Whether you're a visitor or a resident, summer in Aspen is captivating. It offers amazing outdoor adventures and abundant cultural events. The summer months are also the perfect time to explore Aspen's vibrant nightlife and sample its eclectic mix of restaurants and bars.
With so much to do and see, Aspen is the perfect destination for a summer vacation.
Aspen Summer Arts and Cultural Events
Aspen’s arts and culture scene is at its peak in the summer. Whether you're looking to see live music, sample amazing food, or pick up some local produce, we have a list of things to enjoy during your time here.
FOOD & WINE Classic (June 14-16)
One of Colorado’s premier annual culinary events, the 2024 FOOD & WINE Classic is three days of spectacular epicurean adventures and the “unofficial kick-off of summer” in the region.
This must-visit experience consists of wine and spirit tastings, cooking demonstrations, seminars, and panel discussions led by world-renowned chefs and beverage experts. Guests are encouraged to explore Aspen’s incredible restaurants and shops and attend interactive sessions and wine dinners hosted by the best in the restaurant business.
Learn more about the FOOD & WINE Classic and the schedule of events.
The Aspen Ideas Festival (June 23-29)
The Aspen Ideas Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary June 23-29 with its first guest curator, celebrated magazine editor and author Tina Brown. With panels, interviews, lectures, and interactive sessions delving into topics shaping the upcoming election, business and economy, the role of art throughout all aspects of our lives, geopolitics, sports, leadership, and more. Set in the serenity of the Aspen Institute’s campus, this festival brings together brilliant minds from around the globe to discuss the ideas that will shape tomorrow and help us understand today.
Check out the agenda and registration information on their website.
Community Pride Celebration
In collaboration with the City of Aspen, Aspen One, and the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, the AMFS will host its second Community Pride Celebration. This free event celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community, friends, and families. Come and enjoy ice cream, festivities, and fun with the family and visit with local partner organizations. Kicking off a four-day celebration called “Sounds of Pride,” the Community Pride Celebration honors the legacy of LGBTQIA+ musical artists and marks the anniversary of Aspen’s landmark anti-discrimination policy protecting gays and lesbians—the first of any Colorado municipality.
Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS)
Returning for its 33rd season, JAS offers an exciting summer program with its June Experience and the much-loved Labor Day Experience in September.
JAS June Experience (June 20-23)
Consisting of multiple staggered daily shows at twelve different venues, the June Experience gives attendees the chance to stroll Aspen and enjoy a full night of diverse music genres and settings. Tickets are available now.
Labor Day Festival (August 30-September 1)
Celebrate the end of summer with the JAS Labor Day Experience. This outdoor festival at Snowmass showcases performances including this year’s lineup of: Brandi Carlile, Sting, Tim McGraw, One Republic, The Black Crowes, Lukas Nelson, and Michael Marcagi. More information is available on their website.
Theatre Aspen
Theatre Aspen enters its fifth decade after a record-breaking 40th season. The upcoming 41st summer season includes Steel Magnolias (June 17-29, 2024), seven-time Tony Award®-nominated Legally Blonde The Musical (July 5-27), and Tony and Drama Desk Award winner Come from Away (August 2-24).
In addition to this summer’s line-up, The Aspen Music Festival and School and Theatre Aspen recently announced their fifth annual co-production of the 9-time Tony Award®-winning Fiddler on the Roof in Concert for a one-night-only performance on Tuesday, July 23 at 7:30 PM in the Michael Klein Music Tent.
For information on the mainstage productions, summer cabarets, and exciting collaborations with Aspen Music Festival and School, visit their website.
Aspen Film (September 17-22)
Every season, Aspen Film organizes a major film festival and a comprehensive education program: Aspen Filmfest, Academy Screenings, Aspen Shortsfest, Summer of Cinema, and FilmEducates.
Aspen Film's mission is to enlighten, enrich, educate, and entertain through film. By presenting diverse ideas from filmmakers across the globe, Aspen Film stimulates discussion and broadens our understanding of our world and selves.
Aspen Saturday Market
A diverse marketplace that offers Colorado-grown produce and artisanal products, the Aspen Farmer's Market runs seasonally from June to October. The market runs on Saturdays from 8:30 AM - 2 PM and sells Colorado-grown fruits, vegetables, bread, meats, cheeses, flowers, and homemade crafts from local vendors. The market also offers live music, food trucks, and other activities.
Whether looking for a special gift or a way to support local farmers and artisans, the Aspen Saturday Farmer’s Market has something for everyone. Learn more about the market and vendors on their website.
Aspen Music Festival
The Aspen Music Festival and School, one of the premier classical music festivals in the country, is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year. The eight-week summer season features more than 300 classical music events— concerts by five orchestras, solo and chamber music performances, fully-staged opera productions, master classes, and lectures.
Attendees can also enjoy educational activities such as lectures, recitals, classes, and workshops. The festival is an opportunity for young artist programs to give emerging musicians a chance to gain experience performing in front of an audience.
Learn more about the Aspen Music Festival and the line-up for 2024.
John Denver Sanctuary
The sprawling gardens of the John Denver Sanctuary offer a chance to enjoy eye-catching natural beauty while listening to recordings of John Denver’s music. Several monuments dedicated to his life and work overlook the meadow, while the nature trail features educational signs of local flora, fauna, and ecology.
Learn more about the sanctuary along with John Denver’s legacy and connection with Aspen.
Bluegrass Sundays
Every Sunday during the summer, locals and tourists alike have the opportunity to experience live Bluegrass music at its finest on top of Aspen Mountain.
Held from 2-5 pm on the lawn of Wagner Park, visitors can enjoy the scenic Elk Mountain Range while listening to live music and enjoying food and drink on the Sundeck.
For information on the Aspen summer 2024 lineup and information on the gondola rides to the top of the mountain, click here.
Spend Your Summer Vacation in Aspen
Summers in Aspen are perfect for your vacation, with idyllic temperatures, gorgeous scenery, and plenty of things to do. Get the most out of your summer in Aspen by choosing the perfect accommodations for your needs. When you choose Aspen Square condominium lodging, you get the benefit of hotel services combined with the comfort of home in a fantastic downtown Aspen location with easy access to the mountain, entertainment, and dining.
Our condominium hotel includes luxury features such as well-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and private balconies with the convenience of hotel services such as a front desk, concierge, bell staff, and daily housekeeping.
Contact the concierge at Aspen Square to plan your family vacation this summer in Aspen. Call (970) 925-1000 and let us assist you!