Have you heard of Aspen Gay Ski Week before? If your ears just perked up, you have good reason—it’s one of the premier LGBTQIA+ events in the United States! Maybe you’re an avid supporter returning for another year of fun, or perhaps this is your very first time heading out on the slopes for this iconic ski weekend. Either way, we’re here to detail everything you need to know for the most exciting week of your life.
Aspen Gay Ski Week isn’t just a celebration on the slopes; it’s a vibrant gathering that transforms the entire town into a welcoming hotspot for the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies. Each January, Aspen comes alive with dazzling events, themed parties, and unforgettable après-ski experiences, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Whether you’re here to carve fresh powder, connect with friends old and new, or simply soak in the good vibes, Aspen Gay Ski Week is an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. Get ready to discover why this iconic week has become a must-attend tradition for so many, year after year. Let’s dive in now!
Check out the latest information and current specials for Aspen Gay Ski Week!
In this piece:
- When was the First Aspen Gay Ski Week?
- How Much Are Aspen Lift Passes for Gay Ski Week?
- Which Mountains Are Included?
- When is Aspen Gay Ski Week 2026?
- Fun on the Slopes
- Are There Any Gay Bars in Aspen?
- Apres Ski: Nightlife During Aspen Gay Ski Week
- Book Your Aspen Gay Ski Week Accommodations Directly at Frias Properties!
- Frequently Asked Questions: Aspen Gay Ski Week
When was the First Aspen Gay Ski Week?
Photo courtesy of The Aspen Times.
First things first; let’s get our history right! Aspen Gay Ski began in 1977, when a group of local men and visiting members of gay ski clubs from across the country started meeting in Aspen each January. What started as informal gatherings and parties (sparked, legend has it, by an argument over dancing and liberal politics in a local bar) soon became an annual tradition.
In those early years, the event was more about camaraderie and creating a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community than public celebration, with parties often held in private condos due to the social climate of the time. By 1979, Aspen had become the first municipality in Colorado to pass anti-discrimination protections for gays and lesbians, further cementing the town’s reputation as a progressive and welcoming destination. Over the decades, Aspen Gay Ski Week has grown from these humble beginnings into the oldest and largest event of its kind in the United States, now drawing thousands each year for a week of skiing, celebration, and advocacy.
How Much Are Aspen Lift Passes for Gay Ski Week?
Lift tickets range in price depending on how long you want to ski and how far in advance you book. Currently, one-day prices are running around $184. AGSW is offering a special 4th-day free deal on adult lift tickets, as well. So, if you’re going to ski three days, you might as well ski four!
Which Mountains Are Included?
This is a week for every person, and every mountain! All four mountains are involved: Aspe Mountain, Buttermilk, Highlands, and Snowmass. Each mountain has widely varying terrain, so you have a fantastic opportunity to explore many kinds of skiing!
Want to learn more about the slopes you’ll be traversing?
When is Aspen Gay Ski Week 2026?
Aspen Gay Ski Week will take place from January 11-18, 2026.
Fun on the Slopes
Photos courtesy of The Aspen Times.
This is not a week for regular, run-of-the-mill ski runs. During Aspen Gay Ski Week, you never know what (or who) you’ll see as you make your way down the mountain!
Every year, Snowmass Mountain hosts the annual Snowmass Downhill Costume Contest, which draws out all sorts of fascinating costumes and impressive drag performances. Frias Properties Marketing Director Molly Meek participated in the contest last year alongside the award-winning Snowmass Tourism team (who all dressed as Britney Spears!). What will you dress up as for the contest?
Are There Any Gay Bars in Aspen?
Well, during Aspen Gay Ski Week, every bar feels like a gay bar. But this is a great question! After your time on the slopes has ended for the day, the nightlife scene is incredible.
There are no strictly gay bars in Aspen, but a few stand out as very gay-friendly. If you’re looking to have a post-ski run night of fun, stop into one of these LGBTQIA+ friendly spots:
Apres Ski: Nightlife During Aspen Gay Ski Week
As you might have guessed, the nightlife during Aspen Gay Ski Week is something to write home about. It only happens once a year, so you’ve got to make the most of it! Besides the bars we mentioned above, there are plenty of events going on specific to the event itself. You can expect events like the following:
- Opening Night Extravaganza
- Dance Parties
- Themed Parties like the Onesie Party and White Party
- Plenty of drag shows, comedy shows, and variety shows!
Book Your Aspen Gay Ski Week Accommodations Directly at Frias Properties!
After a long day on the slopes (and long nights partying), you’ll want a nice cozy bed to tuck into. That’s where we come in! Frias Properties has long been a proud partner of Aspen Gay Ski Week, because we believe everyone has a place in Aspen—whether that’s on the slopes, partying in town, or in our rentals.
We’re offering two exciting rental specials this year during the festival, so you (and your wallet) can rest easy knowing you’re staying in the best accommodations in Aspen for a fantastic price. When you book directly with us, you save time, stress, and money, plus you’re supporting a local business and gaining access to our knowledgeable local team. We’re here to help you every step of the way during your stay!
All your friends can book condos close to each other here at Frias, or you can book a large private home rental for everyone to share. Whatever floats your boat! We even have an impressive selection of ski-in/ski-out rentals so you can be as close to the mountain as possible.
Ready to have the time of your life at Aspen Gay Ski Week? We can’t wait to host you. Browse our available Aspen Snowmass vacation rentals today and book your stay directly with Frias Properties!
Browse All Aspen Snowmass Vacation Rentals
Frequently Asked Questions: Aspen Gay Ski Week
Q: Is Aspen Gay Ski Week Only for Gay Men?
A: No! Check out the Womxn (gender inclusive term for women and nonbinary people) page on the Aspen Gay Ski Week website. You’ll find events specifically centered around womxn!
Q: Do I have to ski or snowboard to participate?
A: No. While the event includes plenty of on-mountain activity, many events are social and don’t require skiing. You can join dinners, parties, and après events even if you’re not skiing.
Q: How do ticketing/passes work?
A: Ticketing is event-based. The central website lists passes and donation-based entry for many events. Some of the most popular events sell out. It’s a good idea to purchase or reserve early.
Q: What level of skiing should I have?
A: The region offers terrain for a variety of levels. If you want to take full advantage of the mountains, having intermediate skiing experience is helpful. However, you can participate in many social events without needing advanced ski skills.
Featured Vacation Rentals
