Going Out in Style Closing weekends, while sad in some ways, are really excuses to dress up in outrageous outfits, slide down snow on things other than skis and boards, and party like a rock star. Sure we have to say goodbye to another ski season, and say goodbye to friends and co-workers who leave town for the summer, but thanks to end-of-season festivities the images we have of friends on the last day of the season will last us ’till opening day.
On closing weekends, employees tend to ditch the uniforms and opt for more polarizing ski resort outfits. Here the Aspen/Snowmass gondola operators dressed Hawaiian style.
Monarch hosted their parking lot cook off, complete with Mad Hatter chef hats.
This is the Aspen/Snowmass version of a scarecrow probably used to scare away any more dust storms that turn the snow pink.
From cape wearing werewolves and Elvis cowboys to skiing salesmen and giant puppies, the eye candy at closing day parties comes as quickly as the libations.
Even the abominable snowman got into the spirit of spring skiing.
Steamboat hosted the Cardboard Classic. Wonder if they got more points for wearing less clothing? (Photos by Larry Pierce)
Great deals have been around all season and closing weekend is no exception. Located right in the town of Aspen, the Hotel Lenado is a perfect oasis from the craziness. Be sure to take advantage of the complementary breakfast served in the cozy dining nook that turns into the bar for aprs.
Aprs is taken very seriously on closing weekends because it’s got to last the entire summer. The Ajax Tavern at the base of Aspen serves champagne with a side of revelry and a perfect view of the Big Air competition.