Wintersköl & Aspen’s 80th Anniversary
December is one of our favorite times in Aspen, and for good reason. Fresh snow blankets the mountains, lifts are spinning, and holiday lights and festivities bring the town to life.
This year, there’s even more to celebrate as Aspen Snowmass marks its 80th anniversary during the same weekend as Aspen’s annual Wintersköl celebration.
Look forward to festive traditions, throwback pricing, and plenty of reasons to hit the slopes.
The History
On December 14, 1946, Friedl Pfeifer and Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke opened Aspen Mountain, home to what was then the world’s longest chairlift, helping put Aspen on the map as a ski destination.
Their vision extended beyond making Aspen iconic for its winter sports, and eighty years later, their influence lives on. They set out to create a destination where outdoor activities, art, culture, and community could come together, shaping much of what Aspen is known for today.
This December, we’re celebrating 80 years of Aspen’s skiing history and the legacy of one of the world’s most iconic mountain destinations.
Ways to Celebrate
A local tradition dating back to 1951, Wintersköl was founded by Jack DePagter, who drew inspiration from the winter carnivals of European ski resorts. What began as a toast to winter has since become one of Aspen’s most beloved annual celebrations.
This year, Wintersköl returns December 10–13, bringing four days of festivities to town, including torchlight descents, snow sculptures, live music, bonfires, fireworks, après-ski celebrations, and more.
It’s one of the most festive weekends of the season and a wonderful opportunity to experience Aspen beyond the slopes.
80TH ANNIVERSARY | DECEMBER 12 – 14
In honor of its 80th anniversary, Aspen Snowmass is celebrating with a weekend of special pricing and après-ski events across all four mountains.
Take advantage of $80 lift tickets and rentals, along with $19.46 on-mountain dining specials, a nod to Aspen Mountain’s opening year.
With celebrations taking place throughout the weekend, there’s plenty to enjoy both on and off the slopes.
MAKE A WEEKEND OF IT
With two of Aspen’s biggest winter celebrations taking place over the same weekend, there’s no better time to plan a December getaway.
Make MOLLIE Aspen your home base for the festivities and enjoy 25% off your stay with our Winter Escape offer when you book two nights or more.
