What’s Happening in the mountains: Winter Events in Aspen January - February 2026

Winter Events, Concerts, Ski Festivals & Après You Can’t Miss

January and February are the heart of winter in Aspen. Snow conditions peak, the town fills with energy, and the events calendar becomes one of the busiest in the country. From iconic ski competitions and music festivals to cultural performances and legendary après-ski, this is when Aspen truly shines.

If you’re planning a winter trip, here’s your complete guide to Aspen events in January and February 2026, including skiing, nightlife, arts, and signature festivals.

Major Winter Events in Aspen

January - February 2026

Aspen Gay Ski Week (January 11-18, 2026)

Aspen Gay Ski Week is the longest-running gay ski week in the United States and one of Aspen’s most celebrated winter events. Each January, thousands of visitors come together for a week of skiing, parties, performances, and community events across Aspen and Snowmass.

The week includes:

• Daily après-ski at Limelight Hotel

• Ski meetups across Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands

• Nightlife events at Belly Up, The Sundeck, Hidalgo, and Aspen Recreation Center

• Drag brunches, live theater, wellness sessions, and charity fundraisers

Aspen Gay Ski Week is both a world-class ski experience and a meaningful fundraiser supporting AspenOUT’s anti-bullying and inclusion programs.

Winter X Games Aspen (January 23-25, 2026)

The Winter X Games return to Buttermilk Mountain for their 25th consecutive year, making Aspen one of the most important destinations in action sports history.

This global event features the world’s top skiers and snowboarders competing in slopestyle, superpipe, big air, and more. Daytime events are free to attend, while evening competitions and concerts require tickets.

If you’re looking for high-energy winter entertainment, X Games weekend is one of the most exciting times to visit Aspen.

Palm Tree Music Festival Aspen (February 20-21, 2026)

Palm Tree Music Festival returns to Aspen after selling out in 2025. Set against the Elk Mountains, this two-day winter music festival blends electronic music, luxury après vibes, and mountain scenery.

The 2026 lineup includes Kygo, Calvin Harris, Mau P, BLOND:ISH, Cloonee, Sammy Virji, and more. Both GA and VIP ticket options are available, making it one of the most talked-about Aspen events in February.

Live Music & Nightlife Events in Aspen This Winter January - February 2026

Belly Up Aspen Concerts (January & February 2026)

Belly Up Aspen is the town’s premier live music venue, and winter is its busiest season. January and February bring a packed schedule of concerts spanning electronic, hip-hop, rock, and jam bands.

Artists scheduled for winter 2026 include:

• Alesso

• Big Gigantic

• STS9

• Fitz and the Tantrums

• Steve Aoki

• The Chainsmokers

• deadmau5

• Ghostface Killah

If live music is part of your Aspen experience, Belly Up is a must.

Live Music at MOLLIE Aspen (January 8 - February 19, 2026)

Every Thursday night, MOLLIE Aspen hosts intimate live music performances in its lobby bar. These events offer a relaxed, locals-approved atmosphere with craft cocktails and acoustic sets, making them ideal before dinner or a late show.

Arts, Culture & Performances in Aspen

Wheeler Opera House & Performing Arts

Aspen’s cultural scene remains vibrant all winter. January and February performances include:

• The Peking Acrobats (February 5)

• Les Ballets Africains (February 12)

• DanceAspen rehearsals and performances

These events provide a perfect balance to ski-heavy itineraries.

Red Brick Center for the Arts (January-February 2026)

The Red Brick Center hosts rotating exhibitions, resident artist showcases, and hands-on classes throughout the winter season. Visitors can explore watercolor, stained glass, printmaking, and wellness-inspired art workshops.

Wellness, Food & Unique Winter Experiences

Friday Morning Uphill Breakfast Club (January 9 - March 27, 2026)

A local favorite, this weekly event invites skiers to skin up Buttermilk Mountain early in the morning and enjoy a subsidized breakfast at the Cliffhouse. It’s one of Aspen’s most authentic winter traditions.

Workshops & Creative Experiences

Throughout January and February, Aspen hotels and venues host cacao ceremonies, sound healing sessions, candle making, paint-and-sip nights, and creative workshops, offering cozy alternatives to full ski days.

Après-Ski Spotlight: Eleven212 at Aspen Mountain

Formerly known as Beach Club, Eleven212 is Aspen Mountain’s reimagined mountaintop après-ski venue. Located at 11,212 feet, it features DJ sets, live music, curated cocktails, and reserved seating with sweeping mountain views.

Open January through April on select days, Eleven212 is quickly becoming one of Aspen’s most exclusive après destinations.

Planning Your Aspen Winter Trip

Winter Events in January & February 2026 are the peak season in Aspen. Events like Gay Ski Week, X Games, and Palm Tree Music Festival draw large crowds, making advance planning essential. Booking lodging, dining, and transportation early helps ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.

Private transportation is especially valuable during busy winter weekends, allowing you to move easily between ski resorts, concerts, and après without worrying about weather or parking.

Final Thoughts

Aspen in January and February delivers everything winter travelers come for: deep snow, world-class skiing, unforgettable nightlife, and a cultural calendar that rivals major cities. Whether you’re visiting for a specific event or simply chasing powder days, winter in Aspen offers something memorable every single week.

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