Aspen Snowmass is known primarily for its world-class winter events, but year after year it seems as if more people are beginning to appreciate the wonderful summertime festivities offered in the valley. Hot-ticket events such as the Food & Wine Classic and the Aspen Ideas Festival have been around for decades, and a number of new events pop up on an annual basis.
Let's take a look at some of the hottest periods of the summer in Aspen Snowmass. This will be useful information for planning a summer getaway to the valley and offer helpful insight into some new events and old favorites. Since these events are in high demand, it is important that you plan your lodging well in advance. Contact a Frias Properties vacation specialist to discuss lodging options, including rates and availability. Call toll-free 800-663-0336, or view our entire inventory online here.
The Food & Wine Classic kicks off the summer season during the third weekend in June. This year's Food & Wine Classic runs June 16-18, 2017 and features some of the top chefs, restauranteurs, winemakers and culinary icons from around the world. In addition to the marquee Grand Tastings in Wagner Park, there are a number of special events during the weekend, as well as exhibits and demonstrations by industry professionals. This event usually sells out far in advance, so plan accordingly. The Food & Wine Classic takes place at various locations around town, including Wagner Park and Paepcke Park.
The Aspen Ideas Festival is known for bringing the brightest minds in the world to our inspirational mountain town to share ideas and experiences. Lectures include interviews with artists, scientists, scholars, authors, public officials, business executives, entrepreneurs and leaders of all kinds. The 2017 festival takes place in two parts – June 25-28 and June 28-July 1 – with full passes sold out for both dates. If you want to attend the Aspen Ideas Festival this summer, it's still possible to pick up single-event tickets, but you'll want to book your lodging now!
Aspen’s Old-Fashioned Fourth of July festival on July 4 is always filled with traditional summertime fun, including a downtown parade and fireworks at night above Aspen Mountain. The fireworks display is truly amazing with the mountain backdrop and can be viewed from various locations around town, including Gondola Plaza. Be sure to book your room early for the Fourth of July. (Minimum night stay may be required.)
Growing in popularity, Aspen ArtCrush is a major fundraising benefit for the Aspen Art Museum and is gaining a reputation as Aspen’s premier summer gala. This year's event runs Aug. 2-4, 2017 and features a wine tasting, seated dinner, a live and silent auction of major works of contemporary art, as well as the presentation of the 2017 Aspen Award for Art. This year's recipient is contemporary artist Lawrence Weiner. As of presstime, lodging was still available for ArtCrush 2017, but rooms are going fast!
If you enjoy world-class music from major headliners like Maroon 5 and Keith Urban, then mark your calendars for the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival from Sept. 1-3, 2017 in Snowmass Village. Enjoy a true outdoor mountain music festival, complete with two live side stages and an international bazaar of delicious food, drink and craft beverages. Joining Maroon 5 and Keith Urban for the 2017 lineup include Lake Street Dive, Daryl Hall & John Oates and The Roots. Make your lodging plans early if you want to attend this year’s event!