Listen to this articleThe 47th edition of the annual Aspen Gay Ski Week is set to take place from January 14 to 21, 2024, in Aspen, Colorado. AGSW is known as the nation’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ ski event, organized by AspenOUT, with an anticipated 3,000 attendees.
Besides being a celebration of diversity and inclusion, AGSW plays a vital role in fundraising for LGBTQ+ organizations. The proceeds generated from the event are utilized to support local, regional, and national groups that provide assistance to the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, AGSW’s funding contributes to over 400 hours of therapy for youth in the Roaring Fork Valley and supports educational forums and outings.
Kevin McManamon, the executive director of AspenOUT, highlights AGSW’s unique aspect as a fundraiser.
“AGSW is much more than a party and unique among gay ski weeks around the world because it’s a fundraiser. It’s funded countless LGBTQ+ organizations, and now, we’ve created a leadership program to make an even greater difference in the lives of area youth,” he said.
In a recent initiative launched in the fall of 2023, AspenOUT introduced a leadership and scholarship program for high school juniors and seniors actively involved in their school’s GSA or Diversity Equity Club. Each school selects one student, and upon completing the program, they are awarded a $5,000 scholarship for a vocational school or university.
In an effort to enhance the 2024 AGSW experience, organizers have added educational elements, such as a film screening and a panel discussion regarding the future of the LGBTQ+ community.
Diverse events await AGSW 2024 attendees
AGSW offers a wide range of activities, from dance parties to après-ski gatherings. Each afternoon during the week, the Limelight Hotel hosts après-ski parties featuring DJ entertainment, sponsor giveaways, and other amenities, attracting up to 1,000 daily attendees.
A highlight of AGSW is the Downhill Costume Competition, where participants ski down Aspen Mountain in vibrant and imaginative costumes. San Diego-based drag queen Mariam T leads the judging panel.
Throughout the week, attendees can enjoy various nightly events, including film screenings, a drag queen bingo brunch, cocktail receptions, and late-night parties.
Actor Brendan Scannell, renowned for his work in the Netflix dark comedy series “Bonding” and other significant roles, is set to join the lineup for the comedy night, adding to the list of performers and entertainers at AGSW.
Notable Parties
Aspen Gay Ski Week is known for its legendary parties, and this year is no exception. From the “Top of the Mountain Party” at Aspen Mountain’s summit to the pool party hosted by the Aspen Recreation Center, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether they are avid skiers or not.
Kimberly Kuliga, the producer of Aspen Gay Ski Week, emphasizes that the event offers diverse experiences for all attendees, regardless of their skiing or snowboarding preferences.
For more information about Aspen Gay Ski Week, lodging, and discounted lift tickets, you can visit their official website at www.gayskiweek.com.
