Winter in Steamboat Springs is nothing short of enchanting. With its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, world-class skiing, and community-centered festivities, the 2024 ski season will be filled with unique events that capture the town’s spirit. Here’s a guide to the must-see events that will make this winter one to remember.
1. Opening Day at Steamboat Ski Resort
Date: November 22, 2024
Celebrate the official start of the ski season! Opening Day at Steamboat Ski Resort is always a highlight, with the first chairlift rides up the mountain, live music, and giveaways at the base. It’s a lively way to kick off the winter.
2. The Holiday Festival
Date: December 24, 2024
Spend Christmas Eve in Steamboat’s winter wonderland at the Holiday Festival, where families can meet Santa on the slopes, join in festive activities, and watch the annual torchlight parade followed by a spectacular fireworks show.
3. New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
Date: December 31, 2024
The torchlight parade is one of Steamboat’s most breathtaking traditions. Skiers glide down the mountain with flaming torches, creating a magical scene, followed by a stunning fireworks display to ring in the New Year. It’s the perfect start to 2025.
4. Cowboy Downhill
Date: January 22, 2024
Steamboat’s unique blend of Western heritage and ski culture shines at the Cowboy Downhill, where professional rodeo cowboys race, jump, and sometimes crash down the slopes! With an obstacle course and freestyle events, it’s an unforgettable celebration of Steamboat’s roots.
5. Steamboat Winter Carnival
Dates: February 7-11, 2024
As one of the longest-running traditions in town, the Winter Carnival is a beloved event. From snow sculptures and horse-drawn skiers on Main Street to the illuminated night show and fireworks, this five-day celebration of Steamboat’s winter culture is not to be missed.
6. WinterWonderGrass Festival
Dates: March 1-3, 2024
WinterWonderGrass is an unforgettable three-day music festival that blends bluegrass and roots music with Steamboat’s mountain backdrop. Enjoy top-tier musical performances from renowned artists, sample craft beers from local breweries, and soak in the lively festival atmosphere. This event brings together music lovers, skiers, and festival-goers for an experience that is uniquely Steamboat.
7. Steamboat Mardi Gras Festival
Date: March 1-2, 2024
Celebrate Mardi Gras with a Rocky Mountain twist! Steamboat’s Mardi Gras Festival offers Cajun cuisine, bead tosses, and live music. The colorful parade and vibrant costumes create a festive atmosphere that will transport you straight to New Orleans.
8. Springalicious Festival
Date: April 6-14, 2024
The end of the ski season calls for Steamboat’s Springalicious Festival! With crowd favorites like the Cardboard Classic and the Splashdown Pond Skim, this festival combines quirky competitions with live music, fun costumes, and a lively atmosphere.
9. Guided Full Moon Ski Tours
Dates: Various dates in winter 2024 (check local schedules)
Experience the magic of a full moon over the Yampa Valley with a guided ski tour through the peaceful, snow-covered backcountry trails of Steamboat. This event is ideal for those seeking a more serene winter adventure under the stars.
From iconic ski traditions to bluegrass festivals and Western-themed celebrations, Steamboat Springs offers a winter calendar packed with activities and events. Whether you’re here to hit the slopes, enjoy live music, or immerse yourself in local culture, this season’s lineup has something special for everyone.