Boozy skiing and cardboard racing are highlights of a wacky weekend in the mountains

By the Thirst Team

Shenanigans in Steamboat
The 42nd Cardboard Classic slides into Steamboat Springs on Saturday. The event is among the silliest and funniest events of the ski season. Competitors race in homemade crafts, constructed only from cardboard, glue, string, paint, tape and decorations.

Craft judging in categories including most creative and best costumes begins at 11 a.m., followed by the race. The event is free for both competitors and fans.

On Sunday, Steamboat hosts the Splashdown Pond Skim. Skiers and snowboarders launch downhill, then try to cross an icy pond without falling in.

Beer Ski World Championships
The Crested Butte Nordic Center hosts the third annual Beer Ski World Championships on Saturday, with solo and 4-person team events. All participants must be over 21 years old and show valid identification. Racers chug 12 ounces of beer, then ski half a mile, racing for the title of Drunken Master. Costumes are strongly encouraged.

Western Slope Beer Fest
Edgewater Brewery in Grand Junction hosts the Western Slope Beer Fest from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday. Two bands are playing, and 10 breweries will each pour at least two beers for sampling. Tickets cost $30, and include unlimited beer samples.

Destination of the week: Pueblo
The first Steel City Music Showcase is on Friday and Saturday, with more than 30 musical acts playing on four stages along Union Avenue in downtown Pueblo. The festival includes rock, folk, country, hip hop, reggae and more, with sets starting on the hour every hour from 6 to 11 p.m. both nights.

Taste of the Week: Durango Restaurants
The first Durango Restaurant Week runs from Friday, April 12, through Sunday, April 21, with $15, $25 and $50 deals at restaurants, bars and food trucks throughout La Plata County.

Save the date for Nederland jazz pop-up
Very limited tickets remain for a spring pop-up event on Saturday, April 20, at Busey Brews in Nederland. The event is hosted by Ned Jazz Wine, a summer jazz and wine festival, and features Eric “Benny” Bloom of Lettuce, fronting his all-star quartet.

As always, please send us your events and announcements. We’re happy to share them. And enjoy your Colorado craft libations responsibly.