TMF’s largest and most creative sponsorship to date, the Puff Ball started with Hamilton’s Mushrooms in the Winter of 2023 and is looking for a brand partner to help throw the event for the 46th annual celebration of TMF.
Team Mushroom was willing to change policies and entertain such a large brand activation because the Puff Ball was created by people who deeply understood TMF. Hamilton and Lucien Pevec had been longtime vendors and participants. They knew the spirit and audience of the festival. Instead of proposing an idea focused solely on their brand and what they could get out of the activation, they saw an opportunity to enhance what was already there. At the time, TMF music was very limited and mostly consisted of local jam bands. They recognized that gap and brought it to Team Mushroom.
Most importantly, they knew Team Mushroom was a small team and took complete ownership of the event, offering the Puff Ball as a way to thank the operations team for all they do to put on TMF each year, while also giving attendees an epic dance party that made TMF history.
Since then, the Puff Ball has become second only to the parade in visibility and cultural impact. It has expanded the reach of TMF, brought in new audiences, and created a space for celebration during a pivotal moment in Colorado history following the passing of Proposition 122.
As the Puff Ball continues to evolve, Team Mushroom is looking for brand partners who can carry this legacy forward in alignment with TMF’s values. The Puff Ball is the peak energy moment of TMF and the largest opportunity for brand engagement and exposure amongst nearly all TMF attendees.
Here’s what Team Mushroom is looking for in a Puff Ball 2026 Brand Partner:
- A brand or donor who understands the culture, history and grassroots spirit of TMF.
- Willingness to collaborate with Team Mushroom in the months leading up to TMF, and the ability and team capacity to take over on-the-ground execution.
- Creative vision that enhances the brand and the festival, while keeping integrity with TMF’s values.
- The creation of something that feels participatory and provides attendees with a unique experience they won’t forget.
If you are interested in discussing becoming a sponsor or private donor of TMF’s 46th Annual Puff Ball, please fill out this sponsor application and reach out to TMF Operations and Business Development Manager Rebecca Roberts via email at rebecca@tellurideinstitute.org.
