Wintersköl

December 11-15, 2025

Wintersköl dates back to a quiet January in 1951 when locals chose to commemorate Aspen's distinctive mountain way of life with a diverse weekend of events. The multi-day festival showcases on-mountain activities, snow sculptures, a soup contest, a beer festival, live music, a bonfire, a torchlight descent and fireworks on Aspen Mountain plus much more.

Wintersköl embraces the spirit of accessibility with a commitment to ADA guidelines. We've thoughtfully designed the event to ensure that all guests, regardless of ability, can revel in the festive atmosphere. There are restroom facilities that are ADA compliant, well lit walkways, directional signage, as well as ADA access for stage viewing. Please come prepared as many of these events take place outside in snowy conditions. Wagner Parks current condition is snow packed / powder. We look forward to celebrating the magic of winter together!

For more information, p-lease refer to the 2024 schedule of events; the 2025 schedule will be posted as finalized.

History of Wintersköl

Jack DePagter, previous owner of the Holland House, began Wintersköl in 1951. In 1949, Jack was bartending at the Hotel Jerome. Noticing a lull in business during the 3 weeks after Christmas when the ski lifts closed, Jack decided that there must be something he and his friends could do to bring people into Aspen. His idea: a winter carnival, like those at European ski resorts and Wintersköl, a “toast to winter,” was born.

It was a week full of fun. Everyone got involved: Local businesses donated prizes, there was a ball at the Armory Hall, a Wintersköl Queen Contest (based on personality, looks, and the ABILITY to SKI!), a parade, special evenings at different bars and restaurants and every store front window was decorated to celebrate the Winter carnival. In fact, Jack himself drew ski caricatures all over town and had a team of volunteers to help color them in. It was all very festive indeed and hence, Wintersköl began. It was not, however, called Wintersköl at the very beginning. Not until Mr. Sardy came to visit Jack at the bar at the Hotel Jerome several years later & said Jack, a “toast to you”, I “Sköl” to you and the name “Wintersköl” was born.