You Won’t Believe What Major Celebrities Are Hiding This Week: December 12-18 Revealed!

The 74th annual Wintersköl festival kicked off on Thursday, December 11, 2024, in Aspen, Colorado, celebrating the town's winter spirit with an array of events scheduled through Sunday, December 14. This beloved festival, which has been a staple of the local community since 1951, serves as a "toast to winter," bringing residents and visitors together for a weekend filled with fun, tradition, and a mix of outdoor and cultural activities.

On December 12, festival-goers can engage in a variety of activities, including the Anderson Ranch Arts Center Kids Sculpt event, where children can create snow art, and Game of Stones curling. Musical performances, a holiday tree lighting, and a holiday market are also on the agenda, alongside a unique take on Halloween with a Decemberween costume party.

The following day, December 13, promises to be equally lively, featuring the opening of Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk ski areas. A Terrain Park Boot Camp, a beer festival, and the popular Soupsköl competition will highlight the day. The evening will conclude with a Torchlight Parade and fireworks, followed by a professional comedy show that showcases local talent.

December 14 will wrap up the festivities with a winter market, a breakfast club gathering, and a special historical presentation titled “Wintersköl 90 Pound Rucksack and the Dawn of Outdoor Recreation in America Talk," led by mountaineer and historian Christian Beckwith. He will delve into the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division and its lasting influence on Aspen’s outdoor culture.

Among the highlights of Wintersköl this year is the return of **Winter Windows**, which includes an awards ceremony on December 13 at the Viewline Snowmass lobby, now expanded to include Snowmass Base Village. This initiative encourages local businesses to showcase their winter decor, inviting community engagement.

The **Wintersköl Beer Festival**, scheduled for December 13 from 2-6 p.m. at Wagner Park, is another noteworthy event. This ticketed gathering is exclusively for those 21 and older, offering a chance to sample beverages from various local breweries, enhancing the festival's community-driven spirit.

In addition to these events, former Aspen reporter and author **Michael Bourne** will present his latest novel, “We Bring You an Hour of Darkness,” in a series of discussions during the festival. His book, a ski town mystery set against the backdrop of the 1980s, draws inspiration from his experiences as a journalist in Aspen, particularly the infamous 1998 arson on Vail Mountain. Bourne, who has a rich history in local journalism, emphasizes the vibrancy of Aspen’s media scene, stating, “One thing that hasn’t changed in Aspen is the vibrant local media scene. You have two newspapers and local radio, and now nonprofit journalism. If anything, there’s more going on now than there was when I worked here.”

Moreover, the **28th Annual Cup Auction**, hosted by the Carbondale Clay Center, will take place on December 12 from 6-8:30 p.m. at The Old Thompson Barn at River Valley Ranch. This fundraising event features around 250 handmade cups and supports the center's mission to enrich lives through ceramic arts, including artist residencies and community outreach programs.

Another delightful offering is the **“Holiday Lights” youth ballet** performance by AGS Ballet Aspen and Dance Tech, taking place on December 13 from 4-5 p.m. at the Aspen District Theatre. This festive show will feature approximately 50 local ballet students, showcasing the talent and creativity of the area's young performers.

For those looking for a cozy experience, **Aspen Meadows Resort** will host an ornament decorating event on December 13 and a “S’mores on the Patio” session throughout December, creating a warm atmosphere for families and friends to enjoy.

The festival culminates with a **Community Menorah Lighting** hosted by the Aspen Jewish Congregation on December 14, providing a moment for reflection and celebration, further emphasizing the community's commitment to inclusivity and togetherness.

As the Wintersköl festival unfolds, it continues to embody the spirit of Aspen, drawing together a diverse array of activities that celebrate winter, community, and the arts. For a full schedule of events, locals and visitors alike can visit the Wintersköl website, ensuring that this year’s festival will be a memorable experience for all.