TOP TEN CAN'T-MISS WINTER EVENTS
There’s something magical about winter in the mountains. The air becomes colder, the smell of pine needles seems stronger, and the snow starts falling, causing rooftops and mountain peaks to sparkle in the sun. All of these signs mark the approach of our favorite time of year: ski season!
No matter what mountain you're at or when, there's plenty to do—from fireworks, parties, and world-renowned snowboarding competitions to culinary festivals, champagne toasts on the slopes, and the world’s longest shot-ski.
Beaver Creek, Colorado; Late November
THE 37TH ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING , opens in a new window
The Annual Tree Lighting is Beaver Creek’s oldest tradition, signaling a start to the holiday season. Along with the ice-skating show, holiday poetry contest, and musical performances, there might even be a visit from Santa!
This event closes with a dazzling fireworks display over the picturesque Beaver Creek Village.
Keystone, Colorado; Saturdays, beginning in late November
PARADE AND FIREWORKS
Keystone's family ski area doubles as the longest green run in Colorado, making it perfect for young skiers. Every Saturday, starting in late November, watch Ripperoo (Keystone's mascot) and his friends march through town in a weekly parade.
Afterward, grab a freshly baked cookie at Dercum Square Ice Rink (your tastebuds will thank you). Then, after the sun has set, point your eyes to the sky for a brilliant fireworks display.
Breckenridge, Colorado; December 14th-17th, 2017
THE DEW TOUR , opens in a new window
Can’t make it to Pyongchang for the Winter Olympics? Breck has you covered. You can be a part of your favorite athletes' Olympic story before they even make the podium.
Watch as the best of the best battle it out for a spot on the US National Ski and Snowboard team and the honor to represent their country in South Korea.
Gaze in awe as pros attack the halfpipe and slopestyle course, then put your dancing shoes on and head to the nightly free musical performances.
Vail, Colorado; Late December, 2017
VAIL HOLIDAYS , opens in a new window
Vail Holidays, a 12-day-long celebration, boasts an abundance of fun events, including a Kris Kringle Market (perfect for finding unique stocking stuffers), Tree Lighting Ceremony, Ice Theater, and cookie decorating.
On New Year’s Eve, ski instructors and locals ski down the mountain by torchlight beneath fireworks painting the sky in vibrant hues.
Breckenridge, Colorado; January 10th - 13th, 2018
ULLR FEST , opens in a new window
For 54 years, the town of Breckenridge has thrown an unmatched citywide party for the most popular guy in town: Ullr, the Norse god of snow. Locals and visitors alike don their Viking Horns and fur vests in preparation for festivities such as the world’s longest shot-ski to a Hangover Breakfast.
Kids can enjoy events like Breck’s Got Talent, the Ice Skating Party, and Family Snow Day.
Beaver Creek, Colorado; Mid-January
WINTER CULINARY WEEKEND , opens in a new window
If you’re staying in Beaver Creek and looking to stimulate your tastebuds, reserve tickets to Beaver Creek’s Winter Culinary Weekend.
Get first tracks at sunrise followed by gourmet fare at Allie’s Cabin, rub elbows with celebrity chefs, and snowshoe your way to unmatched cuisine.
EPIC Events Beyond Colorado
Colorado isn’t the only place with stellar winter events to experience. Our resorts in Utah, California and Canada have can’t-miss events sure to please the whole family.
Northstar, California; Every Afternoon
PLATINUM TŌST
What’s better than après-ski? Find out at the ski-up champagne bar with a free glass of bubbles.
Want to elevate your high altitude happy hour even further? Make reservations with Platinum Tōst and enjoy a first class ticket to private seating, a personal fire pit, pours of Veuve Clicquot, and an unforgettable luxury experience.
Heavenly, California; Fridays and Saturdays, beginning in December
UNBUCKLE , opens in a new window
Heavenly’s official motto is “Go all in.” Locals here are the experts on how to have a good time, whether it be on the slopes or on the dance floor.
One of the best parties around is Unbuckle at Tamarack Lodge. This adults-only après-ski features DJs, half-priced drinks, and a specialty food menu.
Park City, Utah; Late March/Early April
SPRING GRÜV , opens in a new window
Spring Grüv is a party so big it spans two villages and 16 days. This fan favorite event combines music, skiing, après activities for the kids, and a chance to meet the Avy Dogs.
Grab a costume (the funkier, the better) and attempt the 100-foot Pond Skim. This end-of-season party is the ultimate celebration of spring in the mountains.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada; Mid-April
WORLD SKI AND SNOWBOARD FESTIVAL , opens in a new window
Every April, skiers and snowboarders from around the world descend upon Whistler Blackcomb to enjoy the largest music and snow sports festival in North America.
This festival offers 10 days of free music, clinics, competitions, fashion shows, film screenings, demos, and pond skims.
