Aspen Gay Ski Week (AGSW), the nation’s largest and oldest gay ski event, returns for its 47th year—from January 14-21, 2024—welcoming an expected 3,000 attendees.
Aspen Gay Ski Week is Aspen OUT’s annual fundraiser, generating the funds to grant local, regional and national organizations that provide support to the LGBTQ+ community. In addition, AGSW proceeds are used to underwrite more than 400 hours of therapy for Roaring Fork Valley youth and help host educational forums, outings and programs.
“AGSW is much more than a party and unique among gay ski weeks around the world, because it’s a fundraiser,” Kevin McManamon, Executive Director of AspenOUT. “It’s funded countless LGBTQ+ organizations and now, we’ve created a leadership program to make even a greater difference in the lives of area youth.”
In fall 2023, AspenOUT launched a new leadership and scholarship program for juniors and seniors at five area high schools who are involved in their school’s GSA or Diversity Equity Club. One recipient is selected from each school, and after successful completion of the program, they receive a $5,000 scholarship to a vocational school or university.
While gay ski week revelers enjoy nightly events, event organizers have added educational programming, such as a film screening and a panel discussion about the future of LGBTQ+ community.
“We are adding intellectual conversation and educational events to the gay ski week experience in 2024,” said McManamon.