From the iconic JAS Aspen Snowmass music festival to Belly Up Aspen, here are the best spots in the Roaring Fork Valley to listen to live music.
Summer concert series in Snowmass
SNOWMASS FREE CONCERT SERIES
Every Thursday evening mid-June through the end of August, head up Fanny Hill to enjoy some of the best live bands in the country. The Snowmass Free Concert Series is a long-standing tradition that has been a local favorite for 30 years. Bring a picnic blanket and grab a takeout meal from one of the local restaurants to enjoy as you listen to live music.
BELLY UP ASPEN
At the base of the mountains sits Belly Up Aspen (450 S. Galena St.). With a 450-person capacity, this intimate venue showcases big-name artists for every music taste. Dance your heart out to famous DJs like ZHU and Diplo, or get groovy with the alternative sounds of Goth Babe and Shakey Graves. Other music legends have graced the stage and will continue to do so year-round.
ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL AND SCHOOL
For eight weeks of summer, the Aspen Music Festival and School (various locations) puts on over 400 classical music events, including orchestra concerts and fully staged opera productions. The shows are put on throughout town at the Wheeler Opera House and Joan and Irving Harris Concert Hall. The primary concert venue is the Benedict Music Tent, which has open sides, allowing for an outdoor music listening experience—bring your picnic blanket and eat dinner on the lawn!
JAS ASPEN SNOWMASS
The iconic Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS) takes over town every summer. Attend the June Experience, which is held throughout 10 venues that host over 40 performances from an array of artists. For a full three-day music festival, attend the Labor Day Experience. If you are looking for a relaxed vibe, check out the JAS Cafe Summer Series. Hosted on the rooftop of the Aspen Art Museum, some of the greatest jazz artists from around the world play intimate performances while you enjoy stunning views of the mountains and downtown.
BUD LIGHT HIFI CONCERT SERIES
Start the spring off bright with the Bud Light HiFi Concert Series (various locations). This event hosts several free concerts throughout town. The series even includes a Mardi Gras celebration, and past years have featured artists like The California Honeydrops and The Dip.
Photography by: PHOTO COURTESY OF SNOWMASS TOURISM
