While food and wine are what bring thousands of foodies to Aspen’s core, the spectacular pleasure-packed weekend of luxe parties, select demonstrations, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters elevate the hottest event on Aspen’s calendar. Arrive with a big appetite and your highest culinary expectations, as the Aspen Food & Wine Classic is a premier gastronomic weekend that is not to be missed!
Below, an insider’s guide for navigating Aspen’s most admired food festival.
Premier Party
Kick off the weekend with beloved Iron Chef and premier restauranteur, Geoffrey Zakarian, for this year’s American Express “Last Call” late-night party. Ease into the food-packed weekend with gourmet bites from Lamb’s Club and delicious hand-crafted cocktails.
The Grand Tasting
The Grand Tasting, held twice daily in Wagner Park, remains the star of the weekend. Under grand white tents, savor the flavors of nearly 200 purveyors and taste your way through heavenly plates created by the world’s top culinary geniuses. Be sure to visit the Food & Wine’s Best New Chef section and witness the signature dishes that got them to the top.
Attend a Seminar
One of the hardest decisions you’ll make all weekend; which seminar to attend. This year’s schedule is packed with notable chefs including Provençal cooking with Jacques and Claudine Pepin, a cooking demonstration with Martha Stewart, and “Maximizing Flavor” with Michelin-star female chef, Alex Guarnaschelli. Be sure to secure a seat for premier wine and spirits classes led by accomplished sommeliers and experts such as experts Mark Oldman, Andy Chabot and Anthony Giglio.
Celebrity Scene
Rub elbows with celebrity chefs at the Charity 5K race along the Rio Grande River and support The Jacques Pépin Foundation and Wholesome Wave at the same time! From the Grand Tasting and the 80+ seminars, you’re bound to cross paths with VIPs either sabering champagne or serving gourmet bites.
The Farewell Feast
Embark on your final foodie journey touring plates from America’s Best New Restaurants revealed on Food & Wine’s curated list. The Farewell Feast at Hotel Jerome is the tastiest departure to the weekend as guests walk a once-in-a-lifetime signature dish display and tasting.