Rachel Naidus

3 Top Events To Bring You To Aspen This Summer

When you think of Aspen, Colorado, what comes to mind first? Is it snow? Skiing? Cold? Well, I thought so too before I moved here. We are known for our winters, but more and more folks are realizing that the Aspen Summer is the most understated and under rated time to come and vacation in our mountain paradise. 

I couldn’t agree more with this.

Summer in Aspen is the perfect getaway if you live in a place with extreme heat (like Texas) or humidity (anywhere in the South really) or just want to get out of the city (New York). I take that back. It’s the perfect getaway no matter where you’re coming from. And I’ll tell you why.

Scenic view of Maroon Bells with vibrant foliage and a clear blue sky enhancing the picturesque landscape.
The Maroon Bells; Aspen’s crown jewel.

It’s the Perfect Reset

You’ve worked hard all year. And you’re exhausted. Yes, you could go somewhere like the beach or places you’ve always gone in the summertime, but you know exactly what will happen when you do: you will get into another routine, vacation-style. Switching it up could be just what the doctor ordered. 

A reset is what the best summer’s are made up. Peace and quiet, clean Alpine air, views that will take your breath away–Maroon Bells, Ashcroft–and pretty much every type of outdoor activity you can think of. Hikes, bike rides, mountain biking, fly fishing to name a few. And if you’re into picnics and music, I highly recommend trying out the Benedict Music Tent during the Aspen Music Festival. It’s one of my favorite things to do on Sundays during the summer, and it runs from July 2-August 23 this year. 

And I cannot forget the Food & Wine Classic. From June 19-21, experience cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and panel discussions led by world-class chefs and wine experts. Speaking of food, the Aspen Saturday market runs all summer and is a great place to mingle while browsing the bountiful selection of local produce that thrives during the Rocky Mountain Summers.

This is just a taste, but you get the idea. You need a reset, and a summer in Aspen can give it to you in spades. 

A man sits on a bench, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors during Aspen music festival
At Aspen Music Festival, you can watch and listen from inside Benedict Music Tent OR you can picnic out here with your family. Compliments of Aspen Sojourner Magazine.
Wagner Park with lots of people highlights a vibrant food and wine festival events in aspen in summer
Wagner Park transforms into a Mecca of wine and food, as one would expect!

Health and Wellness Retreat

While you’re in reset mode, how about some nourishment. This summer, there are two specific events you should know about: the Lead With Love Aspen Retreat and Aspen Ideas Festival. 

Lead With Love is a nonprofit organization wholly dedicated to inspiring you to become the person you have always dreamed of being. This year’s theme is BE THE CHANGE, and during this intimate retreat (30 attendees) you will learn how to actualize it in your life! Through activities like centering yoga classes, morning tea ceremonies, hikes up Aspen’s finest trails and sharing meals together, you will not go home the same person you came as. Just think of it: you can your broken heart, your anger, rage, or anything else that is holding you back into something useful and wonderful! And as a special bonus, you receive a ticket to Lead With Love’s Summit, which will take place at Aspen’s historic Wheeler Opera House, a treat within itself. So, what are you doing September 14-20? I think you know. 

Aspen Ideas Festival is another must-go event here in the summer. The Aspen Institute hosts this thought provoking festival every year, and this year it’s from July 2-August 23. Speakers from all over the world and all over the proverbial map come to Aspen to discuss politics, art, well-being, economics, and much more. So while you’re resetting, why not fill your brain with life-changing ideas to take back home with you? 

If you aren’t in the mood for a literal retreat, I still have some ideas for you. Yoga classes at Aspen Shakti, Arjuna, and O2 (which also offers Pilates) might be the ticket for you after a long winter. Get your blood flowing and build some muscle without the feeling that you’ve got to get to your next meeting or appointment. And once you’re done, head on over to Remede Spa at the St. Regis or Aspen Meadows Resort. It’s pure bliss.

Logo featuring the phrase "Lead with Love" in a stylized font, symbolizing compassion and unity.
A group of women practicing yoga in retreat, with the Founder Gina Murdock
Founder Gina Murdock (in green) partaking in last year’s retreat.

Unforgettable Time With Your Family/Friends

This probably goes without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway. People are the most important part of your life. The weather, views, and experiences are great, but who you share them with makes all the difference. Memories are what you can take with you (well, and what you buy when you go shopping) when you leave. A summer in Aspen with the friends or family you love–and specifically the ones you don’t get to see all the time–could be exactly what you need the most. And with all the above, you cannot go wrong. I’m certain it will be unforgettable. 

A group of family and friends of newlywed smiling and posing together in front of a large building during a sunny day.
Last May, I had my wedding here in Aspen. My family flew up for the occasion, and here we are on the mall in front of Bosq Restaurant (where we had our rehearsal dinner) and Wagner Park.

Once you decide that Aspen in the summer is for you, call us at Aspen Luxury Concierge. We can make your trip stress-free from your flights, accommodations, transportation, dinner reservations, activities, and any event mentioned above. And that’s just the beginning of our services. For more information about us, click here.  

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by:Rachel Naidus

Rachel is the Principal & Founder of Aspen Luxury Concierge. For over a decade, she has cut her teeth in the luxury hospitality services business. Since 2019, she has led ALC’s premier staff in creating luxury, effortless experiences for its clients. With her ever growing network of partners, vendors, and clientele, Rachel leads the pack in providing expert services to Aspen luxury travelers and locals.