Awesome Events from Aspen to Glenwood in the Months Ahead

Sunset on Aspen Highlands, picturesque ski town

When the snow-covered peaks of Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley begin to sparkle under the winter sun, It’s time to dive into a calendar filled with exciting seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, discover essential events in Aspen and nearby areas from January to June 2024. 

Winterskol Festival (January 11-14) An Enchanting Celebration of Winter

The Winterskol Festival is a beloved month-long extravaganza. The celebration captures the essence of Aspen’s unique charm. The magical torchlight descent down the slopes of Aspen Mountain is a testament to the city’s embrace of the winter season. As you immerse yourself in the festivities, you’ll find a dynamic fusion of local traditions and the energy of visitors converges to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere. 

Explore the myriad events that make Winterskol special. From dazzling light displays to cozy gatherings around bonfires, it features a variety of activities. It leaves indelible memories of laughter, community, and the season’s magic. Whether you’re a seasoned resident or a first-time visitor, it’s for you.

Winterskol Festival, fireworks and celebration of winter, base of Aspen Mountain

Courtesy of C2 photography/ACRA & the Aspen Times

Aspen’s Gay Ski Week (January 14 – 21) a Vibrant and Inclusive Celebration

Aspen’s Gay Ski Week adds a unique touch to the city’s winter festivities. People know this annual event for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. It draws LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from around the world to the snow-covered mountains of Aspen. Participants can also enjoy a variety of social and cultural activities. 

Aspen’s Gay Ski Week offers lively aprés-ski gatherings and also features fabulous parties and thought-provoking discussions on LGBTQ+ issues. The event is a space where camaraderie, acceptance, and self-expression take center stage. The event embraces inclusion and showcases Aspen as a diverse destination. It’s a highlight on the winter calendar for those seeking a welcoming and festive atmosphere in the heart of the Rockies.

LGBTQ+ individuals and allies from around the world to the snow-covered mountains of Aspen, skiing with the pride flag down Aspen Mountain

Winter X Games (January 26 – 28) Embrace the Thrill-seeker Within

Kick off the new year with an explosion of adrenaline at the Winter X Games in Aspen. This annual extravaganza is more than a sporting event. It’s a spectacular showcase of prowess, skill, and sheer audacity. Elite athletes from every corner of the globe converge on Buttermilk Mountain. The event features mind-boggling displays of skill in such disciplines such as snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling.

Get ready to witness these world-class athletes in action and be captivated. It transforms the town into a global epicenter of winter excitement. The air is charged with the energy of competition and unyielding pursuit of excellence. 

The games create an unforgettable experience for both athletes and spectators. Join a community that understands the thrill of pushing boundaries. The stunning winter landscapes make Aspen the perfect backdrop for such an exhilarating event.

snowboarder, hitting jumps, winter x-games

Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series (February 13 – March 23) An Electrifying Experience

The beats resonate through the crisp mountain air during the Free Concert Series in Aspen Snowmass. The series offers a harmonious blend of midweek and weekend performances in iconic venues from Snowmass Base Village to Gondola Plaza. It also turns the heart of downtown Aspen into a musical hotspot. 

Renowned musical artists will take center stage throughout the spring season. They’ll create an unforgettable ambiance that complements the warmth of sunny days and the incredible allure of spring nights.

Mark your calendars for an array of performances, each promising a unique musical journey:

  • February 13, 2024 – TBD
  • March 1, 2024 – Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies of Shakey Graves as he takes the stage.
  • March 2, 2024 – Let the rhythm of The Revivalists transport you to a world of dynamic soundscapes. They blend rock, soul, and an infectious energy that will have you dancing into the night.
  • March 3, 2024 – Experience the eclectic sounds of Jes Grew. They promise a genre-defying performance that pushes the boundaries of musical expression. 
  • March 22, 2024 – TBD
  • March 23, 2024 – TBD

Get ready to carve down the slopes during the warm spring days. Let the evenings come alive with the sounds of world-class musicians. The Free Concert Series in Aspen Snowmass guarantees a season full of live tunes and good times. It also offers the absolute thrill of an alpine musical journey.

Concert on the base of Aspen Mountain, center of town. The Free Concert Series in Aspen Snowmass guarantees a season full of live tunes and good times

Courtesy of https://www.aspensnowmass.com/

Sunlight’s Defiance Challenge (March 1) Carving Legacies

Are you ready to push your limits and carve your way into the annals of skiing history? The Defiance Challenge awaits, calling expert skiers and riders aged 6 and above to join this epic endurance event. This adrenaline-fueled competition determines which two-person team can conquer the mountain with the most runs in a grueling 10-hour marathon.

The bar was set high in 2020 when Aidan Corcoran and Nate Grosscup clinched the record with an awe-inspiring 49 runs, tallying an impressive total of 66,792 vertical feet. The challenge kicks off at the crack of dawn, 7 a.m,. outside the main Sunlight lodge, initiating with a Le Mans-style start. As the starting gun echoes, participants dash to their awaiting skis or snowboards, swiftly clip into their bindings, and embark on a mad scramble to the nearby Segundo chairlift, which transports them to the pinnacle of their first run.

Over the next 10 hours, teams navigate 40 different routes, conquering every double black diamond run in their path. It’s not just a competition; it’s a test of skill, stamina, and sheer determination.

What began as a means to generate additional funds for the Sunlight Volunteer Ski Patrol has blossomed into the nonprofit organization’s largest fundraiser. With over 50 years of providing emergency medical care, safety, and rescue services, the Sunlight Volunteer Ski Patrol stands as a pillar in the community. In a heartwarming twist, half of the event’s proceeds now go towards supporting families of fallen or injured ski patrollers across the region.

nonprofit organization's largest fundraiser, Sunlight Ski Resort, 40 different routes, every double black diamond run

Courtesy of https://sunlightskipatrol.com/

Ullrhof Games (March 17) An Epic Showdown

The Ullrhof Games are back for their fifth year at the Ullrhof Restaurant nestled in the heart of Snowmass. They promise a spectacle that’s grander and more exhilarating than ever before. It’s a celebration of camaraderie, tradition, and the spirited pursuit of victory. The event invites participants and spectators to immerse themselves in an unforgettable experience, and it’s free of charge!

At the Ullrhof Games, beer-drinking titans gather to engage in a series of traditional pub-style games. The games have become legendary in their own right. Picture teams locked in fierce competition. They battle in beer pong and test their agility in speed quarters and they showcase precision in corn hole and prove their strength in the classic game of stump. 

The hosts of this event turn the Ullrhof Restaurant into a hub of excitement. Laughter, cheers, and the clinking of glasses echo in harmony. Enjoy specially curated beer and food specials. A talented DJ sets the soundtrack for the day. The beats keep the energy high and infuse every moment with a sense of celebration.

Ullrhof at the Ullrhof Restaurant in Snowmass. Beer drinking and pub-style games.

Courtesy of Anna Stonehouse/Aspen Times

 (April 2 – 7) A Cinematic Haven

This celebration transcends borders, bringing the world’s finest short films to the forefront. Dive headfirst into the captivating realm of storytelling. Visionary filmmakers unveil their cinematic creations, spanning an array of genres. They include thought-provoking dramas that tug at the heartstrings and also have heartwarming comedies that leave you in fits of laughter. 

Its discerning curation has made the festival renowned. It serves as a vital platform for emerging talents. It provides a spotlight for those whose stories deserve a global audience. Curators select each film for its narrative brilliance and technical prowess. Each film promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience. 

The Aspen Shortsfest is not just a film showcase. It’s a journey into storytelling’s boundless possibilities. It stirs emotions, challenges perspectives, and celebrates cinematic art in all its glory.

Aspen Shortfest, films, Visionary filmmakers, and an array of genres

Courtesy of Jason Charme/Aspen Daily News

5 Point Film Festival (April 24-28) An Intimate and Inclusive Celebration of the Outdoors

Every year, a close-knit community of outdoor enthusiasts comes together and forms a familial bond through film. It’s fueled by shared passion and a collective thirst for inspiration. This gathering originated in the heart of Carbondale. The vibrant community spirit infuses this event with a unique, laid-back vibe. Julie Kennedy established the 5point Adventure Film Festival in 2007. 

The 5 Point Film Festival meticulously curates a selection of soulful outdoor films. It also includes art exhibitions and captivating performances. It seamlessly weaves them into the fabric of a singular communal space. 

Here, everyone comes together, experiencing the magic of these motion pictures collectively. The shared emotional journey creates lasting connections and attendees leave feeling renewed and full of motivation and new creativity. They also gain a fresh perspective. 

Viewers see boundless possibilities in Carbondale’s great outdoors and community. It enriches the lives of all who take part and it reinforces the sense of kinship that defines our outdoor-loving family.

5 point film festival, outdoor films, exhibitions and captivating performances

Courtesy of 5Point Adventure Film Festival

Annual Dandelion Day (May 11 – 12) 

Carbondale’s Environmental Board initiated the Annual Dandelion Day Festival in 1998. It is a testament to the town’s commitment to spring, sustainability, and community. It runs from 10 am to 5 pm. It’s a vibrant reflection of Carbondale’s commitment to environmental stewardship and building community.

At its core, Dandelion Day is a celebration of sustainability. It reflects Carbondale’s unwavering commitment to eco-conscious living. Attendees can immerse themselves in a myriad of activities and exhibits.

The celebration showcases innovative and sustainable practices. These range from eco-friendly crafts to educational workshops on renewable energy. The festival becomes a living canvas. It paints a picture of a community actively engaged. The community is fostering a healthier, more sustainable future.

Community is the heartbeat of Dandelion Day. It brings together residents and visitors. They celebrate the town’s values together. People partake in local food and pursue artisanal crafts. They also engage in conversations that strengthen the fabric of the community. It’s a time when neighbors become friends, and shared experiences bind individuals together.

Annual Dandelion Day in Carbondale. Commitment to spring, sustainability, and community.

Courtesy of Thomas Phippen/Post Independent

Bonedale Bike Week (May 13 – May 20) A Celebration of Bikes & the People Who Ride Them

Bonedale Bike Week is a spirited celebration of the ultimate mode of transportation in Carbondale—the bicycle. Dedicated Bonedale Bike Week volunteers organize this week-long extravaganza. 

They collaborate with partnering organizations. The event promises a variety of engaging bike-related events. These events cater to kids, adults, and anyone eager to experience the sheer joy of cycling.

Bonedale Bike Week is more than just a series of events. It’s a comprehensive initiative aimed at promoting bike awareness across all age groups. It caters to both seasoned cyclists and those new to the exhilarating world of biking. 

The week catalyzes for community building. It fosters connections among cyclists. It advocates for car-less transportation in Carbondale and beyond.

Thanks to the charity from Bonedale Bike Week’s sponsors, attendees can expect exciting giveaways throughout the week. The week will end with a not-to-be-missed raffle at the grand finale Scavenger Hunt party. These events showcase a love for bicycles. They are also a testament to the strength of the community that shares this passion.

Bonedale Bike Week in Carbondale. Celebration of the bicycle

Aspen Fringe Festival (June 9 – 11) An Eclectic Celebration of the Performing Arts

Finish your springtime exploration by attending the captivating Aspen Fringe Festival. It invites you to immerse yourself in a dynamic world where creativity knows no bounds. 

The Aspen Fringe Festival is a testament to the rich tapestry of artistic expression. It features a diverse array of theatrical performances. Mesmerizing dance routines and soul-stirring musical compositions are also included.

The extravaganza promises a sensory feast. It transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. It features thought-provoking dramas that delve into the human experience. It also includes electrifying dance performances that push the boundaries of movement.

Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of performances, it lets you bask in the creative energy that defines the Roaring Fork Valley. Engage with the performances and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. It’s a symphony of artistic expression.

Aspen Fringe Festival, theater, art, performances, and artistic expression

Food & Wine Classic (June 14-16) Flavors, Dance, and Aromas Mingle

Embark on a delectable journey as the warmth of spring envelops Aspen. This prestigious event transcends the ordinary and immerses attendees in a gastronomic celebration. This event elevates the art of dining to new heights. Aspen is already renowned for its stunning landscapes, but during this week it becomes a haven for food enthusiasts. 

This culinary extravaganza is not about savoring exceptional cuisine. It’s an immersive experience that combines indulgence with education. World-class chefs grace the event. They offer cooking demonstrations that unveil the secrets behind their culinary masterpieces. 

Glean insights into their techniques and witness the artistry that goes into creating dishes that transcend the ordinary. The mingling aromas, clinking glasses, and lively chatter of fellow food enthusiasts create a festive and educational ambiance. 

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or an aspiring chef, this event is a must-attend. It offers a perfect blend of refined indulgence and culinary enlightenment. As the sun sets over the mountains, it leaves the valley bathed in a warm glow. The Food & Wine Classic is more than an event. It is a culinary journey that leaves an indelible mark on the taste buds and the soul.

Food & Wine Classic, tents set up in Ruby park, eating food and tasting wines from all of the world

Courtesy of aspensnowmass.com

Aspen Ideas Festival (June 23 – 29) a Hub of Profound Ideas

Against the backdrop of Aspen’s breathtaking natural beauty, the festival becomes a melting pot of minds. It fosters conversations that resonate far beyond the mountainous confines. 

The organizers have scheduled this intellectual gathering to take center stage. It draws thought leaders, innovators, and influencers from diverse fields. They converge in an atmosphere pulsating with intellectual energy.

The Aspen Ideas Festival is a unique and powerful platform. It transcends disciplinary boundaries, from politics to technology. It delves into the intricacies of global politics,  dissects the latest technological advancements, and contemplates the future of our society. It becomes a nexus where ideas converge. 

Moreover, beyond the captivating festival experience, various cultural events add a unique charm to the celebration. From traditional performances to vibrant parades, each element contributes to the overall festive atmosphere. It leaves an indelible mark on the minds of those fortunate enough to partake in this intellectual odyssey.

Aspen Idea's Festical, leaders, innovators, and influencers from diverse fields share ideas

Courtesy of Emily Chaplin & Chris Council (C2 Photography)

Start Planning Your 2024 Adventure Today!

Embark on a journey through Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley’s seasonal celebrations. Immerse yourself in the unique charm and energy of each event. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the slopes or indulging in culinary delights, this insider’s guide ensures you won’t miss a beat. 

It will help you experience the best of Aspen’s vibrant cultural scene from January to June 2024. Discover new intellectual horizons and appreciate the arts. Plan your visit and mark your calendar. Get ready to create lasting memories in this picturesque mountain paradise. 

Aspen Gondola, red, in the sky

Courtesy of thetimberline.com

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