acclimatize before joining us. Not sure if this one's for you? Start with one of our shorter forays and work up to this beast.


Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 8:15 AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared
Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct.


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.





Speakers
avatar for Blake Westman

Blake Westman

Foray Leader
Blake Westman has spent 17+ years living and breathing mycology as part of the team at Fungi Perfecti. When he's not immersed in the fungal kingdom, he's out putting in miles on the trail . The Sneffels Highline Foray is where both worlds collide: putting in miles quickly for a foray... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 8:30am - 1:30pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

8:30am MDT

Registration & Information Desk + Festival Merch!
Thursday August 13, 2026 8:30am - 5:00pm MDT
Welcome to the 46th annual Telluride Mushroom Festival. Join us in Elks Park, located in the middle of Telluride off Main Street for registration pick up. On this day (Thursday) we will have an early 8:30am time slot for all attendees to pick up their festival wristband. We will also be distributing pre-order shirts to those who have purchased ahead with their festival pass.

Registration - Festival Pass Wristband Pick-up
- Please bring QR code from email for expedited wristband / t-shirt pick-up
- If multiple pass pick-ups: please make sure order has extra passes attached or each attendee has pass order print out
- Come knowing what T-shirt color and size you have if pre-purchased
- If you purchased a T-shirt before color options were available, you will get a choice
- Download this SCHED app to access the whole festival program

Festival Merch
- Please bring QR code from email for expedited wristband / t-shirt pick up to the merch and registration tent.
- Pre-ordered tees can be picked up with registration, all other merch shopping will be done in the merch tent this year.
- Items this year include 2025 fest tees, special edition tees, hats, stickers, posters, books, and other fun donated items from brands and businesses we love!

Again, welcome to Telluride! We have the biggest, most in depth and unique festival waiting for you. Start scoping out all the possible sessions you wish to attend on Sched and build your wishlist schedule! Note: Signing up on SCHED will not reserve your spot, but this gives festival organizers an idea of what will be popular and could sell out, as well as providing you with a festival wishlist you can print and carry with you throughout the festival. 
Speakers
avatar for Mariah Grimes

Mariah Grimes

TMF Marketing and Sales Manager, Telluride Institute
Mariah is a freelance creative, website designer, and social media manager who has been working with the Telluride Mushroom Festival since 2022. Before divinely stumbling into her work with TMF, Mariah worked in hospitality/events working for various boutique hotels and wedding venues... Read More →
avatar for Chris Grimes

Chris Grimes

TMF Operations & Volunteer Coordinator, Telluride Institute
When Chris Grimes isn’t foragin’ for vintage western wear somewhere in Appalachia, he’s likely off in the woods hunting mushrooms. A TMF volunteer since 2023, Chris returns for his sophomore year as Operations & Volunteer Coordinator, better known around camp as the Lead “Soft... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 8:30am - 5:00pm MDT
Elks Park

9:00am MDT

Rewild Community Circle
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Reconnect with nature, yourself, and your community. Inspired by the interconnectedness of mycelium, this community circle offering will allow festival attendees to connect more deeply to one another through open-hearted shares in an intentional, safe space.

During this community circle, attendees will be provided with journal prompts to reflect on the theme of this year’s festival, “rewild.” Attendees will explore what it means to “rewild” by contemplating themes of gratitude and reciprocal relationships with nature, living cyclically and seasonally, and honoring nature as medicine and teacher. Attendees will have the opportunity for individual reflection and journaling time, followed by an invitation to share their thoughts and reflections in the circle, as we sit like mushrooms in a fairy ring.

This event is first come, first served and limited. Please show up early to ensure a spot.
Speakers
avatar for Skyler Potocek

Skyler Potocek

Creator, Coven Meeting
Skyler is a Woman’s Guidance Facilitator and 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, based in Denver. Creator of Coven Meeting, a journal club and women’s circle group created for women to intentionally gather, reflect, and connect in sisterhood, Skyler has been hosting events for the... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Integration Space - Elks Park

9:00am MDT

Welcome to the 46th Telluride Mushroom Festival: Let's Rewild!
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
This presentation will introduce you to a little bit of what to expect from this year's Festival ...and will give you a glimpse of our past, our founders and our visionaries who catalyzed this event which has become "the largest wild mushroom event in North America." I will also introduce this year's theme: Rewild.

What is rewilding?

Rewilding has emerged over the past three decades as one of the most imaginative and ambitious movements in global conservation. At its core lies a radical but intuitive idea: ecosystems can regain their vitality, complexity, and self‑direction if the processes that once shaped them are restored. Rather than focusing solely on protecting individual species, rewilding seeks to revive relationships—migration, predation, grazing, disturbance, succession—that allow landscapes to function as dynamic, resilient systems. It is a shift from managing nature to enabling it, from preservation to regeneration, from static reserves to living, evolving worlds.

Although the term “rewilding” is relatively new, the impulse behind it is ancient, echoing Indigenous stewardship traditions that understood landscapes as reciprocal, relational, and alive. Today, rewilding has become a global conversation, taking different forms in different places, shaped by local histories, ecologies, and cultural values...And FUNGI will play a HUGE role!



Speakers
avatar for Britt Bunyard

Britt Bunyard

Program Director, Telluride Mushroom Festival
Britt Bunyard, PhD, is the founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of the mycology journal Fungi, in print since 2008. Britt is a former university professor and has published over 100 academic and popular science papers. He has served as an editor for mycological and entomological... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Sheridan Opera House

9:00am MDT

Yoga: Connecting to the Mycelium Network with Shay
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Community, support, shared wisdom. We are stronger together than we are apart. It’s in our nature to take care of each other.

Bring your mat, water, and any comforts for your practice. We may have limited mats available for those who do not have them on a first come first served basis. 
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am MDT
Ah Haa School - SkyDeck Rooftop

9:00am MDT

Sign Up Tent for Forays and Workshops
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Foray & Workshop Sign‑Up Tent

This tent is where festival pass holders can sign up for Forays and Workshops the day before they take place. All forays and workshops can also be RSVP’d online before festival week. ONLY ONE Foray and ONE Workshop can be RSVP'd for online pre-sign ups.

Workshops take place at various venues throughout Telluride, and signing up online ahead of time guarantees your spot.
A few “Hop‑In” Forays will be available on the day of, and some forays may still have space if the group hasn’t reached the max of 25 participants.

If you’d like to switch, cancel, or check availability, volunteers at the Sign‑Up Tent can help with everything.

Most forays depart from the Carhenge Parking Lot. Volunteers will be there to check you in by scanning your QR code, connect you with your group and leader, and provide directions to the foray location. Carpooling is recommended to help keep groups together.

Relax, learn, enjoy the outdoors, and make new friends.




Speakers
avatar for Chris Grimes

Chris Grimes

TMF Operations & Volunteer Coordinator, Telluride Institute
When Chris Grimes isn’t foragin’ for vintage western wear somewhere in Appalachia, he’s likely off in the woods hunting mushrooms. A TMF volunteer since 2023, Chris returns for his sophomore year as Operations & Volunteer Coordinator, better known around camp as the Lead “Soft... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Elks Park & Oak Street Park

9:00am MDT

Foray with Greg Sanchez
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 2:00pm MDT
ONE FORAY PER FESTIVAL TICKET

Discover the Fungi of the San Juan Mountains with Greg Sanchez

Experience the incredible diversity of wild mushrooms found near Telluride during this guided foray through prime mushroom habitat in spectacular mountain terrain. Participants will learn mushroom identification tips and techniques, habitat recognition and responsible foraging practices while enjoying an easy to medium mountain hike. Whether you’re a curious beginner or an experienced mushroom hunter, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Colorado’s fascinating fungal world.


Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 8:45 AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared

Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct. 


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Speakers
avatar for Greg Sanchez

Greg Sanchez

Foray Leader, Colorado Mycological Society
Greg Sanchez knew nothing about mushrooms until 2004 when he wondered, “What do you do at a mushroom festival?”  After attending the Telluride Mushroom Festival that year, he found out, sparking a lasting fascination with and a deep passion for all things fungal. Greg is a high... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 2:00pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

9:00am MDT

Mushroom ID Tent
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Mushroom ID Tent: Located in the middle of Elks Park.

We will have experts helping define and talk to you about all the mushrooms found around the San Juans during the days. These stations will be led by our lead mycologists, Foray Leaders and some of the festival founders. ID Staffed most days around 12pm and goes until 3pm. It is variable with forays and weather.

Times:
Mushroom ID Tent
Thursday - Saturday, 9am - 5pm
ID Staff Hours - 12pm - 3pm
Sunday 9am - 12pm

ID Staff Hours - TBD

See you there!
Speakers
avatar for Linnea & Lee Gillman

Linnea & Lee Gillman

Mushroom ID Tent Managers
Linnea and Lee Gillman have been with the Telluride Mushroom Festival from the beginning and running the Mushroom ID Tent over the years.

Linnea has an MS in mycology from Virginia Tech, is retired from the USDA Forest Service where she worked on mycorrhizal fungi, and is a co-aut... Read More →
avatar for Nickolas Rajtar

Nickolas Rajtar

Foray Leader
Nick Rajtar is a forest pathologist and a mycologist who received his PhD at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities under his advisor Dr. Robert Blanchette in 2024. Rajtar currently is a post-doctoral researcher at UMN where his work focuses on the biosurveillance of invasive forest... Read More →
avatar for Andrew Wilson

Andrew Wilson

Denver Botanic Gardens
Andrew Wilson is the Associate Curator of Mycology in the Sam Mitchel Herbarium of Fungi at Denver Botanic Gardens. His research studies the patterns and processes that shape mushroom diversity, where he has traveled the world to document and describe new species. As a curator he... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Elks Park & Oak Street Park

9:00am MDT

Vendor Village
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Vendor Village:
Located under both sides of the main banner in Telluride main street at the town malls. We will have a food vendor in Elk's Park, Pretty as Plants, serving up a mushroom based vegetarian menu.

Stop by and shop from local artisans, mushroom businesses, and all things fungi! From medicinals to dried mushrooms, cultivation use, to some cool TMF swag and a whole lotta unique crafts. Vendor Village is a must stop and shop for all people in and around Telluride.

Vendor Village hours:
Thursday - Friday 9 - 5PM
Saturday 9am - 5PM, with vendors having the option to close at 3PM
Sunday 9am - 2pm

See you there!
Speakers
avatar for Jackson Schneider

Jackson Schneider

TMF Vendor Coordinator
Jackson has been assisting the TMF operations team as a year-round volunteer since 2025. This year will be his first year in the Vendor Coordinator role.
avatar for Rebecca Roberts

Rebecca Roberts

TMF Business Development & Operations Manager, Telluride Institute
Rebecca's first Telluride Mushroom Festival was 2018, the next four years she volunteered until eventually being hired at TMF's Partnership Manager. After 3 years in the role, she was promoted to Business Development & Operations Manager and co-leading the festival. She's spent the... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00am - 5:00pm MDT
Elks Park & Oak Street Park

9:30am MDT

Functional Fungi/Medicinal Mushroom: A Discussion
Join a discussion where we listen and share experiences around medicinal and functional mushrooms. We'll offer topics to initiate conversations, raise questions, and share ideas in a flowing conversation. Some examples of topics may include how to choose and use mushroom products, making your own extracts, the side effects or contraindications of mushroom extracts, and where to find unbiased information about medicinal mushrooms. Share stories with your fellow mycophiles utilizing functional fungi.

All presentation in Transformation Studio are first come first serve. A line will be formed outside of Ah Haa for this presentation. There will be limited seats so please plan for a different event if this is full.
Speakers
avatar for John Michelotti

John Michelotti

Catskill Fungi
John Michelotti is the founder of Catskill Fungi which empowers people with fungi through outdoor educational classes, cultivation courses, mushroom art, and mushroom health extracts.  John is a former President of the Mid-Hudson Mycological Association (MHMA) where he co-founded... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Ah Haa School - Transformation Studio

9:30am MDT

Foray with Graham Steinruck
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Documenting Fungal Diversity with Graham Steinruck

Join Biodiversity Collective to document Telluride’s fungal diversity, learn field ID and observation skills, and contribute meaningful data that supports community science.


Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 9:15AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared

Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct. 


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Speakers
avatar for Graham Steinruck

Graham Steinruck

Chef, Foray Leader
Graham Steinruck is a chef, forager, and mycologist with a passion for incorporating wild ingredients into unique culinary creations inspired by the natural world. Having worked alongside some of Colorado’s top chefs, Graham's dedication to cooking and foraging earned him a spot... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

10:00am MDT

Fiber Dying Workshop
In this workshop, attendees will learn how to produce and use natural mushroom dyes to create a small Shibori silk scarf.

Material Fee: $35 sign up here


A limited on-site queue will be available for folks who did not sign up online. A queue card and proof of payment is required to access this workshop. Please come and line up for queue cards outside Ah Haa 1 hour before workshop start time. These queue cards are first come first serve. Once you have a queue card you can go in 5 minutes or so before start time of workshop. Your queue card + material fee is your access to workshop. 

QUEUE SYSTEM IS ONLY AT CURIOSITY SHOP WORKSHOPS. 

All other lectures/workshops are first come first serve outside of Curiosity Shop.
Speakers
avatar for Mayumi Fujio

Mayumi Fujio

Artist
Mayumi is an award winning fiber artist using natural dye and mushroom dye with the technique called botanical printing which uses real leaves to transfer colors and shapes from plants onto natural fibers. She extracts dye from the mushrooms and uses it for her work on silk, wool... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Ah Haa School - Curiosity Shop

10:00am MDT

Psychedelic Elder Mycogourds Interview with Art Goodtimes and Special Guest Dr. Michael Myhre (Limited Capacity Seating Space, Bring your own Chair)
Limited Capacity, First Come First Serve Seating. Bring a comfortable folding chair. 

Psychedelic Elder Mycogourds Interview with Art Goodtimes and Dr. Michael Myhre at 10am-12pm at the Telluride Historical Museum courtyard

Modeled after the peer-to-peer sharing of graduate seminars, the MycoGourds concept was inspired by the work of Colorado deep ecologist Dolores LaChapelle and Brazilian socialist educator Paulo Freire. Dolores was a strong advocate of sharing circles for information-sharing -- as used in many traditions, both ancient and new (such as Indigenous Councils and the Rainbow Family Gathering’s talking stick circles).

Co-sponsored by the Telluride Institute's Telluride Mushroom Festival and the Telluride Historical Museum, this MycoGourds will be a variation of the passing of the gourd format. After a brief sharing from everyone, Art as facilitator will open the circle to questions of ethnobotanist Kat Harrison who will be our featured guest.
Speakers
avatar for Art Goodtimes

Art Goodtimes

Telluride Mushroom Festival Co-Founder. Festival Cultural Coordinator, Steward and Poet-in-Residence, Telluride Institute
Art Goodtimes is an Italian-American poet, activist, basketweaver, non-profit administrator and politician in Colorado, as well as a driving force of the Telluride Mushroom Festival since its beginnings in 1981.

He grew up in California where he was a member of the Mycological Society of San Francisco. He attended St. Joseph's Seminary for six years but graduated from San Francisco State University in 1970, doing post-graduate work at UC Berkeley Extension where he obtained a lifetime California... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Telluride Historical Museum Amphitheater

10:00am MDT

Foray with Nickolas Rajtar
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Wandering for Wild Fungi: A Polypore‑Forward Foray with Nick Rajtar

Join Nickolas for a relaxed, exploratory foray designed for everyone — from total beginners to seasoned mycologists. This walk embraces curiosity and the natural rhythm of the forest. Participants are encouraged to wander, explore at their own pace, and follow whatever catches their eye.


While Nickolas has a special love for polypores, they’re skilled in identifying a wide range of mushrooms, and the focus of the day will simply be whatever the forest chooses to offer.


During the final 30 minutes, the group will reconvene for a collaborative show‑and‑tell, sharing finds, comparing notes, and learning together. This foray is perfect for anyone who enjoys discovery, community learning, and letting the woods lead the way.


Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 9:45 AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared

Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct. 


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Speakers
avatar for Nickolas Rajtar

Nickolas Rajtar

Foray Leader
Nick Rajtar is a forest pathologist and a mycologist who received his PhD at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities under his advisor Dr. Robert Blanchette in 2024. Rajtar currently is a post-doctoral researcher at UMN where his work focuses on the biosurveillance of invasive forest... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

10:15am MDT

Mushrooms of Colorado and "The Telluride Most Wanted"
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am MDT
Welcome to the Telluride Mushroom Festival! Let's get to know some of the more common mushrooms of our region...and rarities to be on the lookout for. Andy Wilson always challenges us to find some species rarely seen and Festival attendees usually rise to the challenge. Every year it's a different MOST WANTED. What will be on Dr. Wilson's list this year? You will be doing valuable scientific work, as collections go to the famous Sam Mitchel Herbarium at the Denver Botanical Garden.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Wilson

Andrew Wilson

Denver Botanic Gardens
Andrew Wilson is the Associate Curator of Mycology in the Sam Mitchel Herbarium of Fungi at Denver Botanic Gardens. His research studies the patterns and processes that shape mushroom diversity, where he has traveled the world to document and describe new species. As a curator he... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am MDT
Sheridan Opera House

10:30am MDT

Alchemical Mushroom Sound Bath
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am MDT
Attendance limited to 40 people, First Come First Serve

We will start by enjoying a potent Spagyric Mushroom Elixir crafted by Sacred Herbal Extracts and then transition into a comfortable meditative space, laying down or seated.

Brian will be intuitively guiding a journey through sound with a variety of gongs, singing bowls, bells, ancient whistles, handpan, chimes, and more. As we are immersed in the cosmic ocean of sound; these vibrations massage each cell of our body and calm our nervous systems. The harmonic resonance created by the gong tones allow us to easily drop into a blissful, peaceful state of relaxation.

This is a great opportunity to be present to feel and connect more deeply with your choice of a mushroom extract while recharging our systems.
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am MDT
Ah Haa School - SkyDeck Rooftop

10:30am MDT

MushWomb Circle: Tuning In To Your Own Sacred Dialogue
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am MDT
This is a sacred dialogue, a gathering that embraces all voices to share and behold one
another’s journeys and insights. Together, we shall deepen our understanding of our hormonal
cycles within menstruating bodies, illuminating the vital seasons of death and decay and the life
they bestow—akin to the wondrous mycelial realm. We will explore how various mycology terms
can enlighten our understanding of womb sovereignty and honor our cyclical essence.

This event is first come, first served and limited. Please show up early to ensure a spot.
Speakers
avatar for Abigail Maxon

Abigail Maxon

Rhythmic Renewal
Abigail Maxon, the passionate force behind Rhythmic Renewal, is dedicated to uncovering the
magic of your hormonal cycles and reclaiming womb sovereignty. By challenging the societal
belief that menstruation is merely a burden or inconvenience, she encourages you to see your
cycle a... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am MDT
Integration Space - Elks Park

11:00am MDT

Beyond the Biomarker: Harnessing the Complexity of Functional Mushrooms
As the functional mushroom industry grows, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: mushrooms from the same species are not necessarily the same in function or chemistry. Across lion’s mane, agarikon, and turkey tail, factors such as strain, substrate, tissue type, and extraction method can meaningfully shape biological activity and functional outcomes.

Drawing from fungal genomics, metabolomics, preclinical transcriptomics, and emerging clinical evidence, this presentation explores how fungal diversity functions not as inconsistency to be eliminated, but as a blueprint for discovery and product innovation. Highlighting the first annotated genome of agarikon alongside a strain library of more than 125 agarikon isolates, the talk examines how strain-level variation drives measurable differences in bioactive composition and downstream functional activity.

In both agarikon and turkey tail, mycelial preparations demonstrate context-dependent activity supported by two placebo-controlled human clinical trials reporting concordant immune-supportive outcomes. Lion’s mane further serves as a model system for understanding how tissue type and extraction approach influence both immune and neuroactive properties.

But as mushroom chemistry becomes more deeply mapped, a larger question emerges: when biomarkers don’t fully explain bioefficacy, we may need to rethink what “functional” actually means for mushrooms. Rather than reducing fungi to single compounds or species-level assumptions, this talk explores a systems-level view of mushrooms where biological complexity becomes a resource for discovery, innovation, and the rewilding of functional mushroom science.

All presentation in Transformation Studio are first come first serve. A line will be formed outside of Ah Haa for this presentation. There will be limited seats so please plan for a different event if this is full.



Speakers
avatar for Chase Beathard

Chase Beathard

Fungi Perfecti
Chase Beathard is the Associate Director of R&D, leading the cell and molecular biology team at Fungi Perfecti, LLC. His research explores the impact of fungi on human health, spanning immunology, neurobiology, virology, longevity, and general wellness. Prior to his time at Fungi... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Ah Haa School - Transformation Studio

11:00am MDT

Foray with Larry Evans
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Deep Secrets & Microhabitats: Using All Five Senses to ID Mushrooms with Larry Evans

Step into the forest with longtime TMF legend Larry Evans, who has been leading forays in Telluride since before Know Your Mushrooms introduced the world to fungiphilia as the cure for fungiphobia. Larry’s approach is immersive, sensory, and full of story — don’t be surprised if an exciting mushroom (or a barrage of good questions) inspires him to break into song.


This foray dives into the microhabitats and hidden clues that reveal
where fungi live, partner, and thrive. Larry brings a rare depth of knowledge about the habitats, indicator species, mining history, and chemistry that shape this unique landscape. Every mushroom has a backstory, and Larry has a way of bringing those stories to life.

Using all five senses, you’ll learn how to observe the forest closely, interpret subtle environmental signals, and understand the relationships that guide mushroom identification. Expect equal parts science, curiosity, and joyful chaos — a true Larry Evans experience.



Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 10:45 AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared

Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct. 


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Speakers
avatar for Larry Evans

Larry Evans

Foray Leader
Larry Evans has been tiptoeing through the subalpine spruce and fir and showing people how to tell mushrooms apart since the 20th century. Not afraid to sing or yodel, he may be triggered by the phrase, "can ya eat it?"  He's been writing songs and singing about mushrooms and released... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

11:30am MDT

Gasteromycetes of Colorado: Puffballs, Earthstars, Stinkhorns, Earthballs & False Truffles Across Elevation and Habitat
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Colorado is gasteroid country. From shortgrass prairie to subalpine spruce–fir, the state’s huge elevation range, monsoon pulses, and patchwork of forests, dunes, riparian corridors, and even urban woodchips create an ideal map for “gasteromycetes”—puffballs, earthstars, stinkhorns, earthballs, and false truffles. While “gasteromycetes” isn’t a single modern clade, the gasteroid strategy still matters: spores mature enclosed, then disperse by wind, rain splash, trampling, insects, and mammals. In this talk, we’ll use Colorado habitats as the organizing framework so you can predict which gasteroid guild you’re likely to find—then learn what to look for once you’re there.

We’ll start with puffballs as Colorado headliners, covering simple anatomy (peridium, gleba, capillitium) and the essential safety rule: puffballs are edible only when the interior is uniformly white, firm, and homogeneous—plus how to avoid dangerous look-alikes by sectioning. You’ll learn an easy field ID approach to common groups (woodland Lycoperdon, lawn Bovista, giant Calvatia, sand specialists like Disciseda, and more) and how seasonality and disturbance shape where they appear. We’ll also explore earthstars as “desert origami,” earthballs (Scleroderma) as a key cautionary group, stinkhorns as insect-powered dispersal machines, and false truffles and hypogeous allies (including conifer partners like Rhizopogon) as part of the underground network tied to wildlife and forest regeneration.

You’ll leave with a practical documentation checklist (photos, notes, habitat + elevation cues) and a new way to read Colorado landscapes through gasteroid fungi.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Jarvis

Stephanie Jarvis

Pacific Truffle Growers, LLC
Stephanie Jarvis is a truffle cultivator, mycologist, ISA Certified Arborist, and founder of Pacific Truffle Growers. She holds a Master of Science degree in Conservation Genetics with a specialization in mycology and has spent more than 25 years working in mushroom cultivation, mycology... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Sheridan Opera House

11:30am MDT

Foray with John Sir Jesse
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:30am - 2:00pm MDT
Foray with John Sir Jesse

Join John Sir Jesse for a guided walk focused on identifying edible mushrooms while exploring a wide range of foundational mycology topics. Along the way, he’ll cover toxic lookalikes, medicinal species, and best practices for gathering, preparing, preserving, and cooking your finds — including recipe ideas and practical tips. The foray also emphasizes ethical harvesting, habitat awareness, and essential guidelines for safe foraging in the wild.


This experience is designed to build confidence, deepen your understanding of local fungi, and help you develop a thoughtful, respectful approach to mushrooming.



Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 11:15AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared

Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct. 


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Speakers
avatar for John SirJesse

John SirJesse

TMF Co-Founder, Foray Leader
One of the founders of the Telluride Mushroom Festival, I have been leading forays, helping with setup, doing cook and tastes etc since day one. I also have a Special Use Permit with the Forest Service to conduct plant and mushroom hikes on FS lands. I am also a certified mushroom... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 11:30am - 2:00pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

12:00pm MDT

Why You Should Stop Growing Psilocybe Cubensis
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm MDT
We will challenge the widespread reputation of cubensis as the go-to psychedelic mushroom. This presentation delves into the history of Psilocybe cubensis, not only of its cultivation but also how it spread throughout the globe. But more importantly, we will focus on the myriad of incredible alternatives, their growth, habitat and effect and why exotic species are the future of the Psychedelic industry.  We will examine how cultural biases and convenience have shaped the dominance of cubensis, often at the expense of diversity and depth of experience. This talk invites a rethinking of what it means to cultivate and consume psychedelic fungi. You will gain insight into the overlooked treasures of the mushroom world, learn practical considerations for exploring beyond cubensis, and discover how embracing variety can reshape the future of psychedelic practice and research.
Speakers
avatar for Jasper Degenaars

Jasper Degenaars

Fungi Academy
Jasper Degenaars is an ambassador to the Kindom of the Fungi and has dedicated his life to the sharing and growing of Fungal Wisdom. It all started over 13 years ago when he embarked on a journey to decipher the growing of Psilocybe mushrooms. Since 2019 he has committed his full... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm MDT
Ah Haa School - SkyDeck Rooftop

12:00pm MDT

How to Draw a Mushroom with Chris Adams - Limited Capacity Workshop Sign Up
Join artist Chris Adams (the human behind Corvidopolis, The Mushroom Tarot and Sporelust!), to discuss & practice basic techniques for drawing anything––but in this case mushrooms & other inspirational beings from the natural world. Chris will describe his basic processes of drawing from the real world & photographic reference, work with the class on some fun experiments with common media and outline his approach to combining personal creative inspiration with accurate––sometimes scientific––observation.

Suggested Class Materials:
You will receive a “How to Draw a Mushroom” info sheet with some tips & nonsense and some basic tools will be available. Please bring your favorite media and some blank paper so we can make the most out of our forest time, and it doesn’t hurt to show up with technical questions or artistic goals you might want to discuss!
Speakers
avatar for Chris Adams

Chris Adams

Official Festival Artist, Corvidopolis, Sporelust
Chris is the creative mind behind Corvidopolis, The Mushroom Tarot and Sporelust!

Sporelust! is a Fungi Forward & Forest Inspired apparel brand for people who love mushrooms, forests and biodiversity.
We make clothes, art & goods for people who care about ethical supply chains and
... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Ah Haa School - Curiosity Shop

12:00pm MDT

Foray with Sebastian Tabibi
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
From High Peaks to River Valleys: A Mycological Journey with Sebastian Tabibi

Join mycologist and community builder Sebastian Tabibi for an immersive exploration of the diverse fungal landscapes surrounding Telluride. This foray is designed to bridge the gap between scientific identification and practical, earth-centered wisdom, offering participants a deep dive into the fungal diversity of the San Juan Mountains.

The Expedition
Our journey will traverse the dramatic ecological gradients of the region, venturing through:

High-Elevation Coniferous Forests: Navigating the subalpine stands of Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir with an elevation around 10K.

Bottomland Riparian Areas: Descending into the lush, shaded corridors of valley floors to explore the rich biodiversity found among willows, cottonwoods, and alders.

As we move through these varied habitats, Sebastian will provide a comprehensive breakdown for every species encountered. This is more than a simple identification walk; participants will gain insights into:

Edibility & Toxins: Clear, expert guidance on which species are choice edibles and which carry dangerous lookalikes.

Medicinal Benefits: The traditional and contemporary therapeutic applications of forest fungi.

Ecological Roles: Understanding the vital functions fungi perform as decomposers, mycorrhizal partners, and nutrient recyclers.

Habitat & Phenology: Learning where and when to look based on tree associations and seasonal timing.

Human Utility: Exploring the practical, ancient, and modern uses for fungi beyond the kitchen.

Our foray will conclude with a curated Specimen Discussion. This final "table talk" serves as a high-level review of the day’s finds, highlighting the unique importance of each species within the ecosystem. By examining our collection side-by-side, we will solidify our identification skills and depart with a profound appreciation for the biodiversity that sustains these mountains.

Prepare to live intentionally, embrace the forest, and follow the path of being a "spore in the wind."



Where to Meet
This foray meets at Carhenge Parking Lot at 11:45AM. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.


Be Prepared

Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
  • Good footwear
  • Water and snacks
  • Layers or rain gear
  • A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present.


Pre‑Sign Up Online
Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before.
During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct. 


Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Speakers
avatar for Sebastian Tabibi

Sebastian Tabibi

Foray Leader, North Texas Mycology
Sebastian Tabibi is a passionate amateur chef and highly regarded mycologist raising awareness on the crucial role fungi play in our ecosystem. Based in North Texas, Sebastian has been delving into the world of fungi, particularly fascinated by their medicinal properties and cataloging... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
Carhenge Parking Lot

12:00pm MDT

Integration Space
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
We are rooted in a harm reduction model that welcomes all people who need a place to process and/or would like support from our licensed therapists with psychedelic integration training, massage therapists and herbalists. This cozy and accessible lounge will host integration circles and have other alternative wellness modalities for festival goers to be able to down-regulate and integrate their TMF experience. This is a safe, quiet, space where everyone is welcome.



Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Joy

Rebecca Joy

Mycelia Transformation
avatar for Jennifer Pressey

Jennifer Pressey

TMF Integration Space Practitioner
Jenn holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) as well as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the state of Colorado. She has experience working with diverse populations and is passionate about supporting... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Integration Space - Elks Park

12:30pm MDT

What's in a Name: Decoding the Language of Fungi with Gabrielle Cerberville
"What's in a Name: Decoding the Language of Fungi"

Scientific names may seem intimidating at first, but each one reveals a story about a mushroom's appearance, ecology, history, or the people who first studied it. In this entertaining lecture, we'll uncover the meanings behind the names of dozens of familiar and fascinating mushroom genera, exploring the Greek and Latin roots that form the foundation of fungal taxonomy.

All presentation in Transformation Studio are first come first serve. A line will be formed outside of Ah Haa for this presentation. There will be limited seats so please plan for a different event if this is full.
Speakers
avatar for Gabrielle Cerberville

Gabrielle Cerberville

The Chaotic Forager
Gabrielle Cerberville, otherwise known as Chaotic Forager and sometimes as the Internet’s Mushroom Auntie, is a celebrated foraging educator, community mycologist, and climate advocate based in the Charlottesville area. Known for her informative, funny, high-energy social media... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT
Ah Haa School - Transformation Studio

12:45pm MDT

Notes from Underground: The Roles of Fungi in Fields and Forests
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
What exactly are fungi, and why should we care about them? How are they related to and distinct from other organisms? How do they function in the world? What ecosystem roles do they play and how important are they? This talk will explore these and other questions.
Speakers
avatar for Ken Kassenbrock

Ken Kassenbrock

Colorado State University
Ken Kassenbrock, MD,PhD has been an avid hunter of wild mushrooms since the late 1970s. Trained as a physician-scientist, he has worked in Cell and Molecular Biology, including post-doctoral work with the brewer’s yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Although his interests in fungi... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm MDT
Sheridan Opera House

1:00pm MDT

Mushroom ID Tent Discussion: "What's Been Coming In?"
Thursday August 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Join our mycologists at the Workshop Tent at Elks Park for some periodic "what's been coming in" talks. Learn more in depth what people are finding out foraging in the mountains. You may learn new species, common edibles, identifying techniques and foraging locations for specific mushrooms. All this and more will be happening throughout the festival. Times may vary day to day depending on mycologist availability. 
Speakers
avatar for Nickolas Rajtar

Nickolas Rajtar

Foray Leader
Nick Rajtar is a forest pathologist and a mycologist who received his PhD at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities under his advisor Dr. Robert Blanchette in 2024. Rajtar currently is a post-doctoral researcher at UMN where his work focuses on the biosurveillance of invasive forest... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Elks Park Workshop Tent

1:30pm MDT

Handmade Paper from Foraged Mushrooms- Limited Capacity - Workshop Sign Up
Come meet Jessica and make paper with fungi! In this workshop, she will teach you which fungi can be used and all about the tools and techniques of paper making. Each participant will get hands-on guidance and leave with their own piece of handmade paper!
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Langley

Jessica Langley

Artist
Jessica Langley (b. 1981, USA) is an interdisciplinary artist, somatic sex & relationship practitioner, earth medicine mentor, and amateur mycologist. Langley is based in Colorado where she an active member of the Pikes Peak Mycological Society and facilitates platonic intimacy experiences... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Ah Haa School - Curiosity Shop

2:00pm MDT

Mushrooms, Moths, and Midnight Ecology
Thursday August 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
After the sun goes down the forest doesn’t sleep, it goes wild. Fungi shape the forest after dark, from the chemistry of glowing mushrooms, to the traffic of pollinating moths, the work of decay, soil-building, and nutrient cycling pulses around the clock. Mycologist and photographer Mandie Quark invites you to explore the nocturnal world where mushrooms, moths, and other night-shift creatures interact in ways humans are only beginning to understand. long the way, she’ll share captivating images and stories from moonlit forays, spotlight surprising fungal-insect alliances, and equip you with practical tips for safely exploring ecosystems after dusk. This talk will inspire you to step into the night, eyes wide open to the living, glowing, fluttering networks that thrive while the rest of us catch zzzzs.
Speakers
avatar for Mandie Quark

Mandie Quark

Speaker
Molecular biologist by training, Mandie Quark is a passionate researcher and science communicator, specializing in fungal diversity. Based in the California Bay Area, she is dedicated to advancing citizen mycology through exploration, photography, DNA barcoding, and education. Mandie... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Sheridan Opera House

2:00pm MDT

“He saw a snake which told him ‘Turn your eyes and see your wife’.” Psychoactive mushrooms and plants in colonial period Mexican divination and healing with Bret Blosser
This is a study of divination and healing practices in Mexico during the 17 th and 18 th centuries. The study is based on Inquisition documents, a 1629 report on ritual practices, and Inquisition edicts. Practitioners employed Psilocybe mushrooms, peyote, morning glory seeds, and pipiltzintzintli (an unidentified plant) to access information and
enable healing not available by other means. These methods were associated with indigenous people, but were widely consulted and practiced by others, ranging from Black slaves to Hispanic elites. The Church proclaimed the use of these fungi and plants to be evidence of a “pact with the devil” and attempted to extirpate the practices. Most of the divinations were performed to recover lost or stolen property. Others were undertaken to locate runaway wives, identify bewitchers, locate buried treasure, and spy on a cheating boyfriend.

All presentation in Transformation Studio are first come first serve. A line will be formed outside of Ah Haa for this presentation. There will be limited seats so please plan for a different event if this is full.

Speakers
avatar for Bret Blosser Ph.D.

Bret Blosser Ph.D.

Speaker
Bret Blosser received PhD in Anthropology with a focus on Mesoamerica from Tulane University in 2004. He studied with a Wixarika (Huichol) community in western Mexico and a Mazatec curandero in southern Mexico. He instructed twenty semester and summer university field programs on... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm MDT
Ah Haa School - Transformation Studio

3:00pm MDT

Book Signings with Chad Hyatt, Tradd Cotter, and Britt Bunyard
Three regular favorites at the Telluride Mushroom Festival. Now is your chance to chat with them and to get books signed by all three!
Speakers
avatar for Britt Bunyard

Britt Bunyard

Program Director, Telluride Mushroom Festival
Britt Bunyard, PhD, is the founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of the mycology journal Fungi, in print since 2008. Britt is a former university professor and has published over 100 academic and popular science papers. He has served as an editor for mycological and entomological... Read More →
avatar for Tradd Cotter

Tradd Cotter

Mycologist, Blue Portal
Tradd Cotter is a microbiologist, professional mycologist, and retired landscape designer, who has been cultivating mushrooms both commercially and experimentally for more than thirty years.

Tradd is the author of the best-selling book Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation (2014) and has won numerous awards for his work including the prestigious Clemson University Entrepreneur of the Year Award (2013), the EPA GRO-U Fellowship Award (2011), including the Gary Lincoff... Read More →
avatar for Chad Hyatt

Chad Hyatt

Chef
Chad Hyatt is an expert forager and classically trained chef who has made a name for himself in northern California and beyond, sharing his delicious spin on wild mushroom cookery. He has cooked in a variety of restaurants and private clubs around the San Francisco Bay area, where... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Between the Covers- Bookstore

3:00pm MDT

Open Myc - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC (Limited Space, Bring your own Chair)
Limited Seating, Bring Your Own Chair

Sponsored by the Telluride Institute's Talking Gourds Poetry Program, this will be an opportunity for festival poets, musicians and storytellers to come and share a creative mushroom or identity (theme) piece with the Telluride community. There will be a sign-up list. Open and free to the public and any interested participants (as time allows). Bring a chair or a pad to sit on. Participation in the MMM Poetry show on Friday night is by invitation only.


Speakers
avatar for Art Goodtimes

Art Goodtimes

Telluride Mushroom Festival Co-Founder. Festival Cultural Coordinator, Steward and Poet-in-Residence, Telluride Institute
Art Goodtimes is an Italian-American poet, activist, basketweaver, non-profit administrator and politician in Colorado, as well as a driving force of the Telluride Mushroom Festival since its beginnings in 1981.

He grew up in California where he was a member of the Mycological Society of San Francisco. He attended St. Joseph's Seminary for six years but graduated from San Francisco State University in 1970, doing post-graduate work at UC Berkeley Extension where he obtained a lifetime California... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Telluride Historical Museum Amphitheater

3:15pm MDT

Aquatic and Terrestrial Xylaria
Thursday August 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm MDT
This presentation will cover some of my work identifying and researching Xylaria species in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador. The second half of the presentation will focus on a very special aquatic Xylaria species.
Speakers
avatar for Nickolas Rajtar

Nickolas Rajtar

Foray Leader
Nick Rajtar is a forest pathologist and a mycologist who received his PhD at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities under his advisor Dr. Robert Blanchette in 2024. Rajtar currently is a post-doctoral researcher at UMN where his work focuses on the biosurveillance of invasive forest... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm MDT
Sheridan Opera House

3:30pm MDT

The Role of Psilocybin in Rewilding the Mind
This workshop explores psilocybin as a catalyst for returning the human mind to a more natural, unconditioned state—one less dominated by rigid patterns of thought and more attuned to intuition, emotion, and interconnectedness. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and indigenous perspectives, it examines how psilocybin can temporarily dissolve habitual frameworks—such as ego fixation, cultural conditioning, and linear thinking—allowing deeper layers of perception to emerge.

“Rewilding the mind” here refers not to regression, but to restoration: a process of reclaiming cognitive flexibility, sensory openness, and a sense of belonging within the broader web of life. The piece considers how psilocybin may interrupt default neural pathways (like the default mode network), foster novel connections, and promote states of awe, humility, and ecological awareness.

All presentation in Transformation Studio are first come first serve. A line will be formed outside of Ah Haa for this presentation. There will be limited seats so please plan for a different event if this is full.
Speakers
avatar for Mah Ze Tar

Mah Ze Tar

Musician
Maz Karandish is a Devotee of music- A well traveled vocalist & multi-instrumentalist covering grounds from Rāga, Maqām, and Dastgāh to Harmony, Jazz, and Opera. Maz feels deeply connected to the ancient musical traditions of the east that he began learning from a very young age... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
Ah Haa School - Transformation Studio

4:00pm MDT

Myco-preneur's Happy Hour
Thursday August 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm MDT
Join us for happy hour at the West End Bistro at the Hotel Telluride for a casual business happy hour learning how we can Rewild in our businesses and other myco-events popping up around the country. You'll have an opportunity to engage with business owners, mycological society coordinators and event organizers. We'll have TBC's Myco-Beer and Cider with Tradd Cotter's functional mushroom tinctures.

Featured: Complimentary OM Mushrooms and Real Mushrooms (TMF Sponsors) drinks at the coffee bar. Want to taste the Festival Telluride Brewing Company MycoBeer and NEW THIS YEAR Fenceline Myco-CIDER? $1 for every beer or cider purchased is donated to the Telluride Mushroom Festival, thanks to TMF sponsor and partner Hotel Telluride.



Thursday August 13, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm MDT
The Hotel Telluride 199 Cornet Ln, Telluride, CO 81435, USA

4:00pm MDT

LGBTQ+ Social Hour
Thursday August 13, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Join us for a casual gathering of queer folks and allies during the Telluride Mushroom Festival. We'll have myco beer from Telluride Brewing Co. and cider from Fenceline Cider, and $1 from every beer/cider sold will go back to supporting TMF.
Come meet new people, reconnect with old friends, and spend some time with community.
Thursday August 13, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Alibi

4:30pm MDT

Medicinal Mushroom Extracts & Tinctures: From Kitchen Chemistry to Commercial Craft
Thursday August 13, 2026 4:30pm - 5:15pm MDT
This hands-on workshop takes participants on a practical journey through the science and craft of functional mushroom extraction - from the compounds worth extracting, to the solvents that reach them, to the techniques used at every scale from home kitchen to commercial lab.

Led by Shane of Mycolove, the session covers dual-solvent extraction methodology, the chemistry of beta-glucans and triterpenes, how to evaluate product quality, and what separates a meaningful extract from a marketing claim. Participants will build their own functional tincture during the workshop - one functional mushroom and one functional herb - leaving with both a finished product and the understanding to make it again at home.

This is not a recipe class. It's a science class that ends with something you take home and use.
Speakers
avatar for Shane Schoolman

Shane Schoolman

MyCOlove Farm

Thursday August 13, 2026 4:30pm - 5:15pm MDT
Elks Park Workshop Tent

6:00pm MDT

Offical Opening Ceremony
Thursday August 13, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Welcome ALL to the 46th Annual Telluride Mushroom Festival!
Speakers
avatar for Laurie Lunquist

Laurie Lunquist

TMF Committee Chair, Board Treasurer, Telluride Institute

avatar for Ernest House Jr.

Ernest House Jr.

Opening Ceremonies - Invocation

avatar for Mariah Grimes

Mariah Grimes

TMF Marketing and Sales Manager, Telluride Institute
Mariah is a freelance creative, website designer, and social media manager who has been working with the Telluride Mushroom Festival since 2022. Before divinely stumbling into her work with TMF, Mariah worked in hospitality/events working for various boutique hotels and wedding venues... Read More →
avatar for Rebecca Roberts

Rebecca Roberts

TMF Business Development & Operations Manager, Telluride Institute
Rebecca's first Telluride Mushroom Festival was 2018, the next four years she volunteered until eventually being hired at TMF's Partnership Manager. After 3 years in the role, she was promoted to Business Development & Operations Manager and co-leading the festival. She's spent the... Read More →
avatar for Chris Grimes

Chris Grimes

TMF Operations & Volunteer Coordinator, Telluride Institute
When Chris Grimes isn’t foragin’ for vintage western wear somewhere in Appalachia, he’s likely off in the woods hunting mushrooms. A TMF volunteer since 2023, Chris returns for his sophomore year as Operations & Volunteer Coordinator, better known around camp as the Lead “Soft... Read More →
avatar for Britt Bunyard

Britt Bunyard

Program Director, Telluride Mushroom Festival
Britt Bunyard, PhD, is the founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of the mycology journal Fungi, in print since 2008. Britt is a former university professor and has published over 100 academic and popular science papers. He has served as an editor for mycological and entomological... Read More →
avatar for Art Goodtimes

Art Goodtimes

Telluride Mushroom Festival Co-Founder. Festival Cultural Coordinator, Steward and Poet-in-Residence, Telluride Institute
Art Goodtimes is an Italian-American poet, activist, basketweaver, non-profit administrator and politician in Colorado, as well as a driving force of the Telluride Mushroom Festival since its beginnings in 1981.

He grew up in California where he was a member of the Mycological Society of San Francisco. He attended St. Joseph's Seminary for six years but graduated from San Francisco State University in 1970, doing post-graduate work at UC Berkeley Extension where he obtained a lifetime California... Read More →
avatar for Ashley Coady Smith

Ashley Coady Smith

TMF Festival Executive Officer, Telluride Institute
Ashley Coady Smith joined the Telluride Mushroom Festival in 2019 and currently serves as Festival Executive Officer. Working alongside the Program Director and Creative Director, she helps steward the festival's vision by guiding bigger picture operations, budgeting, fundraising... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Palm Theatre

7:00pm MDT

A Louie Schwartzberg Sneak Preview
Thursday August 13, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
A Louie Schwartzberg Sneak Preview
Long before language, before thought, life was already speaking — through mycelial networks, DNA, and the cosmos itself. A cinematic journey revealing an unseen code that shapes existence, connects all living systems, and inspires wonder.

Join Louie Schwartzberg, the visionary filmmaker behind Fantastic Fungi, as he takes us on a global mycelial journey—spreading spores of awe through immersive experiences across the globe from the Las Vegas Sphere to the pulsing heart of Tomorrowland, and into clinical trials merging his imagery with psilocybin to help heal addiction. A visual trip into connection, consciousness, and the intelligence of nature.

Speakers
avatar for Louie Schwartzberg

Louie Schwartzberg

MovingArt
Louie Schwartzberg is a visual artist who breaks barriers, connects with audiences, and shares stories that celebrate life. His work reveals the mysteries and wisdom of nature, people, and places. He is an award-winning director, cinematographer, and producer who has spent his illustrious... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Palm Theatre

8:15pm MDT

Keynote Presentation: Mark Plotkin: The History of Hallucinogens at Harvard
Thursday August 13, 2026 8:15pm - 9:45pm MDT
Mycophiles and myconauts: You will NOT want to miss this Keynote lecture by world renowned ethnobotanist / ethnomycologist Mark Plotkin. Last time at the Telluride Mushroom Festival Dr. Plotkin treated us to a tour de force of his knowledge. For his overview, only teases us that he will be "Recounting the little-known story of entheogen research at Harvard, from William James to Richard Schultes and beyond…"
Speakers
avatar for Mark Plotkin Ph.D.

Mark Plotkin Ph.D.

2026 Keynote
Mark Plotkin, Ph.D., is an ethnobotanist who has been working in and on the Amazon for over four decades. He is an ethnobotanist known for his work in the Neotropics and for advocating rainforest conservation. After early field experience at Harvard’s Museum of Comparative Zoology... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 8:15pm - 9:45pm MDT
Palm Theatre

9:00pm MDT

Live Music! Night Cap at the Alibi w/ Copper Children and Thom LaFond
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00pm - 11:59pm MDT
Want to taste the Festival Telluride Brewing Company MycoBeer and NEW THIS YEAR Fenceline Myco-CIDER? Join Telluride Mushroom Festival with live music and MUSHROOM BEVERAGES! $1 for every beer or cider purchased is donated to the Telluride Mushroom Festival, thanks to TMF sponsor and partner the Alibi. Thank you to Halo Extracts for infusing the beverages. 

9PM | Thom LaFond

Thom LaFond, currently based in Colorado, is known for his distinctive spoken style of lyrics and full-spectrum sonic arrangements. As a multi-instrumentalist and producer, he weaves compelling narratives through music, adding a fresh dimension to the broader musical landscape.  Thom has shared the stage with such acts as Arlo Parks, Rayland Baxter, Rainbow Girls, Handmade Moments, Daniel Rodriguez, Elephant Revival, March Fourth, & Leftover Salmon, 
LaFond is actively producing, performing, and touring nationally with his quartet Banshee Tree.

10:30PM |The Copper Children's Psychedelic Revival

Join us for a night of groovy magic. Freaky, folky, funky, and flat out fun! Come party with Denver's premier Psychedelic Americana band, The Copper Children.

Telluride Mushroom Festival pass holders receive $5 off tickets at the door or buy advance tickets here.
Speakers
avatar for Tradd Cotter

Tradd Cotter

Mycologist, Blue Portal
Tradd Cotter is a microbiologist, professional mycologist, and retired landscape designer, who has been cultivating mushrooms both commercially and experimentally for more than thirty years.

Tradd is the author of the best-selling book Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation (2014) and has won numerous awards for his work including the prestigious Clemson University Entrepreneur of the Year Award (2013), the EPA GRO-U Fellowship Award (2011), including the Gary Lincoff... Read More →
TL

Thom LaFond

Thom LaFond, currently based in Colorado, is known for his distinctive spoken style of lyrics and full-spectrum sonic arrangements. As a multi-instrumentalist and producer, he weaves compelling narratives through music, adding a fresh dimension to the broader musical landscape.  Thom... Read More →
avatar for Austin Quattlebuam

Austin Quattlebuam

TMF Onsite Production Manager, Folk and Forage
Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Quattlebaum grew up with the slow rhythm of the South seeping into his bones. He found his musical roots early, drawn to the banjo's haunting twang, the Southern Appalachia song traditions, and the funky sounds of New Orleans.

Quattlebaum's cr... Read More →
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Copper Children

Musician
The Copper Children are a diverse blend of styles and influences that span from the choral sounds of American gospel music to the psychedelic acid jam fueled sounds of the 60s. Live, they take you into your heart space, conjuring the spirit of unity, freedom, silliness, and Love... Read More →
Thursday August 13, 2026 9:00pm - 11:59pm MDT
Alibi
 
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46th Telluride Mushroom Festival
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