"Top To Bottom" Guide For The 2023 Telluride Gay Ski Week
It’s finally here! Telluride Gay Ski Week is bigger, bolder and more fabulous than ever! Join us for a week-long celebration of equality, inclusivity and awareness with tons of activities for everyone.
We’ve compiled the entire week into a comprehensive Top To Bottom Guide that has all the info you’ll need to have the best time ever. From fashion tips on how to pack to event reminders for those “can’t miss” moments ahead, explore the guide below and get ready to make lifelong friends and memories.
As the new producers of the 21st Annual Telluride Gay Ski Week, we couldn’t be more proud to say welcome. Welcome to our town, our mountain and our event that celebrates the beauty of our LGBTQ+ community. Here’s to a week of flying our flags high and skiing our hearts out.
Checking In, Picking Up Passes And Getting Ready
Basecamp Guest Services - Daily from 8:00 - 11:00 am in Mountain Village and either 3:00 - 6:00 pm or 4:00 - 7:00 pm at the Après-Ski location of the day
When you arrive in Telluride, start by checking in and picking up your ski passes and event credentials (wristbands) at the TGSW Basecamp. Equipped with 30+ years of local knowledge, our friendly staff is here to welcome and get you set up for the week with recommendations for just about anything.
Lift Tickets do not need to be used consecutively but are only valid for a 10-day window from February 25 - March 6. Partial used multi-day tickets are not eligible for credits or refunds. We suggest taking a photo of the ticket ID code as they are there is no way to replace if lost without knowing the ID code.
For the Double Diamond VIP ticket-holders - TAB Fashion Show tickets can be picked up at Basecamp or at the special will-call at the TAB Fashion Show doors. TAB Fashion Show tickets can be picked up at Basecamp or at the special will-call at the TAB Fashion Show doors.
Wristband Info
Wristbands will only be dispersed at Basecamp and at venue doors to the specific parties.
Only wristbands purchased through Front Gate Tickets are valid. If you purchased from an unauthorized source and/or the ticket is counterfeit, you will not be allowed entry.
Tickets must be scanned in order to receive wristbands.
Wristbands must be worn securely on wrist and cannot be slipped on and off.
Wristbands are non-transferable and non-exchangeable.
Do not remove between days, stretch or tamper with your wristband in any way or you will not be allowed entry.
Subsequent and/or multiple presentations of a counterfeited wristband are void and will be seized by security staff.
If your wristband is removed by security/event staff for any reason, it will not be replaced.
All ticket-holders must pass through security and are subject to bag inspection. Prohibited items will be confiscated by event staff.
The event takes place snow or shine.
There are absolutely no exceptions to this wristband policy.
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Kick Off The Week In Style
Opening Reception - Saturday, February 25 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the Timber Room of Madeline Hotel & Residences
Kick off the festivities and mingle with fellow attendees at the elegant Opening Reception at the Timber Room of the Madeline Hotel & Residences. Enjoy complimentary passed appetizers prepared by Executive Chef Bill Greenwood and a cash bar with an extensive wine list, craft cocktails and beer and the Lux Collective - a Fashion Pop-Up curated by global fashion expert, celebrity stylist, and fashion influencer Cameron Silver.
Lux Collective - During the Opening Reception, stop by the Peak Wellness Lounge at Hotel Madeline for the limited time pop-up, featuring coveted brands from near and far, and a portion of all proceeds will go to support local nonprofit, Telluride AIDS Benefit. Shop ski and aprés chic finds from Aztech Mountain, Canty Boots iconic logo reworked cowboy boots, Cyrus James Goodhart custom handcrafted jewelry, Leather and Vodka enhanced Louis Vuitton bags, Lindsey Thornburg Pendleton blanket cloaks, Ron Dorff men’s sportswear, and vintage Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Hermès, Valentino, and other rarified collectibles from DECADES in Los Angeles.
It’s Time To Hit The Slopes
Group Skiing (FREE with lift ticket) - Daily from 9:45 am - 1:00 pm
Explore some of the best ski terrain in North America alongside friendly, knowledgeable locals. Group skiing is a great way to make new friends and enjoy all the mountain has to offer.
We offer both Men’s & Women’s Group Skiing Groups for intermediate and advanced skiing levels. Both groups are inclusive and open to all who feel comfortable in them. All are welcome to participate in whichever ski group with which they identify.
Do you want to be a Guide? Click here to get in touch.
The on-mountain dining guide can be found here. Pro tip! For reservations at Alpino Vino and Bon Vivant, diners will need to arrive at 10:30 am. They open reservations at 11:00 am and are usually full by 11:10 am.
Take a trip back in time in the old western-style “Gay Chalet”
Daily from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm at the Mid-Mountain Cabin At Gorrono Ranch
The Gay Chalet is a cozy, rustic place to warm up next to a wood stove, meet new friends and recount your day from top to bottom. This venue is ski-in-ski-out. Lift tickets are required to access the Gay Chalet. Venue capacity is limited! If the chalet happens to be full, we might ask that you wait until a spot opens up inside. Not to worry! The outdoor bars will be open and there is plenty of seating in the waiting area.
Note - only for 8-Day Passholders (Double Diamond VIP, Diamond VIP, and Power Hound).
Not just for skiers, there’s something for everyone during winter in the San Juan Mountains.
Plenty of ideas of alternate outdoor recreation activities
With gorgeous accommodations located just steps away from outdoor activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, fat tire biking, horseback and sleigh rides, fishing, snowmobiling, spa experiences, cooking classes, yoga and more, Telluride Gay Ski Week has something for everyone.
Explore all the options below and join us daily for fun winter activities in the heart of the Rockies.
Kick back at the end of a day in the mountains and enjoy the free Après-Ski
Daily at different venues around Telluride and Mountain Village
Après-ski - pronounced [AH]·[PRAY]·[SKI] - is the French phrase for social hour “after-skiing” and Telluride takes its Après-ski seriously. Join us at these dynamic social gatherings throughout the week to connect with others and cap-off a day on the slopes. When it comes to Après-Ski, we have it all - fancy cocktails, historic watering holes, incredible views, and several local breweries to explore. From extra hoppy IPAs to locally distilled peppermint schnapps, kick back at the end of a long day in the mountains and enjoy!
Explore our Après-Ski partners below and join us daily for a fun transition into the evening.
Saturday, February 25 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm - Opening Reception at The Timber Room
Sunday, February 26 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Communion
Monday, February 27 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Telluride Brewing Company
Tuesday, February 28 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm - The Wood Ear
Wednesday, March 1 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm - ”Sweet Madness” at Heritage Plaza in Mountain Village
Thursday, March 2 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm - StrongHouse Brew Pub
Friday, March 3 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm - Pool Party
Saturday, March 4 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Gus’s Après-Ski - Oak, The New Fat Alley
Dining Out In Telluride
Celebrated Chefs, Culinary Excellence, Extensive Wine Lists, Creative Cocktails And Extraordinary Service. We are honored to showcase our dining partners that support the LGBTQ+ community.
Our dining partners are an instrumental component of our event experience and we carefully select each partner for good reasons – we believe in them and their alignment with our fans. They believe in us.
These are the restaurants that make Telluride great. Such a special place is destined to draw special people. That list includes some of the country’s most celebrated chefs, many who now call Telluride home. Truth is, you work up an appetite here, and whether you’re looking for a fresh pizza, foie gras, or free-range steak, we’ve got a collection of restaurants that get our mouths watering just thinking about them.
Explore our dining partners below and book your reservations in advance. Tables in Telluride fill up fast! We recommend these restaurants any day of the week but you might find more TGSW attendees on the days below.
Saturday, February 25 - The National
Sunday, February 26 - there…
Monday, February 27 - The Cosmopolitan
Tuesday, February 28 - The Gay Sleigh
Wednesday, March 1 - 221 South Oak
Thursday, March 2 - Brown Dog Pizza
Friday, March 3 - Kazahana
Saturday, March 4 - Esperanza’s
Enjoy A Side-Splitting Evening Of Stand-up Comedy
Wednesday, March 1, 7:00 pm at The Palm Theatre featuring Emmy and Grammy nominated Margaret Cho and opener Daniel Webb with a special introduction by Gus Kenworthy
Comedian. Actor. Musician. Advocate. Entrepreneur. Five-time Grammy and Emmy nominee. When hasn’t Margaret Cho’s strong voice been part of our consciousness? It feels like she has always been here, like a friend you can always count on, lighting the path for other women, other members of underrepresented groups, other performers, to follow.
Margaret staunchly supports the causes that are important to her: anti-racism, anti-bullying, gay rights, all while fulfilling her successful creative side with a legendary stand up career that has yielded 10-plus comedy tours.
Celebrate The Ladies The Make Our Community Truly Exceptional
Ladies Brunch on Sunday, February 26 At 10 AM At Floradora Saloon
Ladies Luncheon Wednesday, March 1 At 12 PM At Allred’s
Join us for two special events to celebrate the ladies and all who identify as such who make our LGBTQ+ community truly exceptional! Hosted by local LGBTQ+ community members, this will be a great opportunity to meet, honor and engage with the women of Telluride.
Ladies Brunch
Established in 1973, Floradora is a family-owned and operated saloon and restaurant that stays true to their base. They're where the locals go when they’re looking for delicious comfort food with a focus on locally sourced ingredients where everything is affordably priced and made from scratch. You’ll get a good hearty meal in a laid-back atmosphere. Oh … and did we mention their bourbon bar?
Registrations or reservations are not required but guests will be seated as first-come-first-served so please arrive promptly at 10 am to join the TGSW group. Space is limited!
Ladies Luncheon - Hosted By Local LGBTQ+ Community Members
Located at the breathtaking San Sophia Station at the mid-point of the free Gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village, this elevated dining experience offers cuisine just as stunning as the views. The elegant rustic ambiance creates an unique dining experience at 10,551 feet above sea level! With the picturesque San Juan Mountains as a backdrop and the Town of Telluride below, this will be a memorable dining experience unlike anything else.
Renowned for its culinary excellence of contemporary American cuisine and extraordinary service, Allred’s offers an award-winning wine list with an emphasis on exceptional wines from around the world.
Registrations are not required but RSVP’s are encouraged. To RSVP, please fill out the free registration below.
Step Into Telluride’s Storied Past With The Historical Walking Tour (FREE)
Thursday, March 2 from 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm starting at Historical Museum
The Historical Museum will host the Walking Tour on Thursday afternoon, March 2, allowing attendees to explore the unique history of the charming town. Attending the Tour, along with exploring the museum is great way to discover the mining, Ute Native American, ski and festival history that has earned the town the designation of a National Historical Landmark.
“The Courage To Be Courageous” - Author Book Discussion, Review And Signing (FREE)
Thursday, March 2 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm (Between The Covers Bookstore)
Join author Dan Bolen for an exclusive talk, review and signing of his book “The Courage To Be Courageous”, the personal story out of struggle and darkness into peace and light through transparency and acceptance. Explore how the book has evolved into a larger purpose - to help others overcome their own fears.
Join Art Lovers, Community And Friends At The Telluride Art Walk (FREE)
Thursday, March 2 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Art Galleries around Telluride
The Telluride Art Walk is a festive celebration of the arts in downtown Telluride where participating venues host receptions to introduce their new exhibits and artists.
Be sure to stop by Slate Gray Gallery to view the “Watershed Moments” exhibit by Christopher Warren. With this show, the discrete watersheds that are formed by the creeks pouring into the Telluride valley have been simplified and taken into the technicolor realm, abstracting the familiar drainages of Bear Creek, Cornet Creek, Prospect Creek, and others, and turning them into playful forms that bring a new context to the waterways surrounding Telluride. The water that flows into the San Miguel River has carved the breathtaking landscapes that surround Telluride, and this show pays homage to, as well as takes license with, that monumental force." 10% of sales from the exhibition will be donated to the Telluride AIDS Benefit.
Win A New Pair Of Skis And Other Incredible Prizes At The FREE Costume & Drag Ski Race Contest & DJ Party
Friday, March 3 from 12:00 - 3:00 pm at Gorrono Ranch
Dress up and ski down to Gorrono Ranch in your costume to the music of your choice for a chance to earn epic prizes! Showcase your inner self and get all dressed up. Judges will be awarding 1st, 2nd and 3rd place honors for the best-dressed skiers/snowboarders while Sinna-G sets the party vibe. Be center stage for the whole mountain to see!
We need you! Dress up, dress crazy, dress to impress, but remember that you also have to ski or board down the race course in your costume to the music of your choice.
This costume competition will be judged by a roster of star personalities from our artist lineup, including Gus Kenworthy, Dave Amirault, Suzy Wong, and Bitter Betty. Judges will be awarding 1st, 2nd and 3rd place honors for the best-dressed skiers/snowboarders! Racers will be judged on a scale of 1 to 10 on their ski form and costumes … and bringing the party vibe!
You won’t want to miss the mayhem! Bring your favorite noise makers and cheer your fellow attendees along as you watch the spirited competition.
Racers have a chance to win amazing prizes including a pair of Loma Vista branded skis, VIP Table to the Burlesque & Drag Show, Pit Viper Sunglasses, Telluride Brewing Company swag, Tim's Natural's products, gear and ski tunes from Bootdoctors, $50 gift cards to HOOK and more!
Sign up online below!
Dance Your Heart Out At The Parties
Sweet Madness (FREE) - Wednesday, March 1 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Heritage Plaza in Mountain Village
Suggested attire: vintage ski outfits, bedazzled accessories, faux fur and all things that channel retro ski party energy
Immerse yourself in a FREE slope-side Après-Ski party unlike anything else in the heart of the Mountain Village Core featuring a live ice carving of a life-size unicorn and the fun-loving DJ/production duo, SkiiTour, known for their upbeat feel-good house music that keeps the vibe groovy with a retro ski aesthetic.
Located just steps from the gondola and dotted with firepits, quaint shops, pop-up food carts, Heritage Plaza will transform into the ultimate winter dance party. Thanks to a “Common Consumption Area” rule, attendees are able to purchase drinks from any of the surrounding bars while enjoying the music.
Watch a 5-ft tall unicorn come to life carved by hand using chainsaws, die grinders and Japanese hand tools from the team from Colorado Ice Works.
Off-White Party - Thursday, March 2 at 9:00 pm at Liberty Bar & Lounge
White Party - Thursday, March 2 at 9:00 pm at Sheridan Opera House
Suggested attire: anything and everything white!
Highly regarded by locals as one of the best parties of the year, the White Party is exactly that. Be sure to pack your best outfits and come dressed head to toe in white ready to party with tunes from Colorado’s very own, Matt Suave.
“Off-white” – defined as the gray area between black and white in the fashion world. A compliment to the White Party and just as fun! Enjoy fun mixes and vibes from Telluride’s very own, CASTLE.
Pool Party - Friday, March 3 from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Madeline Hotel & Residences
Suggested attire: Well, it’s a pool party so obviously bring swimwear of any kind but remember, while the pool may be heated, the air is not! Bring a bathrobe if desired (not provided at venue) and all the requisite waterproof, quick-dry and insulating layers mentioned above to stay warm when the temperatures drop after sunset. Get styled with luxury swimwear from our official swimwear partner HENRE. HENRE uses the highest quality American and European fabrics for their pieces, using a four way stretch and runner style mesh lining for their swim shorts and soft, tactile fabric for their swim briefs. Shop now!
Take a break from the slopes and relax your muscles in a soothing, heated pool and two hot tubs. Of course, we’ll have Matt Suave keeping the vibes going strong.
Alpine Rendezvous Dance Party (FREE) - Thursday, March 2 from 1:00 - 3:00 pm at Bon Vivant - Top of Polar Queen Express (Chair 5)
For those of you that have skied in Europe, you may be familiar with the legendary on-mountain champagne DJ dance parties… we’ve recreated this experience at an on-mountain location. Reserve an early lunch and join us in the open area outside the restaurant afterwards to dance your calories away to beats from CASTLE.
Glitter Ball Closing Party - Saturday, March 4 at the Sheridan Opera House
Suggested attire: Get your sparkles on and rock something that shines bright! Let’s get glittery.
Close out the week rocking your best sparkly fashion at the historic Sheridan Opera House with the exciting and lovingly curated remix project Fleetmac Wood and go-go dancers from Sage Grey's Mile High Go-Go Company.
Sequins, glitter and everything shiny will make this an epic close to a fantastic week.
Comedy After Party (FREE) - Wednesday, March 1 at the Liberty Bar & Lounge following the Stand-Up Comedy Show from 9:00 pm - Late
Celebrate and recount the jokes from an amazing comedy show at the official after party featured Colorado-based DJ Harry with addictive style of organic EDM beats. His groundbreaking album, The String Cheese Remix Project, was a pioneering mash-up of soaring jam band energy and late night dance grooves, inspired by the glory days of the jam band and rave scenes of the 1990's.
“Sno Go-Go” After Party (FREE) - Friday, March 3 at the Sheridan Opera House following the Burlesque & Drag Show from 10:00 pm - Late
Join us for a free dance party at the Sheridan Opera House, an iconic venue and historic landmark often referred to as “The Crown Jewel of Telluride”, featuring long, creative house mixes from Sinna-G and a team of go-go dancers from Sage Grey’s Mile High Go-Go Company.
Bring Your Cash And Make It Rain At The Burlesque & Drag Shows
Friday, March 3 at the Sheridan Opera House from 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Saturday, March 4 at the Sheridan Opera House from 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Telluride Gay Ski Week is excited to present a one-of-a-kind show in conjunction with Telluride Theatre combining burlesque dancers and drag queens. Join us for a night of elaborate costumes, sensual dancing and striptease from the glorious exotic dancers of The House Of Shimmy Shake alongside death drops, splits, kicks and costume reveals from some of the best drag queens in America including Ada Vox, Suzy Wong, Pattaya Hart, Bitter Betty and performance dancers from AJA Talent and a pit crew of go-go dancers from Sage Grey’s Mile High Go-Go Company.
Summon Your Inner Night Owl and Hit The Free After-Parties
Comedy After Party (FREE) - Wednesday, March 1 at the Liberty Bar & Lounge following the Stand-Up Comedy Show from 9:00 pm - Late
Celebrate and recount the jokes from an amazing comedy show at the official after party featured Colorado-based DJ Harry with addictive style of organic EDM beats. His groundbreaking album, The String Cheese Remix Project, was a pioneering mash-up of soaring jam band energy and late night dance grooves, inspired by the glory days of the jam band and rave scenes of the 1990's.
“Sno Go-Go” After Party (FREE) - Friday, March 3 at the Sheridan Opera House following the Burlesque & Drag Show from 10:00 pm - Late
Join us for a free dance party at the Sheridan Opera House, an iconic venue and historic landmark often referred to as “The Crown Jewel of Telluride”, featuring long, creative house mixes from Sinna-G and a team of go-go dancers from Sage Grey’s Mile High Go-Go Company.
Late Night Lounge (FREE) - Saturday, February 25 through Wednesday, March 1 from 9:00 pm - Late at The Liberty Bar & Lounge
Kick back and relax in a cozy, modern lounge located in the heart of downtown Telluride. Featuring curated tunes nightly and free tastings from our partner Stillhouse Whiskey, the Late Night Lounge offers a comfy space to meet new friends, recount the day’s activities, and plan out the week of fun activities.
It’s Brunch, Bitch - A Tongue-Popping, Fan-Flicking, Lip-Syncing Extravaganza
Drag Brunch on Saturday, March 4 at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm at the Mountain Lodge
The brunch will feature food and drinks prepared by Executive Chef Perse Vordokas along with host Aria PettyOne and the fabulous queens Pattaya Hart, Suzy Wong, Bitter Betty, ElectriX Cute, and Chad dressed in oversized wigs, sparkles, and six-inch heels while lip syncing to all the favorite pop diva songs and a pit crew of go-go dancers from Sage Grey’s Mile High Go-Go Company. It will be a full-on party and a way for us to celebrate and love each other in a safe space.
Now, sashay away!
Support The Businesses That Support Telluride Gay Ski Week
Meet our allies and supporters and be sure to visit their businesses during Telluride Gay Ski Week
Telluride Gay Ski Week is gearing up for an epic week of skiing, shows, parties and more! Never a solo endeavor, our supporters and allies truly elevate everything that we do. Check out our local supporters below and take advantage of their special offers and make sure to stop by while you’re in Telluride.
Refurbish Your Tranquility At An On-Mountain Interdenominational Service From Alpine Chapel (FREE)
Sunday, February 26 from 12:00 - 12:15 pm at the Top of Chair 7
Rejuvenate your faith at an on-mountain interdenominational service held on top of Telluride Ski Resort.
Join Pastor Michael Craft and other worshippers on Sunday, February 26 at the top of chair 7 to celebrate your faith in the crisp, refreshing mountain air. Anyone and everyone is invited. The group sings one hymn, reads a Psalm and does a quick devotion, ending in prayer. The entire service lasts about 15 minutes.
To learn more about Alpine Chapel, click here.
Questions? Get In Touch!
For general event questions or info, please email info@telluridegayski.com call (970) 728-8037 or use the button below.
Stay In The Loop - Sign up for our text updates and stay in the loop for news, daily schedules, event reminders and announcements.
Try it out - text JOIN to (331) 265-8721 or enter your phone number here. We will keep the texts to a minimum but if it ever becomes too much, you can opt out and unsubscribe at any time.
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Thank You For Your Support
Thank you to everyone who helps make this event possible!
Town of Telluride and Town Of Mountain Village staff, Telluride Tourism Board, Town Of Mountain Village Owners Association, Town Of Telluride Public Works, and all of our Restaurant and Après-Ski partners, volunteers and staff whose hard work and dedication makes the Telluride Gay Ski Week a success.