There’s no place quite like Aspen Snowmass during the holidays. The crisp mountain air, twinkling lights, and lively events bring warmth and excitement to winter in the Rockies. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a festive retreat with friends, you’ll find endless ways to celebrate the season.
Tree Lightings & Community Traditions
Aspen’s holiday spirit shines brightest at its tree lighting ceremonies. The Little Nell Tree Lighting, held on December 7th, kicks off the season with carolers, cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa beneath the glow of Aspen Mountain. Many hotels and plazas host their own lightings, creating a festive atmosphere throughout town as locals and visitors gather to ring in the winter season.
Wintersköl: Aspen’s Winter Celebration
A long-standing local favorite, Wintersköl brings the community together for three days of snow-filled fun. Held December 11th to 14th, this celebration of winter includes torchlight parades, fireworks, snow-sculpture contests, bonfires, live music, and the beloved Soupsköl competition, where Aspen’s best restaurants compete for the title of best soup in town. It’s a joyful, welcoming way to experience Aspen’s mountain culture and hometown charm.
The “Winter Windows” art display during Wintersköl in Snowmass: Local artists create 2D/3D window installations across the Snowmass Mall and Base Village during the festival. Holiday Market / Artisan Fair: During Wintersköl in Snowmass there’s a Winter Holiday Market featuring local makers, artisans, and festive goods (Dec 13-14).
Santa’s Village & Snowmass Lights
Snowmass Village becomes a true winter wonderland from mid-December through New Year’s Eve. The Collective transforms into Santa’s Village December 21st to 24th, complete with dazzling lights, nutcrackers, candy canes, and plenty of holiday cheer. Families can enjoy photos with Santa, cookie decorating, and themed nights featuring reindeer visits and live music. The Snowmass Light Show on December 5th brings illuminated sculptures and festive displays to life against the snow-covered landscape.
Ullr Nights at Snowmass
Named for the Norse god of snow, Ullr Nights is a mountaintop celebration that lights up Snowmass’s Elk Camp on select winter evenings. Ride the gondola up for bonfires, music, tubing, snow biking, and hearty alpine dining. Kids can join outdoor games and mini snow adventures while adults enjoy après under the stars. It’s a one-of-a-kind winter party that captures the fun and magic of the mountains.
The 12 Days of Aspen
From December 20th to 31st, downtown Aspen transforms into a festive playground during the 12 Days of Aspen celebration. Families can enjoy ice skating, s’mores, ornament decorating, storytelling, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, while adults join après events and pop-up holiday gatherings. The festivities wrap up with fireworks over Aspen Mountain on New Year’s Eve, lighting up the sky in two shows, an early evening display and another at midnight.
Mountain Adventures & Ski Season Excitement
The heart of the holiday season in Aspen Snowmass lies on the slopes. With four distinct mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk there’s terrain for every skill level and plenty of après-ski energy. Cross-country enthusiasts can explore the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System, offering over 60 miles of groomed trails. For more adventure, local outfitters such as T-Lazy-7 Ranch lead guided snowmobile tours through the White River National Forest, while the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) hosts snowshoe excursions that explore the local ecology and scenery.
Holiday Performances & Cultural Events
The arts take center stage during the holidays in Aspen. The Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker combines classical grace with a modern twist, while Theatre Aspen’s Holiday Cabaret brings song, laughter, and dining together at the historic Hotel Jerome. The Wheeler Opera House offers a full schedule of concerts, comedy shows, and holiday films throughout December. Visitors can also stop by the Aspen Art Museum for contemporary exhibitions, workshops, and rooftop views of the wintry streets below.
Holiday Dining in Aspen
Aspen’s dining scene reaches new heights during the holidays. Many of the town’s renowned restaurants serve special Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve menus. From intimate candlelit dinners to lively holiday buffets, the culinary options are as diverse as the snowflakes falling outside. Reservations are essential, as these festive meals are among the most anticipated events of the season.
Faith & Reflection
Throughout December, local churches and interfaith centers open their doors for candlelight services, choir performances, and Christmas Eve celebrations. The Aspen Chamber Resort Association maintains an updated list of holiday worship services and seasonal concerts for visitors seeking a moment of peace and reflection amid the festivities.
The Menorah Lighting Ceremony held at The Collective Snowmass on December 15th. Gather beneath the glow of the night sky at The Collective Snowmass from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm for this heartfelt festival of light. Presented in partnership with the Aspen Jewish Congregation, this event celebrates the second night of Hanukkah and the spirit of hope and renewal. Join in song, enjoy meaningful moments, and kindle joy together with family, friends and community under the twinkling Colorado stars.
Plan Your Stay with Alpine Property
Celebrate the holidays surrounded by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Alpine Property offers exceptional vacation rentals in Aspen and Snowmass, from ski-in/ski-out condos to private mountain homes with fireplaces and panoramic views. Our local team can assist with ski passes, reservations, and personalized recommendations to make your stay seamless and memorable. Start planning your holiday escape today and discover the joy of spending the season in Aspen Snowmass.
