If you’re hoping for a perfect Rocky Mountain Christmas, be sure to put Aspen Snowmass on your list. An enchanting experience for all ages, Aspen Snowmass delivers more than just fresh powder every year.
First impressions are priceless. Our sparkling, snow-covered valley gives way to downtown Aspen. Here you’ll be greeted by an abundance of glittering lights, wreaths, garlands, and festive holiday decorations.
Things to Do in Aspen Snowmass this Holiday Season
Since specific event dates and details can change from year to year, be sure to visit the websites of local businesses (or just ask our Concierge) before confirming your activity plans.
Annual Christmas Tree Lightings
If you arrive in Aspen for a long Christmas break, you may be in time for one of several annual Christmas Tree lightings downtown.
— Aspen’s Sardy House on Main Street lights up its tree during the first weekend of December with carolers, cocoa, and community. At nearly 100 feet tall, this traditional fir Christmas tree is an Aspen staple.
— The Little Nell usually turns on its Christmas tree lights in the courtyard by mid-December.
— The St. Regis includes a “Champagne sabering” signature ceremony when its 30-foot courtyard tree begins to glow.
Check the Aspen Chamber events page for this year’s dates.
A “12 Days of Aspen” Christmas
Each year, the Aspen Chamber (ACRA) curates a continually-updated list of that season’s “12 Days of Aspen” holiday activities. The “12 Days of Aspen” activities are perfect for supplementing your own Christmas holiday schedule with activities the whole family will enjoy. From caroling performances to cookie and gingerbread decorating to story hours and more, you’ll find the Chamber’s Christmas resource invaluable, no matter the year. Since exact dates and details change annually, you’ll want to keep the link bookmarked.
Pre-Christmas Solstice Bonfire in Aspen
ACES (the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies) usually offers a Solstice bonfire celebration called “Return to the Light” the week before Christmas. Take a journey through the Hallam Lake Nature Preserve on a one-way walking loop, while stopping to experience colored lights shining through ice sculptures, nature photos, and complimentary hot cocoa (bring your own mug!). Explore all of the events offered by ACES this holiday season.
Christmas Skiing and Snowboarding
The best memories for many taking an Aspen Christmas vacation come from the brilliant skiing and snowboarding conditions at Aspen Snowmass. With four mountains to choose from (and one pass includes them all!), you’ll experience prime conditions on exciting and expansive terrain. You’ll never get bored. Explore currently available tickets and passes at Aspen Snowmass.
Christmas Dining in Aspen Snowmass
For dining options on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Aspen, visit the Aspen Chamber’s website to see the latest updates on local restaurants that are offering special holiday feasts. Whether you’re deciding on an early Christmas lunch or an evening Christmas dinner, you’ll find the perfect option to suit everyone at your party. Most Aspen restaurants do require reservations since seats are especially in demand during the Christmas holiday season, so make your plans early (and let our Concierge help if you’re an Alpine Property guest)!
An Enchanting Sleigh Ride & Dinner
Who can say no to such an experience in the presence of such a wondrous landscape? The brisk night air on your smiling face as you glide through the snow with a loved one or two (or three). These animals are well cared for and trained so no need to worry. Make a reservation at the Pine Creek Cookhouse and have a memorable dinner and snow adventure in one go.
Enjoy the Wheeler Opera House
Open since 1889, the Wheeler Opera House is a historic gem in Aspen. Entertaining the masses on a year-round event schedule, the Opera House is a primo performance venue in the area. Explore the upcoming performances and events schedule. But this Holiday season we recommend you try to catch the comedy show three days after Christmas, or a magic show on New Year’s Eve. Tickets are available for presale on the events page of the website.
Catch a Show at the Belly Up
If live music is the vibe for the Holiday season in Aspen for you and your family, don’t miss the Belly Up in Aspen. With several shows scheduled in December from The Wallflowers to Marcus Mumford (of Mumford & Sons) to The Chainsmokers. There’s plenty to choose from with shows leading right up to and happening directly after the Christmas holiday.
Hannukah Hotspots
Rejoicing this holy holiday with everyone means supporting inclusivity. Besides, coming together goes hand and hand with kindness and the Christmas spirit. Stop by St. Regis for daily Menorah lightings between the 16-24 December from 4:45-5p, as hosted by Rabbi Mendel Mintz. On Christmas Eve additional treats will be served. A similar experience takes place at the Hotel Jerome as hosted by the Aspen Chamber’s 12-Days of Christmas.
Home Away from Home for Christmas in Aspen Snowmass
At Alpine Property, we want our holiday vacation rentals to be your homes away from home. From the comfort of our Aspen and Snowmass rentals, you can light a Christmas tree in your condo or cook your own holiday meal in a fully equipped kitchen. If the holiday excitement gets too overwhelming, you can walk back to your rental for a warm, quiet night. Reach out to our team and reserve the perfect holiday vacation rental in Aspen Snowmass.
