This Week in Aspen

Aspen Music Festival and School Summer Season (July 1 - August 23) Founded in 1949, the Aspen Music Festival and School is regarded as one of the top classical music festivals in the United States, noted both for its concert programming and its musical training of mostly young-adult music students. The eight-week summer season includes hundreds of classical music events: concerts by three orchestras, recitals, chamber music, operas, classes, lectures, and family programs. The 2026 Summer Season runs from July 1 - August 23. Explore the full calendar here.

Theatre Aspen Presents Grease (July 31 - August 29, Hurst Theatre) Grease Leather jackets, poodle skirts, and the electrifying sound of rock ’n’ roll bring Rydell High to life in Grease. This beloved musical follows the ups and downs of teenage love, friendship, and finding your place in the crowd. Bursting with unforgettable hits and infectious energy, it’s a feel-good celebration of youth, music, and the thrill of first love. An eight-year run on Broadway and two subsequent revivals, along with innumerable school and community productions, place Grease among the world’s most popular musicals. To purchase a ticket, click here.

Aspen's Past to Present Tour (Mondays & Thursdays, 10:00 AM, Downtown Aspen) This classic historical walking tour of Aspen tells it’s history from humble mining camp to world famous resort. A casual 12 block stroll through historic downtown Aspen acclimatizes you to Aspen’s energy and possibility. A great experience for both the first time visitor and the regular. This tour visits historic landmarks of Aspen including the Wheeler Opera House, the Red Onion, the Pitkin County Courthouse & the Hotel Jerome among others when accessible. Native Legend, Mining Folklore & Local Tales bring History to life on an entertaining guided walk. 90 minutes long with distance of approximately 1 mile along sidewalks, pedestrian ways and parks of mostly flat terrain. Reservations required - reserve your spot here.

Downtown History Tour: Aspen Through the Eras (Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays, 10:30 AM, Across from the Wheeler Opera House) Aspen Historical Society’s cornerstone walking tour of the buildings, sites, and scenes around downtown Aspen, with interesting stories around every corner. This tour meets across from the storied Wheeler Opera House, by the iconic dancing fountain and begins with a history “primer” at the Sister Cities Plaza on Wagner Park followed by a stroll through the historical downtown core before finishing at the iconic Hotel Jerome. With a focus on historical buildings, this tour offers a broad view of Aspen’s history with many interesting tidbits at each stop. Meets across from the Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave. Weather dependent. This walking tour takes place on the pedestrian malls; sidewalks; and street-sides in downtown Aspen. To learn more, click here.

Know Your Trees | Tree Identification Walk (4:00 PM, Hallam Lake) Advance registration is required. Know Your Trees will be offered weekly from Monday, June 15 through Monday, August 24, 2026. Firs and spruces, aspens and cottonwoods… how many trees do you know? Come explore the ACES backyard and discover up to a dozen species of conifers and deciduous trees. And let’s not forget about the great variety of tall shrubs that are all around us! Join the Naturalist Program Director Jim Kravitz or the Forest Program Director Adam McCurdy on this hour-long walk around the Hallam Lake neighborhood to identify local trees. Participants will walk away with The Rocky Mountain Tree Finder booklet and basic knowledge about the native trees that grow in our neighborhood. To register, click here.

Traffic Jams (Monday - Thursday, 4:30 PM, The Vault at the Wheeler) Traffic Jams in The Vault at the Wheeler is a free August concert series presented in partnership with the City of Aspen Transportation Department, designed to shift your trip and reimagine the late‑afternoon commute. Rather than sitting in traffic, audiences are invited to step out of their ride—car, bus, or bike—and into The Vault for live music in an intimate setting. For two weeks in August, invited musicians spend time in Aspen and at the Wheeler, sharing early‑evening performances Monday through Thursday from 4:30–6 PM. The concerts feature full sets by the artists, with room for interpretation and moments of improvisation, culminating in the premiere of a new song inspired by Aspen at the end of each week. With drinks, light snacks, and room to linger, Traffic Jams encourages audiences to slow down, stay in town, and connect through live music—shift your trip and trade traffic headaches for a better kind of jam. These are free, but ticketed, community events; advance RSVP is encouraged to secure reservations. To learn more and RSVP, click here.

Aspen’s Off the Beaten Path Tour (Tuesdays & Fridays, 10:00 AM, Downtown Aspen) A scenic guided walking tour through Aspen’s West End neighborhood and trails along the Roaring Fork River. Participants will learn the stories behind Aspen’s Victorian & Modern architecture stitched together with hidden gems of nature. Reservations are required. To sign up, click here.

Neighborhood History Tour: West End (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30 AM, Meets Outside The Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies) Step back in time through Aspen’s storied West End residential neighborhood, a quiet gem of tree-lined boulevards bordered by the Aspen Meadows, the Aspen Institute, and the Wheeler/Stallard Museum campuses. Learn little-known facts about the area, from native Ute activity to the former racetrack and rodeo, on a stroll past the neighborhood’s countless historical homes – immaculate examples of Victorian and midcentury modern architecture – with stories of the people who lived there as the town bustled and grew around them.Meets outside The Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies. This walking tour takes place on the trails, sidewalks, lawns, and street-sides on the Meadows campus and in the West End neighborhood. To register, click here.

Hotel Jerome History Tour (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:30 PM, Hotel Jerome) Bask in the history of Aspen as you relax in the lobby of the iconic Hotel Jerome, which has been at the center of community life since its doors opened in 1889. The program includes a history primer in the lobby followed by a brief tour of the first-floor area to experience the history of Aspen as seen through the eyes of the tastefully restored historic hotel. This tour takes place indoors, throughout the first floor of the Hotel Jerome. To register, click here.

Tasting Table (4:00 PM, MOLLIE Aspen) Join MOLLIE Aspen at their communal tasting table for a relaxed exploration of four wines, each paired with a small bite designed to highlight the specific flavors and aromas in your glass. A sommelier will lead the session, offering context, observations, and guiding questions to help you discover how the pairings interact. Expect modest pours and light bites meant to spark curiosity and conversation. Come with an open palate and a willingness to taste thoughtfully; it’s a chance to slow down and compare notes together. $25 for MOLLIE guests | $40 for the public | 21+. Reservations are recommended as space is limited. To sign up, click here.

JAS Community Night - Salsa Night with the JAS Academy Bands and Mezcla Socials Dance (5:00 PM, Paul JAS Center) Salsa Night with the JAS Academy Afro-Caribbean Band and Mezcla Socials Dance! Join Mezcla Socials Dance at the Paul JAS Center for a fun night of salsa for all levels! Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to sharpen your moves, instructors will guide you every step of the way. No partner or experience needed, just come ready to dance. Food and drink specials are available for purchase. To learn more, click here.

Cooldown Aspen Group Run (6:30 PM, Aspen Tap) Cooldown is a nationwide social club disguised as a running/walking club! All paces are welcome. Cooldown’s focus is on meeting new people, making friends, and ensuring everyone stays for the post-run drinks. Join Cooldown for a 1-3 mile walk, run, or jog. Meet outside of Aspen Tap. Run starts @ 6:30pm so please arrive a few minutes early. Happy Hour priced drinks for all attendees post-run! Select evenings will also feature samples and giveaways! To learn more, click here.

Critical Dialogue: Collective Individuality: Culture as Celebration (7:00 PM, Anderson Ranch) Join three Anderson Ranch faculty members for a lively conversation exploring how diverse cultural perspectives shape artistic practice and community. Artists Jean Shin (Seoul, South Korea), Juana Estrada Hernandez (Mexico), and Yana Payusova (Leningrad, USSR) bring their experiences as instructors in higher education in the US to a discussion centered on identity, materiality, heritage, and belonging. Their work is rooted in community, collective identity, and culturally resonant materials, showing the connection between how their reflections on personal histories, social and ecological issues, and hands-on processes inform their practices. Together, they consider how these perspectives contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic environment for art-making and learning. To register, click here.

Kids Summer Film Series (11:00 AM, Isis Theatre) Beat the heat with family-friendly films all summer long! Join Aspen Film every Wednesday this summer for Aspen Film’s Summer Kids Series. From June 17 through August 12, enjoy family-friendly movies on the big screen for just $5 per ticket. This week features a screening of TROLLS (2016). To purchase tickets, click here.

The American Economy in a New Era featuring Erik Brynjolfsson, Peter Orszag, and Melissa S. Kearney (1:30 PM, Paepcke Auditorium) Presented in collaboration with the Aspen Economic Strategy Group. The US economy is entering a new era. Rapid advances in artificial intelligence are expected to bring large-scale disruption to households, businesses, and public finances. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Europe, and China have strained supply chains and driven inflation to its highest levels since the COVID-19 pandemic. Erik Brynjolfsson, professor at Stanford University, and Peter Orszag, CEO of Lazard, join the Aspen Institute for a conversation moderated by Melissa S. Kearney, director of the Aspen Economic Strategy Group and professor of economics at the University of Notre Dame. Together, they will explore how policymakers and business leaders can promote broad-based domestic growth and strengthen America's global economic competitiveness in this new era. To register, click here.

Aspen Historical Society Presents: History Tours (1:30 PM, Wheeler Opera House) Enjoy a guided tour inside the center of Aspen’s arts and cultural scene since it was built in 1889. This free tour led by the Aspen Historical Society and in partnership with the City of Aspen’s Wheeler Opera House offers an insider’s look at the iconic building, including its recent renovations and storied past. Meet in the lobby. To learn more, click here.

The Snowmass Rodeo (5:00 PM, Snowmass Rodeo) Enjoy the longest running rodeo in Colorado every Wednesday night, with music, cowboys and cowgirls, horses, livestock, and family fun. Every Wednesday night from June 17 through August 19 be a part of this long-standing rodeo tradition. Fun for all ages! 5pm - Gates & BBQ open 7pm. To learn more and purchase tickets, click here.

Public Lecture - Aspen Center for Physics (5:30 pm, Flag Forum) Come see visiting physicists give public talks, exploring cutting-edge ideas in ways non-scientists can understand! Summer lectures, which run on select Wednesdays June – August at 5:30pm at the Center, are presented in memory of Heinz R. Pagels, a Rockefeller University physics professor, and a twenty-year member of the Aspen Center for Physics. A part-time Aspen resident, Professor Pagels died here in a mountaineering accident in 1988. His family and friends instituted the lecture series in his honor because he devoted much of his life to disseminating scientific knowledge. This week, Erez Berg will present "Breaking the Rules that Matter: Superconductors and Strange Quantum Materials". To learn more and register, click here.

Summer Series (12:30 PM, Schermer Meeting Hall at Anderson Ranch) The Summer Series program features some of the most influential artists of our time, exploring the work of world-renowned creators in conversation with today’s leading critics, curators, and collectors. Join Anderson Ranch for a conversation in Schermer Meeting Hall at Anderson Ranch Arts Center with Las Nietas de Nonó and Erin Christovale. To learn more and register, click here.

Free Exhibition Tours of Double Take: Recurrent Dialogues in the Art of Herbert Bayer (Tuesdays & Thursdays at 12:30 PM, Saturdays at 3:00 PM, Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies) Free exhibition tours of “Double Take: Recurrent Dialogues in the Art of Herbert Bayer.” Learn about the evolution of key motifs in Bayer’s vast output of paintings, drawings, collages and photographs. Featuring works on loan from the Denver Art Museum, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and the George Eastman Museum in Rochester. Tours are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30-1:30pm, and Saturdays, 3-4pm. To learn more, click here.

Live Music Night at MOLLIE (5:00 PM, MOLLIE Aspen) Join MOLLIE Aspen on their Roof Terrace for live music. Set against sweeping views of Aspen Mountain, settle in with a signature cocktail or a glass of wine and let the music elevate your evening. This week, enjoy live music from Karl Bertrand. Karl Bertrand is a songwriter, guitarist, and producer hailing from Saratoga Springs, NY. Through a continuous immersion in the local and regional music community, he’s cultivated a large repertoire of original and cover music; equal parts folk, jam, bluegrass, and jazz. To learn more, click here.

Science, Public Health, and the Politics of Truth featuring Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D. (5:30 PM, Paepcke Auditorium) Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, joins the Aspen Institute for a keynote lecture on the intersection of science, medicine, and public trust. A leading authority on vaccines and neglected tropical diseases, Hotez reflects on the challenges facing public health today, the growing politicization of science, and what it will take to rebuild trust in scientific institutions in the years ahead. To register, click here.

Snowmass Free Concert Series (5:30 PM, Fanny Hill) This summer will be like no other! Celebrate another year of The Snowmass Free Concert Series. This long-standing summer tradition and local favorite returns to Fanny Hill every Thursday evening, June 18-August 27, 2026. This may be the best way to enjoy some of the country’s best live bands in a relaxed atmosphere with a spectacular mountain backdrop. This week, Black Pistol Fire (Blues/Rock) performs, with Van Bellman as the opening act. To learn more, click here.

Arden Jones (8:00 PM, Belly Up Aspen) Young Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, Arden Jones captures unforgettable, serotonin-filled California summers into a perfect blend of pop, hip-hop, and alternative that, while familiar, is undeniably his own. His clever rhymes and witty lyricism paint heartfelt, relatable sentiments that beautifully juxtapose his infectious hooks and euphoric, nostalgia-inspired beats. From a young age, Arden’s love of skating and surfing came second only to his love of music, successfully teaching himself to play a range of instruments including upright bass, mandolin, guitar, piano, and ukelele. His musical household introduced him to legends like Prince, Michael Jackson, 50 Cent, and Bright Eyes, but it wasn’t long before he began forging his own musical identity inspired by J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Mac Miller. A prolific user of Garageband and SoundCloud, Arden posted his internet-beat smash “Parallel Parking” on TikTok at the end of 2020 where it caught fire and eventually soared into the hearts of 25 million Spotify listeners. Since the song’s release, Arden Jones continues to pave his own way into the music world. Following a series of hit singles, performances to screaming fans across the country, his critically acclaimed monthly “age tape” series and collaborations with Dillon Francis, Galantis, Surfaces, and Łazewo – Arden Jones is the curating the soundtrack to your best life. To purchase tickets, click here.

Lunchtime Auctionette (11:45 AM, Anderson Ranch Arts Center) Lunchtime Auctionettes are fun, high-energy affairs offering a wonderful opportunity to buy original artwork by Anderson Ranch faculty, Visiting Artists, students and staff, while supporting the Ranch’s educational programs! Lunch will be served from 11:45AM – 12:15PM and can be purchased for $25 upon arrival. The Auctionette will be held from 12:15 – 1PM and is free and open to the public. Registration is appreciated. Lunchtime Auctionettes take place on Fridays from June through September. To learn more and register, click here.

Family Fridays at Holden/Marolt Museum (12:00 PM, Holden/Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum) New this summer, enjoy special offerings for all ages on Friday afternoons at Aspen’s only trailside museum! Head to the Holden/Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum for an insider’s look at the exhibitions, steam engines and mining machinery, plus guided tours of the restored McMurchy/Zupancis cabin and barn, with life-sized farm animal replicas including the demonstration milking cow! Kids can earn a sticker prize for completing an interactive scavenger hunt, and all guests who bike or walk to the museum will also get stickers. Bring a picnic and enjoy complimentary lemonade on the lawn for a family-friendly afternoon at the museum. Free admission is generously underwritten by Carl’s Pharmacy and Miners’ Building Hardware. Learn more here!

Garden Tours at The Little Nell (4:00 PM, The Little Nell) Experience the tranquility of summer at The Little Nell's weekly complimentary garden tours, guided by our passionate resident gardener, Arabella. Join The Little Nell every Friday starting June 26, from 4:00 pm - 4:30 pm. The Nell Gardens celebrate beauty and sustainability, featuring Aspen's only living wall, an herb garden, and more. Discover the secrets of high-altitude gardening and gain valuable tips for your own garden. This cherished tradition is complimentary and open to all. While reservations aren't required, The Little Nell invites you to register in advance so they can anticipate your attendance. To register, click here.

Randy Becker (6:30 PM & 9:00 PM, Paul JAS Center ) Randy Brecker is a virtuosic trumpeter, prolific composer, and one of the most influential figures in modern jazz. Over a decades-long career, his horn has been featured alongside legends including Horace Silver, Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, Charles Mingus, Clark Terry, Joe Henderson, and the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra. As a first-call studio musician, he has also recorded with artists ranging from James Taylor and Bruce Springsteen to Parliament-Funkadelic, Jaco Pastorius, and Frank Zappa. A key contributor to jazz-rock fusion, Brecker was a member of Blood, Sweat & Tears and co-founded the group Dreams before forming the groundbreaking Brecker Brothers with his brother Michael. The band became a major force in jazz and popular music, earning multiple Grammy nominations and widespread acclaim. Following the group’s hiatus, Brecker continued an expansive career as a bandleader and collaborator, including work with Jaco Pastorius and numerous international tours. His recordings have earned multiple Grammy Awards, including Into the Sun and 34th N Lex. Continuing to perform worldwide, Brecker remains a defining voice in jazz, known for his technical mastery, innovation, and lasting influence on generations of musicians. To purchase tickets, click here.

Claire Boyles: Appraisals (5:30 PM, Explore Books) Colorado author Claire Boyles joins Rita Mary Hennigan, Executive Director of Uproot, and Harper Kaufman, Owner Two Roots Farm, to discuss Boyles' new novel, Appraisals. About Appraisals: Financial and ecological realities tear at the heart of a multigenerational farm family in this debut novel from a “deft and daring” (Los Angeles Times) Whiting Award winner. Maggie Brandt, a third-generation farmer, is cultivating a few acres of organic vegetables in rural Colorado—a place where industrial farming reigns supreme—when the Great Recession hits. After months of unemployment, her husband, Fish, takes a job with an oil and gas company, a decision that threatens their once happy marriage and alienates their teenage daughter, Ozzie, a budding environmental crusader. As the wider community organizes against a billionaire outsider who is buying farmland and, more worryingly, water rights in the moisture-starved county, Maggie’s grandmother Flora grapples with the painful echoes of her own past. Flora and Ozzie’s already close bond deepens as they join a local activist group, but Fish and Maggie’s conflicting approaches to surviving circumstances that are out of their control drive them further apart. Faced with intolerable layers of loss, each member of the family is forced to consider what they are willing to compromise and what they are, or are not, able to forgive. At once tender and urgent, Appraisals is a moving portrayal of ecological and financial catastrophe, the powerful generational bonds between women, and the fierce impulse to protect the places we love. Claire Boyles: Claire Boyles is a writer, teacher, and former sustainable farmer in northern Colorado. A Whiting Award winner, her debut story collection, Site Fidelity, won the High Plains Book Award and was longlisted for the PEN/Robert W. Bingham Award. To RSVP, click here.

Up in the Sky (Friday & Saturday, Buttermilk Mountain) Get ready for Aspen's ultimate summer music event, featuring two days of performances from today’s hottest artists, including John Summit and Empire of the Sun (Friday) and Dom Dolla, Parcels, and Polo and Pan (Saturday). Refuel in between sets with food, drinks, and sweets from Colorado favorites! Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. Immerse yourself in a festival experience that doubles as a breathtaking getaway, with panoramic views from Buttermilk Mountain. To purchase a ticket, click here.

Up In The Sky Music Festival After Party (Friday & Saturday, 9:00 PM, W Aspen) When the music festival winds down, W Aspen keeps the momentum going with official after parties spanning two floors of DJ-driven energy. Designed as a late-night extension of the festival, these events deliver an electric atmosphere where guests can continue the celebration well into the night. RSVP for August 7th here. RSVP for August 8th here. ***RSVP does not guarantee entry, if they hit capacity, entry will be granted on a first come, first serve basis.

Aspen Saturday Market (8:30 AM, Between South Hunter Street, East Hopkins Ave & East Hyman Ave.) Since 1998 this local farmer’s market has been a summer staple in the downtown core. The market features Colorado-produced offerings such as fruits, vegetables, bread, meats, jams, artisan products, sculptures, paintings, and so much more. There is also a food court for lunch or snack provisions. To learn more, click here.

Aspen Parkrun (9:00 AM, Herron Park) Aspen Parkrun is a free community 5k, part of hundreds of Parkrun events taking place every Saturday morning across the U.S and around the world! All levels welcome - run it, walk it, bring the family.... Parkrun is powered by volunteers - no experience needed! Every week participants grab a post parkrun coffee at Swedish Hill at the Aspen Art Museum, 637 East Hyman, Aspen (approx. 800 yards from the finish) - please come and join! To register, click here.

Up in the Sky Music Festival Official Pool Party (Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM, W Aspen) Dive into the ultimate pool vibes and killer beats at the coolest party of the summer! RSVP for August 8th here. RSVP for August 9th here. ***RSVP does not guaruntee entry, if they hit capacity, entry will be granted on a first come, first serve basis.

Aspen Thrift Shop Art Sale (10:00 AM, Red Brick Center for the Arts) Attend the Aspen Thrift Shop Art Sale, where you'll find art, clothing, jewelry, collectibles, and ephemera at amazing prices. Learn more here!

BBQ with Jack Arnold (2:00 PM, Aspen Meadows Resort) Join West End Social to celebrate the end of an incredible season with an unforgettable BBQ featuring Chef Jack Arnold. Enjoy a feast of perfectly grilled ribeye, smoky tri-tip, and delicious seasonal accompaniments, all served in the relaxed mountain atmosphere of their scenic patio. Throughout the afternoon, connect with featured beverage vendors showcasing a variety of beer, wine, and spirits while enjoying tastings and meeting the people behind your favorite brands. A full-service bar will also be available, serving handcrafted cocktails, local brews, wine, and more. Whether you're celebrating another great season, catching up with friends, or simply looking for an afternoon of exceptional food and drinks with beautiful mountain views, this is the perfect way to close out the season. Great barbecue, outstanding beverages, and a laid-back atmosphere—don't miss one of the summer's best gatherings. To reserve a spot, click here.

Patrick Summers at Explore Books: Tapestries (5:30 PM, Explore Books) Explore Books hosts an evening with celebrated American conductor, author, and educator Patrick Summers on Thursday, August 8 at 5:30 PM, in celebration of his new book, Tapestries: Connections From an Artistic Life. Summers—Co-Artistic Director of Aspen Opera Theater and VocalARTS, longtime Artistic Director of Houston Grand Opera and one of the most influential figures in American opera—will join Chris Mohr, Aspen Public Radio’s classical host and commentator, for a conversation about the fifty‑essay collection that reflects on a life shaped by music, creativity, and the artists who inspired him. A book signing will follow. Tapestries offers readers an intimate look at Summers’s artistic journey, weaving together stories from the podium, portraits of legendary performers and composers, and reflections on the evolving world of opera. As Summers Aspen VocalARTS co-director Renée Fleming writes in her foreword, Summers’s insights are “erudite, witty, and openhearted,” making this a must‑read for music lovers and arts enthusiasts alike. To RSVP, click here.

Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays, 8:00 PM, Downtown Aspen) True stories of Aspen's tarnished past of Ghosts, Murder & Mayhem from 1879 to today on an entertaining evening walk. This tour visits some of Aspen Colorado’s most haunted places and tells the stories behind them as well as some truly darker happenings. This is a great tour for the whole family or just the adults. To purchase tickets, click here.

JAS Academy Afro-Caribbean Big Band w/Etienne Charles (6:30 PM & 9:00 PM, Paul JAS Center) The goal of the JAS Academy is to identify and assist the most talented artists in embracing jazz fundamentally while exploring myriad related & unrelated forms of music at the highest level of quality. While at the Academy, in addition to their studies and rehearsals, students will also be showcased at multiple public performances. Etienne Charles is a Trinidad-born trumpeter, composer, and storyteller whose work explores untold histories through sound. Known for his rich tone, layered compositions, and rhythm-driven approach, he creates music that both engages and challenges, often addressing complex cultural and historical themes. A 2015 Guggenheim Fellow and 2022 Creative Capital Awardee, Charles develops his projects through immersive research, traveling to communities, collaborating with local artists, and engaging directly with cultural traditions. His work connects the African diaspora and highlights marginalized voices, as heard in projects including Creole Soul, San Jose Suite, and Carnival: The Sound of a People. Charles’ performances are multidisciplinary experiences, incorporating original composition, improvisation, film, and spoken word. His commissioned work San Juan Hill examines the history of a once-vibrant New York community, continuing his focus on storytelling through music. He has performed at major venues and festivals worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, the Newport Jazz Festival, and the Monterey Jazz Festival, and has collaborated with artists such as Roberta Flack, Marcus Miller, and the Count Basie Orchestra. An active educator, Charles is Associate Professor of Studio Music and Jazz at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, where he continues to inspire the next generation of artists. To purchase a ticket, click here.

Dom Dolla After Show (9:30 PM, Belly Up Aspen) Grammy nominated Australian DOM DOLLA is experiencing a meteoric rise, his signature style of house music is connecting with global audiences, and he is recognized as one of the most exciting producers in electronic music. Dom discovered house music when his Mother handed him a copy of Basement Jaxx’ 2001 album ‘Rooty”. In his late teen’s Dom spent weekends hosting pub-discos & djing at parties whilst working as a graphic-designer during the week. In 2015 Dom was encouraged to quit his day job to pursue his obsession with music and production. Dom emerged with a string of critically acclaimed club hits; DefineY, ou, Be RanydT, ake It, San Frandisco, Pump The Breaks, Moving Blind and Strangers ft. Mansionari . In 2022 Dom released ‘Miracle Maker’ ft. Clementine Douglas which was named BBC Radio 1’s Hottest Record In The World, propelling Dom into his global break-out moment with a run of hit singles, Rhyme Dust w/ MK, EaYt our Man w/ Nelly Furtado, Saving Up and girl$, which saw Dom’s catalog surpass 1 BILLION streams, receive a GRAMMY nomination for his remix of ‘New Gold’ by Gorillaz feaTt. ame Impala & Bootie Brown, and ARIA award for best ‘Electronic Dance Release’. Dom’s dedication & craft has been recognised by Rolling Stone named ‘Best New Artist’, GQ’s ‘Solo Artist of theY ear’, labeled Billboard Dance’s ‘OnTe o Watch’, awarded Dancing Astronaut’s ‘Artist Of TheY ear’’ and was celebrated on the cover of DJ Mag. To purchase tickets, click here.

Salsa After Dark with Mezcla Socials Dance (10:30 PM, Paul JAS Center) Spice Up Your Night in Aspen at Salsa After Dark! Join Jazz Aspen Snowmass for a fun, high-energy Salsa Lesson at the Paul JAS Center, hosted by Mezcla Socials Dance! No partner needed, no experience necessary, learn the basics, meet new people, and enjoy the rhythm in a welcoming, upbeat atmosphere. Drinks available for purchase. Come dance, connect, and turn up the heat! Free event – RSVP Encouraged . To learn more, click here.

Leisure Hike (Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00 AM, East Aspen Hunter Creek) This light hike connects trails, hidden neighborhoods and nature paths east of town along the Roaring Fork River and the Hunter Creek. The majority of the hike is adjacent to tranquil flowing bodies of water. A great beginner to intermediate hike full of scenic views. Register here!

Highlights of Aspen Tour (Saturdays & Sundays, 12:00 PM, Downtown Aspen) Embark on a leisurely stroll through town, where intriguing historical narratives, enchanting storytelling, and fascinating tidbits effortlessly blend together. This 60-minute scenic walk not only acquaints you with the local heritage but also grants you a genuine sense of belonging, acting as a splendid springboard to fully indulge in the abundant wonders that Aspen has to offer. To reserve a spot, click here.

The Bayer Prelude: Music in the Galleries (2:00 PM, Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies) Spend a Sunday afternoon listening to carefully curated classical music performed by students of the Aspen Music Festival and School. Designed to complement your experience of the current exhibition, “Double Take”, these hour-long solo performances offer a lovely respite from the heat of the day and an exciting prelude to the 4 pm Festival Orchestra concert. Wander through the galleries, take in the artwork, and let the live music transform your perspective. Free and open to the public. To learn more, click here.

Antibalas (6:30 PM & 9:00 PM, Paul JAS Center) Antibalas, the Brooklyn-based musical collective known for its powerful Afrobeat sound, was conceived by Martín Perna in Mexico City and formed in New York in 1997. Drawing early members from the Dap-Kings orbit, the group quickly developed a distinct identity rooted in politically charged Afrobeat, deep grooves, and expansive horn arrangements. Their early years were spent performing in alternative spaces across New York, building a following before establishing a long-running residency in Tribeca. With the self-release of Liberation Afrobeat Vol. 1 in 2000, Antibalas launched an international touring career, appearing at major festivals including Glastonbury, Montreux, and Newport Jazz. Over the years, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums, including Who Is This America, Security, and Fu Chronicles, the latter earning a Grammy nomination for Best World Music Album. Members of Antibalas also contributed to the Tony Award-winning Broadway production FELA!, further extending the group’s cultural impact. Continuing to evolve, the band recorded new material in Brooklyn, culminating in Hourglass (2025). Known for their dynamic live performances and collaborative reach, Antibalas has worked with artists including Angelique Kidjo, Mark Ronson, and The Roots, remaining a vital force in global music. To purchase a ticket, click here.

Summer Movie Series (8:00 PM, MOLLIE Aspen) Summer Movie Nights at MOLLIE bring a laid-back, open-air cinema experience to the rooftop. Join MOLLIE Aspen on select Sundays from 8:00pm – 10:00pm. As the sun sets behind the mountains, settle in for a rotating lineup of feel-good summer films and nostalgic favorites under the stars. Grab a drink and light bites from the bar, find your spot, and settle in for a memorable night of film and fresh mountain air. Seating is first come, first serve—arrive early to claim your place and enjoy the view before the movie begins. Complimentary to MOLLIE hotel guests. $15 per person for the public. Advance registration is recommended as space is limited. This week features a screening of Summer of Soul. To sign up, click here.

Pitkin County Open Space Birding | Upper Roaring Gorge (7:15 AM) In partnership with Pitkin County Open Space & Trails The gorge of the Roaring Fork is an oasis of native habitat on open space properties that run the length of the river as it passes Red Butte and flows downstream through the deeply cut river gorge. August brings flocks of migrating songbirds through this area where they feed in food-rich mountain shrubland and riparian habitats. The group will explore a loop route that descends into the gorge, follows the river, and climbs back up on gentle switchbacks. The outing will focus on female and juvenile hummingbirds, warbling vireos, tanagers, various warblers and sparrows, woodpeckers, kingfishers, dippers, herons, and more! This class requires advanced registration to ensure appropriate planning for the field experience. Participants must register by 5pm on the day prior to the outing. Meeting location will be communicated in advance to registered participants. To register, click here.

Aspen Music Festival and School Summer Season (July 1 - August 23) Founded in 1949, the Aspen Music Festival and School is regarded as one of the top classical music festivals in the United States, noted both for its concert programming and its musical training of mostly young-adult music students. The eight-week summer season includes hundreds of classical music events: concerts by three orchestras, recitals, chamber music, operas, classes, lectures, and family programs. The 2026 Summer Season runs from July 1 - August 23. Explore the full calendar here.

Theatre Aspen Presents Grease (July 31 - August 29) Theatre Aspen Hurst Theatre) Grease Leather jackets, poodle skirts, and the electrifying sound of rock ’n’ roll bring Rydell High to life in Grease. This beloved musical follows the ups and downs of teenage love, friendship, and finding your place in the crowd. Bursting with unforgettable hits and infectious energy, it’s a feel-good celebration of youth, music, and the thrill of first love. An eight-year run on Broadway and two subsequent revivals, along with innumerable school and community productions, place Grease among the world’s most popular musicals. To purchase a ticket, click here.

Aspen's Past to Present Tour (Mondays & Thursdays, 10:00 AM, Downtown Aspen) This classic historical walking tour of Aspen tells it’s history from humble mining camp to world famous resort. A casual 12 block stroll through historic downtown Aspen acclimatizes you to Aspen’s energy and possibility. A great experience for both the first time visitor and the regular. This tour visits historic landmarks of Aspen including the Wheeler Opera House, the Red Onion, the Pitkin County Courthouse & the Hotel Jerome among others when accessible. Native Legend, Mining Folklore & Local Tales bring History to life on an entertaining guided walk. 90 minutes long with distance of approximately 1 mile along sidewalks, pedestrian ways and parks of mostly flat terrain. Reservations required - reserve your spot here.

Children's Storytime with ACES! (10:30 AM, Pitkin County Library) Caregiver & Child storytime series | Best suited for ages 1-4 year olds. On select Mondays throughout the summer, join Pitkin County Library for a partner storytime featuring the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. ACES teachers will bring special artifacts relating to the fossils that were found in Snowmass in 2012, and share activities in exploring the history of the Snowmastadon. Children’s Librarians will select books that further illuminate the topic. Learners young and old will come away with new perspectives and curiosity about our amazing mountain home. Class will be held in the children’s room at the Pitkin County Library. Bathrooms are be available. To learn more, click here.

Downtown History Tour: Aspen Through the Eras (Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays, 10:30 AM, Across from the Wheeler Opera House) Aspen Historical Society’s cornerstone walking tour of the buildings, sites, and scenes around downtown Aspen, with interesting stories around every corner. This tour meets across from the storied Wheeler Opera House, by the iconic dancing fountain and begins with a history “primer” at the Sister Cities Plaza on Wagner Park followed by a stroll through the historical downtown core before finishing at the iconic Hotel Jerome. With a focus on historical buildings, this tour offers a broad view of Aspen’s history with many interesting tidbits at each stop. Meets across from the Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave. Weather dependent. This walking tour takes place on the pedestrian malls; sidewalks; and street-sides in downtown Aspen. To learn more, click here.

Mahjong Monday (11:00 AM, MOLLIE Aspen) Join MOLLIE Aspen for Monday Mahjong—an afternoon of strategy, conversation, and great food in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a seasoned player or have never touched a tile before, there’s a seat at the table for you. Choose the Beginner Ticket for guided instruction, rule walkthroughs, and hands-on support from a Mahjong instructor throughout the event. Prefer to jump right into the action? The Free Play Ticket is designed for players already familiar with the game who are looking for a fun, casual match with fellow enthusiasts. All Mahjong sets are provided, and all tickets include one entrée and café drink from Petit Trois, making it the perfect afternoon of play, bites, and community. Lunch: 11:00am-12:00 pm, Play: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm. Beginner Tickets: $67 per person (includes guided instruction). Free Play Tickets: $42 per person. Space is limited and advance registration is recommended. To learn more, click here.

Know Your Trees | Tree Identification Walk (4:00 PM, Hallam Lake) Advance registration is required. Know Your Trees will be offered weekly from Monday, June 15 through Monday, August 24, 2026. Firs and spruces, aspens and cottonwoods… how many trees do you know? Come explore the ACES backyard and discover up to a dozen species of conifers and deciduous trees. And let’s not forget about the great variety of tall shrubs that are all around us! Join the Naturalist Program Director Jim Kravitz or the Forest Program Director Adam McCurdy on this hour-long walk around the Hallam Lake neighborhood to identify local trees. Participants will walk away with The Rocky Mountain Tree Finder booklet and basic knowledge about the native trees that grow in our neighborhood. To register, click here.

Traffic Jams (Monday - Thursday, 4:30 PM, The Vault at the Wheeler) Traffic Jams in The Vault at the Wheeler is a free August concert series presented in partnership with the City of Aspen Transportation Department, designed to shift your trip and reimagine the late‑afternoon commute. Rather than sitting in traffic, audiences are invited to step out of their ride—car, bus, or bike—and into The Vault for live music in an intimate setting. For two weeks in August, invited musicians spend time in Aspen and at the Wheeler, sharing early‑evening performances Monday through Thursday from 4:30–6 PM. The concerts feature full sets by the artists, with room for interpretation and moments of improvisation, culminating in the premiere of a new song inspired by Aspen at the end of each week. With drinks, light snacks, and room to linger, Traffic Jams encourages audiences to slow down, stay in town, and connect through live music—shift your trip and trade traffic headaches for a better kind of jam. These are free, but ticketed, community events; advance RSVP is encouraged to secure reservations. To learn more and RSVP, click here.

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