Aspen summertime arts and culture

Aspen and Snowmass Village in Colorado are well known for their long history as vibrant arts and culture communities.

During the summer months, a host of internationally acclaimed events take place across both mountain towns.

Aspen Art Museum is a must for any art lover, and Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass has a series of top summer events.

Discover eight of the best arts and culture venues, tours and experiences this summer in Aspen and Snowmass Village.

Aspen

Aspen Historical Society

Preserving the fascinating history of Aspen, Snowmass and beyond, Aspen Historical Society (AHS) offers several guided tours of historic sites around Aspen. Join a walking tour of downtown Aspen, as well as its iconic landmarks including the Wheeler Opera House, Hotel Jerome and Red Butte Cemetery, or explore the bauhaus-influenced architecture of Aspen’s West End residential neighbourhood. Some tours are offered for free.

Aspen Art Museum 

A non-collecting institution, Aspen Art Museum hosts some of the newest and most important artworks from around the world, with free admission Tuesday-Sunday year-round. The 30,000-square-feet museum designed by Japanese architect and humanitarian Shigeru Ban, features innovative and timely exhibitions, educational programs, immersive activities and community events. The museum also has a bookstore and shop, as well as a new rooftop cafe. This summer’s major exhibition is showcasing works by Florian Krewer ‘Everybody rise’ (25 May – 24 September). It is the German painter’s first-ever solo museum exhibition in the United States, comprising more than twenty paintings.

Belly Up Aspen

An icon in the live music industry, Belly Up Aspen is a small music venue in downtown Aspen hosting over 300 live concerts a year. Whilst holding just 450 people, Belly Up Aspen has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry including Snoop Dog, Wiz Khalifa, John Legend and The Chainsmokers. This summer will be no different with an epic lineup expected including Pink Martini, Train and The Wallflowers.

Theatre Aspen

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, nationally acclaimed Theatre Aspen hosts a rotating schedule of productions suitable for adults and families. Performed under a tent during the summer in Rio Grande Park, 2023 mainstage productions include Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (22 June – 8 July), Doubt, a Parable (14 – 29 July), and Rent (4 – 26 August). These productions are complemented by an assortment of community events, including late-night cabarets, educational programs and performances as well as collaborations with other Aspen arts organizations.

Snowmass Village

Anderson Ranch Arts Center 

An internationally renowned destination for art, Anderson Ranch Arts Center has announced its summer series, with a schedule of free programs discussing contemporary art topics through lectures, conversations and panels. Enjoy stimulating conversations with today’s most influential critics and collectors, or visit during Recognition Week (10-15 July), a week-long celebration of the International Artist Honoree, with special events, lectures and opportunities to purchase outstanding artworks. The event culminates with the Anderson Ranch Annual Art Auction & Community Picnic on 15 July.

Snowmass Free Concert Series 

A long-standing summer tradition, the Snowmass Free Concert Series returns for its 31st year this summer to Fanny Hill, a popular amphitheatre venue in Snowmass, every Thursday evening at 6:30pm from 15 June to 24 August. The weekly outdoor series will feature music genres including soul, pop, funk, rock & roll, country, bluegrass and more. Additionally, there will be many free live music events throughout the season at various restaurants and venues.

Snowmass Art Festival 

The Snowmass Art Festival (24-25 June) is a juried art show featuring original handcrafted artwork. This free two-day event showcases local Colorado and national artists, representing painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, glass and wood. This outdoor festival is surrounded by a world-class resort, mountains, countless recreational activities and shops, restaurants and hotels. Entry to the festival is free, while artwork is individually priced.

Drishti Beats Yoga & Music Festival 

The 2023 Drishti Beats Yoga & Music Festival (7-9 July) in Snowmass Village explores the symbiotic connection between music, yoga and the outdoors. Relax and nurture your wellbeing by attending the yoga classes. The three-day festival features yoga, lectures and a live music lineup highlighting some of the top artists of downtempo electronic chill and house music.

Learn more about :   Colorado Tourism ( N. America )