“X Games are absolutely a catalyst for the progression of sports and the athletes who lead them,” notes former Olympian snowboarder and X Games veteran, Gretchen Bleiler. “When I think back on my competitive career, X Games moments are definitely the highlight where I learned so much about myself.”
Let The X Games Begin
The action is back and this is everything you have to look forward to for the 25th annual X Games Aspen at Buttermilk beginning January 23.
For 25 winters, Buttermilk has been more than a venue—it’s been a proving ground. A mountain playground where the world’s best riders come to test the edge of what’s possible. Over a quarter-century, the Winter X Games have helped define progression in winter sports, evolving alongside the athletes who keep pushing the bar higher. At the base of Buttermilk, risk was refined, creativity became competitive, and action sports found a global stage grounded in one iconic place.
From January 23 through 25, the world returns to Aspen Snowmass for the 25th consecutive year to celebrate the legacy of X Games Aspen, and to watch the next chapter be written in real time. This isn’t a look back. It’s a celebration of how far winter sports have come—and where they’re headed next.
What to Expect at X Games Aspen This Year
X Games Aspen 2026 returns to Buttermilk Mountain from January 23 through 25 for a milestone year celebrating 25 years of progression—on snow and beyond it. Spectators are invited to experience three days of elite competition as the world’s best freeskiers, snowboarders, and snowmobile athletes take on terrain built to challenge what’s next. X Games Aspen features premier winter competitions across skiing and snowboarding disciplines, including:
- Men’s & Women’s SuperPipe
- Men’s & Women’s Slopestyle
- Men’s & Women’s Big Air
- Men’s Ski & Snowboard Knuckle Huck
- Women’s Ski & Snowboard Knuckle Huck
- Snowmobile Slopestyle (returning for 2026)
The event is free to attend until 4pm, with tickets required for nighttime competitions and music performances. Throughout the weekend, the base area at Buttermilk comes alive with high-octane action, live music, VIP experiences, and opportunities to interact with the athletes shaping the future of winter sports.
The Continuation Of A Legacy
X Games Aspen has always had that rare mix: international stage, local heartbeat.
This year, that local pride shows up loud and clear with hometown heroes like Alex Ferreira and Hanna Faulhaber, riding not just for medals, but for the community that raised them—and the next generation watching from the fences at the base of Buttermilk.
The Legacy of the Winter X Games in Aspen
X Games Aspen 2021
They’re joined by familiar Colorado standouts like Red Gerard, Taylor Gold, Svea Irving, Birk Irving, and Chris Corning each bringing their experience and signature style to Buttermilk and adding depth to the legacy of X Games Aspen. Alongside them, keep an eye on young gun Lily Dhawornvej, representing the next wave of talent shaped by Colorado terrain and raised on progression.
For 25 years, Aspen Snowmass has helped shape the culture of winter sports by hosting the best, elevating what the sports can be, and giving fans a front row seat to history. X Games isn’t just something that happens here—it’s a story this town has been writing for 25 years.
Let The X Games Begin
In-Person Viewing
Tickets are required for in-person viewing after 4pm. General Admission tickets provide entry to all competitions and music performances, creating a festival atmosphere that combines non-stop X Games action with high-energy entertainment. Live performances will include appearances by Disco Lines, Tessla, Alesso, Kendall, girlfriends, and Summer X Games athlete Sky Brown making her DJ debut.
Watch At Home
Can't make it to Buttermilk? We’ve got you covered. No matter how you choose to interact (ESPN, ABC, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Telegram),the X Games—andin particular the athletes themselves—willbe waiting for you. Tune in January 23 through 25 to see the action come to life.
Plan Your Trip to X Games Aspen
Limited Time: Buttermilk Deluxe
Make the most of your X Games Weekend with Buttermilk Deluxe - a discounted private lesson experience designed around you. Ski solo or bring friends and family (up to 5 people) for personalized instruction with a dedicated Pro.
Where to Stay in Aspen
From slopeside hotels to cozy lodges in town, Aspen offers accommodations for every kind of X Games weekend. Stay close to the action or settle into a quieter basecamp with easy access to Buttermilk and the surrounding mountains.
Getting to Buttermilk Mountain
Skipping the parking hassle is part of the plan. There is no public parking at Buttermilk during X Games Aspen, but free local buses, rideshare, and designated event transportation make getting to the venue simple and stress-free.
Event parking is available at the Brush Creek Park & Ride Lot (Hwy 82 & Brush Creek Road), with free shuttle service running directly to Buttermilk throughout the day. Rideshare and taxi drop-off and pick-up are located off Owl Creek Road and East Buttermilk Road near the main entrance. If you’re using Uber or Lyft, the apps will automatically direct you to the correct location.
What Else to Do During X Games Weekend
Beyond the competition, Aspen Snowmass delivers a full winter playground. Ski and ride across four mountains, explore dining and après scenes, shop downtown Aspen, or check out other winter experiences happening throughout the weekend.
