Winter in America’s mountain towns is packed with unique events that celebrate snow, culture, and the holiday season. From world-class music festivals to traditional winter carnivals, these gatherings add an extra layer of excitement to your ski-town adventure. Here’s your month-by-month guide to the best winter events that light up ski towns across the U.S.
December Events
Night of Lights – Mammoth Lakes, CA
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When: Early December
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Mammoth Lakes kicks off the holiday season with a magical evening of festivities, including a parade, tree-lighting, and fireworks at the Village at Mammoth. Families can enjoy live entertainment, seasonal treats, and a visit from Santa in this heartwarming winter tradition.
Aspen World Snow Polo Championship – Aspen, CO
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When: Mid-December
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Aspen’s snow polo tournament brings an elegant flair to the winter season, featuring elite polo teams competing on a snow-covered field. This high-profile event combines thrilling sports with Aspen’s vibrant social scene.
Dew Tour – Copper Mountain, CO
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When: Mid-December
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This action-packed event at Copper Mountain is a stop on the professional winter sports circuit, where athletes compete in snowboarding, freeskiing, and other freestyle events. Spectators can enjoy jaw-dropping performances and meet athletes at this thrilling competition.
SnowGlobe Music Festival – South Lake Tahoe, CA
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When: New Year’s Eve
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South Lake Tahoe rings in the New Year with the SnowGlobe Music Festival, a three-day outdoor music event featuring popular electronic and dance artists. The festival combines live music with a snowy backdrop and finishes with a grand New Year’s Eve fireworks display.
January Events
Banff Mountain Film Festival – Various Locations
- When: January through February (tour dates vary)
- This winter film festival tours the U.S., showcasing award-winning films on adventure, outdoor culture, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. The Banff Mountain Film Festival is a perfect event for outdoor enthusiasts, offering inspiration for winter activities on and off the slopes.
February Events
Winter WonderGrass Festival – Steamboat Springs, CO
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When: Early February
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A vibrant bluegrass music festival held each year in Steamboat Springs, Winter WonderGrass combines live bluegrass music, craft beer, and Colorado’s stunning winter setting. This family-friendly event also offers food trucks, kids’ activities, and unforgettable tunes echoing across the mountains.
Steamboat Winter Carnival – Steamboat Springs, CO
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When: Early to Mid-February
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One of the longest-running winter festivals in the U.S., the Steamboat Winter Carnival features everything from night skiing and fireworks to ski-jumping events and parades. Combining Western heritage with winter sports, this five-day event is a beloved celebration for locals and visitors alike.
Fire and Ice Winter Festival – Lava Hot Springs, ID
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When: Mid-February
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Lava Hot Springs hosts this one-of-a-kind winter event that blends icy adventures with geothermal relaxation. Highlights include the Polar Bear Float down the freezing Portneuf River and a torch-lit parade, followed by a relaxing soak in the town’s natural hot springs.
March Events
Jackson Hole Rendezvous Festival – Jackson Hole, WY
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When: Early March
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As winter draws to a close, Jackson Hole celebrates with the multi-day Rendezvous Festival, a free outdoor concert event featuring big-name artists and local talent. It’s a lively way to cap off the ski season with music, snow sports, and unforgettable views.
The World Ski and Snowboard Festival – Whistler, BC
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When: Late March
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Although held in Canada, Whistler’s World Ski and Snowboard Festival attracts plenty of U.S. visitors in March. This lively event combines competitive ski and snowboard events with concerts, art shows, and après-ski parties, making it one of the most exciting winter festivals in North America.
Planning Your Winter Adventure
Whether you’re visiting for holiday cheer, live music, or thrilling competitions, these events showcase the best of winter culture in ski towns across the U.S. This winter, consider timing your trip to coincide with one of these unique gatherings for an unforgettable experience in the mountains.
