Wintersköl, Aspen’s annual “toast to winter,” dates back to a quiet January in 1951 when locals chose to commemorate Aspen's distinctive mountain way of life with a diverse weekend of events. The multi-day festival showcases on-mountain activities, snow sculptures, a soup contest, a craft beer festival, a torchlight descent and fireworks on Aspen Mountain plus much more.
All event schedules are subject to change.
We’re looking for enthusiastic, passionate volunteers to help bring Wintersköl to life! Volunteer opportunities are still available - sign up online today.
Wintersköl embraces the spirit of accessibility with a commitment to ADA guidelines. We've thoughtfully designed the event to ensure that all guests, regardless of ability, can revel in the festive atmosphere. There are restroom facilities that are ADA compliant, well lit walkways, directional signage, as well as ADA access for stage viewing. Please come prepared as many of these events take place outside in snowy conditions. Wagner Parks current condition is snow packed / powder. We look forward to celebrating the magic of winter together!
In partnership with Buckhorn Public Arts, GoSnowmass is launching an art installation during Wintersköl, December 12-15, called Winter Windows. The goal is to pair local artists with Snowmass retailers to create beautiful window displays.
Bring your friends and family for an evening of holiday cheer! Follow candlelit paths through campus as you tour the studios, and shop for original artwork and creatively inspired gifts. The ArtWorks Store will be filled with stocking stuffers and gifts at various price points from our 2024 best-selling artists. Complementary holiday gift wrapping will be offered for all purchases. This event is free and open to the public. Registration is appreciated.
Kick off the Wintersköl™ weekend with the opening night of Aspen Historical Society’s winter retro film series! Featuring a wide range of vintage films from the Aspen Historical Society Collection, the series will open with a Wintersköl™ twist to bring retro skiing and Aspen’s hot doggin’ past to life on the big screen! Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies with the specially curated lineup of films featuring scenes from Wintersköls of old. FREE; Tickets required: www.aspenshowtix.com.
Afterward, make it a night of film and head to the ISIS Theatre later on to get pumped for the season with the iconic 1993 classic ski film, Aspen Extreme. Come in your ski gear or get out your retro fits and come in costume to get in the winter spirit!
These special partnership events are offered for free to the community in the spirit of Wintersköl™ to celebrate the season ahead.
Can’t make opening night? Catch Retro Films with Aspen Historical Society at TACAW on Saturday, January 25th and additional dates to be announced!
Join us for the inaugural Icebreaker Bash, the official opening event of Aspen’s renowned Wintersköl™! This is the perfect chance for community members to come together, reconnect with old friends, meet new neighbors, and soak in the winter vibes in the heart of our community. Whether you're a long-time Aspenite or a newcomer, the Icebreaker Bash is all about connection, great conversation, and embracing the season ahead. Enjoy a live DJ, delicious bites, and refreshing drinks all while mingling with the community and setting the stage for the exciting days of Wintersköl™ to come. It's a celebration of everything that makes Aspen special – our people, our authentic spirit, and the beginning of another epic winter!
Presented by ACRA, Aspen Historical Society, and Aspen Film.
Storyline - T.J. and his friend Dexter quit their jobs in Detroit to become ski-instructors in Aspen. While T.J. becomes the most popular instructor of the school, he must look after Dexter, whose future is so much dimmer that he's thinking about becoming a drug courier; this tests their friendship. Meanwhile, rich businesswoman Brice supports T.J. in his writing ambitions and invites him to live at her home. But in her absence he falls in love with stunningly-beautiful blonde radio moderator Robin.
Fun Facts - The radio station in the movie, KSPN, is a real radio station in Aspen. The equipment used for the KSPN studio, however, was actually outdated and unused equipment from KMTS in nearby Glenwood Springs.
Every time TJ and Dexter venture into the backcountry, they are transported to the Coast Range of British Columbia. This includes the Powder 8 Championships. TJ's fall into a crevasse is especially unlikely given that there is no glaciated terrain in Colorado.
FREE to attend | RSVP required | Retro ski attire recommended
As part of Winterskol’s kick off, don’t miss this show for only $5! O'Connor Brothers Band is a five-piece Denver, CO based band that plays original New Roots & Rock music written by Matt and Sean O'Connor. They bring an upbeat, modern feel to a classic style to create a unique and gritty new roots sound that is turning heads nationwide. Tickets required, GA $5.
A frosty festival of creativity! Anderson Ranch Arts Center presents "Kidsculpt" which challenges school teams to roll up their sleeves and carve out spectacular snow creations. Participating schools: Basalt Middle School, Aspen Middle School, Aspen Country Day, Aspen Community School. Come out to encourage these kids and give them a warm round of applause!
Presented by Bud Light
Curling comes to Snowmass with the new Game of Stones curling series in which teams of two will compete in a head to head elimination competition. The first team that reaches 10 points wins! FREE; Registration required and will occur at the ice skating rink prior to the event.
FREE entry during Wintersköl! Fun for all ages with foosball, pool, an interactive wall mural, engaging games like skee-ball, board games, full-size pin art and a gaming area. Children ages 12 and younger must be supervised by an adult.
Visitors are required to sign a waiver when entering the Game Lounge and Selfie Den. Get ahead of the game and sign your waiver online before arrival.
Presented by Snowmass Tourism, guests of all ages can enjoy Snowmass S’mores for FREE, starting at 3:30pm. Guests can find branded s’mores carts (which resemble oversized marshmallows).
Join Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club (AVSC) for a fun community Rail Jam for skiers and snowboarders of all ages to kick off Wintersköl celebrations! Prizes, music, and fun for all. Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club's mission is to provide all youth in the greater Roaring Fork Valley the opportunity to excel as athletes and as people through winter sports.
Supported by Snow League, the first professional winter sports league for snowboarding and freeskiing competition started by Shaun White. The League’s first event in March 2025 will be held in Aspen, CO, with the remaining events held at winter resort destinations around the world.
Featuring over 20 local artisans and their wares. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures, while enjoying festive cocktails, lively tunes, and supporting local artists.
The second annual locals Halloween themed costume party, a la “Nightmare Before Christmas” at the New Belgium Ranger Station from 6:00 to 10:00pm. The party features drink specials, three DJs, giveaways for the best costume, and all-around spooky fun.
Presented by Aspen Film
81 minutes - Q&A with the film director and producer immediately following the film
$15 member / $20 non member - 15% of ticket proceeds will be donated to the The Bamyan Alpine Ski Club
Tickets on Sale Dec 2.
In the remote mountains of Afghanistan, a newfound passion for skiing attracts young athletes from rival villages to the slopes. With minimal gear and makeshift wooden skis, the determined coach, Alishah Farhang, organizes a ski race like no other that unites the community in a moment of joy and triumph just before the country’s collapse. CHAMPIONS OF THE GOLDEN VALLEY captures the spirit of a classic underdog sports story with the heartfelt portrait of a community finding hope amid disrupted dreams. Revealing a stunning unseen side of Afghanistan, it is an uplifting exploration of what it means to be a champion – in all its forms.
Following its World Premiere at Tribeca, this captivating documentary received the prize for Best Documentary at SCAD Savannah, Overall Audience Choice at Heartland International Film Festival, Grand Prize at Banff Mountain Film Festival, and a number of Audience Awards from festivals including Austin, Banff, Crested Butte, and Denver. Learn more on the film’s website HERE.
Stay tuned for opening day celebrations.
Presented by Anon
Intimidated by the park? Terrain Park Boot Camp is the perfect opportunity to learn rails, boxes, and jumps from professional coaches and athletes. The clinic offers features that are the perfect size for beginners of all ages. This is a free event. Helmets are required. Minors must have waivers signed by their guardian. FREE; sign wavier here.
Featuring over 20 local artisans and their wares. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures, while enjoying festive cocktails, lively tunes, and supporting local artists.
Don’t miss the JAS Street Horns in action! This exciting new ensemble, led by Basalt Band Director Chance Davis and JAS In-Schools Director Chris Bank, features talented students selected by their school band directors, alongside JAS In-Schools faculty and professional jazz musicians.
The Street Horns bring a unique sound to life using a call-and-response style, layering powerful horn lines over funky drum beats. The result? A lively, memorized arrangement that grooves with energy and soul. Join us for a performance that showcases the skill, passion, and creativity of these rising young musicians, right here in our community.
No matter how long you’ve been a local, you’ll learn something new at this special Wintersköl™ twist on the cornerstone walking tour of the historical buildings, sites, and scenes around downtown Aspen, with interesting stories around every corner. This popular tour begins with a history “primer” at the Sister Cities Plaza on Wagner Park (also the site of many a Wintersköl™ celebration) then weaves through the historical downtown core before finishing at the iconic Hotel Jerome. Meet in front of the Wheeler Opera House, 320 E Hyman Ave. Tickets: $25 adult / $20 seniors and children 18 and under.
Raise a mug to the true spirit of Wintersköl! Introducing the newest addition to the winter festivities – the 'Toast of Winter' Beer Festival, brought to you by ACRA and Radiate Events. Gather for an evening of frosty festivities, live entertainment, and the unmistakable warmth that comes from celebrating the season with good company. Open to everyone; must be 21 years or older for beer/spirits tastings.
Purchase tickets online now! Avoid online fees and lines day of...on site ticket sales are available December 12 at the Icebreaker Bash at Mi Chola, 5:30 - 7pm AND December 13 at Stranahan's Whiskey Lodge, 4-6pm.
Get ready to groove with a jam-centric blend of Rock and Funk, infused with the soulful sounds of Jazz and a touch of Country. Covering iconic artists like Bill Withers, Grand Funk Railroad, Talking Heads, Grateful Dead, Al Green, and more, this band delivers dynamic, feel-good music guaranteed to get you moving! FREE and open to everyone.
Celebrate our community's culinary creativity as restaurants from the Roaring Fork Valley come together for the legendary Soupsköl competition. You can be the ultimate judge as you taste your way through a variety of delectable soups. Winning restaurant will receive the coveted Soupsköl soup pot and bragging rights! FREE to attend and taste.
The Ten O’ One Band fears nothing—except the silence when the music stops. This 7-piece powerhouse from Salt Lake City brings an electrifying mix of rock, blues, and psychedelic Latin jams to the stage. Get ready for bold sounds, unforgettable grooves, and a show that’s as fearless as the band itself! FREE and open to everyone.
Presented by Snowmass Tourism, guests of all ages can enjoy Snowmass S’mores for FREE, starting at 3:30pm. Guests can find branded s’mores carts (which resemble oversized marshmallows).
Bundle up and prepare for an evening of wonder and delight. Warm up at our family-friendly bonfire and enjoy some savory and sweet treats from local food vendors.
Join St. Regis in celebrating the 13th Annual Tree Lighting at The St. Regis Aspen. Welcome the holiday season at The Resort with the illumination of our 30ft festive tree.
We invite you to visit with Santa & Mrs. Clause, marvel at this year's hand-crafted gingerbread house, enjoy hot cocoa and holiday treats, and be dazzled by winter ballerinas and other festive entertainment.
Learn about the nuances of mountain weather forecasts, get tips and tricks for finding the best snow conditions, see all of the features in OpenSnow that you might not know about, and much more. The Collective Snowmass
OpenSnow is your trusted source for the most accurate weather forecast, snow report, high-resolution weather maps, and ski conditions information. For more details, visit their website!
Warren Miller is going big for 75 years! Stacked with unbelievable action and unexpected stories, Warren Miller’s 75 will bring fans to powder stashes and chutes around the world, from Canada, Colorado, California, and Utah to Finland, Japan, Austria, and New Jersey. Catch a
diverse lineup of snowsports legends, Olympic hopefuls, world champions, X Games stars, and emerging talents on the big screen this fall, including snowboarders Shaun White, Jeremy Jones, Danny Davis, and Toby Miller, plus skiers Max Hitzig, Lexi duPont, Caite Zeliff, Mark
Abma, and Aaron Blunck. With original segments and unique collaborations, this year’s film will set the tone for the next 75
years of ski and snowboard filmmaking. https://warrenmiller.com/film-tour | Purchase Tickets
Watch skiers and snowboarders adorned with torches descend the slopes of Aspen Mountain. Enjoy a dazzling fireworks show over Aspen Mountain to celebrate winter in style.
This year’s parade proudly features the talented local athletes of the Aspen Valley Ski Club (AVSC) and our local athletes across all disciplines in the ski and snowboard world. Watch as these young athletes illuminate the slopes of Aspen Mountain with flares and glow sticks, showcasing their skill and passion for the sport. Please note: Participation in the parade is exclusively for AVSC and Sunlight Ski Team athletes and is not open to the public this year.
Shovels & Rope is a folk duo from Charleston, South Carolina, consisting of husband and wife Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent. The band's music blends traditional folk, rock and roll, and country rock, and has been described as "a tough new strain of Southern songwriting". Their performances often feature the duo switching instruments, sharing lead vocals, and playing songs from their entire catalog. Purchase Tickets
Presented by Valley Ortho Aspen and ACRA
Elevate your Wintersköl experience with a delicious breakfast, fantastic giveaways, and the unbeatable camaraderie of our uphill community. FREE breakfast will be served at the Cliffhouse to all uphillers.
Ski for strudel! Everyone wins in this race on the infamous Apple Strudel Run at Aspen Highlands. In 1988, Gretl Uhl began making apple strudel at the Merry Go Round Restaurant and soon after the Apple Strudel Downhill was born. Follow the signs from top of Exhibition Lift, past the Merry Go Round Restaurant to top of Apple Strudel Run to enter race. Run the course, then join us at the finish line for strudel and hot chocolate. FREE; No pre-registration necessary.
Presented by Anon
Intimidated by the park? Terrain Park Boot Camp is the perfect opportunity to learn rails, boxes, and jumps from professional coaches and athletes. The clinic offers features that are the perfect size for beginners of all ages. This is a free event. Helmets are required. Minors must have waivers signed by their guardian. FREE; sign wavier here.
Featuring over 20 local artisans and their wares. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures, while enjoying festive cocktails, lively tunes, and supporting local artists.
An apres-ski celebration of Snowmass’ community character, with a toast to the 57th anniversary of Snowmass Ski Area’s opening day, a retro ski outfit competition, and the awards ceremony for Winter Windows.
PG 2006 ‧ Family/Comedy ‧ 1h 48m
Presented by Aspen Film
It is the first animated film produced by Kennedy Miller and Animal Logic. Set in the cold land of Antarctica, the film follows Mumble (Wood), an emperor penguin who is able to tap dance brilliantly despite lacking the ability to sing a heartsong to attract a soulmate. Free to Attend | Reservations required
Join the Limelight Aspen for a tail-wagging good time with FREE pup portraits during our exclusive Yappy Hour. Bring your canine companions to strike a pose and capture their unique personalities with a professional photoshoot right at the Limelight. Our skilled photographers will ensure your fur babies shine in the spotlight! Enjoy drink specials, live music, and other winter treats!
FRIENDS OF WINTERSKÖL |
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BUTTON SPONSOR
| SKÖL SPONSOR | MEDIA SPONSOR
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UPHILL BREAKFAST CLUB | AVSC RAIL JAM
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ROCK STARS |
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Annabelle Inn | Aspen Meadows | Frias Properties of Aspen Snowmass | Laurelwood Condominiums | Limelight Aspen | MOLLIE Aspen | Pokolodi Lodge | St. Moritz Lodge | The Crestwood Snowmass | The Gant Aspen
We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated in the Ode to Wintersköl survey. Your thoughtful responses have provided us with invaluable insights, prompting us to adjust the event dates for optimal reasons.
Wintersköl was created to fill a quiet time in the season and unite our local community in celebrating our alpine lifestyle. Therefore, we're reintroducing this opportunity to officially commence the winter season. ACRA, in collaboration with our community partners, is committed to elevating the Wintersköl festivities and ensuring they resonate more closely with the needs of our community.
Brush up on all there is to know about Aspen. Get behind the scenes opinions on where to go, what to do, where to eat and more. Discover all the happenings in our vibrant little mountain town.
With winter season on the horizon this winter is especially exciting as we welcome new eateries as well as big culture news. Besides the rumor of another amazing year of snow, there are plenty of new openings and activities for visitors and locals alike to look forward to. Check out some of the highlights below:
After a full day on the slopes, enjoy specialty holiday season meals at Aspen's finest restaurants.
Below is a partial list of dining specials happening in Aspen. From Christmas lunch to a holiday dinner, there are dining options for everyone. Visit the restaurant links listed below for more information in regard to reservation policies. All events are subject to change. Check back frequently for updates.
