The JAS Labor Day Experience is an internationally recognized open-air festival that has become a staple of Aspen’s vibrant cultural scene. Held at Snowmass Town Park, the festival offers a stunning backdrop of the Elk Mountain Range and attracts up to 10,000 attendees daily. With a commitment to providing an unforgettable experience, JAS Labor Day combines world-class music, spectacular scenery, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
A Unique Festival Experience
Unlike many large music festivals, the JAS Labor Day Experience offers a more boutique feel with performances on just two stages. This format allows attendees to enjoy high-quality music without the overwhelming hustle and bustle of larger multi-stage events. The festival begins in the afternoon, giving visitors ample time to explore the many activities Aspen/Snowmass has to offer, such as hiking, biking, golfing, and shopping, before the music kicks off.
2024 Lineup: A Mix of Legendary and Emerging Artists
The 2024 JAS Labor Day Experience boasts a diverse lineup of musicians catering to a wide range of musical tastes. Headliners include Brandi Carlile, Sting, and Tim McGraw, promising unforgettable performances. Earlier acts include OneRepublic, The Black Crowes, Lukas Nelson, The War and Treaty, and Michael Marcagi, ensuring a full day of exceptional music.
JAS Village: More Than Just Music
The JAS Village is the heart of the festival between main stage performances. It features up-and-coming bands on the side stage, including local student musicians from JAS’s education programs. The village also offers a variety of food, craft, and merchandise vendors, providing a unique shopping and dining experience. From Thai cuisine to BBQ, funnel cake, and Indian food, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Specialty bars and beverage stations ensure you stay refreshed throughout the day.
For families, the JAS Kiddie Corner offers face painting, games, clowns, and balloons, ensuring children have a memorable festival experience.
Tips for Enjoying Your JAS Labor Day Experience
To make the most of your festival experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress in Layers: The weather in the Rockies can be unpredictable. Be prepared for warm afternoons and cooler evenings. Don’t forget sunscreen for the daytime sun.
- Use Public Transport: Parking at the festival site is limited to VIP pass holders. Take advantage of the free bus transportation to and from the event. Check schedules in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
- Follow the Bag Policy: JAS enforces a clear bag policy. Only clear bags (12″ x 6″ x 12″ or smaller) or small clutches (6″ x 9″ or smaller) are allowed. Bags can be purchased ahead of the event or on-site. Non-compliant bags will not be permitted.
The Legacy of Jazz Aspen Snowmass
Founded in 1991, Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and preserving jazz and related music forms through world-class events and educational programs. Over the years, JAS has grown from a simple three-day event to hosting multi-day festivals, year-round music education programs, and the prestigious JAS Café series.
JAS’s educational programs, launched in 1996, have supported local music education with over $8 million in funding. These initiatives include the JAS Academy, the nation’s only all-scholarship summer program for emerging jazz artists, and Local Education Initiatives that are crucial to public school music programs in the Roaring Fork Valley.
JAS June Experience and JAS Café
In addition to the Labor Day Experience, JAS hosts the June Experience, inspired by its sister festival in Marciac, France. This event features multiple venues in downtown Aspen, offering an intimate setting for music lovers.
The JAS Café series, which began in 2010, brings jazz performances to various venues throughout Aspen, including The Little Nell, The Velvet Buck at the St. Regis Aspen, and the rooftop of the Aspen Art Museum. These intimate concerts provide a sophisticated listening experience for jazz aficionados.
Supporting the Arts and Community
Jazz Aspen Snowmass continues to enrich the cultural landscape of Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley, attracting visitors from across the Rocky Mountain region and beyond. The organization’s commitment to world-class music, education, and community engagement makes it a beloved institution in the area.
Join Us at JAS Labor Day Experience 2024
As a proud sponsor of JAS Aspen, we invite you to join us for the 2024 Labor Day Experience. Enjoy a weekend of outstanding music, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Whether you’re a local resident, a visitor from afar, or a music lover looking for an unforgettable experience, the JAS Labor Day Experience offers something for everyone. See you at Snowmass Town Park!
