Summer in Aspen, Colorado is filled with live music, stunning weather, and premier culinary events. From outdoor concerts on Snowmass Mountain to classical music events to the renowned Food & Wine Classic, there are events for the whole family. Summer in Aspen highlights our small mountain town’s big heart. See a breakdown of Aspen Summer Events (2023) below:
See Artists like the Foo Fighters Perform in a Breathtaking Setting
JAS Aspen June 22nd -25th and September 1st– 3rd
Hosting both a June experience and Labor Day Experience this year, JAS Aspen Snowmass is sure to be a success. This year’s Labor Day artists include a spectacular lineup of the Foo Fighters, Billy Idol, and The Lumineers.
World-Class Theatre for the Whole Family
Theatre Aspen starting June 22nd
With a variety of summer shows planned, Theatre Aspen is sure to be a delight. The summer season kicks off on June 22nd with ‘Beautiful: A Carole King Musical’. Other events include ‘Doubt: A Parable’, a Cabaret series, and the acclaimed musical ‘Rent’.
A Free Live Concert with a Sunset Backdrop
Snowmass Free Concert Series June 15th – August 24th
The Snowmass Summer Concert Series is a local favorite. A free concert on Fanny Hill in Snowmass with new artists performing every week. With food and drink options in the Snowmass Mall, make an evening out of this every Thursday night beginning at 5:30 pm!
Organic Food and Handmade Colorado Goods
Saturday Farmer’s Market beginning June 10th
With local vendors from all around Colorado, visit the weekly farmer’s market in Downtown Aspen for delicious baking, fresh flowers, and artisan products. Open from 8:30 am – 2 pm every Saturday, look out for the local favorite kettle corn or empanadas.
A Historic Festival for Classical Music Lovers
Aspen Music Festival and School June 29th– August 20th
This classical music festival has been delighting Aspen since 1949. The 2023 Season includes daily music events at the Benedict Music Tent, the Wheeler Opera House, and Harris Concert Hall. Featuring talented students from across the United States, the Aspen Music School is a renowned summer event.
The Event of the Summer for Foodies and Wine Lovers
Food and Wine Classic June 16th-18th
The Food & Wine Classic is a favorite Aspen Summer event, with guests traveling all over the world to experience it. The event includes wine & spirit tastings, renowned celebrity chef demonstrations, and panel discussions. Previous years’ featured chefs and curators have included Martha Stewart, Eva Longoria, and Guy Fieri.
Spark Creativity and Discussion from World-Renowned Leaders
Aspen Ideas Festival June 23rd–30th
Located at the Aspen Meadows, the Aspen Ideas Festival returns in 2023 for discussions, lectures, and debates from various world leaders. This festival is an opportunity to personally explore innovative ideas in science, politics, the environment, art, business, and foreign policy. This year’s speakers include James Ijames (Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright), Katie Couric (Journalist), Ryan Gellert (CEO of Patagonia), Rainn Wilson (Actor), and many more!
Celebrate Independence Day in Aspen Style!
4th of July Celebrations
The 4th of July is a spectacle in Downtown Aspen with a community parade, live music, street stalls, and a car show. The streets are blocked off from car traffic and filled with celebrations. Of course, the parade is one of the busiest Aspen summer events, and for good reason. This day brings together locals and visitors alike to honor Independence Day in a breathtaking setting
Test your Endurance in this Epic Mountain Race
Audi Power of Four Trail Race July 15th
An endurance race like no other, the Audi Power of Four Summer event includes 10km, 25km, and an incredible 50km ultra race across all four mountains. An opportunity to experience the terrain of Aspen Mountain, Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass and test your limits.
A Spectacular Summer Event in the Beauty of Snowmass
Snowmass Balloon Festival September 22nd-24th
An iconic festival in Snowmass, the Balloon Festival includes three morning balloon launches from 7-9:30 am and the Friday evening Balloon Glow event. The balloons launch from Snowmass Town Park, and spectators can drive up, walk or bike to see the balloons up close.
Support Local Businesses while Sampling Delicious Food & Wine
Snowmass Wine Festival September 15th-16th
2023 is the 21st year of the Snowmass Wine Festival, held annually at the Snowmass Town Park. Featuring wine tastings, food samples, and live music with the backdrop of Snowmass Mountain. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Snowmass Village, every dollar from tickets benefits local organizations.
Enjoy Live Music and Stunning Views of Aspen Mountain all Afternoon
Bluegrass Sundays June 18th– September 3rd
Aspen Mountain’s Sundeck restaurant plays host to free weekly Bluegrass live music events. With lawn games, great food & drinks – this is an afternoon activity for the whole family. Purchase a Silver Queen Gondola ticket and head up to the top of Aspen Mountain every Sunday this Summer.
2023 Summer Events Calendar
Weekly Events:
Saturday Farmer’s Market: Downtown Aspen- Every Saturday from June 10th from 8:30 am until 2 pm
Snowmass Summer Concerts: Fanny Hill, Snowmass Mountain- Every Thursday, June 15th– August 24th, doors open at 5:30 pm, and music begins at 6:30 pm
Bluegrass Sundays: Sundeck, Aspen Mountain – Every Sunday from June 18th– September 3rd from 12 pm to 3 pm
Summer-Long Events:
Theatre Aspen: Hurst Theatre, John Denver Sanctuary- starting June 22nd
Aspen Music Festival & School: Benedict Music Tent- June 29th– August 20th
June Events:
Food and Wine Classic: Wagner Park- June 16th-18th
Jas Aspen June Experience: Downtown Aspen- June 22nd -25th
Aspen Ideas Festival: Aspen Institute – June 23rd– 30th
July Events:
Independence Day Parade: Downtown Aspen- July 4th
Audi Power of Four Race: Aspen Mountain – July 15th
Aspen Art Festival: Downtown Aspen- July 15th – 17th
August Events:
Audi Snowmass 50 Mountain Bike Race: Snowmass Mountain- August 5th
September Events:
Jas Aspen Labor Day Experience: Snowmass Town Park- September 1st-3rd
Snowmass Wine Festival: Snowmass Town Park- September 15th– 16th
Snowmass Balloon Festival: Snowmass Town Park -September 22nd-24th
There’s always so much to do in the summer here that it can be hard to keep up with what’s happening. Read through our guide on the best things to during the sunny season in our little mountain town. On top of all of the great Aspen summer events, we cover everything you need to make the most of your vacation. Culinary tips, incredible summer activities, the great outdoors, and much more!