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June 29, 2006
Come Rain, Shine or Fire Ban, the Show Goes On in Snowmass this July 4th Weekend
Here is the latest press release from Snowmass:
(Snowmass Village, CO) If you’re disappointed about the fire bans that are cancelling fireworks displays all over the state of Colorado, Snowmass Village offers the ideal destination to ensure a brilliantly lit July 4th weekend.
“It always dampens that 4th of July spirit when fireworks are cancelled,” says Susan Hamley, marketing director for Snowmass Village, “so we wanted both to complement Aspen’s fabulous July 4th fireworks as well as plan a unique and brilliant alternative to the possibility of a fire ban on Saturday, July 1. This laser show is going to light up the valley in a way no one’s ever seen.”
Organizers have been working on this 27-minute laser light show set to music for months with renowned pyrotechnics producer Jeff Silverman, who has created shows for venues ranging from the Bellagio in Las Vegas to Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s largest ship. Silverman has customized this state-of-the art light program as a dazzling finale to an incredible evening of music, illumination, and patriotic spirit.
Come rain, shine, or fire ban, Snowmass’s Independence Day celebration on July 1 will go on no matter what. The day is filled with activities ranging from free guided nature hikes to a zipline to family fun with Jammin' Jim on the Snowmass Village Mall. The show starts at 7 p.m. with a free concert by the renowned Blind Boys of Alabama on Fanny Hill. This acclaimed gospel group that has been performing for 60 years, has won a Grammy every year since 2002 and was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2002.
Following the concert at 9 p.m. is the laser light show which promises all the brilliance of a festive fireworks display without the deafening booms or fire risks.
For more information on events over the 4th of July weekend check out Stay Aspen Snowmass
Posted by jmidthun at 10:10 AM | Comments (0)
June 28, 2006
Snowmass kicks into high gear this week
Another great update on Snowmass, Colorado from Allison Johnson:
Snowmass kicks into high gear this week. The free music series starts this Thursday at 6 pm on Fanny Hill with renowned Singer/Guitarist Tab Benoit (see complete Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series schedule and info at www.snowmasspress.com/mountainmusic ).
Starting this Friday, June 30, is the free weekly outdoor movie series on Fanny Hill beginning with "O' Brother, Where Art Thou?' at dusk (9pm) The full movie schedule is listed below and a photo is also available.
Music starts on the Snowmass Village Mall Stage July 1, and the schedule is included below as well.
The BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA play a FREE concert this Saturday, July 1 followed by a nearly 30-minute laser light show extravaganza. The concert is at 7pm, the laser show is at 9 pm on Fanny Hill.
Starting July 5- Aug. 23 on the Snowmass Village Mall from 3-5 pm is Western Wednesdays, which will include music and western fun for the whole family as a precursor to the rodeo. For questions, contact Chris Kelly with the Snowmas Rodeo at 923-8898. The Snowmass Rodeo is now running every Wednesday as well (5pm for the barbecue, 7 pm for rodeo proper) through August 23. Tickets and information are at www.snowmassrodeo.org
The Chairlift is now open daily until Sept. 4 from 9:30am-4pm. with a cost of $6 for adults and $4 for kids.
All additional Snowmass activity information is available at www.snowmassvillage.com or go to stayaspensnowmass for lodging vacation packages.
Posted by jmidthun at 07:28 AM | Comments (0)
June 27, 2006
STAR-STUDDED, & DIVERSE LINE-UP ANNOUNCED FOR LABOR DAY
Here is the lates press release from Jazz Aspen Snowmass:
Jazz Aspen Snowmass, presented by Calamos Investments, has a well-earned reputation for a diverse and eclectic booking policy, but the 2006 Snowmass series, running Labor Day Weekend from September 1st to 4th in Snowmass Town Park, Snowmass Village - is as eclectic as you can get, covering pretty much the full span of American music.
Friday kicks off with country diva LeAnn Rimes, with the gifted blues vocalist/guitarist Susan Tedeschi opening. Today's leading hip hop artist, Kanye West, headlines Saturday night, with sacred steel player Robert Randolph and the Family Band opening, and astounding newcomer Raul Midon in the afternoon. Sunday sees another incredible mix: John Mellencamp headlining, the incredible Los Lonely Boys opening, with Del Castillo in the afternoon. Finally, the Hasidic reggae/rapper Matisyahu, with the extraordinary one-man-band Keller Williams opening, brings the series to a close on Monday.
Festival producer Jim Horowitz enthused, "We feel quite strongly that this may be the best Labor Day weekend line-up we have ever put together. This on the heels of resounding success of Sonoma Jazz + and the just completed Diana Krall and Elvis Costello weekend in Aspen. What a summer!"
LeAnn Rimes has been a household name in country music since the age of 13, when she won Grammys for Best New Artist and Best Female Country Vocal ("Blue"). Her succeeding albums only solidified her reputation, and the current This Woman is a major statement.
Susan Tedeschi is a guitarist, singer and songwriter whose R & B and gospel-infused blues have established her as one of the outstanding young voices on the scene. A Berklee College graduate, her recent Hope and Desire CD is stellar.
Kanye West is among today's leading rappers, delivering smart, funny lyrics on top of headsnapping samples and drumbeats. After years of producing hits for people like Jay-Z., in 2004 he put out "Through the Wire" and "Slow Jamz" and had the rare distinction of having two hits saturating the radio/video airwaves at once. The result was 10 Grammy nominations in 2005 and an Album of the Year Grammy in 2006 for his second solo album, Late Registration.
Robert Randolph learned to play the pedal steel guitar at his childhood Pentecostal Church in Newark, New Jersey. The infusion of blues, gospel, and country sounds has stirred interest ever since he started playing in secular venues. His album with Medeski, Martin & Wood, The Word, introduced him to a wider world, and his tours with the Family Band have made him crowd favorites.
Raul Midon combines a smooth voice with passionate acoustic guitar playing that blends rock, classical, and flamenco stylings. His debut album, State of Mind, includes guest appearances by Stevie Wonder, with whom he is often compared, and Jason Mraz.
John Mellencamp has had plenty of hits - "Jack and Diane," "Hurts So Good" - but far more important, he has created a folk/rock, fiddle-based sound that is absolutely distinctive. Over the past years he has become the voice of his place, the Midwest, and his time, the Baby Boomer generation.
Los Lonely Boys are in fact the three Garza brothers (guitarist Henry, bassist JoJo, and drummer Ringo) from Texas who grew up backing their father, a noted conjunto player. Eventually these roots rockers formed their own band and recorded their debut album with Willie Nelson, Los Lonely Boys, winning a Grammy and national attention.
Del Castillo is a Texas-based Latin rock band that fuses old world "Gitano" with current rock elements to create something quite distinct. Their CD Vida took the influential South by Southwest music conference (SXSW) by storm.
Matisyahu is an orthodox Hasidic Jew who raps about traditional Judaism over reggae beats. His over-the-top performances, including stage diving, have persuaded the cynical - and audiences everywhere - of his sincerity and his talent.
Keller Williams is, quite literally, a one-man jam band, utilizing self-created sound loops on bass and percussion instruments to back his acoustic and electric guitar playing and vocals. He has won the hearts of jam band fans everywhere.
Tickets , priced from $40 - $55 Gen. Admission, will go on sale to the public on Monday, June 26 by walk-in at the Wheeler Opera House, by telephone at 866 527 8499, or on-line at www.jazzaspen.org For information on patron tickets please contact the JAS office at 970 920 4996.
For more information:
Book your vacation package for the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival
Posted by jmidthun at 01:44 PM | Comments (0)
June 26, 2006
Snowmass releases name of final Massive Music & Movies free concert act
Here is the latest press release from Snowmass:
(Snowmass Village, CO). Snowmass Village is pleased to announce the final act in its free Massive Music & Movies concert schedule. Nickel Creek, the sensational progressive bluegrass band recently featured at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, performs a free concert on Saturday, August 19 on Fanny Hill.
"We're thrilled that Nickel Creek is coming to Snowmass. They cap off an incredible line-up of free summer music," says Susan Hamley, Snowmass Village's Marketing Director. "Snowmass offers over 14 free concerts on Fanny Hill this summer by nationally recognized performers such as Nickel Creek, and they all bring such a dynamic energy to Snowmass that we draw visitors from all over Colorado and beyond."
Nickel Creek is a Grammy-award-winning American acoustic trio with roots in bluegrass and "Progressive Acoustic" music. All award-winning musicians in their own right, this young trio has played together for over a decade when they first began appearing in a San Diego pizza parlor. Since then, they've produced five albums and have become a word-of-mouth sensation on the progressive bluegrass scene.
Snowmass' free music scene this summer ranges from Nickel Creek to the legendary gospel of the Blind Boys of Alabama in a special Independence Celebration & laser light show on July 1 to the incredible performance art show by Mutaytor on July 8 to free weekly concerts by acts including Sam Bush, The Iguanas, Jon Cleary, the Subdudes, and others.
In between the concerts, Snowmass Village offers a full schedule of activities and mountain adventures, ranging from 40 miles of mountain biking and hiking to fly fishing and golf to a weekly western rodeo. For more information, please visit www.snowmassvillage.com or call 1-800-SNOWMASS. For media information, please contact aj@snowmasspress.com.
THE COMPLETE SNOWMASS SUMMER MUSIC SCHEDULE:
(For complete bios, photos or interview requests, please visit www.snowmasspress.com)
June 29: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
Tab Benoit. According to Guitar Magazine, this brilliant New Orleans-based guitarist, vocalist, and master of crescent city funk & rock "has tone as thick as gumbo and licks as fiery as a tablespoon of cayenne pepper."
July 1: FREE Independence Celebration Free Concert & Laser Light Show.
The Blind Boys of Alabama have spread the spirit and energy of pure soul gospel music for over 60 years. Today, they continue to spread their hallowed style of traditional soul-gospel with innovative arrangements. They've won a Grammy every year since 2002 and been inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
July 6-8: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series/Massive Music & Movies
The Iguanas (July 6). This ultimate Cajun party band emerged in the 1990s as one of New Orleans' most popular bands, boasting a flair for melody and lyrics as well as grooves.
Particle (July 8). The instrumental quartet's trademark 'funktronic' sounds combine elements of electronica, funk, and good ol' rock and roll.
The Mutaytor (July 8). The Mutaytor, a nationally lauded performance art group, is part hip-grinding techno/retro-funk, part audience-interactive post-modern circus. The sound is tight, the show manic, the vibe all-inclusively and family friendly.
July 13: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
Papa Grows Funk. Calling themselves "the funkiest act in the world's funkiest town, New Orleans," Papa Grows Funk ranges from Mardi Gras funk to rhythm & blues classics to original material and jams.
July 20: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
The Subdudes. With exquisite vocal interplay and unique elements like Malone's slide, Magnie's accordion and Amedee's brushed and hand-struck tambourine, New Orlean's the Subdudes have established themselves as a treasure trove of blues, folk, R&B, country, cajun, funk, gospel, and rock & roll.
July 27: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials. From smoking slide guitar runs to raw-boned Chicago shuffles to the deepest blues, Lil' Ed and his blistering band, the Blues Imperials, get so wild & crazy performing '70s funk that The Boston Globe called them "the world's #1 house rocking band."
August 3: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
Soulive. This jazz trio is known for ripping solos, catchy, upbeat songs extended jams, beat-driven instrumentals and dazzling collaborations. Having opened for groups such as the Rolling Stones and the Dave Matthews Band, Soulive appeals both to beat conscious hip-hop heads and those who grew up on Earth, Wind & Fire.
August 10: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
Jon Cleary. New Orleans' Jon Cleary is a triple threat with a salty-sweet voice, masterful piano skills, and a knack for stacking infectious grooves with melodic hooks and sharp lyrics. Excelling at smart lyrics, memorable melodies, and rock-solid grooves, Cleary fronts his own band and tours internationally with Bonnie Raitt.
August 17-19: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series & Massive Music & Movies
Sonya Kitchell (Aug. 17) Kitchell is an eloquent songwriter, dazzling singer and old soul who just happens to be 17 years of age. She seamlessly melds elements of jazz, R&B, folk and other roots forms in a song-serving, rather than genre-adhering, way.
Nickel Creek (Aug. 19). Grammy-award-winning group Nickel Creek is an American acoustic trio with roots in bluegrass and "Progressive Acoustic." All award-winning musicians in their own right, this young trio has played together for over a decade. They've produced five albums and have become a word-of-mouth sensation on the progressive bluegrass scene.
August 24: FREE Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series
Sam Bush. Sam Bush has been one of acoustic music's great innovators and consummate collaborators who has done as much as anyone since Bill Monroe to shape the destiny of the diminutive mandolin, adding new power and syncopation to its percussive chop and a new harmonic vocabulary that embraces rock, reggae, Afro-pop and jazz.
September 1-4: Jazz Aspen /Snowmass (jazzaspen.org)
One of the biggest music extravaganzas in the state, this three-day celebration draws crowds of 33,000 and music by the likes of Sheryl Crowe, Widespread Panic, Willie Nelson, David Byrne and Jack Johnson. Stay tuned for the announcement of this year's acts.
September: Fall in Love with Snowmass
Bands are bound to be plentiful during this month-long celebration of the harvest season, including Papa Grows Funk's return during Oktoberfest (free) on Sept. 9, Wine & Jazz on Sept. 16, and Soul Jive (free) during the Snowmass Balloon Festival. Stay tuned for more details!
Snowmass Village, Colorado, is located in the heart of the Elk Mountains 9 miles from Aspen, Colorado. Snowmass is accessible via four regional airports: Aspen, Eagle, Grand Junction, and Denver and recently announced new direct summer jet service from Aspen to Salt Lake City on Delta and Aspen to Los Angeles on United. For a summer media guide of this popular mountain destination, please visit www.snowmasspress.com.
Posted by jmidthun at 10:09 AM | Comments (0)
June 21, 2006
Snowmass Village welcomes Blind Boys of Alabama for FREE Independence concert
Here is the latest press release from Snowmass Village about the July 4th celebrations:
(Snowmass Village, CO) Those looking to escape the heat and head to the mountains over the July 4th weekend will find Snowmass brimming with cool mountain fun and a spectacular new free concert and laser light show on Saturday, July 1st.
Snowmass is thrilled to host a free concert by the legendary Blind Boys of Alabama, a gospel group which has won a Grammy every year since 2002 and was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2002 as well.
"The Blind Boys of Alabama are the most prolific gospel band in America today," says Snowmass Event Director Josh Behrman. "They combine traditional gospel with R&B, Soul and hip hop. Follow this concert by a nearly half hour outdoor laser light show, and Snowmass has the makings for a brilliant Independence celebration."
The Blind Boys of Alabama have spread the spirit and energy of pure soul gospel music for over 60 years, ever since the first version of the group formed at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in 1939. Today, founding members Clarence Fountain, Jimmy Carter and George Scott are joined by more recent arrivals Joey Williams, Ricky McKinnie, Bobby Butler, and Tracy Pierce on a mission to expand the audience for traditional soul-gospel singing while incorporating contemporary songs and innovative arrangements into their hallowed style.
Following this 7 p.m. concert on Fanny Hill is a nearly 30-minute laser light show extravaganza set against the magnificent backdrop of the Snowmass mountains at 9 pm. The show is designed especially for Snowmass by renowned light designer Jeff Silverman who has worked on numerous prestigious projects from Asia to Europe and North America. His credentials include shows for Millenium celebrations in Reno, Woodstock's 30th Anniversary and for such major corporations as Conseco, Las Vegas Hilton, the Royal Carribean Cruise Line's largest ship and Las Vegas' Bellagio.
Lodging deals for this popular weekend are available at www.snowmassvillage.com or by calling 1-800-SNOWMASS, and Snowmass boasts diverse activities ranging from 40 miles of trails to mountainboarding, jeep and horseback rides to golf and on-mountain kids fun to fill up the long holiday weekend. Combine Snowmass' free concert with Aspen's hometown July 4th parade and festivities, and you've got the most luminescent Independence celebration in the mountains this July 4th weekend.
Book your vacation package in Snowmass Village for the July 4th holiday
Posted by jmidthun at 11:31 AM | Comments (0)
June 20, 2006
Take a break and head to the islands during Jazz Aspen/Snowmas
Here is the latest press release from Snowmass Village regarding Jazz Aspen Snowmass:
(Snowmass Village, CO) If you're looking to escape the crowds and commotion of Jazz Aspen Snowmass' celebration for a little while, considering heading over to Snowmass, which is easily accessible via car or public transportation and boasts a serene mountain retreat with a special one-day tropical celebration on Saturday, June 24.
"Snowmass Village and the Parrot Head Block Party offers a relaxing break away from the crowds," says Snowmass Village Marketing Director Susan Hamley. "You can easily take the public transportation buses here for mountain biking, hiking, on-mountain activities and fun at the block party. It's an ideal combination."
The Parrot Head Block Party summons the spirit of Jimmy Buffet with reggae tunes and tropical themes. The mall will be transformed into an island getaway, complete with volleyball and horseshoe games and beach balls. Jammin' Jim will be on-hand to amuse the kids, while Chicago's award-winning reggae band Gizzae plays at 1 p.m. Collectively, the group has over 100 years of music experience, and 4 Grammy Awards individually playing with the likes of The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Ziggy Marley, Carly Simon and others. In addition to music, restaurants and bars will be offering special drink and food discounts.
For more information, call 1-800-SNOWMASS or visit www.snowmassvillage.com. For Jazz Aspen ticket information, visit www.jazzaspen.org or 866-JAS-TIXX
Book your vacation package for Jazz Aspen Snowmass
Posted by jmidthun at 11:11 AM | Comments (0)
June 19, 2006
Chili Pepper & Brew Fest kicked off summer with record-setting attendance, microbrews, chili and music
Snowmass Village just posted the latest press release on the Chili Pepper & Brew Fest:
Chili Pepper & Brew Fest kicked off summer with record-setting attendance, microbrews, chili and music June 9-11, 2006
(Snowmass Village, CO) Snowmass kicked off its summer of smokin' festival fun this past weekend with a Chili Pepper & Brew Fest that far surpassed previous attendance records and proved that high caliber paid concerts are feasible for this mountain resort town.
"It was a simply awesome way to start off the summer," Snowmass Village Marketing Director Susan Hamley says, "and we achieved peak numbers in what has traditionally been considered an off-peak time. Both days delivered an incredible level of music, and the microbrews and chili flowed freely. In fact, we had so much chili on Saturday that we kept serving it well after the published ending at 4 pm."
Hamley estimates that over 1,200 visitors and locals attended Friday's festivities, while Saturday easily topped 4,000 attendees, just about matching the one-day record set when the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band came to town for the free July 4th weekend in 2004. The over-5,000 total for the weekend is up from 3,000 last year and 1,200 in its first year in 2004.
"I think we've shown that the combination of chili, microbrews, and great music is a winning concept for Snowmass," says event organizer Josh Behrman. "Even the music appealed to a multigenerational crowd, and we were thrilled to see locals and visitors jamming out in such numbers together in Snowmass this weekend."
An estimated 25% of attendees came from Denver, the Front Range and other Colorado mountain towns thanks to aggressive print and radio advertising, the Denver Post Sponsorship, KBCO.com, street teams and other promotional efforts that started months ago. Additional visitors came from Grand Junction, Summit County, Vail, and the Roaring Fork Valley from Glenwood to Aspen. The free Chili Express bus from Aspen was extremely popular as well and Hamley was pleased with the number of people who utilized it to celebrate responsibly. All in all, the celebration was a success and an extraordinary kick-off to a season of many great events to come in the Roaring Fork Valley.
"It was a great way to start off the summer," says Eddie Zane, owner of Zane's Tavern on the Snowmass Village Mall. "The most food sales we've ever had was at last year's Mardi Gras and on Saturday we did just under that. For June, that's simply phenomenal."
Snowmass's concert scene returns with the start of the free weekly Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series on June 29 featuring talented singer/guitarist Tab Benoit. On July 1, a spectacular free concert by the renowned gospel group the Blind Boys of Alabama is followed by a laser light show specifically designed for Snowmass by internationally recognized light designer Jeff Silverman, who has put on prestigious shows from Las Vegas to Asia. For more information on these and other upcoming Snowmass summer events, please visit www.snowmassvillage.com or call 1-800-SNOWMASS.
Chili Pepper & Brew Fest Winners:
Friday International Chili Society District Competition: Chili Red: First Place Mike Rook, Highlands Ranch, Colorado Chili Verde: First Place Ericka Knudson, Greeley, Colorado Chili Salsa: First Place Mike Rook, Highlands Ranch Best Booth: Robert and Sharone Marcen, Pueblo, Colorado
Friday Winner of the Best Summer Ale Brew Fest 2006 Award: "Double IPA," Bristol Brewing Company, Colorado Springs
Saturday International Chili Society District Competition: Chili Red: First Place Lynn Virant, Omaha, Nebraska Chili Verde: First Place Paul Cordova, Pueblo, Colorado Chili Salsa: First Place Kay Rook, Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Sunday: People's Choice Locals Chili Cook-Off Winner: First Place: Zach Ornitz, Aspen, for third straight year
Winner of the Locals' Homebrew Competition: David Mark, Roaring Fork Valley
Snowmass Village, Colorado, is located in the heart of the Elk Mountains 9 miles from Aspen, Colorado. Snowmass is accessible via four regional airports: Aspen, Eagle, Grand Junction, and Denver and recently announced new direct summer jet service from Aspen to Salt Lake City on Delta and Aspen to Los Angeles on United. For a summer media guide of this popular mountain destination, please visit www.snowmasspress.com.
More Information on the Chili Pepper & Brew Fest in Snowmass Village, Colorado
Posted by jmidthun at 04:15 PM | Comments (0)
June 14, 2006
ASPEN/SNOWMASS LINES UP THE WINTER EVENTS FOR 2006-2007
Here is the latest press release from the Aspen Skiing Company:
Featuring Classics like Winternational World Cup Races and ESPN Winter X Games
The Meeting and Aspen/Snowmass Open Return
Aspen/Snowmass, CO, June 13, 2006. This season will bring back renowned Aspen/Snowmass events providing innovative experiences for all types of audiences. All spectator events are free and open to the public. For more information go to www.aspensnowmass.com/events.
2006-2007 SCHEDULE*
| Event | Venue | Date |
| October | ||
| The Meeting | Wheeler Opera House, Aspen | Oct. 5-8 |
| NEPSA Video and Art Awards | Wheeler Opera House, Aspen | Oct. 5 |
| November | ||
| Opening Day | Aspen Mountain & Snowmass | Nov 23 |
| Aspen Winternational FIS Women's World Cup Races | Aspen Mountain | Nov. 25-26 |
| Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert | Aspen | Nov. 25 |
| December | ||
| Opening Day | Aspen Highlands & Buttermilk | Dec 9 |
| Storm the Stars Nighttime Uphill | Aspen Mountain | Dec. 9 |
| Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series | Aspen | Dec. TBD |
| January | ||
| ESPN Winter X Games 11 | Buttermilk | Jan. 25-28 |
| Apres X Concert Series | Wagner Park, Aspen | Jan. TBD |
| ASC Event | Aspen Mountain | Jan. TBD |
| Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert | Aspen Mountain | Jan. TBD |
| February | ||
| Aspen/Snowmass Open | Buttermilk | Feb. 8-11 |
| Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert | Aspen/Snowmass | Feb. 10 |
| Bud Light Big Air Fridays | Snowmass | Feb. 16 & 23 |
| March | ||
| Bud Light Big Air Fridays | Snowmass | March 2, 9,16, 23, 30 |
| Colorado Freeride Series & Championship Snowmass | March 9-11 | |
| Bud Light Spring Jam | Aspen & Snowmass | March 22-25 |
| April | ||
| Closing Day | Aspen Highlands & Buttermilk | April 1 |
| Bud Light Big Air Fridays | Snowmass | April 6 |
| Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert | Snowmass | April 15 |
| Closing Day | Aspen Mountain & Snowmass | April 15 |
(*All events and dates are tentative and subject to change.)
The Meeting - Aspen's Snow Film Celebration: Oct. 5-8
This October, Aspen/Snowmass will once again host The Meeting - an innovative, must-attend happening for the winter sports industry and action sport film fans. For four days this fall, October 5-8, this industry-driven event will bring the snow-crazed local community the new crop of ski/snowboard films from producers such as Poor Boyz Productions, Teton Gravity Research, Mack Dawg Productions and Volcom Entertainment. The film screenings will be surrounded by parties, events and other surprises with the top ski and snowboard pros featured in the films, the filmmakers themselves, and other industry influencers in attendance to discuss trends and entertaining stories behind this year's movies.
FREE Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series - On-going, Nov.-April
The popular FREE Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series is back and debuts on opening weekend, Nov. 25 and continues through closing day, April 15, with a series of six free, outdoor concerts held during key events and peak weekends throughout the season. All concerts are held in unique locations in Aspen and Snowmass and announced throughout the season. Past performers include Big Head Todd and the Monsters, The Offspring, Unwritten Law, The Vandals, Gin Blossoms, POD, Wylde Bunch and Arrested Development. Stay tuned for announcements on the artists for this season's series.
FIS Women's Alpine World Cup Races: Nov. 25-26
Aspen Winternational tradition continues with FIS Women's Alpine World Cup Races when the best female skiers in the world will descend on Aspen for a weekend of non-stop action and entertainment. The fastest women in the world will compete for two days in the disciplines of Giant Slalom and Slalom. Television coverage by NBC and OLN will capture the excitement that embodies World Cup racing. The weekend includes an outdoor concert in downtown Aspen with fireworks immediately following on Nov. 25.
Storm the Stars Nighttime Uphill Race: Dec. 9
The 3rd Annual Storm the Stars Uphill Race invites local enthusiasts and regional sports junkies to charge up over 3,000 vertical feet to the top of Aspen Mountain using their preferred choice of lighting and non-motorized equipment - snowshoes, skins and other creative means in the dead of night. The public is invited to the Rock the Stars Party following the race atop Aspen Mountain to enjoy live music, drinks, food and an awards ceremony.
Bud Light Big Air Friday Series - On-going, Feb.- March/April
This entertaining seven week series is entering its fourth year at Snowmass. The best snowboarders and skiers in the state descend upon Fanny Hill at the Snowmass Mall each Friday to perform the latest tricks for a chance at a prize purse and series points. Feb. 16, 23, March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, April 6.
ESPN Winter X Games 11: Jan. 25-28- LIVE TV
For a record sixth year in a row, more than 250 ski, snowboard, Moto X and snowmobile athletes from across the globe will flock to Aspen/Snowmass to compete in ESPN's Winter X Games 11 on Buttermilk. In January 2006, Aspen Skiing Company and ESPN reached a landmark agreement keeping the Winter X Games, the world's signature action sports event, in Aspen/Snowmass through 2010.
Aspen/Snowmass Open: Feb. 8-11
The Aspen/Snowmass Open at Buttermilk Mountain offers a unique opportunity for up and coming skiers and riders to get noticed. In its second year, the Open will be a co-ed ski and snowboard, slopestyle and superpipe competition. Over 350 athletes are expected to compete across both sports in two disciplines - Slopestyle and Superpipe - for a chance at prize money and inclusion in the event's television coverage. The Aspen/Snowmass Open will be a place for up-and-comers to showcase their skills on the same platform as the top names in competitive skiing and snowboarding at the famous Winter X Games venue at Buttermilk.
Colorado Freeride Series & Championship: March 9-11
The Colorado Freeride Series & Championship takes place over three days in March and is for skiers and snowboarders. Some of the biggest names in the business come out to play on the cliff-littered terrain of Snowmass, creating a wild show for spectators. The expert-only terrain requires cutting-edge competition from the over 100 participating athletes who continue to push the boundaries of their sport. The Colorado Freeride Championship is a stop on the IFSA North American Freeride Tour, allowing competitors to gain overall points for a national title.
Bud Light Spring Jam: March 22-25
Bud Light Spring Jam is the premier spring festival in the Rocky Mountains. For four days, Spring Jam infuses new school competitions with street concerts, parties and core cultural events, along with the top athletes and energized spectators.
Posted by jmidthun at 11:49 AM | Comments (0)
June 08, 2006
Mountainboarding in Snowmass offers extreme bonding on Father's Day
Here is the lates press release from the Town of Snowmass:
(Snowmass Village, Colorado) If you're looking to be a rad dad this father's day, Snowmass Village is the place to head to impress your kids. Considered the premier destination for mountainboarding in the U.S., Snowmass also boasts the only year-round zipline in the state of Colorado, run & gun paintball, lift-served access to over 40 miles of multi-use trails, and plenty of adventure for the whole family.
The raddest dads around can bond with their kids by taking lessons in mountainboarding, an extreme young sport that essentially takes skateboarding off the pavement and onto the dirt (think of a snowboard on wheels on the slopes). Snowmass offers lessons and rentals through Camp Snowmass, and both a beginner terrain park and a 2-acre mountainboarding terrain park used by the pros in the national championships each July.
If bonding over jumps and berms on a board isn't dad's speed, the family can try fly fishing lessons on some of the Gold Medal trout streams in the area or sign the children up for lessons either in mountainboarding or in Snowmass' new Winter Meets Summer program, a special snow terrain park camp for kids ages 6-14 that's open through June 18 (weather permitting). Lesson prices start at $65 for a half-day session.
While the kids are off playing, parents can too. Dad and mom can take in a round of golf and spa treatments at the award-winning Snowmass Club or try a hot air balloon ride to rekindle the romance. Together, families can sample over 25 miles of single track mountain biking and hiking trails, a zipline that can send two people down in tandem, and numerous family activities ranging from the oldest community rodeo in the state (starting June 21) to jeeping, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, a chairlift ride and more.
Snowmass is the ultimate convenient family destination this Father's Day and located only 3.5 hours from Denver or a short flight from Denver on United Express. This summer Snowmass boasts new direct service from Salt Lake City on Delta and from Los Angeles on United as well. Ninety-five percent of the lodging in Snowmass is within walking distance to the main dining, shopping, hiking and mountain biking, while a free shuttle can take visitors to wherever else they need to go in Snowmass. Diverse condominium options ensure families can stay together with ease, while lodges are offering a variety of special deals including fourth and fifth nights free at many properties. Best of all, Snowmass is an ideal home base for exploring a region that includes everything from historic Aspen only 9 miles away to the largest man-made hot springs pool in the world at Glenwood Springs.
For more information on special lodging packages, activities, and adventures in Snowmass, visit www.snowmassvillage.com or call 1-800-SNOWMASS. For media information, contact Allison Johnson at (970) 704-9988 or email aj@snowmasspress.com.
Posted by jmidthun at 11:16 AM | Comments (0)
June 07, 2006
ASPEN/SNOWMASS TO EXTEND 2006-2007 SEASON
Here is the latest press release from the Aspen Skiing Company:
ASPEN/SNOWMASS TO EXTEND 2006-2007 SEASON
ONE WEEK BEYOND AIRPORT CLOSURE
Aspen Mountain and Snowmass Scheduled to Close April 15, 2007
Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk to Close April 1, 2007
Aspen/Snowmass, Colo. May 31, 2006 - Aspen/Snowmass announced today that Snowmass and Aspen Mountain will remain open one week beyond the closure of Aspen Sardy Field. The airport is scheduled to close on April 9 for resurfacing of the runway. Airport officials recently announced that extending the date of the closure would not be feasible.
Snowmass and Aspen Mountain are scheduled to be open November 23, 2006 - April 15, 2007. Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk are scheduled to be open December 9, 2006 - April 1, 2007.
"After careful consideration we determined that we would extend the season beyond the closing of the airport," said Mike Kaplan, COO, Aspen Skiing Company (ASK). "While there is some financial risk involved, we felt it was worth it for the benefit of our loyal season pass holders and the business community."
A story in today's Aspen Times reported incorrectly that the resort would close April 8. The information referenced in the story had not been finalized and attempts to reach the paper prior to publication were unsuccessful.
"We had targeted June 1 as the decision date on this matter," Kaplan said. "It's unfortunate that the incorrect information got out to the public before a decision had been finalized. In the last few years we have been building momentum through the middle of April. Despite the airport closure, we feel it's worth it to keep this momentum going. Besides, we're all stuck here anyway, so we might as well go skiing!"
"We will work with our partners on coordinated marketing and sales efforts along with special packages to drive business beyond the closing of the airport," said David Perry, Senior Vice President, ASK. "Plans are underway to work with the lodging community, regional airports and ground transportation providers to ensure business through closing day."
Aspen/Snowmass operates four destination mountains - Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk - and is the home of the ESPN Winter X Games through 2010. Aspen/Snowmass also offers unparalleled nightlife and off-slope activities as well as four award-winning Ski & Snowboard Schools. Aspen/Snowmass is accessible by two of the most convenient airports in the mountains - Aspen Sardy Field (3 miles from Aspen) and Eagle County Airport (70 miles from Aspen). For more information on Aspen/Snowmass, please call 800/525-6200 or 970/925-1220, or visit the company's website at www.aspensnowmass.com.
Posted by jmidthun at 10:33 AM | Comments (0)
June 05, 2006
Chili Pepper & Brew Fest kicks off the Snowmass Summer
Here is the latest press release from the Town of Snowmass:
Snowmass Village, CO. Snowmass kicks off its summer of smokin' festival fun June 9-11 with the return of the third annual Chili Pepper & Brew Fest. Boasting hot music, hotter chili, and icy cold microbrews, the Chili Pepper & Brew Fest draws crowds of over 3,000 to this scenic mountain town for its inaugural weekend of the summer.
"This festival melds three popular festival elements into one amazing weekend," says Snowmass Marketing Director Susan Hamley. "You won't find better music, chili or microbrews for the value anywhere in the mountains."
The Snowmass Chili Pepper & Brew Fest offers up music by renowned musicians such as Jonny Lang, International Chili Society district level cook-offs, and some of the nation's top microbreweries vying for the title of Best Summer Ale. Festival attendees get to sample both microbrew and chili over two days.
The ICS holds Chili Red, Chili Verde, and Chili Salsa competitions on Friday and Saturday with the winners qualifying for the ICS world championship finals in Las Vegas this fall. Last year Colorado per capita had more entries into the world championships than any other state in the U.S., and these Snowmass district championships offer one of the best places in the nation to sample the experts' favorite recipes. "Chili Steve" Tomasek estimates the festival goes through over 400 gallons of chili and says the winning recipes include a blend of spices with no one flavor dominating. "It's got bite, but not killer bite," he says. "A winning chili is one that when the bar closes up, you'd want to take it home with you."
When the bite gets a bit much, head over to where over 50 microbrews will be available for sampling during the Seasonal Ale Competition and Tasting on Friday and the Grand Tasting on Saturday. Elite microbrewers such as Tommyknocker, Stone, and New Belgium Brewing will be on hand along with others like The Boulder Beer Company, Ska Brewing, Breckenridge Brewery and Flying Dog.
Music is the festival's third component, which this year boasts a phenomenal line-up. Jonny Lang in his first Colorado appearance of the summer performs music from his long-awaited forthcoming album. Medeski Martin & Wood, the Wood Brothers, and talented up-and-coming musicians Trevor Hall, Sean Costello, Little Hercules, and Waste Deep perform on the main outdoor stage on Fanny Hill. When the main venue closes down each night the music moves indoors to the Blue Door for late night partying.
"From Leftover Salmon and Pato Banton in year one to Keller Williams and Michael Franti & Spearhead last year to this level of performers in 2006 shows an amazing progression of talent and a true dedication to bringing spectacular music to Snowmass for a reasonable price," says Event Director Josh Behrman. On Sunday the party continues for free with an amateur chili cook-off judged by the people, a first-ever home brew competition, and the music of Waste Deep.
Chili Pepper & Brew Fest tickets are only $15/day on Friday and Saturday or $25/day for a party pass that includes chili and microbrew samplings. Lodging specials abound for the weekend and start at $49.50/per person per night including a weekend party pass. For more details, a complete schedule or to purchase tickets, visit www.snowmasschiliandbrew.com.
For media interviews with artists or media information and photos, please contact Allison Johnson at aj@snowmasspress.com.
Snowmass Village, Colorado, is located in the heart of the Elk Mountains 9 miles from Aspen, Colorado. Snowmass is accessible via four regional airports: Aspen, Eagle, Grand Junction, and Denver and recently announced new direct summer jet service from Aspen to Salt Lake City on Delta and Aspen to Los Angeles on United. For a summer media guide of this popular mountain destination, please visit www.snowmasspress.com.
To book a vacation package for this event check out Stay Aspen Snowmass.
Posted by jmidthun at 09:12 AM | Comments (0)
June 03, 2006
New Low Fares to LA on United
With the inaugural flight of United's first ever nonstop summer flight between Aspen/Snowmass and Los Angeles just over one week away, United has just filed some really attractive introductury fares valid through the end of June to celebrate this new service.
$119 Each Way between ASE & LAX based on a roundtrip purchase:
- A seven day advance purchase is required
- A minimum stay of one night is required
- Seats at this promotional fare are limited
- The total roundtrip price including taxes and PFC's is $258.60 roundtrip
- These fares are valid in either direction (inbound from LA our outbound from Aspen/Snowmass)
- Flights can be booked either through Resort Travel at 925-4444 or www.united.com
- All travel must be completed by June 30
The speed of the quiet, new Canadair CRJ-700's now being flown by SkyWest will cut nearly 15 minutes off the flight time on a trip that had previously only been flown during the winter months with Air Wisconsin's now retired BAE-146's. These new nonstop flights from LAX will operate every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer beginning next Friday, June 9. For the first time ever, it will be possible to fly nonstop to southern California (or vice-versa) on a Friday evening for the weekend, returning on a Sunday evening.
Book your trip today with Stay Aspen Snowmass
Posted by jmidthun at 10:46 AM | Comments (0)
