X Games Aspen: 13 Things To Know & Tips For Attending

The X Games Aspen is an annual event featuring some of the top athletes across various winter sports.

Attending is an exciting experience for fans of winter sports and curious visitors alike. There’s nothing like witnessing these incredible athletes showcase their skills in a high-energy environment.

I’ve lived in Colorado most of my life and wanted to attend for years, I finally had the opportunity!

My first time going into the event I wasn’t sure what to expect, where to park, how to get around, how crowded it would really be, etc.

So I want to share with you everything I learned while attending the X Games Aspen.

2026 X Games Aspen Dates & Location

The upcoming X Games are January 23-25, 2026 at the base of Buttermilk Ski Resort in Aspen, Colorado.

The winter X Games have been held in Aspen for over 20 years now. The events are televised on major media outlets like ESPN and ABC. Afternoon events are free, but you now need a ticket to enter any of the evening events. Purchase tickets early as evening events are a huge draw and sell out quickly. Find tickets at X Games Aspen.

Getting To The X Games Aspen

There is no parking on site for the X Games.

However, you have tons of free shuttle options. 

First, there is free off-site parking with complimentary shuttles. The parking is at Brush Creek Intercept Lot at Highway 82 and Brush Creek Road. This parking will fill up. 

There are also free shuttles from Rubey Park in Downtown Aspen and Snowmass Village Mall. If event parking is full, you’ll need to pay for parking in Downtown Aspen or Snowmass Village, then take the shuttle over to Buttermilk. 

Those attending but not staying in Aspen need to arrive early, otherwise finding parking will become a problem.

If you’re already staying in the Aspen area, you’re good to go! Just use the Rubey Park Downtown Aspen or Snowmass Village Mall shuttle to the event.

In my experience, the shuttles were easy to find, are well organized, and run frequently. They also have their own lanes between Aspen and Buttermilk so you bypass the traffic.

You can also get here via ride share, and there is information on the event website for those who need accessibility drop off.

Find more information at: Getting To The X Games Aspen.

What To Expect When You Arrive

Now that you’ve gotten yourself to the X Games, here’s what you should expect…

The shuttle will drop you off right at the event space, so you’ll immediately be in the action.

Keep in mind, the event takes place at the base of a ski mountain, so it’s very snowy. I highly recommend snow boots, there’s a lot of people who just wear tennis shoes but I imagine their feet get very cold.

From the shuttle drop off, it’s just a short walk to the competition viewing area, which I’ll get into below.

Before you reach the competition area, there’s some photo ops, vendor areas, concessions, beer & wine gardens, and more.

This vendor and concession area isn’t huge, but they manage to pack a lot of entertainment in.

There’s also many event volunteers around, so if you have any questions or need directions, you’ll have no problem finding help. 

What Is There To Do At The X Games Aspen?

Winter Sport Events

Alright, now what is there to actually do at the X Games?

Of course, most people come to watch the live events. There’s various skiing and snowboarding competitions such as Slopestyle, Big Air, Knuckle Huck, and SuperPipe.

In the past they’ve also had things like snowmobile competitions, which were quite fun to watch. The snowmobile competition will be returning for 2026 (yay)!!

No matter the event, the X Games pulls some big name stars and exciting rising talent. 

Shaun White, Chloe Kim, Alex Hall, and Bobby Brown are just a few of the many exciting athletes who have competed here. And if you’re a Colorado resident, there’s always a handful of local athletes to cheer on. 

It’s really cool to see these Olympic-caliber athletes up close. I left with a new found appreciation for how difficult these skills are and how incredible these athletes are.

Of course, some competitions are more exciting to watch, for example the SuperPipe is always a fan favorite. 

Whereas, some events are simply difficult to see. Slopestyle for example is a huge course, so you won’t see the full run from the spectator area, you’ll just cheer on athletes as they complete the course.

Jumbotrons are available for fans to watch, too.

There are day competitions and nighttime events, the final rounds and most popular competitions are usually at night. Again, the daytime events are free and nighttime requires a paid ticket.

Check out the schedule at: X Games Aspen Event Schedule.

Additional Entertainment

As I mentioned above, there’s also some photo ops, vendor areas, interactive experiences, athlete autograph signings, concessions, and more.

This is all located in X Fest, which is the sponsor area just steps from the competition viewing.

Food & Drinks At The Aspen X Games

There are basic food concessions on-site. Plus, two restaurants: Buttermilk Mountain Lodge and Home Team BBQ. Keep in mind these restaurants are going to be very, very busy. 

There’s also normally sponsors who give out free food. The last time I attended it was Wendy’s giving out free samples to attendees. 

Outside of the possibility of getting free snacks, I would prepare to spend a good amount on food and wait quite a while for it.

Even if you plan to dine out in Downtown Aspen or Snowmass before or after the event, there’s going to be high prices and long wait times. 

I have dietary restrictions so I ate at the vacation rental before and after the event.

There are beer and wine gardens at the X Games. Alcohol must stay within the corralled areas. As you’d expect, these aren’t the cheapest beers you’ll find. But we enjoyed having a beer or two between watching competitions.

Outside drinks are not allowed, if you’re caught bringing these in you’ll be kicked out. Also if you get too drunk, you’ll get kicked out. 

There’s plenty of places to party in Downtown Aspen, this event is great for having a few drinks, but isn’t the place to go crazy.

X Games Concerts

Each year, the X Games hosts big-name concerts alongside the competition, and it’s one of the most popular parts of the event.

Past performances have taken place in the X Fest Snow area at the base of Buttermilk as well as at Wagner Park in downtown Aspen. Lineups typically feature EDM headliners alongside pop and hip-hop legends.

Afternoon concerts are free but capacity is limited. Evening concerts require an event ticket, which includes access to the evening’s snowboarding and skiing competitions as well as the concert itself. Tickets are available through X Games Aspen.

And if that’s not enough, Aspen’s bars and venues host even more live music throughout X Games weekend, making it a great time to be in town if you’re a music lover.

Can You Ski During The X Games?

Yes, Buttermilk Ski Resort is still open for skiing during the X Games, although there are limited runs and big crowds.

The area’s other three resorts remain open as usual during the X Games, these are: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Snowmass, and Aspen Highlands.

What To Bring & What To Wear To The X Games

First and foremost, you need to dress very warm for the X Games. Especially for night events or if there’s snow in the forecast.

I wear snow pants, a winter jacket, and winter boots, plus warm weather accessories. I see so many people unprepared for the cold — wearing regular jeans, leggings, tennis shoes, etc. — none of them look like they’re having fun.

This event is at a high elevation in winter, you will be surrounded by snow and standing on snow and there is nowhere to warm up.

The hotels on site are extremely strict about only allowing hotel guests in, guests will have wristbands for proof.

My friends and I bought colorful snow bibs and snowsuits from the thrift store a few weeks ahead of time. These kept us warm and were really fun for photos. 

Those attending during the daytime, when the weather is nice, plan to bring lots of layers. The sun will often make it feel warmer than the thermometer indicates, however the weather can change very abruptly here. Additionally, if the sun goes down, or goes behind a cloud, it will feel much colder very quickly. 

Now, what can you bring to the event? 

Small bags are allowed. You can also bring sealed water bottles or empty water bottles. You cannot bring big bags, coolers, chairs, alcohol, or anything like that.

In the past I’ve brought an empty water bottle, hand warmers, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 

Daytime visitors, do not forget sunscreen and sunglasses. The sun is intense at this altitude and reflects off the snow, it’s surprisingly easy to burn.

Nighttime visitors, hand and feet warmers are a lifesaver.

X Games Tickets & Pricing

As I’ve mentioned a few times now, the X Games offer free admission for everyone during the day (yay)! Nighttime events and concerts are now paid, you’ll need to buy your ticket in advance, they will sell out.

Additionally, there are VIP options like the Silver and Gold Lounges which include extras like indoor areas, better viewing platforms, dedicated entrances, food and drinks.

Check pricing and availablity at X Games Aspen.

Additional Tips For Attending The X Games

Below are a few additional tips and things to know about attending the X Games Aspen:

• This is a really big event with a lot of people, expect crowds and lines.
• Certain events, like the SuperPipe, are most popular. If you wish to mitigate crowds, arrive early and avoid the top viewed competitions.
• I mentioned above, the shuttles are really efficient and well organized. But you will have to wait in line at times, especially after the night competitions end and everyone’s trying to leave at the same time.
• There are plenty of porta potties on site if you need to use the restroom.
• If driving in from the Denver area, be sure to check road conditions. The Colorado Department of Transportation has helpful trip planning information at COtrip.

Aspen Weather In January

January here averages a high of 36°F and a low of 10°F.

Average snowfall for January can vary widely, a low year sees 5-10” for the month, a high year sees 50” or more.

This year’s forecast (2026) is as follow:

Friday, January 23 – 30° / 10° (high / low F°), heavy snow.
Saturday, January 24 – 35° / 17°, heavy snow, chance of postponing events.
Sunday, January 25 – 42° / 22°, snowy.

Please keep in mind that forecasts can change very, very quickly here. It’s important to come prepared for any and all weather. 

Things To Do In Aspen, Colorado

While visiting Aspen for the X Games, there are tons of things to do outside the event. A few favorites are:

• Shop (or window shop) in Downtown Aspen.
• Visit the Aspen Art Museum.
• Ski, snowboard, or snowshoe.
• Hit the bars or see a live show at Belly Up.
• Snowmobile to the famous Maroon Bells.

For more things to do, check out The Top Things To Do In Aspen In Winter (besides ski) or my Aspen Winter Weekend Itinerary.

Where To Stay In Aspen During The X Games

Lodging in Aspen during the X Games can be difficult and should be booked well in advance.

You can stay right at the base of Buttermilk Ski Area, within steps of the event at The Inn At Aspen. This option is incredibly convenient, but rooms do book out very far in advance. Also, you cannot cram a bunch of people into one room here, the hotel is very strict about room capacity and its monitored by wristband.

Check pricing and availability at: The Inn At Aspen.

But you don’t have to stay in Buttermilk, staying in Downtown Aspen or Snowmass Village is also very convenient. From these spots you can easily utilize the free shuttles to and from the X Games.

I always try to stay in Downtown Aspen. The shuttle is very easy to access and best of all, you’re within walking distance of the best nightlife spots.

If you’re staying Downtown, try to find a place with parking, or plan to include parking costs in your budget.

The last time I attended the X Games we booked a studio condo in Downtown Aspen via VRBO. It slept 3, the space was small but perfect for X Games weekend, and affordable when split three ways. We did book this about 5 months in advance and there was definitely an element of luck involved. We got a very fair price for a prime location, and it even included a parking spot.

This rental is similar to the one we booked: Studio Condo in the Heart of Downtown Aspen.

For more hotels in Downtown Aspen, check out The Best Hotels In Aspen.

If you’re not staying in the immediate X Games area, for example if you’re staying in Carbondale or Glenwood Springs, traffic in and out of Aspen is going to be very heavy. Plan extra time to get around, and use public transportation to the shuttle pick up spots if possible.

I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your trip to the upcoming X Games, and have the best time! The X Games experience is a unique event you won’t be quick to forget.

Can’t attend? Catch live coverage of the winter sports competition on ESPN and ABC.

Any questions? Feel free to 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 X Games!

More Information For Your Winter Vacation In Aspen:

• Winter In Aspen: Top Things To Do
• Aspen Winter Weekend (3-Day Itinerary)
• Top Hot Springs Near Aspen
• Best Hotels In Aspen, CO
• Christmas In Aspen: Top Things To Do
• What To Wear In Colorado In Winter (For Mountain Towns & Ski Trips)
• All Aspen Guides

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

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