New Year’s Eve in Aspen is a truly special time, when our mountain town sparkles with celebration, snow-dusted charm, and an unmistakable sense of anticipation. Twinkling lights line the Cooper Avenue walking mall, Aspen Mountain rises dramatically above town, and the air buzzes with excitement as locals and visitors alike gather to welcome the year ahead.
When you stay at Aspen Square, you’re perfectly positioned in the heart of it all. Downtown festivities, dining, and celebrations are just steps away, and you’re never far from the warmth and comfort of your own fireside condo. To help you plan an unforgettable New Year’s Eve, we’ve created this insider’s guide to the best events, activities, and local tips.
Afternoon: A Perfect Aspen Warm-Up
There’s no better way to spend the final afternoon of the year than on the slopes. Whether you’re taking your last turns on Aspen Mountain, just outside our back door, or venturing to Aspen Highlands or Snowmass, skiing and riding offer a reflective and exhilarating way to close out the year.
After skiing, head into downtown Aspen to enjoy the early evening community festivities. The City of Aspen typically hosts a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in and around Sister Cities Plaza. Activities often begin in the early afternoon and may include a DJ, music, warming fire pits, and s’mores. For families, or anyone embracing classic winter traditions, free public ice skating is often offered at the Aspen Ice Garden earlier in the evening, just a short walk from Aspen Square.
Timing the fun: Sister Cities Plaza. If you're traveling with family, timing is everything. The bonfire and free s’mores at Sister Cities Plaza usually peak between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. To avoid the longest lines at the Aspen Ice Garden, we recommend heading over right at 3:00 PM when the free public skating begins. Most people wait until after 4:00 PM once the lifts close, so getting there an hour early means more time on the ice and first pick of the rental skates.
Fireworks Over Aspen Mountain
One of the most iconic moments of New Year’s Eve in Aspen is the fireworks display over Aspen Mountain. When conditions allow, fireworks are launched in the early evening, lighting up the sky above the slopes and downtown.
This earlier timing makes the show especially popular with families and those heading to dinner afterward. Wagner Park and the Cooper Avenue walking mall offer excellent viewing spots, and some mountain-view condos at Aspen Square provide a memorable vantage point as well.
Local tip: Fireworks schedules can shift due to weather, so it’s always best to check local event updates during your stay. Also, if you want a unique vantage point away from the crowds, consider the short hike up Smuggler Mountain. The observation deck offers a "birds-eye" view of the fireworks at eye level. Just remember to bring hiking shoes with spikes and your headlamp for the walk back down!
Prime Fireworks Viewing
From public parks to private patios, most visitors flock to Wagner Park for the bonfire and the best view of the pyrotechnics reflected off the mountain. However, if you're looking for a slightly quieter experience, head toward Rio Grande Park. The open field offers a fantastic, unobstructed view of the display with a bit more breathing room. Of course, the ultimate insider "viewing gallery" is right here at home. If you’ve booked one of our mountain-facing condominiums, you can simply step onto your private balcony with a glass of champagne and enjoy a front-row seat to the show without ever having to put on your heavy winter coat.
Parking & Logistics
Your Aspen Square advantage! If you are visiting Aspen on New Year's Eve, "the struggle is real" when it comes to parking. Downtown streets fill up by midday, and the Rio Grande Parking Plaza often reaches capacity early. Fortunately, for our guests at Aspen Square, this is one holiday headache you can skip entirely. We offer complimentary parking for our guests in the heart of downtown, a rare and valuable perk on the busiest night of the year. Once you’ve parked your car in our private lot, you can leave it there for your entire stay. Everything from the Silver Queen Gondola to the best restaurants on East Cooper Avenue is just a short, snowy stroll away.
If you need to zip across town for a reservation, skip the taxi lines and download the Downtowner App. It’s a free, on-demand electric shuttle that picks you up right at our front door.
Snowmass Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
For those willing to venture a little farther, Snowmass Village hosts one of the Roaring Fork Valley’s most beloved New Year’s Eve traditions. The Snowmass Torchlight Parade features skiers and snowboarders descending Fanny Hill with glowing torches, creating a breathtaking scene against the snow-covered mountain. Fireworks typically follow in Snowmass Base Village.
Many guests choose to enjoy the Snowmass festivities earlier in the evening and return to Aspen afterward for dinner or nightlife.
Festive Dining: A Taste of Aspen
Aspen’s culinary scene shines on New Year’s Eve, with many restaurants offering special prix-fixe menus, tasting experiences, and celebratory champagne pairings. While Aspen Square condos feature full kitchens—perfect for a quiet toast before heading out—these nearby dining favorites are often top choices for the evening:
Betula Aspen
Just a few blocks away, Betula is known for its elegant multi-course New Year’s Eve menu, refined atmosphere, and often live music, making it a favorite for a festive yet polished night out.
PARC Aspen
A chef-driven dining experience with thoughtfully crafted tasting menus. The bar side offers a lively, celebratory atmosphere for those looking for something a bit more relaxed.
Prospect at Hotel Jerome
For classic Aspen ambiance, Prospect delivers a memorable holiday dining experience inside one of Aspen’s most historic hotels.
Angelo’s
A local favorite for hearty Tuscan cuisine, Angelo’s is known for its energetic New Year’s Eve atmosphere and late-night celebrations.
The Little Nell
The Little Nell invites you to experience a constellation of unforgettable moments—from the 10th annual Dom Pérignon New Year’s Eve Party, themed Silver Solstice.
Reservations are highly recommended, as New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest dining nights of the year.
Insider Dining Hack: Didn't snag a reservation at Element 47 or PARC months in advance? Don't panic. Many of Aspen’s top-tier restaurants keep their bar seating available on a first-come, first-served basis, even on New Year's Eve. If you're a party of two, try showing up right when they open (usually around 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM). You can often enjoy the full celebratory menu at the bar, which many locals actually prefer for the lively, social atmosphere.
Late Night: Music, Dancing & Celebration
As midnight approaches, Aspen’s nightlife comes alive. One of the perks of staying at Aspen Square is that you’re already downtown—no shuttles, taxis, or long walks required.
Belly Up Aspen
This legendary venue often hosts a major New Year’s Eve performance. With its intimate setting and world-class talent, tickets tend to sell out quickly.
The Sterling
A favorite for high-energy dancing, DJs, and champagne toasts, The Sterling is ideal for those looking to ring in the New Year on the dance floor.
Silver City Mountain Saloon
Tucked beneath the historic Elks Building, this lively spot offers a more relaxed, Old West vibe with live music and a festive crowd. Check out their New Year’s celebration!
Sample Itinerary:
1:00 PM | S’mores & DJ at Sister Cities Plaza: Kick off the afternoon at the Cooper Avenue walking mall with fire pits and festive music.
3:00 PM | Free Ice Skating at Aspen Ice Garden: A local favorite for families. Get there early to beat the post-skiing rush for rentals!
5:45 PM | The Choice: Snowmass or Aspen?
Option A (Snowmass): Head to Snowmass for the Torchlight Parade and fireworks. This is perfect for families who prefer an earlier, slopeside celebration. Afterward, plan for dinner at Venga Venga or The Stew Pot for a relaxed Snowmass dinner.
Option B (Downtown): Skip the commute and stay in the core. Enjoy a sunset cocktail at Bad Harriet before heading to your 6:30 PM dinner reservation at Betula or PARC Aspen.
8:00 PM | Early Fireworks over Aspen Mountain: Watch the sky light up from Wagner Park or the comfort of your private Aspen Square balcony.
9:30 PM | Cocktails & Revelry: Grab a craft cocktail at Hooch, head to MOLLIE for their French Disco party, or catch LCD Soundsystem at Belly Up Aspen.
Midnight | Fireworks & Champagne: Ring in 2026 with the second fireworks display and a toast in the heart of downtown.
New Year’s Day: A Fresh Aspen Start
There’s no better way to welcome the New Year than with a peaceful morning in the mountains. New Year’s Day often brings quieter slopes, making it a favorite time for skiers and riders looking to enjoy fresh turns and stunning views.
Afterward, treat yourself to a celebratory brunch. Element 47 at The Little Nell is well known for its indulgent New Year’s Day offerings, providing a perfect start to the year ahead.
Your Downtown Home Base
Whether your ideal New Year’s Eve includes lively celebrations, family-friendly traditions, or a cozy evening by the fire, Aspen Square offers the perfect home base. Our central location places you steps from Aspen’s best events, dining, and nightlife, while our spacious condos give you a comfortable retreat whenever you’re ready to unwind.
Our concierge team is always happy to assist with dining recommendations, event tips, or transportation guidance to help make your New Year’s Eve in Aspen seamless and memorable.
From all of us at Aspen Square, we wish you a joyful celebration and a very Happy New Year!