KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Welcome to Your Know Before You Go Guide!
Get ready for a weekend of food, wine, and adventure in Aspen.
This is your go-to resource for everything you need to do before you arrive and what to expect once you’re here.
How to Prepare for Aspen Altitude
At 8,000 feet above sea level, Aspen’s altitude can affect everyone differently.
Here are a few tips to help you feel your best:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Take It Easy on Day One: Give your body time to adjust.
Read More Altitude Tips from the Aspen Chamber »
Exclusive Access for Amex Trade Pass Holders
Are you an Amex Trade Pass Holder?
You have access to both Consumer seminars and exclusive American Express Restaurant Trade Program seminars, developed by and for industry professionals.
View the Restaurant Trade Program Schedule »
Weekend Agenda for F&W Gives Pass Holders
Are you a Food & Wine Gives Pass Holder?
Your pass includes exclusive events supporting No Kid Hungry and Southern Smoke Foundation, including The Welcome Party, Mountaintop Party, and Island Peaks: A Caribbean Cookout.
Look out for an email with full details on your exclusive Gives Weekend Agenda, special event access, and more.
Didn’t receive the email? Reach out to our Customer Service Team for assistance.
Attending a Pass Holder Exclusive Event?
If you’ve purchased tickets to a Pass Holder Exclusive event like the Tasting Tours, F&W Best New Chefs Eras Dinner, or the Island Peaks: Caribbean Cookout, your e-ticket(s) will be emailed to you during the week of the event. Please keep an eye on your inbox and have your ticket ready (printed or on your phone) for entry.
Pass Pick-Up Details
Your event pass is required for entry to the Grand Tasting Pavilion, seminars, and official events. Please plan to pick up your pass before attending your first event.
Location: Wheeler Opera House, 320 East Hyman Avenue, Aspen, CO
Hours of Operation:
Thursday, June 19 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, June 20 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, June 21 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
What You’ll Need to Bring:
- A valid photo ID
- Your official e-ticket with QR code (attached to the email sent to all pass holders before the event)
Don’t Forget to Grab Your Pocket Guide
When you pick up your pass, you’ll also receive a Pocket Guide—your printed reference for the weekend. Be sure to keep it with you throughout the weekend!
It includes:
- A map of venues and event locations
- Weekend schedules, including seminars and Grand Tastings
- Key on-site information to help you navigate the Classic with ease
Dining in Aspen
Looking for where to eat or grab a drink between events?
Explore Aspen’s vibrant food scene, from casual cafés to fine dining.
Explore Aspen’s Restaurant and Nightlife Guide »
Helpful Reminders for the Weekend
- Wear Your Pass at All Times: Your 2025 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen pass AND Food & Wine Classic in Aspen lanyard MUST be worn to all Food & Wine Classic events. Passes are non-replaceable if lost, stolen, or transferred.
- Arrive Early for Seminars: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the seminar start time to secure your pre-registered seat. Pre-registration reserves your spot but does not guarantee a seat. Late arrivals or absences may result in forfeited seating. We appreciate your understanding that no refunds or exchanges can be provided.
- 21+ Policy: All events are 21 and over, including events, cooking demos, seminars, and Grand Tastings. No infants or toddlers (including those in carriers) are permitted.
- Follow us all weekend at @foodandwine and don’t forget to tag your favorite moments with #fwclassic!
Looking for more?
Please email us at fwclassic@FoodAndWine.com, and we will get back to you as quickly as we can.
We can’t wait to see you in Aspen—get ready for an unforgettable weekend!
Before You Go: What to Pack, Plan, and Know
Aspen is effortlessly chic by day and casually elegant by night—but above all, it’s about feeling comfortable and having fun.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Daytime Attire: Jeans, shorts, polo shirts, sundresses, sneakers, or sandals work great for seminars and tastings.
- Evening Attire: Feel free to elevate your look a little for evening events, but layers are key—it can get cool once the sun goes down.
- Mountain Essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A hat for sun protection
- Layers to adjust to changing temperatures
Forgot something? Aspen’s shops are just steps away from most hotels.
At 8,000 feet above sea level, Aspen’s altitude can affect everyone differently.
Here are a few tips to help you feel your best:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Take It Easy on Day One: Give your body time to adjust.
Are you an American Express Trade Pass Holder?
You have access to both Consumer seminars and exclusive American Express Restaurant Trade Program seminars, developed by and for industry professionals.
View the Restaurant Trade Program Schedule
Are you a Food & Wine Gives Pass Holder?
Your pass includes exclusive events supporting No Kid Hungry and Southern Smoke Foundation, including The Welcome Party, Mountaintop Party, and Island Peaks: A Caribbean Cookout. Look out for an email with full details on your exclusive Gives Weekend Agenda, special event access, and more. Didn’t receive the email? Reach out to our Customer Service Team for assistance at fwclassic@foodandwine.com
If you’ve purchased tickets to a Pass Holder Exclusive event like the Tasting Tours, Food & Wine Best New Chefs Eras Dinner, or the Island Peaks: Caribbean Cookout, your e-ticket(s) will be emailed to you during the week of the event. Please keep an eye on your inbox and have your ticket ready (printed or on your phone) for entry.
When You Arrive: What To Expect In Aspen…
Your event pass is required for entry to the Grand Tasting Pavilion, seminars, and official events. Please plan to pick up your pass before attending your first event.
Location: Wheeler Opera House, 320 East Hyman Avenue, Aspen, CO
Hours of Operation:
Thursday, June 19 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, June 20 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, June 21 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
What You’ll Need to Bring:
- A valid photo ID
- Your official e-ticket with QR code (attached to the email sent to all pass holders before the event)
Don’t Forget to Grab Your Pocket Guide
When you pick up your pass, you’ll also receive a Pocket Guide—your printed reference for the weekend. Be sure to keep it with you throughout the weekend!
It includes:
- A map of venues and event locations
- Weekend schedules, including seminars and Grand Tastings
- Key on-site information to help you navigate the Classic with ease
- Wear Your Pass at All Times: Your 2025 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen pass AND Food & Wine Classic in Aspen lanyard MUST be worn to all Food & Wine Classic events. Passes are non-replaceable if lost, stolen, or transferred.
- Arrive Early for Seminars: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the seminar start time to secure your pre-registered seat. Pre-registration reserves your spot but does not guarantee a seat. Late arrivals or absences may result in forfeited seating. We appreciate your understanding that no refunds or exchanges can be provided.
- 21+ Policy: All events are 21 and over, including events, cooking demos, seminars, and Grand Tastings. No infants or toddlers (including those in carriers) are permitted.
- Follow us all weekend at @foodandwine and don’t forget to tag your favorite moments with #fwclassic!
Looking for where to eat or grab a drink between events?
Explore Aspen’s vibrant food scene, from casual cafés to fine dining.
Explore Aspen’s Restaurant and Nightlife Guide
Looking to recreate something you tasted or poured during one of our seminars?
Recipes and wine lists will be available the week of the event—check back soon to explore your favorites.
Once live, you’ll find them on the Talent Page. Just select the speaker and look under their bio!
Still have questions? Check out our FAQ page or reach out to our Customer Service Team at fwclassic@foodandwine.com
We can’t wait to see you in Aspen—get ready for an unforgettable weekend!