Let’s get real: we’ve all seen the t-shirt, sweatshirt, with “après ski” across the front of it. And, we all know how many of us hit the slopes knowing that, at the end of the day, regardless of snow conditions, the good times will continue on a sun-washed deck, or inside a local dive bar, complete with local draft beers or hot toddy’s, and live music. Yep. We all do it, and it’s all the more reason to be grateful to our Nordic ancestors who invented the après-ski, our friends in the French Alps who coined the term, and our European adventurers who brought the time-honored tradition to the slopes of US ski resorts. So that’s how we find ourselves here, with this handy little guide, a how-to après-ski, if you will. Now, please continue reading if you’re interested in learning the true art, but feel free to click away if you’re simply interested in getting sloshed.
MASTERING THE APRÈS SKI
WHAT IS IT + WHAT TO WEAR
Après-ski is a French term that translates literally to “after ski” or “after skiing.” The phrase was made popular in the Alps during the 1950s rise of commercial skiing and today, après-ski is seemingly an umbrella term for popular post-ski activities. Ranging from to everything from champagne toasts on slopeside terraces in Chamonix, France (yes please!), to craft beers around ski lodge fire pits in Aspen, Colorado. There’s no official timeframe for “après ski,” though it usually starts in late afternoon around 4:00 pm and can keep going until way past dinner, and occassionally into the early morning hours. While the tradition varies from place-to-place and resort-to-resort, my personal favorite après ski are more upscale with relaxed vibes…No worries about packing the perfect outfit either, it’s common for your snow gear to double as après-ski attire, minus those clunky ski boots, and swapping your helmet for a beanie. Just do not forget to bring your sunglasses!
FINDING THE BEST APRÈS SKI + WHAT TO ORDER
The best après parties are the ones with live music, whether that music is a favorite local band rocking out or solo pianist jazzing in a Four Seasons lounge, a good après always has live music. Try sticking to bars with outside venues for sunny afternoons, or opt for the more classic upscale lobby bar of the resort at the bottom of the mountain. If it’s not obvious where the best spot in town is – try asking a local! In mountain towns, the residents who live and breathe the skiing lifestyle always have the low down on the best places to après on any given day, so brave up and ask a stranger.
Once you arrive at the best après ski spot in town, and are saddled up to order make you sure you ask for that bar’s best specialty cocktail. It is the best way to get a taste of the mountain town culture, and more than likely a great story to go along with it! So next time, simply resist the urge to order your standard drink, and lean on the bartender to tell you what you want!
LOW KEY APRÈS SKI
Not all successful après ski evenings happen out at the bars, or on sundrenched decks. In fact, some happen out in your vacation rentals hot tub, with local beer and champagne flowing, and maybe a pizza freshly delivered. As you know, après ski started with the sole purpose of connecting with friends after a great day on the slopes. It’s the time to let go, share stories, laugh with good company and enjoy the evening.
Happy Skiing!
I hope you enjoyed this How-To Après Ski guide! If you’re not a ski fan, but looking for another weekend getaway in Oregon consider heading out along the coast and check out my Travel Guide to Pacific City for a little inspiration!
XO,
M
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