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.
Schedule of Events; December 12 - 15, 2024
All event schedules are subject to change.
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WINTER WINDOWS | Snowmass Village
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.
4:30 - 6:30pm
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE | Anderson Ranch, Snowmass Village
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.
5:00pm
RETRO SKI FILMS | Wheeler Opera House
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!
5:30 - 7:00pm
ICEBREAKER BASH | Mi Chola, Aspen
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!
Doors 7:00pm | Screening 7:30pm
ASPEN EXTREME MOVIE (1993) | Aspen Film ISIS Theatre
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
7pm DOORS / 8pm SHOW
O’Connor Brothers Band | Belly Up Aspen
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.
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9am-12pm
Anderson Ranch Arts Center KIDSCULPT | Wagner Park, Aspen
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!
2 - 4pm
BUD LIGHT GAME OF STONES | Snowmass Base Village Rink
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.2 - 8pm
COLLECTIVE GAME LOUNGE | The Collective, Snowmass Village
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.
3:30 - 5:30pm
SNOWMASS S'MORES | Snowmass Village
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).
When: Beginning at 3:30pm
Where: Guest Services S’mores Carts in Base Village (near Base Camp Bar & Grill) and on the Snowmass Mall (near Tower Stage and Four Mountain Sports)
5-7pm
AVSC RAIL JAM | Little Nell Run, Aspen Mountain
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.
5 - 8pm
HOLIDAY MARKET | Snowmass Village Conference & Event Center
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.
6 - 10pm
DECEMBERWEEN | Snowmass Ranger Station
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.
Doors 6:30pm | Screening 7:00pm
CHAMPIONS OF THE GOLDEN VALLEY, A film by Ben Sturgulewski | Aspen Film ISIS Theatre
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.
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ALL DAY
ASPEN HIGHLANDS & BUTTERMILK OPENING DAY
Stay tuned for opening day celebrations.
12 - 3pm
TERRAIN PARK BOOT CAMP | Pocket Park on Fanny Hill, Snowmass
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.12 - 6pm
HOLIDAY MARKET | Snowmass Village Conference & Event Center
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.
1:30 - 2pm
JAS STREET HORNS | Wagner Park
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.
1:30pm
Special Wintersköl™ Downtown History Tour | Wheeler Opera House
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.
$25 adult / $20 seniors and children 18 and under2-6pm
WINTERSKÖL BEER FESTIVAL | Wagner Park, Aspen
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.
3-5pm
SOUPSKÖL | Wagner Park, Aspen
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.
3:30 - 5:30pm
SNOWMASS S'MORES | Snowmass Village
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).
When: Beginning at 3:30pm
Where: Guest Services S’mores Carts in Base Village (near Base Camp Bar & Grill) and on the Snowmass Mall (near Tower Stage and Four Mountain Sports)
5-7:30pm
WINTERSKÖL BONFIRE | Wagner Park
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.
6pm
ST REGIS TREE LIGHTING | St Regis Aspen
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.
6-8pm
OPEN SNOW: Winter Snow Forecasting & Finding Powder Days | The Collective Snowmass
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!
6pm & 9pm
Warren Miller's 75 | Harris Concert Hall
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 Tickets7pm
TORCHLIGHT PARADE & FIREWORKS | Aspen Mountain
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.
8:30pm
SHOVELS & ROPE with Al Olender | Belly Up Aspen
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
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8:30-10am
UPHILL BREAKFAST CLUB | Cliffhouse Restaurant, Buttermilk Mountain
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.10:30am - 12pm
APPLE STRUDEL DOWNHILL | Aspen Highlands Mountain
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.
12 - 3pm
TERRAIN PARK BOOT CAMP | Pocket Park on Fanny Hill, Snowmass
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.12 - 6pm
HOLIDAY MARKET | Snowmass Village Conference & Event Center
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.
2 - 5pm
SNOWMASS RETRO PARTY | Viewline Resort Snowmass
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.
4:00pm
HAPPY FEET | Aspen Film ISIS Theatre
PG 2006 ‧ Family/Comedy ‧ 1h 48m
Presented by Aspen FilmIt 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
4-6pm
PUP PORTRAITS | Limelight Aspen
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!
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!