15 Festive Things To Do In Aspen During Christmas

As winter settles into the Rockies, Aspen becomes a cozy, snow-covered retreat straight out of a holiday postcard.

From skiing and shopping to tree lightings, holiday performances, and après-ski, there’s no shortage of festive Christmas activities in Aspen.

As someone who lives in Colorado and visits often, I love that Aspen may sparkle with glitz, parties, and celebrity buzz on the surface — yet at its core, it’s still a regular, laid-back mountain town. That balance is what makes it so special, especially during the holidays. If you’re planning a trip this season, here are my favorite things to do in Aspen during Christmas.

Things To Do In Aspen During Christmas

Holiday Tree Lightings

Kick off your holiday visit with one of Aspen’s festive tree lighting ceremonies. The Little Nell hosts one of the most popular on December 7th (5 – 7 pm), complete with Christmas carols, appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and complimentary cookies and hot cocoa.

The St. Regis Aspen and Sardy House also host beautiful tree lightings in early December, each offering its own take on the classic holiday tradition.

Even if you can’t make a ceremony, downtown Aspen shines all month long — storefronts sparkle, trees glow with lights, and the mountains provide a picture-perfect backdrop for an evening stroll.

Ice Skating

There’s something undeniably special about lacing up your skates in the mountains at Christmastime.

The Silver Circle Ice Rink in downtown Aspen and the rink at Aspen Snowmass Base Village are two of the best spots for outdoor skating. Even if you’re not hitting the ice, they’re worth visiting for the cozy atmosphere, steaming cups of hot chocolate, and beautiful mountain views.

Evening sessions under the twinkle of holiday lights add an extra touch of magic — just be sure to check the hours in advance, as schedules can vary during the holidays. And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, indoor rinks like the Aspen Ice Garden and Lewis Ice Arena offer a fun (and warmer) alternative.

Shop In Downtown Aspen

One of the best parts of Aspen? Simply wandering downtown. The pedestrian-friendly Mill Street Mall and surrounding blocks are lined with luxury stores like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, mixed with charming local shops selling art, home goods, and mountain-inspired fashion — all framed by snow-covered peaks and twinkling holiday lights.

Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a beautiful area for window-browsing, grabbing a latte or cocktail, and soaking up the holiday energy.

Street musicians, decorated storefronts, and cozy fire pits add to the charm, making downtown Aspen feel like its own winter wonderland.

Theatre, Ballet & Holiday Performances

When you’re ready to warm up indoors, Aspen has plenty of festive performances to enjoy. The historic Wheeler Opera House — built in 1889 — hosts everything from seasonal films and concerts to live theater. You can check the holiday lineup at Wheeler Opera House Calendar.

The Aspen Santa Fe Ballet also presents its beloved take on The Nutcracker, blending classic ballet with unexpected twists like flamenco and circus-inspired choreography.

Many local hotels and restaurants join the celebration too. The Holiday Cabaret at Hotel Jerome, for example, is a favorite.

Tip: These events are extremely popular during the holidays, so it’s best to reserve your tickets early.

Skiing & Snowboarding

No Christmas trip to Aspen is complete without some time on the slopes. With four mountains to choose from, there’s terrain for every level — from easy groomers to expert runs.

Here are the projected 2025 – 26 season opening dates:

• Aspen Mountain: November 27, 2025
• Snowmass: November 27, 2025
• Aspen Highlands: December 13, 2025
• Buttermilk: December 13, 2025

(Always double-check current dates before heading out, as weather can shift opening plans.)

If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the mountains — take a scenic gondola ride, go snowshoeing through fresh powder, or sip mulled wine at one of the slopeside lodges while watching the skiers come down.

Tip: December is peak season, so book lift tickets early and plan for busier slopes and higher demand around the holidays.

Warm Up With Hot Chocolate Or Coffee

After a morning on the slopes or a day of winter adventures, nothing hits the spot like a warm drink and a cozy seat. Aspen has no shortage of charming cafes serving rich hot chocolate, artisan coffee, and sweet pastries perfect for thawing out and indulging.

A few local favorites include:

• Louis Swiss Pastry – a longtime Aspen staple for fresh-baked croissants and treats.
• Bear Den Aspen – a stylish spot for brunch, espresso, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
• Sant Ambroeus Coffee Bar – elegant Italian coffee and pastries right in the heart of town.
• The Little Nell – known for its decadent hot chocolate and fireside lounge.
• Hotel Jerome – another must for luxurious, velvety hot chocolate in a historic setting.
• Origin by The Farmer & Chef – a cozy cafe and bakery offering locally inspired bites and excellent coffee.

Find a comfy chair by the window or settle in near a roaring fire — there’s nothing better than watching the snow fall with something warm in hand.

Wintersköl

Each December, Aspen officially kicks off the winter season with Wintersköl — a weekend full of torchlight ski descents, snow-sculpture contests, live music, craft beer, bonfires, and fireworks.

The celebration is festive and community-focused, offering plenty of local charm without feeling overly done up. If you’re visiting in early/mid December, it’s a lively way to start your holiday trip.

Check this year’s full schedule at Go Snowmass.

Audi Ajax Cup

Another highlight of the holiday season is the Audi Ajax Cup. Hosted by the Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club, this dual giant slalom race unfolds at the base of Aspen Mountain, drawing professional athletes, local racers, and plenty of spectators for a full day of skiing and celebration.

The real draw for many, though, is the après-ski scene — think slopeside DJ sets, live music, and stylish lounges serving craft cocktails with front-row views of the course. It’s equal parts competition and social event, and one of the best ways to experience Aspen’s signature holiday buzz.

Find information for this year’s event at Audi Ajax Cup.

Spa Day

After a few ski runs — or when you just need a little downtime between shopping and sightseeing — there’s no better way to unwind than with a spa day.

Choose from a deep-tissue massage, a detoxifying wrap, or a rejuvenating steam-and-sauna session — or elevate the experience with an alpine-inspired treatment that incorporates locally sourced botanicals and high-altitude aromatherapy. Aspen’s spa scene is world-class, blending mountain serenity with high-end relaxation.

A few favorite spots to check out:

• RAKxa Wellness Spa – known for its holistic approach and serene atmosphere.
• Aspen Alps Spa – a cozy retreat with personalized treatments and mountain views.
• Yarrow, Auberge Spa – luxurious, nature-inspired therapies in an elegant setting.
• The Spa at The Little Nell – refined and relaxing, perfect after a long ski day.
• True Nature Healing Arts – ideal for yoga, meditation, and restorative treatments.
• Beyond Massage Aspen – locally loved for its expert therapists and relaxed vibe.

You’ll walk out relaxed, refreshed, and ready for wherever the evening takes you.

See The Maroon Bells

Few places capture Aspen’s natural beauty quite like the Maroon Bells. These snow-dusted twin peaks rise dramatically over Maroon Lake, creating one of the most photographed mountain scenes in North America.

In winter, the stillness is part of the magic. The road to the Maroon Bells closes to cars, leaving the valley blanketed in snow and accessible only by snowshoe, cross-country ski, fat bike, or snowmobile. It’s a completely different experience from summer and fall, when shuttle buses bring in hundreds of visitors each day.

If you’re looking to venture beyond the slopes and see Aspen’s wild, peaceful side, this is a truly unforgettable winter side trip.

You can head out on your own or join a guided snowmobile tour with T-Lazy-7 Ranch, which leads you through forested trails and open meadows to incredible views of the peaks.

For more ideas on how to structure your trip, be sure to also check out my Aspen Winter Weekend Itinerary.

12 Days Of Aspen

The 12 Days of Aspen runs from roughly December 20 – 31 and brings festive fun for all ages — think craft workshops, visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, outdoor skating, hot cocoa stands, storytelling, and lively après-ski events.

It’s the kind of event you can plan your days around — or simply stumble upon as you wander downtown. Best of all, many activities are free or low-cost.

Check the full schedule on the Aspen Chamber Events.

Summit For Life

Another early-season highlight is Summit for Life, Aspen’s official “Kickoff to Winter.” This nighttime uphill race up Aspen Mountain brings together hundreds of participants who snowshoe, run, or hike 3,000+ feet from Gondola Plaza to the Sundeck — all in support of the Chris Klug Foundation and its mission to raise awareness for organ, eye, and tissue donation.

After the race, celebrate with dinner catered by The Little Nell, live music, and awards before riding the Silver Queen Gondola back down for incredible nighttime views of Aspen.

Prefer to skip the climb? You can still join the fun with Ride for Life, a gondola ride up to cheer on racers and enjoy the festivities. Both events sell out quickly, so register early at The Chris Klug Foundation.

Soak In The Hot Springs

Looking for a way to unwind after skiing? The natural hot springs near Aspen are the perfect escape. There’s something magical about sinking into warm, mineral-rich water while snow-dusted peaks surround you — a peaceful contrast to the energy of the slopes.

The closest hot springs are about 40 – 50 minutes away in Glenwood Springs, and they’re absolutely worth the drive. Spend an afternoon soaking, relaxing, and letting the mountain air and mineral waters work their magic.

Some favorite spots include:

• Glenwood Hot Springs – Open since 1888, it features the world’s largest hot springs pool.
• Iron Mountain Hot Springs – A modern retreat with beautifully landscaped pools of varying temperatures and beautiful river views.
• Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves – A unique underground experience where you can unwind in natural geothermal steam chambers.

You can find more information in my guide to the Top Hot Springs Near Aspen.

Live Music At Belly Up Aspen

Aspen’s nightlife is legendary, and Belly Up has been at the heart of it for over two decades. This intimate live music venue draws big-name artists year-round, and the holiday season is one of the best times to catch a show.

Check the lineup early and book in advance (Belly Up Calendar) — tickets go fast. Arrive early to snag a good spot, then keep the night going with a craft cocktail or cozy lounge stop somewhere in downtown Aspen.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities (Besides Skiing)

If you want to spend time in the snow without committing to a full ski day, Aspen has plenty of other ways to enjoy the outdoors:

• Snowshoeing – Wander through peaceful forest trails and nature preserves. It’s easy to learn and a great way to take in mountain views at your own pace.
• Cross-Country Skiing – Glide along the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System, one of the largest free groomed networks in the country, winding through meadows and forests with incredible views.
• Fat Biking – Ride a wide-tire bike across packed snow for a fun, active alternative to skiing. Rentals and guided tours are available in both Aspen and Snowmass.
• Breathtaker Alpine Coaster – For a dose of adrenaline without ski gear, this coaster at Snowmass winds through snowy trees at speeds up to 28 mph — thrilling for any age and surprisingly scenic.

These options are perfect if you want to enjoy Aspen’s winter landscape in a different way or simply mix up your time in the snow.

Aspen Restaurants During The Holidays

Dining in Aspen is a whole experience. There’s a reason a town with barely 6,000 residents earned a visit from the Michelin Guide — the restaurant scene here seriously delivers, especially during the holidays.

Cozy interiors, festive menus, and the soft glow of holiday lights make every meal feel like part of the celebration. Here are a few standout restaurants to try:

• Element 47: an upscale, fine-dining experience with a holiday-inspired menu. You’ll see this one on just about every “must-try during the holidays” list — and for good reason.
• Bosq: a Michelin-starred choice when you want something extra memorable.
• PARC Aspen: offers refined, seasonally inspired cuisine in a sophisticated dining room, complete with an award-winning wine list.
• Aurum Food & Wine (Snowmass Base Village): sleek but relaxed, this elevated New-American spot delivers seasonal fare in a stylish yet welcoming setting.
• Velvet Buck (at The St. Regis Aspen): known for its festive holiday dinners and comfortable luxury ambiance.
• Matsuhisa – Chef Nobu’s Aspen outpost blends Japanese-Peruvian imagination with sushi and refined plates in a historic Victorian house.

On Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, many restaurants offer prix-fixe menus or buffets — reservations ahead are definitely recommended.

Pst: For something more casual and relatively-budget-friendly, spots like White House Tavern, Aspen Public House, Clark’s Oyster Bar, Meat & Cheese, and Aspen Brewing Company offer solid meals without the fine-dining price tag.

The holidays bring out Aspen’s best side — festive, elegant, and full of energy. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, relaxing at a spa, or watching the lights twinkle across town, spending Christmas in Aspen is the kind of winter experience you’ll want to repeat year after year.

I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your trip and have the best time!

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media!

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Aspen and Colorado guides, or head on over to Aspen Snowmass!

More Information For Your Winter Vacation In Aspen:

• Winter & Spring Things To Do In Aspen, Colorado
• Aspen Winter Weekend Itinerary
• Best Hot Springs Near Aspen
• Top Hotels In Aspen, CO
• X Games Aspen: What To Know Before You Go
• What To Wear In Colorado In Winter (For Mountain Towns & Ski Trips)
• All Aspen Guides

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Top Towns For Christmas In Colorado
• Best Winter Destinations In Colorado
• Luxury Mountain Towns In Colorado
• Best Colorado Mountain Towns For First-Time Visitors
• Colorado Travel Guide (everything to know!)
• All Colorado Guides