Aspen Summer Events 2013
Aspen’s calendar is packed with events during the summer. Here is just a sampling of what’s in store during the warm weather months.
Ride for the Pass – May 18
Aspen Cycling Criterium – May 19
Food & Wine Magazine Classic – June 14-16
Aspen’s annual summer kick-off event and one of the nation’s most prestigious epicurean gatherings.
Aspen Saturday Market – June 16 – October 12
Aspen Writers’ Foundation Summer Words – June 16-21
Presenting its 36th annual Aspen Summer Words, the Writers’ Foundation continues its renowned exploration of the joys of the written word.
Theatre Aspen – June 21 – August 17
Aspen’s original repertory theater in the park presents engaging plays and musicals in rotation its tent next to Rio Grande Park.
Jazz Aspen Snowmass June Festival – June 21-July 6
The JAS June Festival offers popular artists in concerts at the Benedict Music Tent and other venues around town.
Aspen Ideas Festival – June 26 – July 2
Presented by the Aspen Institute, the Ideas Festival presents six days of fascinating discussion, seminars and conversations with leading writers, artists, scientists, political figures, business leaders and other influential thinkers—an extraordinary opportunity for exposure to the most important issues of our day.
Aspen Music Festival and School – June 27 – August 18
More than 350 musical events are presented during this renowned eight-week classical music festival. Daily events include orchestral concerts, recital, fully-staged operas and family concerts. Programs take place in the Benedict Music Tent, Harris Concert Hall, the Wheeler Opera House and various venues throughout Aspen.
Old-Fashioned 4th of July Celebration – July 4
With festive small town spirit, thousands of local residents and visitors come together annually to celebrate the nation’s birthday the old-fashioned way; with a parade, picnicking and of course, fireworks.
Aspen Santa Fe 2013 Summer Dance – July 6 – August 24
The ASFB’s summer season takes place at the Aspen District Theater and features performances by the ASFB as well as other renowned dance companies during selected dates throughout the summer.
Komen Aspen Race for the Cure – July 13
The 21st annual race begins at Rio Grande Park and winds through Aspen’s historic West End, down the scenic Rio Grande Trail and back to the park for a festive gathering of music, fun and fellowship.
Aspen Arts Fair – July 27-28
The annual art fair has been moved to Monarch St. this year, providing a four-block “open art gallery” composed of more than 170 exhibitors, offering jewelry, pottery, sculpture, glass, ceramics, paintings, prints and more.
Aspen Historical Society’s Annual Ice Cream Social – August 3
A taste of old-time Aspen summer fun, on the grounds of the Wheeler-Stallard Museum in the West End.
Aspen Rotary Club’s Ducky Derby – August 10
The Ducky Derby is Aspen Rotary’s annual benefit for local non-profits, youth groups, scholarships and Rotary International projects. It’s a full-day festival and rubber duck race that takes place in Rio Grande Park on the Roaring Fork River, with activities for the whole family.
Komen Aspen Ride for the Cure – August 17
This 100-mile “century ride” supports the Aspen affiliate of the Susan G. KOmen for the Cure and its promise to saves lives and end breast cancer forever.
USA Pro Cycling Challenge – August 19 – 25
In the third year of this excitingly grueling road biking event, Aspen hosts the opening stage. Join the crowds cheering on the world’s great riders at the top of Independence Pass.
Motherlode Volleyball Tournament – August 29 – September 2
A Labor Day weekend tradition, the 40th annual tournament includes 700 teams from all over the country, competing in 18 different divisions of play at seven sites. Free admission, food and beverage concessions and music create a festive atmosphere all weekend long.
Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival – August 30 – September 2
Jazz Aspen returns Labor Day weekend with a musical banquet of outstanding concerts in Snowmass’s giant tent at the base of the mountain.