It is difficult to separate Snowmass and Aspen – after all, they are just minutes apart.  Spring, summer, and fall are event times in Snowmass.  The rest is skiing time!  Some of the concerts during the summer are a lot of fun; many free on the grassy hill at the end of the mall area.  The events in Aspen and Snowmass range from  crafts to the arts, from hard rock concerts to classical, from chili tasting to wine tasting.  Some of the 2005 events are: The Food and Wine Magazine Classic (world famous), Aspen – Snowmass Jazz Fest, Rocky Mountain Brewer’s Tasting, Air Balloon Festival, Bluegrass Sundays - Ride the Silver Queen Gondola every Sunday to enjoy free Bluegrass concerts, great food, and fun for all atop Aspen Mountain.  This Bluegrass tradition in Aspen has grown to include nationally recognized acts that bring their skills to Aspen for unique mountain top outdoor concerts. 

Every week features a different act, so grab lunch and a cold drink at the Sundeck while enjoying some high-energy bluegrass pickin' from 12 - 3pm.  A gondola ticket is needed to access the concert.   For more information please call 970.923.1227.  June 12 - Steel String Theory - Hailing from Ashville, NC, this trio blends music pushing acoustic bluegrass sounds. June 19 - The Slip Stream - Formed in 2003, this Boulder based band has been creating a bluegrass buzz ever since. June 26 - Flying Dog Bluegrass Band - Aspen's own band will make a hometown appearance (picture below) . July 3 - Open Road - This impressive five-piece Colorado band will put on an unforgettable show. July 10 - Sweet Sunny South - Based in Paonia this group plays original and traditional styled old time and bluegrass.

July 17 - Two High String Band - This four-piece band has been turning heads since their debut album in 2003. July 24 - Hit & Run - This nationally recognized Boulder band pumps out hard-driving bluegrass fun. July 31 - Crooked Still - With the unusual instrumentation of cello, banjo, bass and voice, this neo-bluegrass outfit shatters preconceptions without sacrificing authenticity.  August 7 - Broke Mountain - Good ole' high                                                                                       energy Colorado bluegrass.  August 14 - Free People - This group produces fun bluegrass for all.  August 21 - Frying Pan Bluegrass Band - (picture to left) Veterans of this bluegrass has these locals putting on a great show.  August 28 - Coyote Gospel - This fun bluegrass band has a unique twist in store. September 4 - Lone Pine Bluegrass Band - Local favorites close out this summer's series with a special show not to be missed. Listing.

There is excellent fly fishing on the Roaring Fork River that runs down from Aspen along Highway 83 and in the area past Snowmass turnoff (continues along the highway north).    The kids are never without things to do… the community makes certain there are activities year around.

http://www.resortquestaspen.com/aspen/planYourTrip/eventsCalendar/summerEvents.do . 

Another great site to check out the activities month by month is: 

http://www.stayaspensnowmass.com/p-summer-events.php?month=6 .

Looking for reasonable lodging in a “down home atmosphere?”  Just about three minutes from being in the heart of Aspen is the Mountain Chalet (see the listing in Editor’s Choicel).  I personally stay here and can totally recommend this lodging facility as the “most for your money” stay in Aspen.  Tell the owners photoandtravel.com sent you.

It is difficult to find more “free events,” better fishing, and outdoor adventures (photography, hiking, horse riding, various classes to attend –many free- from fly fishing to skateboarding) than June – September in Aspen / Snowmass, Colorado.

Happy Traveling