As we watch the leaves turn from green to gold, the ripe fruit of summer’s bounty fall to the ground, and witness the first snowfalls, we welcome autumn in the Roaring Fork Valley. Arguably the area’s most stunning season, fall is also the most short-lived. As temperatures begin to decline, restaurants and businesses finally experience a break in the surge of visitors and locals in town. The hiking trails, mountain biking paths, rivers, and wildlife reassume their peaceful status. Below, find the best ways to experience fall in the valley with an action-packed week of activities to enjoy! We have curated the most iconic events in the Roaring Fork Valley, including the areas of arts, culture, food and music. No matter which day or night of the week it is, you can find an amazing experience to enjoy with friends, family, and even pets!
Start your week off with a bang at Belly Up Aspen. As one of Aspen’s most beloved nightlife locations which hosts various talent sets and live musical performances each year, it has become the tried and true location for a great night. With a general admission ticket price around $55 for concerts, Belly Up is an affordable, entertaining opportunity to enjoy with friends, families and others! The roster includes the likes of Yacht Rock Revue, Charles Wesley Godwin and Three Dog Night to finish out the 2023 year.
Zach Bryan performs at Belly Up in February of 2023 (Belly Up Aspen).
If your night calls for relaxation and dining with family and friends, head to Ajax Tavern. On their dining patio with stunning mountain views, Ajax Tavern offers new options this season on their menu like a Colorado lamb sandwich on a rye roll, house made charcuterie, chicken liver mousse and duck rillettes with Ajax Tavern’s traditional country pâté. Enjoy five rotating dinner specials nightly (The Little Nell). This winter season from Thursday to Sundays, weather permitting, the patio at Ajax Tavern will also feature a “Clicquot in the Snow” accented outdoor patio including a bar cabin, lounge chairs, umbrellas, and more, along with a DJ and drink specials.
The ski season will be here before we know it! Enjoy dinner at Ajax Tavern for epic views.
Support your hometown and local musicians by stopping by Music on the Mall every Friday this fall and winter from November 24, 2023 – April 12, 2024. This free event features live performances from local Roaring Fork Valley musicians on the Tower stage in the Snowmass Mall. Enjoy hot chocolate, cocktails, and live music during après ski hours! (Snowmass Chamber).
Skiers and snowboarders flock to Snowmass Mall to enjoy local musicians and hot beverages.
Enjoy the First Friday of November with a celebration in downtown Carbondale with great eats, music, and more. Later that month, if you’re in the mood to be your fittest self this fall (before enjoying a large Thanksgiving dinner), explore the town of Carbondale during this year’s annual Turkey Trot race! It welcomes participants of all ages, beginning at the Carbondale Recreation and Community Center and meandering through the town. Last year’s participants had a blast, with the speedy children leading the pack! (Carbondale Chamber).
Race in the Turkey Trot in Carbondale this fall on November 23, 2023.
At the end of the season, the town of Basalt will host multiple events to get into the holiday spirit with Light Up Willits and Merry on Midland. Both events include horse drawn carriages, caroling, s’more roasting, a tree lighting, and of course – Santa and Mrs. Claus. The evenings are family-friendly and a wonderful opportunity to get out, enjoy the community and do a little holiday shopping. Find additional detail on the Holiday celebrations page. (Basalt Chamber). In addition and in collaboration with the Aspen Jewish Congregation, Basalt annually hosts a menorah lighting ceremony on the first day of Hanukkah at Triangle Park in Willits Town Center.
The town of Basalt looks forward to a fall and winter season full of holiday spirit.
No matter which events are up your alley, the Roaring Fork Valley is prepared for a busy fall and winter season and filled to the brim with options for lively season! For a full calendar of more events and activities to enjoy throughout the season, visit the chamber websites for
Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs.