With its legendary ski slopes and fairytale villages, Vail is the perfect place to embrace all things winter and ignite your merry spirit, especially during Vail Après (Nov. 15, 2024–Jan. 15, 2025). During this special holiday celebration, the town’s alpine villages are a magical wonderland with their winding streets decked out in evergreen boughs and twinkling lights — and evenings filled with après-ski fun. Whether you drive up for the day or stay for a week, you’re sure to find plenty of seasonal cheer and unforgettable memories during Vail Après. Check out these festival highlights to help plan your trip.
The Best of Vail Après
Stroll to Vail Village’s International Bridge, by the Solaris Residences, to see the area transformed into a dazzling mini-holiday town — Kringle Crossing Holiday Village. Admire custom mini-chalets featuring fairy lights and whimsical decor. Find the small reindeer stable with its cozy stalls for Vixen, Dancer, Rudolph and the rest of Santa’s sleigh team or the mini-A-frame Kringle Crossing Ski School. Festive village activities including special visits from the big man in red, carolers and seasonal treats await.
From Dec. 12–15, 2024, Vail Kris Kringle Market is an ideal addition to your itinerary. Sip on steaming cups of rich cocoa or Glühwein (a German mulled wine) as you browse European-themed stalls for unique gifts and decorations.
Photos courtesy of Discover Vail
For a memorable photo op, there’s no better person to pose with than jolly Saint Nicholas. Drop by for a Smile With Santa session (select days, Nov. 30–Dec. 23, 2024) in Vail Village or Lionshead — his sleigh makes stops at both locations — for an unforgettable holiday-card-worthy photo. Give kids a chance to tell him their holiday wish list, then meander by festive boutiques for last-minute presents and stocking stuffers.
Experience quintessential winter vibes with a spin around one of Vail’s outdoor ice rinks. Lace up your skates at whichever spot is closer — the Arrabelle Square ice rink in Lionshead or the Solaris Plaza ice rink in Vail Village — and glide across the ice. On the weekends (select days, Nov. 30, 2024–Jan. 4, 2025), see how the professionals do it with gravity-defying tricks and ballerina-like grace during two high-energy skating exhibitions by world-class athletes, including Team USA skaters.
Make time for Vail Après’ incredible outdoor concert, too. Groove to heart-thumping beats in the shadow of snowy peaks as the internationally acclaimed performer Tiësto takes over Ford Park on Dec. 13, 2024.
And don’t forget the classic holiday tradition of lighting the tree. Watch as the squares in Lionshead (Nov. 30, 2024) and Vail Village (Dec. 8, 2024) are set aglow with sparkling lights. Though you won’t find presents under these trees, you can expect carolers, a free skating exhibition and a visit from a special red-clad guest.
Learn more and plan your visit at DiscoverVail.com.
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