Fourth of July Fun

The Fourth of July rivals the height of the ski season around The Little Nell in terms of business. There are parties on site, cater-out events, a full hotel, and town is just bursting at the seams with fun.

We asked our staff about their own plans for the holiday. When they aren’t working/serving others, how do they celebrate?

From Master Sommelier and Wine Director Jonathan Pullis:

sangria at the little nell aspen

I always make a big batch of sangria to have on hand for the holiday weekend. Take one bottle of high-quality (non-flavored) vodka. Add red grapes (halved), chunks of pineapple and blueberries. Let macerate for three days. Mix with four bottles of dry rosé wine.  Add fresh juice of 12 lemons, limes and oranges (each).  Serve on the rock,s and finish with a splash of sparkling water. Cheers.

From Greg Van Wagner, Maitre d’ at element 47

Every year I usually roast a pig on the 4th of July weekend. No plans to do that this year, so I’ll have to get my BBQ somewhere else! Any tips on favorite BBQ places in the Valley? I’m still new to Aspen!

From Annie Pinkert, Marketing Manager:

Since it has been a hot/dry summer, there will be no fireworks in Aspen this year. My way to cope? Buying a box of sparklers and breaking out the Slip N’ Slide.

Sally Spaulding, Public Relations Director:

fourth of july parade

I’ll definitely be stopping by the Old Fashioned Fourth of July Parade in downtown Aspen at noon. The veterans marching  with their signs always make me tear up, and the kids with their decorated bikes are just adorable. I’ll also be taking a bike ride to the Maroon Bells later in the afternoon. Such a beautiful site to appreciate on the holiday.

Danielle Riesz, Pastry Chef:

I’ll have a big batch of my Adventure Bars on hand. Perfect for guests going on hikes, and it’s also great fuel to keep me/my staff going on this busy weekend. Check out the recipe here.

Steven Goff, Adventure Concierge: 

Cathedral Lake Aspen adventure

I’m planning a hike to American Lake with some guests as part of our Adventure Program. It’s kind of the perfect thing for the holiday. I just hiked the nearby Cathedral Lake (picture above) and loved it. We’ll have a packed lunch, and I’ll bring my camera to document the fun. Hard to call it “working” when that’s on the agenda for the day.

Wondering what else is happening in town? Check out Aspen4th.com.