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Despite the presence of COVID-19, there are still plenty of actual, in-person events happening throughout the winter in Colorado mountain towns. To help you make the most of what’s likely to be a strange season, we put together a list of a few (mostly outdoor) options, including holiday displays and art walks. Of course, cancellations remain a possibility given the circumstances, so be sure to check local public health guidelines for updated restrictions before you go. And don’t forget a mask!
(MORE: How Season Pass Holders Can Make the Most of the Ski Season)
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Aspen/Snowmass
The ScholARTship Event
Stop by Anderson Ranch Art Center in Snowmass to peruse an array of original local artwork for sale. Prices for the handiwork start at $25, and proceeds go toward scholarships for Anderson Ranch students and residents.
When: Through January 22 (except for December 24–25 and January 1)
Cost: Free
Snowmass Luminescence
At this hypnotizing, interactive light display, guests can walk through LED-illuminated tunnels, archways, and walkways around Snowmass. The experience also features a variety of artist installations.
When: December 18 through February 28
Cost: Free
Music on the Mall
Live music lives! A rotation of local Roaring Fork artists provide a soundtrack for après ski on the Tower Stage in Snowmass every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. through February, and 3 to 5 p.m. during March and April.
When: Every Thursday through April 15
Cost: Free
Beaver Creek
Indoor Concerts
Yes, you read that correctly. You can go to actual, live concerts at Beaver Creek’s Vilar Performing Arts Center, which is limiting events to less than 10 percent capacity throughout the winter. The lineup includes many big-name artists, such as singer-songwriter Keller Williams and the Oteil Burbridge Trio.
When: Scheduled dates through March
Cost: Varies
Keystone
The Lighting of River Run
While Santa won’t be on hand for this annual event, kids can drop off letters to him in River Run Village. After Christmas, visitors will still be able to enjoy the festive lights throughout the village, which transform the area’s buildings and walkways into a rainbow of twinkles starting at 4 p.m.
When: Through January 1
Cost: Free
Vail
Magic of Lights
This ticketed experience involves a stroll through a winter wonderland illuminated by a half-million LED lights. The display route winds for a half-mile in and around Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and Ford Park.
When: Through January 24
Cost: Tickets start at $5 for children; $15 for adults
Leadville
Skijoring
During this entertaining spectacle, cowboys and cowgirls on horseback pull skiers at high speeds down Leadville’s main drag as they launch off jumps and attempt to spear rings for the top score.
When: March 6–7
Cost: Free
Steamboat Springs
Winter Carnival
Skijoring, fireworks, illuminated ski-down parades, and a twinkle-lit Lighted Man highlight this long-standing event, which combines Steamboat’s Western heritage and alpine prowess.
When: February 3–7
Cost: Free
Uranium Mine Snowshoe Tour
Yampatika, a group that puts on environmental education programs, leads free snowshoe tours up the beautiful Uranium Mine Trail (1.5 miles each way) from Fish Creek Falls parking lot every Friday morning.
When: Every Friday through March 12 at 9:45 a.m.
Cost: The tour is free, parking is $5, and snowshoe rentals are $10 (if needed)
Ski with a Naturalist
In addition to its snowshoe tours, Yampatika offers free, hour-long lessons in winter ecology (think what animals are leaving claw marks on those trees or tracks in the snow) on the slopes of Steamboat Ski Resort every Thursday.
When: Thursdays through March 11 at 1:30 p.m.
Cost: Free (must have lift ticket/ski pass)
Crested Butte
Artwalks
Take an evening stroll at your own pace through a variety of galleries around Crested Butte that showcase the work of local artists.
When: December 29, January 16, February 13, and March 19, 5–8 p.m.
Cost: Free
