The Durango Bluegrass Train Inaugural Artist Lineup

Durango, Colorado — A new musical tradition is set to roll through the San Juan Mountains this spring. The Durango Bluegrass Train will make its highly anticipated debut May 28, 29 and 30, 2026, featuring six live bluegrass performances aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The inaugural lineup showcases an energetic mix of regional standouts and seasoned pickers, including The Fretliners, High Country Hustle, Alex Graf Duo featuring Eli Emmitt, Humbletown Duo, Lightweight Travelers, and The Brothers Santos.

“Colorado and bluegrass music are synonymous,” said Courtney McClary-Yug, Director of Operations for SBG Productions. “This lineup celebrates some of the best Colorado pickers like The Fretliners, highlights standout talent from the Durango scene such as High Country Hustle, Alex Graf Duo featuring Eli Emmitt and Lightweight Travelers, and brings in outside flavor from Humbletown Duo based in South Dakota and The Brothers Santos from Santa Fe.”

As the train winds through the stunning Animas Valley and climbs toward the breathtaking San Juan National Forest, each artist will perform simultaneously in separate railcars. Guests are invited to move freely from car to car, dancing and exploring six distinct musical atmospheres while enjoying panoramic mountain views.

Four coaches offer seated accommodations, while two open, standing-room-only cars are designed for high-energy dancing. Onboard bars will serve Colorado craft beer, wine, and canned cocktails throughout the evening.

Although Thursday, Friday and Saturday feature the same lineup, organizers emphasize that each night will bring its own unique energy and crowd dynamic.

A New Chapter Built on a Proven Legacy

The Durango Bluegrass Train builds upon the success of the beloved Durango Blues Train, which for more than a decade has drawn music fans from across the country with its seamless blend of live music and spectacular scenery. The new bluegrass edition preserves the immersive, multi-car experience fans love—while introducing a fresh sound rooted in Colorado’s musical heritage.

“This lineup is the perfect way to launch the next evolution of our celebrated train,” said Steve Gumble, Event Director and Founder. “These bands are packed with talent, and the energy throughout the train is going to be electric. Get your tickets and be among the first to stop and holler on the rails with us.”

Event Details

Dates: May 28, 29, 30, 2026
Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours round trip
Boarding: 6:30 pm at the depot (479 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301)
Departure: 7:00 pm sharp
Rockwood Stop: 15–20 minute break at approximately 8:30 pm
Return: Approximately 10:30 pm

Tickets

On Sale: February 19, 2026 at 10:00 am MST
Price: $165 per person
Ages: 21+ only
Availability: Extremely limited; advance sell-out expected

With bluegrass echoing through vintage railcars, craft drinks in hand, and the San Juan Mountains unfolding outside every window, the Durango Bluegrass Train promises an unforgettable evening on the rails.
For tickets, lineup details and updates, visit: www.DurangoBluegrassTrain.com

About Durango Bluegrass Train

The Bluegrass Train is an exciting 3.5-hour moving musical experience of live music on board the steam-powered Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the San Juan National Forest. The event starts and ends in Durango, Colorado featuring six live performances inside the train coaches with a festive musical environment. Each artist performs in their own vintage coach, while passengers can pass freely from coach to coach. The Bluegrass Train with nine passenger cars, a steam-engine locomotive, two full bands, four solo/duo acts and three craft beer and wine bars.

About SBG Productions

A full-service event and festival production company since 1994, SBG Productions specializes in the unique, multi-faceted live music experiences of the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival, Telluride Gay Ski Week, Durango Blues Train, Durango Bluegrass Train and Great Smoky Mountains Music Train.