With the winter season officially underway, now is the perfect time to start planning an epic getaway to Aspen. January is serving up a packed calendar full of events that seamlessly blend the invigorating thrill of outdoor sports with rich cultural festivities and a robust community spirit that’s second to none. Read on as we take an in-depth look at three beloved annual events and get ready to kick off the new year in Aspen.
Winterskol: Aspen’s Toast to Winter
January 11-14, 2024
Initiated over six decades ago, Winterskol is Aspen’s homage to its snowy season, filled with myriad activities that span across four exciting days. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local mountain way of life through unique events like the (new) Soupskol competition, a soup-cooking contest that’s guaranteed to warm you up on a cold Aspen day, snow and ice sculpture displays, a craft beer festival, and much, much more! The highlight is arguably the enchanting torchlight descent down Aspen Mountain, a tradition that lights up the night sky. The festivities culminate in a spectacular, family-friendly evening full of fun and fireworks over Aspen Mountain.
If you’re looking for the perfect Winterskol vacation rental, check out Le Clairvaux 8, a brilliantly remodeled two-bed/two-bath condo located just two blocks from the Silver Queen Gondola. With tons of natural light and sleeping space for six guests, this is the ideal home base that puts you close to all the action. Enjoy views of Aspen Mountain from the living room and kitchen windows and nights spent cozied up by the quartz surround gas fireplace. For sleeping arrangements, guests will enjoy a master suite with a king bed, TV, and balcony, as well as a luxurious master bath with marble tile and gold faucets. The guest bedroom features twin beds that can convert to a king upon request and access to another marble-clad bathroom. For additional sleep space, the sofa converts to a queen bed, and the unit features an in-house washer and dryer and a place to store your gear after a day on the mountain.
Aspen Gay Ski Week: A Celebration of Diversity
January 14 – 21, 2024
Aspen Gay Ski Week (AGSW), celebrated for 47 years, is not just Aspen’s first expression of LGBTQIA+ Pride but also one of its most significant non-profit fundraisers. This week-long extravaganza is a highlight for the community, offering a vibrant mix of skiing and cultural events that draw thousands to Aspen’s scenic slopes each year.
Poised to be an eclectic mix of fun and philanthropy and showcasing why it’s been dubbed “the alpha and omega of gay ski weeks,” visitors can expect a packed schedule including après-ski parties, entertainment-filled evenings, and an array of winter sports across four stunning mountains. But there’s more than just skiing and socializing. AGSW is also a pivotal fundraiser for AspenOUT, a local non-profit organization dedicated to anti-bullying efforts and promoting tolerance. Since 1996, AspenOUT has been at the helm of AGSW, supporting both local programs and national organizations aligned with its mission. So, don your gay ski apparel and head to Aspen for days of Drag Bingo, cocktail parties, social mixers, and more!
After a day of fun with your friends, keep the party going at Riverview 22! This two-bed/two-bath vacation rental can sleep four and offers fantastic amenities that make entertaining a breeze. Recap the day’s events as you relax in the hot tub or host an evening cookout on the back deck. With a prime location 150 yards from a shuttle stop that carries you directly to downtown, you’ll be seconds away from shopping, dining, and nightlife. Other features of this condo include a full kitchen, a wood-burning fireplace, and an in-unit washer and dryer. With comfortable bedrooms boasting a queen bed and two twins that convert to a king, you’ll feel right at home when you book Riverview 22.
X Games: Extreme Sports at Their Peak
January 26 – 28, 2024
The X Games in Aspen are the ultimate exhibition of winter sports prowess, transforming Buttermilk Mountain into a global stage for athletes pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Over several days, spectators are treated to a spectacle of high-flying stunts, gravity-defying tricks, and races that keep hearts racing. The X Games also feature interactive festivals with live music, giving attendees the chance to meet their favorite athletes and enjoy the culture of extreme sports.
As the energy and excitement of the X Games wind down each day, come home to Chateau Chaumont 1, a deluxe two-bedroom, two-bathroom ground-floor unit that comfortably sleeps five guests. Featuring hardwood floors, a full kitchen, and a wood-burning fireplace, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of extreme fun.
The master bedroom boasts a relaxing king bed, while the other bedroom provides versatile arrangements with one twin and one full bed. The prime location means you’re just a short walk from the Aspen Mountain Gondola and the renowned downtown area. For evening relaxation, enjoy the courtyard’s communal hot tub, and as a pet-friendly unit, you can even bring your furry family members along on your Aspen vacation! If you’re looking for an excellent home away from home for your X Games adventure, this is the place to be.
Book Your Aspen Adventure
As January approaches with its plethora of events and snow-capped adventures, now is the time to book your stay! Choose from any of these McCartney Properties vacation rentals or browse our full list of properties. From private homes to luxury chateaus, we have something for every group and budget. When you’re ready to book your stay, remember to book direct with McCartney Properties for the best rates and service. We can’t wait for you to kick off the new year in Aspen!