An Aspen Thanksgiving
While a traditional Thanksgiving holiday at home is ideal for many, Aspen offers a unique experience for those looking to have a Thanksgiving getaway. With a variety of dining options and special holiday events, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Thanksgiving weekend also marks the kick off of the winter ski season, which for many is a holiday in itself.
Here are some of our favorite ways to spend Thanksgiving in Aspen to help make it one you won’t soon forget.
THE START OF SKI SEASON IN ASPEN SNOWMASS
Thanksgiving typically conjures up images of family and friends, crisp autumn weather slowly transforming into winter, and a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. For Aspen locals and those who love to hit the slopes, an Aspen Thanksgiving also means the start of ski season.
Skiing and Snowboarding on Opening Day
Opening day celebrations tend to be quieter with fewer visitors, translating to shorter lift lines and more time to get in a few turns before your turkey day feast. Enjoy the slower atmosphere of Thanksgiving weekend before ski season is in full swing, and explore the available open terrain. Après is another fun way to celebrate, and the holiday will make it especially festive.
Go to the Aspen Snowmass website for more information on opening day, lift tickets, and equipment rentals.
Nordic Skiing
If you are looking to avoid lift lines and the crowds of the mountain, Nordic skiing on one of the many cross country trails may be a great option, depending on the snow pack (it may be too early for any sort of Nordic skiing activities.) Access is free, and the experience can be a great escape and means by which to be active. Lessons are also available at the Aspen Nordic Center in the Aspen Golf Club in the winter.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Aspen loves the holidays, and it’s a scene worth experiencing. Because Thanksgiving falls between the busy summer season and the hustle and bustle of the ever-popular ski season, the downtown scene tends to be more mellow. Fewer people not only make for a quieter atmosphere, it also translate to shorter lines, specials, and discounts available for locals and tourists throughout town.
Not only can you easily explore the town during the Thanksgiving holiday, but plenty of special events are available.
Thanksjibbing
Snowmass hosts this fun and free event to kick off the winter season. Watch as talented local freeskiers and snowboarders compete for cash prizes on a unique course of urban-inspired terrain on Fanny Hill. This event also typically includes Turkey Bowling, a restaurant leftover challenge, live music, kids’ activities, and more.
Basalt Gobble Wobble 5K
This annual tradition is a fun race designed to raise funds for Basalt Elementary students, teachers, and administration. Participants can compete for best costumes, raffles, and more.
Indoor Turkey Triathlon
If you are interested in trying a triathlon but not yet ready for the full experience, check out the Aspen Recreation Center’s indoor turkey triathlon. The indoor triathlon consists of a 10 minute swim, 30 minute spin bike, and 20 minute treadmill run with transition time in between. It is a safe and fun way to be introduced to triathlon and an excellent workout for those with experience.
Event and registration information is available on the Aspen Rec Center website.
Aspen Turkey Trot
Hardcore and recreational runners alike can participate in the local Aspen Turkey Trot as a great start to Thanksgiving Day. This 5k run is a fun way to spend time with family and friends and work up an appetite for your holiday meal.
THANKSGIVING DINING IN ASPEN
Dining Out
Aspen offers a number of restaurants with special menus for Thanksgiving, though they may vary year to year. A few local establishments, including Element 47, Ajax Tavern, Aspen Public House, Mawa’s Kitchen, and the Hotel Jerome, tend to offer Thanksgiving specials regularly, though it’s always a good idea to verify availability ahead of time. The Aspen Chamber’s website is a good place to check out for updated information on these establishments as well as any other restaurants offering Thanksgiving meal specials for the holiday.
Dining In
If you are looking to prepare your own food, each of our Aspen condo rentals includes a well-equipped kitchen and spacious living area so that you can cook your Thanksgiving meal in the comforts of your vacation home. If you want to skip the cooking, many local restaurants also offer Thanksgiving-specific menus for takeout.
HOST YOUR THANKSGIVING IN ASPEN SQUARE
At Aspen Square, we offer the perfect space to get away and enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday in style. When you choose Aspen Square, 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 for winter, and private balconies with the convenience of hotel services such as a front desk, concierge, bell staff, and daily housekeeping.
Contact the concierge at the Aspen Square to plan your trip details to Aspen this Thanksgiving. Call (970) 925-1000, and let us help you start your holiday vacation