Wintersköl Description

Wintersköl is an annual winter festival in Aspen taking place over a three-day weekend in January, celebrating its tradition since 1951 when locals established the event to mark the winter season. The festival features snow sculpture competitions, a soup contest, a craft beer festival, live music performances, dancing, and the torchlight descent on Aspen Mountain followed by fireworks. Activities occur both on the mountain and throughout downtown Aspen, with the festival headquarters located at 590 North Mill Street. Wintersköl programming includes events for varying interests and physical activity levels, accommodating both winter sports participants and those preferring indoor activities.

Snow sculpture competitions attract both amateur and experienced artists creating temporary installations throughout the festival weekend. The soup contest draws participation from local restaurants and home cooks, with entries judged and available for tasting during the event. The craft beer festival showcases local and regional breweries, providing sampling opportunities for attendees. Live music performances occur at multiple venues during the three-day celebration, with dance events scheduled throughout the weekend. The torchlight descent features skiers carrying flares down Aspen Mountain after dark, concluding with a fireworks display visible from downtown locations.

Festival activities take place at various venues throughout Aspen, with outdoor events on the mountain and indoor programming at downtown establishments. The event runs over a long weekend in January, with specific dates announced in advance. Wintersköl attracts both Aspen area residents and visitors, with activities designed for different age groups and participation levels. Some events require tickets or advance registration, while others operate as free public gatherings. The festival maintains its community-focused character while accommodating increased attendance over its seven-decade history.

Wintersköl represents one of Aspen’s established winter traditions, occurring during the quieter period following holiday season travel. The celebration combines competitive events, entertainment, food and beverage tastings, and mountain activities into a concentrated weekend format. Participation options range from spectator attendance at scheduled events to active involvement in competitions and judged activities.

Services: Winter Festival, Snow Sculpture Competition, Soup Contest, Craft Beer Festival, Live Music, Dance Events, Torchlight Descent, Fireworks Display, Community Celebration, Food Tastings, Brewery Samplings
Category: Entertainment
Features: Events, Bars, Unique Attractions, Dancing, Live Music
Address: 590 N. Mill Street, Aspen, CO, 81611
Directions: View on Google Maps