Top Aspen Christmas Events You Don’t Want to Miss
The holiday season in Aspen transforms this mountain town into a festive paradise. Each year, Aspen hosts a range of holiday events that create a unique and memorable experience. Here are some highlights:
- 12 Days of Aspen (December 20 - December 31): This beloved annual tradition brings 12 days of family-friendly activities and events to the heart of Aspen. Each day offers something special, from holiday crafts to storytime sessions and live performances. Events start around noon and continue into the evening, making this the perfect way to explore Aspen’s festive spirit. Be sure to check the local calendar for daily event specifics.
- Aspen Tree Lighting Ceremony (December 11, 5-6 PM): Held at the Little Nell Hotel in downtown Aspen, the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony marks the beginning of the holiday season. Join the crowd for caroling, complimentary hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa himself. The ceremony is free and family-friendly, offering a cozy, communal holiday experience.
- New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks (December 31, 2024, 5:30-10:30 PM): Celebrate the New Year with Aspen’s iconic Torchlight Parade, where skiers light up Aspen Mountain with torches in hand as they make their way down the slope. The parade begins at 6:00 PM, followed by a dazzling fireworks display at 10:00 PM.
These events bring locals and visitors together, creating an unforgettable Aspen Christmas atmosphere. For easy access to all the festivities, consider staying at Aspen Alps, where you’ll be just steps away from the heart of the holiday magic.
Family-Friendly Aspen Christmas Activities
Aspen is ideal for families looking to enjoy an authentic Christmas vacation. Here’s a lineup of activities to keep everyone entertained:
- Ice Skating at the Silver Circle Rink (Open daily, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM): Located in downtown Aspen, the Silver Circle Rink is a charming spot to enjoy some holiday fun. With festive lights and scenic mountain views, this is a must for families. Skate rentals are available on-site, and the rink operates through the holiday season, offering an affordable activity for all ages.
- Storytime with Santa (December 21, 2024, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Part of the 12 Days of Aspen, Santa will host a storytime at the Aspen Recreation Center. Kids can listen to festive tales, meet Santa, and enjoy holiday treats. Admission is free, but space is limited, so early arrival is recommended.
- Snowshoe Tours in the Rockies (Daily, various times): Explore the quieter side of Aspen’s winter landscape with a guided snowshoe tour in the surrounding White River National Forest. Tours typically run twice a day, at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, and offer a serene way to take in the natural beauty of the area. The tours are suitable for all ages and offer families a break from the hustle of holiday activities.
Staying at Aspen Alps makes family trips to Aspen stress-free. With spacious accommodations and full kitchens, our Aspen condo rentals allow you to relax and enjoy holiday meals in comfort, while being close to all the action.
Luxury Aspen Christmas Experiences for Couples
Aspen's festive season also offers numerous luxurious experiences for couples, providing a romantic setting for unforgettable holidays in Aspen.
- Christmas Eve Dinner at Element 47 (December 24, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM): Located at the Little Nell, this renowned restaurant offers a Christmas Eve dinner menu crafted by top chefs. With a warm ambiance, exceptional service, and seasonal dishes, Element 47 is the ideal spot for a festive, intimate dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended, as spots fill up quickly during the holidays.
- Private Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides (Available daily, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Few things are as romantic as a horse-drawn sleigh ride through a winter wonderland. Aspen Carriage Company offers private sleigh rides in the evenings, complete with cozy blankets and scenic views. You’ll glide through the snow-dusted landscapes while sipping hot cocoa under the starry sky. Bookings fill up fast, so plan ahead.
- Private Fireside Wine Tastings (Available daily, by appointment): For a more exclusive experience, consider booking a fireside wine tasting at your Aspen vacation rental. Local sommeliers can arrange a curated selection of wines, turning your cozy evening into a memorable tasting experience.
Aspen Alps provides the perfect backdrop for these romantic holiday experiences. Our luxurious rentals offer privacy, breathtaking mountain views, and the convenience of proximity to Aspen’s finest dining and activities.
Outdoor Winter Adventures During an Aspen Christmas
Aspen is famous for its winter sports, and an Aspen Christmas wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the best of the great outdoors. Here’s how to make the most of your stay with some thrilling winter activities:
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Aspen Mountain (December through April, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM): With over 675 acres of terrain, Aspen Mountain offers slopes suitable for all skill levels. Christmas week usually brings fresh snow, creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Be sure to arrive early, as the slopes tend to be popular during the holiday season.
- Cross-Country Skiing with the Aspen Nordic Center (Daily, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM): Discover a quieter side of Aspen with cross-country skiing on groomed trails. The Aspen Nordic Center offers rentals, lessons, and several trails that wind through the beautiful winter landscape, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling holiday scene.
- Snowmobiling Tours to Maroon Bells (Daily, various times): Experience the majesty of Maroon Bells, one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks, by snowmobile. Guided tours run throughout the day, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes. This is a unique way to explore the area and makes for an exciting holiday outing.
Booking a stay at Aspen Alps gives you easy access to these winter adventures. With our Aspen vacation rentals located close to the slopes and trails, you can quickly dive into Aspen’s legendary outdoor activities.
Why Aspen Alps is the Best Choice for Your Aspen Christmas Stay
When planning an Aspen, Colorado Christmas trip, choosing the right place to stay is essential for a seamless holiday experience. Here’s why Aspen Alps stands out as the ideal choice for your Aspen Christmas accommodations.
- Prime Location at the Base of Aspen Mountain: Staying at Aspen Alps means you’re steps away from Aspen Mountain, downtown shopping, and all the holiday events. Our convenient location ensures you’ll have everything at your fingertips, making it easy to immerse yourself in Aspen’s festive atmosphere.
- Spacious, Family-Friendly Accommodations: Our Aspen condo rentals offer ample space for families and groups, with full kitchens, cozy living rooms, and private balconies. This means you can prepare holiday meals, relax together after a day in the snow, have ample space for gift opening next to the fire on Christmas Day, and enjoy the comforts of a true home away from home.
- Top-Notch Amenities for a Luxurious Stay: Guests at Aspen Alps enjoy access to our wellness spa, outdoor hot tubs, and health club, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Plus, our dedicated concierge team is ready to assist with all your holiday needs, from restaurant reservations to arranging sleigh rides.
With Aspen Alps, you don’t just stay in Aspen—you experience it fully. We’re committed to making your Aspen Christmas memorable and seamless.
Book Your Aspen Christmas at Aspen Alps Today!
Aspen Christmas is a truly unique experience, combining the charm of a small town with the excitement of world-class holiday festivities and winter sports. Whether you're here for the skiing, the festive events, or the cozy atmosphere, Aspen is sure to captivate you. And with Aspen Alps, you’ll have the perfect home base to enjoy every moment of your holiday adventure.
Don’t miss out on the magic of Christmas in Aspen! Book your stay with Aspen Alps today and get ready to create unforgettable holiday memories. Learn more about our Aspen condo rentals and explore our vacation rentals to find the ideal fit for your stay.
Ready to plan your Christmas holiday activities? Visit our guide for things to do in Aspen and make this Christmas one to remember!