World Cup Skiing Aspen

World Cup Skiing Aspen – An In-Depth History and Overview

A crowd gathers to watch an exciting ski race at the World Cup Skiing Aspen event.
Photo Courtesy of aspensnowmass.com

As one of the most legendary events in alpine sports, the World Cup Skiing Aspen attracts many of the best alpine racers from around the globe. But what exactly makes this historical skiing competition so iconic?

The history of the World Cup Skiing Aspen, which is under the umbrella of the F.I.S. Alpine Ski World Cup, took root in 1967. Ever since, it has been a staple for Colorado’s Aspen Snowmass resort. The event features some of the most technical and challenging downhill races on Earth, as well as action-packed festivals, shows, and community events throughout the weekend. 

With the town of Aspen gearing up for this year’s competition, we want to provide you with a bit of history on the World Cup and why skiing in Aspen is such a must for any winter sports enthusiast.

ASPEN’S WORLD CUP LEGACY

A famous athlete is competing in the Ski World Cup in Aspen
Photo Courtesy of skimag.com

When people think of alpine skiing here in the States, they often think of Aspen. 

As an early silver mining town, it became a hub for wealth-seekers in the West. By the late 19th century, with the rise of commercial skiing, these locals realized that Aspen could be a prime resort location. 

In 1967, it became the first North American resort to host the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup

Since then, Aspen Mountain and Snowmass have been regular fixtures in the World Cup circuit.

Though the skiing event has had its share of unforgettable moments, ask any long-time Aspenite, and they’ll tell you about Bill Johnson. In 1984, this American skier from Van Nuys, CA, shocked the world when he clinched the World Cup Skiing Aspen title in the downhill race. 

MODERN VICTORIES

Recently, 25-year-old Swiss racer Marco Odermat became the first skier to win five Super-Gs in a single season, surpassing some of history’s most iconic skiing legends, such as Hermann Maier and Aksel Lund Svindal, who were four-time winners. 

Of course, Aspen’s World Cup legacy isn’t solely about victories but also about the camaraderie and shared passion for skiing that permeates the town during these events.

HOW DOES THE SKIING WORLD CUP ASPEN WORK?

The skier is performing at the Ski World Cup in Aspen
Photo Courtesy of denverpost.com

Each year, Aspen Mountain welcomes international skiers from across the globe to compete in an exciting mix of downhill and slalom races. 

The downhill races are arguably one of the most popular alpine skiing events, as it doesn’t get any faster than this. Skiers can easily get up to 80 mph on these races, making it a truly thrilling sight to see. In fact, Johan Clarey broke the speed record back in 2013 at the downhill in Wengen, Switzerland, clocking in at just over 100 mph.

The slalom events, on the other hand, are far more technical, forcing skiers to make multiple rapid turns over the course of a short run. It’s where skis truly start to do the talking. 

FROM THE SIDELINES

As a spectator, you get to enjoy all of the excitement from the sidelines, and what more beautiful place to enjoy a competition than adjacent to Aspen’s peaks? Even beyond the races themselves, Aspen hosts a range of events and VIP experiences, such as access to the famous Wagner Lounge and chef-inspired lunches between runs. 

This coming year, the event will take place on the weekend of March 1, similar to most years. 

To get the most up-to-date information on the event dates and to plan your trip, get in contact with us here at Aspen Luxury Concierge, your trusted source for high-touch services in the Roaring Fork Valley.

ATHLETES AND COMPETITORS

Famous athlete Mikaela Shiffrin is cheering her performance at the Ski World Cup in Aspen
Photo Courtesy of teamusa.com

With so many top-tier athletes competing in this internationally-renowned competition, there are a lot of people to look out for. 

One of our favorite contenders for this year is Norway’s Aleksander Aamodt Kilde.

With an impressive 17-victory record (eight in super-G and nine in downhill), Kilde might just be the most accomplished World Cup circuit speed skier. He previously clinched the overall title in 2020 and is poised for a potential clean sweep of the upcoming Aspen races.

Another skier we recommend keeping an eye on is seven-time world ski championship winner and two-time Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin

While her career has been nothing short of legendary, her 2019 season propelled her to stardom, sweeping the mountain and shattering records every weekend.

USA Today, ESPN, and The Washington Post called Shiffrin the “world’s most dominant athlete,” placing her in the ranks with athletes like Lebron James and Serena Williams. 

THE CHALLENGING TERRAIN

Example of the competition terrain for the Ski World Cup in Aspen

Aspen’s terrain is not for the faint of heart. Roughly half the terrain on Aspen Mountain alone is classified as “difficult,” making it a prime destination for top-tier skiers who want a challenge. 

It has become a go-to stop for competitive skiers, offering classic downhill terrain with technical turns and excellent gliding. 

The downhill course starts off on Ruthie’s Run at about 10,604 feet, providing relatively flat terrain and a few man-made jumps, perfect for gliding. However, once skiers drop into the course’s ultra-steep and sudden descent, known as ‘Aztec,’ they can get up to speeds of 80 miles per hour before turning fast into Spring Pitch. 

There’s no better downhill terrain in Aspen to experience incredible power and speed.

TICKETS FOR WORLD CUP SKIING ASPEN

ALC guests purchased tickets for the Ski World Cup in Aspen
Photo Courtesy of usskiandsnowboard.org

If you’re seriously considering a trip to Aspen for this year’s event, the first thing on your to-do list should be securing tickets, and there’s no better way to do so than through Aspen Luxury Concierge.

We offer insider access and a deep-rooted local connection to the event planners, making sure you get the best vantage point to enjoy each race with VIP treatment along the way. Your time is valuable, so why spend it trying to search for tickets, accommodations, and transportation online when our team can do it all for you? 

You deserve a memorable, hassle-free experience during the World Cup Skiing Aspen, so allow us to take care of every aspect of your visit. 

Contact us today to learn more.

THE ASPEN EXPERIENCE

The fireworks in Aspen for the World Cup Skiing
Photo Courtesy of aspensnowmass.com

Aspen’s atmosphere during the event is nothing short of electric. The ski resorts are in full swing, many of the town’s best restaurants and bars host buzzy events, and skiers get the chance to mingle and celebrate with their favorite athletes. 

The active fan engagement might be the true aspect that sets the World Cup Skiing Aspen apart from other major mountain events. With an array of parties and concerts in town, it’s so much more than a passive viewing experience. 

JOIN THE PARTY! 

Event organizers for the Aspen World Cup know how important this race is to fans, which is why you’ll find a variety of fan-oriented activities. Score an autograph from your favorite skier or explore interactive exhibits put together by some of the top snow sports brands. 

If you’re up for it, you can even test your skills on the mountain with dedicated public slopes. 

CONCLUSION

Aspen has cemented its place as an iconic World Cup skiing circuit destination, hosting some of the most thrilling and challenging alpine races for over half a century. 

Its challenging terrain, legendary slopes, and uniquely charming ambiance have made it a top destination among elite athletes and adventurous travelers alike. 

From its pioneering role as the first North American resort to host the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup to its enduring legacy that stands the test of time today, there is no better place in the country to enjoy the boundlessness of alpine skiing. 

Be part of the remarkable legacy and experience the thrill of the World Cup Skiing Aspen with Aspen Luxury Concierge. Our goal is to make sure you have an unforgettable Aspen winter experience, whether you need help securing tickets to exclusive events, looking for the best accommodations in town, or drafting up a detailed itinerary for your visit. 

Let ALC take care of the details so you can focus on savoring the magic of Aspen and its world-class skiing – Contact us today!

Aspen New Year’s Eve

Aspen New Year’s Eve 2023 — Unforgettable Holiday Experiences

The guests of ALC are enjoying New Year's Eve in Aspen.

Aspen is a wonderful destination around the holidays, epitomizing the pinnacle of festive luxury, and  Aspen New Year’s Eve 2023 stands out as a key holiday to experience. Imagine a place where unparalleled glamor meets a winter wonderland, transforming Aspen into a dazzling paradise for discerning travelers. The snow, the festive cheer, the unbeatable events, the incredible food — Aspen during New Year’s is truly something to behold.

Aspen New Year’s Eve is not just a celebration; it’s an experience of renewal and high-profile festivities, where every moment is crafted to offer an unforgettable holiday experience. From enchanting snow-covered slopes to elite galas, and from world-class cuisine to the festive spirit that fills the air, Aspen during this time is the epitome of New Year’s Eve luxury. It’s a time when people gather with loved ones to usher in a year filled with new possibilities, surrounded by the exclusive holiday charm of Aspen.

At Aspen Luxury Concierge, we ensure that every detail of your New Year’s escape in Aspen is meticulously designed to surpass expectations, making your holiday not just celebrated, but exquisitely cherished. Discover the best things to do in Aspen around New Year’s Eve, from securing a reservation at an exclusive Aspen restaurant to attending a legendary Aspen New Year’s party. 

Let us guide you in making the most of this special time, in a destination where every experience is tailored to the height of luxury.

WHAT MAKES ASPEN IN DECEMBER UNFORGETTABLE? 

Aspen Luxury Concierge guests are having fun at the New Year's Eve party

December in Aspen is not just a sight to see; it’s an exclusive winter wonderland that comes to life, especially during Aspen New Year’s Eve. As the world’s elite skiers converge to inaugurate the new season, Aspen’s slopes and luxury resorts become the epicenter of high-end winter sports and leisure. The town’s vibrant energy is palpable, with a unique blend of international visitors and discerning locals coming together to revel in Aspen’s winter splendor.

The downtown area transforms into an enchanting scene straight out of a luxury snow globe, with elegant holiday lights adorning the streets. Each corner of Aspen is meticulously decorated, reflecting the town’s commitment to creating a sophisticated and festive atmosphere. The combination of breathtaking scenery and an electrifying social scene makes December in Aspen an unparalleled experience.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Aspen takes this luxury to the next level, where the festive spirit is imbued with exclusivity and elegance. Whether it’s the gourmet dining experiences, the high-profile parties, or the serene beauty of snow-laden landscapes, New Year’s Eve in Aspen promises a holiday that is not just memorable, but truly legendary.

13 EXCLUSIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCES FOR ASPEN NEW YEAR’S EVE

Aspen during New Year’s is an epitome of luxury and celebration, offering a plethora of exclusive events and bespoke community traditions that define the essence of a high-end holiday. If you’re seeking to immerse yourself in unparalleled elegance and vibrant festivities, these are the premier experiences that promise to elevate your Aspen holiday to an unforgettable zenith:

1. HOTEL JEROME – NYE EVENTS

Make spirits bright at Hotel Jerome, offering a memorable New Year’s Eve with live music, a Chef’s Dinner and more. 

  • The Supper Club hosts an exceptional New Year’s Eve party with John Lloyd Young, celebrated for his role as Frankie Valli in “Jersey Boys.” Experience timeless hits from the ’50s and ’60s, complete with original rock ‘n’ roll, Doo-Wop, and R&B standards, accompanied by a live pianist. The night culminates with Clemente Castillo, a Grammy-nominated artist and MTV award winner, spinning vinyl records.
  • Choose a delightful Chef’s Dinner at Prospect to celebrate the New Year, showcasing the region’s bounty. Relish a culinary journey with small bites, dishes, and surprises from the chef, complemented by optional Colorado beverage pairings.
  • Taikun presents an opulent NYE Omakase Experience, featuring a lavish meal paired with vintage champagne and premium sakes from Jerome’s Private Cellar Collection.
  • For a more relaxed celebration, head to Bad Harriet and savor handcrafted cocktails, chef-prepared bites, and a lively atmosphere.

Reserve your table now at Hotel Jerome and start the New Year with style!

2. DUEMANI NEW YEAR’S EVE 2023: 

Revel in Duemani’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration—a vibrant and flavor-filled journey into 2024. 

The first complimentary glass of Billecart Salmon Brut, from an impressive 15L Nebuchadnezzars bottle, marks the beginning of an evening rich with Mediterranean-inspired dishes. 

Indulge in a symphony of tastes, an experience further enhanced by early or late dinner seatings and a lively post-dinner dance party.

Don’t just hear about it—be part of it. Reserve your seat at Duemani’s New Year’s table now and ensure your place at the heart of Aspen’s most exhilarating year-end celebration. 

Book your experience and raise your glass to new beginnings in exquisite style.

3. FRENCH ALPINE BISTRO – NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION: 

Join us at French Alpine Bistro for a New Year’s Eve Bash that transports you to the heart of the Austrian Alps. 

Choose from the dazzling, seductive, or sensational dining options during Aspen New Year’s Eve 2023, each offering a unique experience from pre-dinner champagne and caviar to a luxurious six-course dinner with bottomless Dom Pérignon. Embrace the festive spirit and exceptional Alpine cuisine as we welcome the New Year

Make the last night of the year one to remember with an Alpine twist. Secure your reservation at the French Alpine Bistro now, and let’s welcome 2024 with a toast to luxury, laughter, and a night filled with Alpine elegance.

4. BETULA ASPEN – NEW YEAR’S EVE: 

Celebrate the New Year at Betula Aspen, where a fine dining experience awaits, nestled in the heart of Aspen’s snowy paradise. 

Set against the backdrop of Aspen’s enchanting winter landscape, Betula offers a fine dining escape that seamlessly marries the sophistication of high-altitude cuisine with the cozy elegance of a mountain retreat. Celebrate the arrival of 2024 in style, surrounded by stunning snowy views and an atmosphere of chic festivity. 

For an unforgettable evening filled with culinary delights and sparkling toasts to new beginnings, book your reservation at Betula Aspen’s exclusive New Year’s Eve event.

5. STEAK HOUSE NO. 316 – NEW YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA: 

Steak House No. 316 cordially invites you to a memorable New Year’s Eve, where tradition and sophistication converge in a celebratory feast.

Savor the carefully curated menus that promise an array of delectable choices, meticulously designed to bid farewell to the old year and usher in the new with gusto.

With two exclusive seating options, select the perfect time to indulge in our intimate setting that will blossom into an electrifying scene as the clock nears midnight. Choose an early evening of refined tastes or join us later for a night where the ambiance escalates with each passing hour, leading to a crescendo of the year’s final, jubilant moment.

Elevate your end-of-year celebration in the company of connoisseurs and kindred spirits at Steak House No. 316. Book your memorable evening with us and be enveloped in a night where luxury is served at every turn, and possibilities unfold with every course.

6. ACQUOLINA NEW YEAR’S EVE 2023: 

Acquolina beckons you to a New Year’s Eve celebration that promises to shimmer with Italian elegance and epicurean delight. Immerse yourself in a specially crafted six-course menu that will take you on a gastronomic tour of Italy’s finest flavors. As the night unfolds, find yourself captivated by a festive ambiance that sets the stage for an evening of exuberant dancing and spirited celebration.

Whether you prefer to commence your Aspen New Year’s Eve festivities early or extend the revelry late into the evening, Acquolina offers seating options to suit your celebratory desires. Begin your 2024 embraced by joy, luxury, and the unmatched warmth of Italian hospitality.

Reserve your table at Acquolina now, and step into the New Year with an experience that will linger on your palate and in your memories long after the last toast.

7. THE LITTLE NELL – DOM PÉRIGNON PARTY: 

Ascend to the pinnacle of luxury at The Little Nell this New Year’s Eve, where the Dom Pérignon Party awaits—an affair so exclusive, it’s become the stuff of Aspen legend. Here, the bubbles rise in tandem with the spirit, and every glass clink resonates with the promise of a year well-celebrated and another eagerly anticipated.

Secure your spot at the heart of opulence, where memories are minted and the elite come to play. Reserve your exclusive entry into the New Year at The Little Nell, and be part of a night that sets a new standard for unforgettable moments.

8. BOSQ – MICHELIN STAR NEW YEAR’S EVE:

Step into a world where culinary brilliance meets the splendor of New Year’s Eve at Bosq, a sanctuary of Michelin-starred excellence. On this enchanted evening, our chefs will orchestrate a symphony of flavors that dance as vivaciously as the year ahead promises to be.

Each dish is a masterstroke of creativity, designed to celebrate the art of fine dining as we bid adieu to the old and usher in the new. Let Bosq be your culinary guide to a new beginning, where every course is a toast to future delights.

Secure your reservation at Bosq for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve, where the momentous occasion is honored with every plate presented and every wine poured.

9. LAS MONTANAS – NEW YEAR’S EVE À LA CARTE: 

Las Montanas invites you to an à la carte New Year’s Eve celebration that is as vibrant and colorful as the fireworks in the Aspen sky. Embark on a culinary expedition where each dish serves as a delightful surprise, an exploration of bold flavors and exquisite pairings.

In the midst of lively Aspen New Year’s Eve 2023 festivity, allow your senses to be enchanted by a menu that promises a tapestry of tastes, tailor-made for the discerning palate. Las Montanas is not just offering a meal but an experience that encapsulates the joy and promise of the year to come.

Join us at Las Montanas this New Year’s Eve, and let’s raise a glass to the unexpected joys and shared moments that await.”

10. KENICHI – NEW YEAR’S EVE DINING: 

Immerse yourself in the contemporary Asian elegance of Kenichi this New Year’s Eve, where the art of sushi and the finesse of Japanese cuisine take center stage. In an ambiance that is both modern and inviting, Kenichi presents an evening where each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation.

Celebrate the arrival of the New Year in a setting that epitomizes sophistication, with an array of exquisite sushi and culinary creations that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Kenichi isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey through the best of contemporary Asian flavors.

Discover more and reserve your spot at Kenichi, where the New Year unfolds in a cascade of culinary delights and unforgettable moments.”

11. SNOW LODGE NEW YEAR’S EVE: 

Welcome 2024 with an electrifying pulse at Snow Lodge, where the New Year starts with a rhythm that resonates with the spirit of Aspen. From 9 am to 2 pm, immerse yourself in an extraordinary DJ showcase featuring the iconic talents of Carlita, Damian Lazarus, and Pete Tong.

As the beats fill the air, find yourself enveloped in an atmosphere that’s as vibrant and dynamic as the mountain itself. Snow Lodge becomes a nexus of celebration, where the energy of music and the joy of new beginnings fuse into an unforgettable experience. Join us at Snow Lodge this New Year’s Eve, and step into 2024 with a dance, a cheer, and a heart full of Aspen’s unparalleled festive spirit.”

12. GALA – NEW YEAR’S EVE DJ PARTY: 

Dance into the New Year with GALA‘s exclusive DJ party featuring Cedric Gervais, where the night comes alive with the pulse of an exclusive DJ party headlined by the renowned Cedric Gervais. This isn’t just a party; it’s an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of celebration, blending high energy with unmatched style.

Feel the rhythm of the night and the excitement of a new beginning as you dance away the final moments of the year during Aspen New Year’s Eve. GALA sets the stage for an unforgettable entry into 2024, promising a night filled with electrifying beats, chic ambiance, and the very best of Aspen’s vibrant nightlife.

Be part of this exhilarating celebration at GALA’s New Year’s Eve DJ party, where every moment is a step into a brighter, more stylish new year.”

13. CASA D’ANGELO – NEW YEAR’S EVE SEATINGS: 

Envision an exceptional New Year’s Eve at Casa D’Angelo, where your celebration style becomes our guiding star. With our distinct early and late seating arrangements, you have the power to tailor your evening to the exact rhythm of your festive desires. 

Each option is a journey in itself: 

  1. The early seating is an elegant culinary symphony of refined tastes and understated elegance, perfect for those who appreciate a serene start. 
  2. As the night progresses, our late seating transforms into a vibrant crescendo of the midnight excitement, welcoming the New Year with grandeur and excitement.

Choose your path to 2024 at Casa D’Angelo, where every seating option is more than just a meal; it’s a curated experience that echoes with the joy and sophistication of the season. Reserve your moment now and step into a New Year filled with exquisite flavors and unforgettable memories.

OTHER FESTIVITIES: DECEMBER 31, 2023 EVENTS IN ASPEN

The DJ is playing at an event held after New Year's Eve in Aspen

If dining out and DJs are not your style this New Year’s Eve in Aspen, there are other options for those who wish to see fireworks and enjoy the evening at their own pace.

SNOWMASS VILLAGE TORCHLIGHT DESCENT AND FIREWORKS – DECEMBER 31 

Bid farewell to 2023 in style during Aspen New Year’s Eve 2024 with the Snowmass Village Torchlight Descent at 6 pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks show at 10 pm. It’s a thrilling way to welcome the New Year and create lasting memories.

2024 ASPEN NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATION – DECEMBER 31 

As the clock strikes midnight and ushers in 2024, there’s nothing quite like the mesmerizing display of fireworks over the enchanting Aspen mountains during Aspen New Year’s Eve 2024. To ensure you kick off the year with a bang, here are the top spots to catch this dazzling spectacle.

TOP 3 SPOTS FOR 2024 ASPEN NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS

As the clock strikes midnight and ushers in 2024, there’s nothing quite like the mesmerizing display of fireworks over the enchanting Aspen mountains. To ensure you kick off the year with a bang, here are the top spots to catch this dazzling spectacle:

  1. Ajax Tavern: Immerse yourself in luxury at Ajax Tavern, nestled within The Little Nell. Indulge in a delectable dinner and enjoy front-row seats to the New Year’s Eve fireworks show. Let your concierge arrange your reservations for an unforgettable evening.
  2. Gondola Plaza: For an unparalleled view of the fireworks, head to Gondola Plaza at the base of Aspen Mountain. Your luxury concierge can secure the best vantage point, ensuring you and your guests have a breathtaking perspective of the fireworks extravaganza.
  3. Wagner Park: Join the New Year’s Eve festivities at Wagner Park on E. Durant Ave. in Aspen. Dance to the tunes of a DJ, warm up by the bonfire, and relish the splendid fireworks display over Aspen Mountain. It’s the perfect spot to celebrate the arrival of 2024 in style.

EMBRACE THE 12 DAYS OF ASPEN:

The 12 Days of Aspen is a vibrant festival that unites the entire community during the holiday season, with the final day of events taking place on December 31. Engage in fun-filled events around town, from creative crafting sessions to captivating history tours. Stay updated on this year’s schedule through your luxury concierge for an unforgettable holiday experience.

EXPERIENCE ASPEN’S WINTER WONDERS:

December in Aspen is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Spend your New Year’s Eve gliding down pristine slopes at Aspen’s world-renowned mountains or embark on snowmobiling tours, including the iconic Maroon Bells. In the days leading up to the grand celebration, let your concierge arrange a snowy sleigh ride, skiing adventures, or a magical snowshoe tour across 735 acres of pure wonder at Pine Creek.

GET EXPERT ASSISTANCE FOR YOUR ASPEN NEW YEAR’S EVE:

If you need assistance in planning every detail of your Aspen holiday, our team is here to make your Aspen New Year’s Eve 2023 truly special. From exclusive dining reservations to legendary parties, we’ll guide you to the pinnacle of luxury. We are dedicated to ensuring your experience is nothing short of luxurious and unforgettable.

Contact us today to craft your dream New Year’s celebration in this picturesque mountain paradise.