Sponsored by the Aspen Chamber Resort Association
Aspen is not only one of the most iconic winter destinations in North America, but the world. For decades Aspen has welcomed skiers, riders, and outdoors enthusiasts of all levels—from tots taking their first ski lesson to professional skiers—for an unrivaled winter experience. And there’s no better time to experience winter in Aspen, and ring in the ski season, then at Aspen’s Wintersköl Festival.
About Wintersköl
Wintersköl is Aspen’s annual “toast to winter,” which dates back to 1951, when Aspen was starting to make a name for itself as a ski destination. The year prior, in 1950, Aspen Mountain was the first destination outside of Europe to host the FIS Alpine World Championships. The following January locals wanted to celebrate Aspen’s distinctive mountain lifestyle with a unique weekend of events. And so Wintersköl was born.
Historically taking place in January, Wintersköl now takes place in December, making it a great time to ring in the ski season. The weekend is jam-packed with fun events and activities, from live music and movie screenings to food events and on-mountain activities, and much more.
Wintersköl Events
What says a toast to winter like a craft beer festival? Wintersköl Beer Festival brings together great breweries, wineries, and distilleries for tastings, live music, food, and more. The event is free to walk through, but a ticket is required for tastings. Another popular event is the legendary Soupsköl™ competition. Guests can taste their way through a variety of hearty, delectable soups from great Aspen restaurants.
Both Wintersköl Beer Festival and Soupsköl take place at Wagner Park on Saturday, December 14. Aspen is a Mountain IDEAL certified destination, and sustainability remains at the forefront of Wintersköl, with the event using compostable products and recyclable materials whenever possible.
Don’t miss the annual Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Display, happening after the Wintersköl Beer Festival and Soupsköl, on Saturday evening. The parade of skiers cruise down Aspen Mountain’s Little Nell run, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
See more information about Wintersköl below.
- When: Dec. 12-15, 2024
- Where: Throughout the towns of Aspen, Snowmass, and on Aspen Snowmass’s four mountains.
- Cost: Most events are free, while some are ticketed events.
- More info: View the full Wintersköl schedule here.
Plan Your Trip
While Aspen may be known for its big ski mountains, it’s a community with small-town character. Aspen’s Wintersköl Festival is truly a one-of-a-kind winter event that celebrates everything that makes Aspen so unique. You’ll want to book your Aspen accommodations for Wintersköl as soon as possible. This is one of Aspen’s preeminent events, so hotels fill up quickly. View Aspen accommodations here.
Header image ©C2 Photography
December 18, 2024
