Breckenridge Magazine - Issue 12 2026

The Breck Life

Rooted in the Rockies, reimagined for today. Unwind at the base of Peak 9, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and embark on authentic mountain adventures in Breckenridge.

Join us at Breckenridge’s gathering place for exceptional dining. Enjoy unique, open-fire pizzas and creative dishes celebrating local history. Savor modern mountain dining with us.

Edwin is more than just a restaurant, it’s a gathering place, perfect for those seeking an exceptional dining experience in Breckenridge.

Find our secret entrance and step into an exclusive lounge where skilled mixologists craft daring cocktails. Immerse yourself in intimate ambiance and engaging conversation for an unforgettable escape.

Hidden within the walls of Hotel AlpenRock in Breckenridge the Canary Speakeasy offers the only true speakeasy experience in Summit County.

BUY PASSES + SEE THE SCHEDULE

NORDIC SKIING

Publisher’s Greeting

Welcome to the Summer - Fall 2026 issue of Breckenridge Magazine. This is a creation brought to you by folks who live in our community and have a finger on the pulse of what is happening here throughout each of the seasons. We gather often to decide on what wonderful stories we can tell you. The magazine is here to keep our local community and Breckenridge visitors informed about the people, places and business that make our town unique. Oh, and I forgot to mention the creatures who live here too. We love highlighting the animals that make their homes here. Please don’t pet them though...

Turn to page 18 and discover a little bit of information on the Northern American Beaver, Castor canadensis.

As you turn the pages you will discover Breckenridge news, local makers, entrepreneurs, historical insight, home builders, insider intel on restaurants and nightlife, cool things to do, and they are all told by folks that live and make their homes here.

The downtown Main Street and surrounding core is filled with some of the best shopping you could ever want to discover. Shop Breckenridge is a coalition of shop and boutique owners and one of its members, Alyssa Pullekins, who owns Folcland, has an update on some of the wonderful new stores that have recently opened on page 26.

We decided to dedicate our main feature to the Breckenridge Golf Club. It is another gorgeous spot that you should visit, whether you golf or not! The General Manager, Grant Johnson, was once a greenskeeper while growing up in Breckenridge. Now, almost 30 years after that teenage job, he’s managing the club. Turn to page 34, take in the views and dig into the story.

We have a ton of great Chef interviews and restaurant articles to get your appetite going starting on page 49. Après is a mantra here and you will find the right location as you stroll our streets.

I am lounging in the wildflowers and you can too with our first ever Breckenridge Wildflower Festival! Check out the information on page 14 and get ready to be wowed!

This magazine is really about community. I came to ski but met so many wonderful people I decided to stay, raise a family and enjoy everything this town has to offer. I hope you will too.

Holly Holly Battista-Resignolo Founder & Publisher

From the Mountains to the Shore...

Adventure Awaits

published by MTN Town Media Productions

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Holly Battista-Resignolo

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Shauna Farnell, Lisa Blake, Holly Resignolo, Alyssa Pullekins, Daniel Dunn, Leigh Girvin

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Lisa Blake, Shauna Farnell, Leigh Girvin, Liam Doran, Holly GoSpritely Media, Elaine Collins

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LIAM DORAN

Liam is a full-time professional photographer specializing in action sports, landscape, wildlife, and travel. He shoots commercial and editorial assignments around the world but is always happy to be home in Breckenridge with his friends and family. Follow Liam’s adventures at @liam_doran_ outdoors

LISA BLAKE

Lisa Blake is a freelance writer and children’s book author living in Breckenridge, specializing in food writing and ski resort and wellness content. She is happiest on her mountain bike, yoga mat, or in a raft with her husband, son, and pug. Her work has been featured in Purist, Yoga + Life, and 5280 Magazine. Find her at lisablakecreative.com.

ALYSSA PULLEKINES

Born and raised in Western Pennsylvania, Alyssa felt the call of the mountains in Colorado and has happily called Breckenridge home since 2020. Alyssa is the founder and owner of Folcland boutique in Main Street Station, an expression of her love for independent fashion that came to fruition after more than a decade working within the industry in New York City and Pittsburgh. She spends her free time enjoying endless outdoor activities, from downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter to SUP boarding and “peak bagging” in the summer. She is a regular contributor to our Shopping + Business articles and an active member of the ShopBreck Retail Association. Visit her shop online at folcland.com.

HOLLY RESIGNOLO

Born in New York and traveling often to Kentucky for family visits, Holly discovered her passion for the outdoors and appreciation for the world around us. With a Culinary degree from J&W University she moved to Breckenridge in 1990 with her husband to pursue the ski bum life but found her way to hospitality and then moved on to the media world. Skiing, Biking, Hiking, Fishing and enjoying her family and fabulous, fresh crafted food are her passions.

ELAINE COLLINS

Elaine is a part time professional photographer who enjoys takeing and share photos of beautiful Breckenridge, Summit County, and the world. She loves our community, the events, people and wildlife. We always see her around town and out on the trails.

DANIEL DUNN

Breckenridge ski bum, mountain lover, diabetic. I have fallen in love with being outside a thousand different ways. Love moves quickly, don’t miss it.

CARL SCOFIELD

Carl Scofield lives in Breckenridge, CO where for over twenty-five years he has created a successful career as a full-time freelance photographer. His work has been published both nationally and internationally in many books and magazines including Ski, Skiing, Powder, Outside, Sunset, and many others. Balancing work and a lifestyle that allows him to enjoy his passion for living, travel, art, and adventure have been some of his greatest talents. carlscofield.com

SHAUNA FARNELL

A Colorado native, Shauna Farnell loves every self-powered means of mountain exploration. She launched her journalism career at the Summit Daily Newspaper in 2000 and after traveling the world as a media correspondent for the International Ski Federation, plus a few years in New York City and Denver, is thrilled to be back in Breckenridge full time.

ELLEN HOLLINSHEAD

A fixture in Breckenridge since 1985, Ellen along with her husband, local character, and town councilman Jeffrey Bergeron have found a way to spend almost every day on skis during the winter, which she defines as generously as possible. “I usually start skiing the minute the snow flies, about the start of October, and I’ll ski six days a week through mid-April.”

LEIGH GIRVIN

Leigh Girvin moved to Breckenridge with her family in the early 1970s when the streets were dirt and the rock piles left by dredge boat mining towered over town. As a child, she attended Breckenridge Elementary and graduated from Summit High School. Seeing dramatic changes over the decades, Leigh dedicated her adulthood to the protection of trails and open space, and later to historical preservation. Leigh’s particular interest is in Breckenridge’s modern history, from the economic decline of the early-20th Century through resurgence as a ski town.

Kingdom Notes

Breckenridge Wildflower Week

Be dazzled by mother nature’s summer wildflower display! Colorado’s iconic mountain town will debut its first-ever Breckenridge Wildflower Week, a new festival celebrating the height of wildflower blooms July 2 – 12, 2026. The event will feature free guided wildflower hikes, free live music, plein air painting classes, floral cocktails and mocktails, family-friendly bike rides and more – all inspired by Breckenridge’s vibrant alpine wildflower season and the opportunity to involve attendees in environmental education and stewardship.

Wildflower meadows will come alive with guided wildflower hikes hosted by Breckenridge Open Space and Trails (OST), concerts in nature from the National Repertory Orchestra and Breck Create’s wildflower-inspired arts classes taking place in wildflower meadows featuring plein air watercolor painting, glass-blowing and mosaic making.

Other Wildflower Week activities include a craft and art fair, farmers markets, pressed-flower classes, a family-friendly guided bike ride, free bloom-themed Yoga on the Riverwalk Lawn and forest bathing. Walk through Main Street for delightful “Wildflower

Windows” decorated by local shops, and pop into restaurants for floral-themed bites and beverages.

Wildflower cocktail and mocktail experiences will be offered at the World’s Highest Distillery, as Breckenridge Distillery turns ethically foraged blooms into beautiful libations. The celebration will also include voluntourism opportunities to give back to the land and help protect the destination’s wildflowers for all to enjoy. Consider giving back to the environment at the Community Weed Pull.

“The Town’s Open Space and Trails program is excited to collaborate with the Breckenridge Tourism Office to celebrate the incredible wildflowers of our local ecosystem and invites the community to connect with these lands in a more meaningful and educational way,” said Alex Stauch, OST Manager for the Town of Breckenridge. “Wildflower Week for us is about sharing the story of Breckenridge’s biodiversity with our residents and visitors while encouraging responsible recreation in these sensitive habitats.”

“I am so excited to share my passion for the wildflowers and for the people who come to be inspired by them,” said Ella Garner, Naturalist for the Town of Breckenridge.

Wildflower season typically peaks in Breckenridge in late July, but due to lower snowpack this year, local experts believe peak wildflower season will be several weeks earlier in the high country. Visitors can expect to find colorful blooms ranging from blue columbine to pink lupine, red and orange Indian paintbrush, magenta asters, purple elephant heads, yellow daisies and many other types of wildflowers.

Wildflower Week builds on Breckenridge’s growing reputation as a premier summer destination for outdoor adventure, arts and sustainable mountain experiences. A full schedule of events is available on: www.GoBreck.com.

PS – Breckenridge 4th of July celebrations include the Colorado 150 Drone Show guaranteed to continue the ooo’s and ahh’s of this colorful week.

Come fall in love with nature again, it’s our mantra here at Breckenridge Magazine and our partner publications. The outdoors brings so much Joy!

IMBA TRAIL TOWN DESIGNATION

Breckenridge Receives the Honored IMBA Trail Town Designation

By Holly Resignolo

The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) announced the inaugural IMBA Trail Town designation. A group of 28 communities received the new national recognition honoring places that have made exceptional commitments to developing, stewarding, and celebrating trail systems that strengthen their community’s life.

The IMBA Trail Town designation recognized towns with trails who are demonstrating strong trail infrastructure, a commitment to trail funding, an active local trail organization, a culture of community engagement, and a sustainable trail stewardship plan. Together these criteria support healthy lifestyles, local economies, and outdoor recreation access.

“IMBA Trail Towns represent communities that understand the powerful role trails play in shaping vibrant places to live, work, and play,” said Jillian Olson, IMBA Community Progress Manager. “These communities have invested in trails not only as recreation opportunities, but as essential infrastructure that supports local economies, attracts visitors, improves quality of life, and builds stronger connections between people and the outdoors.”

Biking and Hiking Trails are increasingly recognized as drivers of outdoor recreation economies. Communities that invest in trail systems often see benefits ranging from increased tourism and small business growth, to improved health outcomes and stronger community identity. The American outdoor recreation economy continues to grow: in 2024 it generated $1.3 trillion in economic output while supporting 5.2 million American jobs. The sector accounts for 2.4% of the nation’s GDP.

The IMBA Trail Town designation highlights communities that have demonstrated leadership in these areas and are helping set the standard for how trails can positively shape the future of outdoor communities. This year’s honorees highlighted 28 communities in 20 U.S. states. Four Colorado Towns received this honored recognition:

Breckenridge, New Castle, Leadville and Salida

To Learn more about these towns and their trails head to: www.imba.com/trail-towns

The Sol Center

By Lisa Blake

Building Hope & FIRC Open a New Shared Home in Breckenridge

When two cornerstone community nonprofits opened the doors to a joint space in Breckenridge this spring, they became more than roommates. Building Hope and the Family & Intercultural Resource Center (FIRC) combined their social service superpowers, elevating how the community secures assistance with everything from psychiatric care to utility assistance.

After years of being scattered around the county, pulling together makeshift offices in a pinch, the duo can now be found in the state-of-the-art building called The Sol Center.

The new two-story facility sits just north of Breckenridge along Highway 9 and Coyne Valley Road, serving as a campus for both organizations and housing a ground-level community food market and thrift store and 40 upstairs offices and meeting rooms. The new site brings the energy of 30 FIRC employees and seven Building Hope employees, plus contractors and volunteers, together under one roof.

“It’s a reunion of sorts,” says Building Hope executive director Kellyn Ender. “Building Hope was incubated at FIRC in 2017. It feels really awesome to be in the space together, to have the cultures here together.”

The two nonprofits share a commitment to community well-being. Building Hope focuses on mental health access, suicide prevention, emotional wellness, and reducing stigma across Summit County. FIRC helps locals with housing and financial stability, early childhood support, health insurance and healthcare navigation, and family resource and crisis assistance.

Before the Sol Center, residents seeking services from both entities would sometimes spend a full day, or even two days, navigating bus systems and running around the county to various appointments and buildings, Ender says.

“Now, a client can come in, get a food box, pick up clothing, apply for a scholarship with Building Hope, and meet about insurance needs all in one building,” she says. “No more running around the entire county.”

Building Hope and FIRC also share secure and confidential internal communications and client database systems—so a client doesn’t have to go through their story twice with both organizations.

The first-story Sol Center thrift store (children’s, men’s and women’s clothing and accessories; no housewares) opens to the public in June and the food market is now open and accepting appointments.

Walk-ins for services are welcomed, but appointments are encouraged. Appointments are required for the food market.

For more details, visit: www.buildinghopesummit.org www.summitfirc.org/sol-center

Breck’s E-Delivery Program is Scaling Up

By Shauna Farnell

Downtown Breckenridge is noticeably peaceful and lacking in traffic noise these days. That’s no coincidence. Thanks to the town’s electric delivery program, there are far fewer large trucks in the downtown area.

Working with 106West Logistics, the Town of Breckenridge launched a pilot program in November 2024. Local restaurants and bars could opt in for food and beverage delivery via electric carts after distribution trucks dropped products off at a central loading dock located at the north end of town.

“The initial goal was making it safer and more pleasant for locals and visitors to walk and bike around the downtown area,” says Town of Breckenridge Sustainability and Alternative Transportation Administrator Teddy Wilkinson. “Once we heard more about it, we learned about the other benefits. We are reducing traffic, especially from large trucks idling, improving efficiencies of the trucks that are coming to town, and speeding up delivery for everyone. It’s also reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.”

Since inception, the E-delivery program has removed nearly 2,500 trucks from downtown Breck, eliminated almost 85,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions and delivered about 483,000 products.

The same E-carts that deliver products in the morning also gather and recycle clean cardboard, thus far, amounting to more than 31,500 pounds.

Opting into E-delivery is voluntary for local businesses and distributors. At the beginning, there were six product distributors participating. Now there are 17, accounting for about 80 percent of local food and beverage delivery.

Mountain Top Explorium

By Shauna Farnell

Mountain Top Explorium expands program offerings

From robotics to dinosaurs, outdoor games to photography, camps are available daily, weekly or all summer

By Shauna Farnell

For Emma Shetter, the most rewarding aspect of working at Mountain Top Explorium is witnessing children blossom and grow.

The Explorium is also growing. Founded in 2001, the 501c3 organization aims to inspire learning through exploration and creativity. Designed for children between ages 5 and 15 years, Mountain Top offers a Children’s Museum with interactive exhibits ranging from local wildlife to STEM projects as well as day camps, after school programs and summer camps.

“When we originally launched, there was a lot of skepticism,” Wilkinson says. “People wondered if this was going to mess up or delay the delivery process. Once they could see how it works, everyone was like, OK, this thing is awesome.”

The next phase of the program is implementing (as of Oct. 1) an annual dock permit fee for participating distributors, intended to offset the program cost, which has until now been carried by the town.

“We have a lot of momentum,” Wilkinson says. “This is one small step we’re taking as we evolve E-Delivery from a small-scale pilot toward a larger-scale permanent program.”

Mountain Top’s Base Camp is in full swing, built for Kindergarten through sixth graders for a day, a week or all summer, including weekly themes –Colorado creatures, dinosaurs, geology, pioneers, etc. Also, an all-new Summit Series includes Ranch Camp, photography and storytelling, art and robotics. Every Thursday evening, the Explorium hosts a Kid’s Night Out and July 23 marks the organization’s family picnic fundraiser at Country Boy Mine, including a barbecue, mine tours, panning for gold (and candy).

“We obviously care a lot about our local community,” Shetter says. “We also love our visiting community. We have families that spend the summers here. Daily registration for our programs helps for visiting families so parents can spend a day together and know their kids are getting some enrichment.”

The enrichment opportunities reach to older children (sixth to ninth grade), too. The Explorium’s Leadership & Lifesaving Camp incorporates American Red Cross

CPR and AED certification as well as babysitting and risk management skills while the Explorium Leadership Corp offers hands-on junior counseling experience with younger campers and opportunities to step into paid internships.

“One of the things older students really love about these programs is that they still get to have fun,” Shetter says. “They build connections with the younger kids, learn strategies on how to group manage and be the role model.”

Shetter, who started with Mountain Top as Program Director in 2023, relishes her own variety of learning experiences. The best part, though, is seeing the kids flourish.

“Seeing how they open up and become more comfortable is amazing,” she says. “It makes me so happy to see kids who were shy or going through a hard time find their space and make connections.”

Learn more at: www.mountaintopbreck.org

T R A N S I T T O

T R A I L S

P a s s t h e

p a r k i n g , s k i p

t h e f u s s . G r a b

a n E - R i d e o r

c a t c h t h e b u s !

Beavers are crucial to our mountain wetland ecosystems. The presence of Beavers helps transform fast-moving creeks into saturated wetlands, which naturally raise water tables and act as firebreaks against wildfire. Look for them during the early morning and evening hours in Cucumber Gulch Preserve, the Blue River watershed and local creeks around Breckenridge.

~

Breck Made

Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of every town and we have a ton of them. Here are a few Breckenridge Made products for you to enjoy.

By Lisa Blake

High Country Oxygen Bar

Breathing easy at altitude.

High Country Oxygen owners Jonathan Wright and Solveig Heide have successfully salvaged more than 500 vacations from the wraths of altitude sickness. The Breckenridge duo provides Summit County residents and visitors with supplemental oxygen support, delivering oxygen concentrators to homes, hotels and vacation rentals seven days a week.

“Unlike many ski destinations, Breckenridge sits at a consistently high elevation of 9,600 feet, meaning visitors often never descend low enough for their bodies to fully recover from the effects of altitude,” Wright says.

After years of visitors asking “Can’t I just sit down and use oxygen for a few minutes?,” Wright and Heide decided to open an oxygen bar on Main Street. Six full-time oxygen stations invite guests to stop in, recharge, and breathe easier. The lounge space also carries a curated selection of snacks and drinks that the industry pros personally find helpful for adjusting to high altitude.

Find High Country Oxygen Bar at 308 S. Main Street www.highcountryoxygen.com

Mud By Lurn

Quiet, functional luxury homeware.

Lauren Parker and her husband met in middle school. He gifted her the nickname “Lurn,” and it stuck. Today, it’s her brand. Mud By Lurn comes to life in Parker’s Breckenridge home studio where she churns out functional dinnerware and statement piece vases that have become hot-ticket decor scores for in-the-know locals.

“The textures, glaze colors, shapes, and overall process are all influenced by the dramatic seasonal changes we experience here in the mountains,” Parker says. “The more I create, the more interest people show, which inspires me to keep making more.”

Each Mud By Lurn piece evolves naturally, without outside influence, as Parker listens to the earthderived clay and its organic aliveness. Her intuitive talents come through in a marriage of natural, earthy tones and refined indoor aesthetic.

“I’m just lucky enough to be the hands that help shape what the clay wants to become,” she says. “I think this aspect of freedom to change my mind and not forcing a certain product is what makes it special.”

www.mudbylurn.com

Afterglow Adventure Co.

Transcending yoga and breathwork retreats.

Three best friends from Breckenridge want to help you chase the afterglow—the buzz your body gets when it has just done something extraordinary and feels strong and steady, calm and clear.

Yoga instructors Kayla Aitken and Jess Race, who also leads breathwork, and photographer Dani Lovell launched Afterglow Adventure Co. in 2025, challenging retreat-goers to discover something new about themselves through travel, movement, and mindful living.

“We’re not just here to guide you through poses or lead you down a trail,” says Race. “We’re here to walk beside you as you challenge your limits, move your body, and take charge of your life.”

With two successful retreats under their belts—a Ouray co-ed backcountry adventure and a yoga and breathwork journey to Guatemala—the Afterglow team is ready to take retreat-goers to new heights.

Upcoming trips include a hut-to-hut backpacking retreat in the Italian Dolomites (Sept. 7–14, 2026), a backcountry skiing and ice climbing retreat in the Austrian Alps (Jan. 31–Feb. 7, 2027) and a Kyrgyzstan Women’s Adventure Retreat (June 2027).

www.afterglowadventureco.com

Peak Sweets

A ski patroller’s delicious side hustle.

There’s nothing like biting into a baked treat on top of a 14er, while floating down the river, or after a long run. This is Brigitte Vossler’s yin and yang. “I am very passionate about outdoor sports and love the balanced life I have in Summit County: baking and the outdoors,” says Vossler.

The 28-year-old owner of Peak Sweets splits her time between ski patrolling at Breckenridge Ski Resort and baking for Cool River and other local eateries. After hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2024, she decided it was finally time to take a chance at selling her cookies, so she launched Peak Sweets with a simple browned butter chocolate chip cookie recipe she’d perfected in high school.

The name Peak Sweets represents both the mountain lifestyle and the idea that the cookie can be the best part of someone’s day. “The highest point of sweetness and a little reward for life’s adventures,” Vossler explains.

Peak Sweets cookies can be found in Breckenridge at Semplice Cafe, The Cheese Shop, Breckenridge Market & Liquor, Baretto 1931, and Windy City, and at Mountain Dweller Coffee in Frisco (look for Vossler’s cinnamon rolls here).

instagram.com/eatpeaksweets

Breckpreneurs

Amy Beckett - Blue Sage Spa

By Lisa Blake

What does it take to run a successful spa in Breckenridge? One that sees repeat clients month after month, year after year? A spa that’s built on local trust and a quarter of a century of custom therapeutic bodywork and facials?

Blue Sage Spa owner Amy Beckett will tell you the longevity lies in adaptability and staying connected to the original purpose—for Beckett, that’s a deeply rooted devotion to wellness and helping others feel better in their bodies.

“One of the reasons I’ve been able to have the longevity I’ve had is because the passion’s always been there,” Beckett says. “We’ve built these long-term relationships and clients trust us. I have clients who have been coming here for 25 years.”

Blue Sage Spa—named for the soothing hue and the hardy western plant with an affinity for mountain sun—recently found a new home on the south end of town in La Cima Mall (in the former Alpine Salon and Spa space next to Mountain Flying Fish). Blue Sage occupied its previous home on Main Street across from Starbucks since 2005 and, Beckett says, it was time to adapt and simplify with a smaller space that made sense for her 15 therapists and estheticians.

The new spot is warm and tranquil with an organic, earthy vibe and hints of mountain life found in faux tin ceiling tiles and serene artwork of a horse in a sage field (by local artist Gary Soles) placed above the relaxation room fireplace.

Beckett, 53, holds a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology, prevention and management of athletic injuries from the University of Colorado

Boulder. She attended the Full Circle School of Massage Therapy and earned her esthetics license through Antoine Du Chez. Beckett landed in Breckenridge in 1995, drawn to the closeknit community’s outdoor lifestyle, and landed a job at A Healing Touch Center before opening her own massage studio in 1999. Wanting to expand her knowledge and services, Beckett returned to school for skincare and esthetics, and opened Blue Sage Spa in Main Street Station with a partner (who she later bought out) in 2001.

“It’s so rewarding, having a space for people to come and feel comfortable and accepted and healed,” Beckett says. “I’ve always loved the community up here. Being a part of the fabric in Breckenridge is really special.”

On top of meaningful connections with clients, Blue Sage Spa has built a reputation for exceptional services and retail products, using the latest industry technology to offer popular treatments like HydraFacials.

“This is a results-driven treatment,” Beckett says. “Your skin is glowing and looks amazing for quite some time after.”

The spa menu casts a wide wellness net, featuring a full gamut of facials, massages and body treatments tailored to high-altitude conditions, along with waxing, lash tinting and lifting, laser hair removal and tanning.

“I want every client to leave feeling comforted, relaxed, renewed, satisfied, and genuinely cared for,” Beckett says. Find Blue Sage Spa at: 500 S. Main Street, Unit 3A. www.bluesagespa.com

Kids Corner

By Lisa Blake

Celebrate the Beat!

I feel more confident. It helped me believe in myself. It helped me know I’m talented. I felt alive and happy.

These are the shining accolades spilling from Summit County elementary school students after experiencing Celebrate the Beat.

Professional dance teachers and musicians lead each Celebrate the Beat class, creating safe spaces where children—regardless of language barriers, physical challenges, or cognitive differences—thrive. Marking 25 years and its milestone year in Summit County in 2025, the nationwide children’s program is on a mission to ignite passion through dance and music.

The goal: to help students become more confident, compassionate, brave, and connected to one another. Watching Celebrate the Beat Lead Teaching Artist Aubrey Bell in action, leaping and laughing, holding the attention of students who have filled a Silverthorne gymnasium to close out the school year with a vibrant community performance they’ve proudly practiced more than a dozen times, parents’ iPhone cameras enthusiastically clicking, it appears to be a mission accomplished.

In our current era of screen-driven days, epidemic-level loneliness, and a national youth mental health crisis, Celebrate the Beat feels holistic and medicinal. The movement-based program provides students ages 8 to 14 with an expressive outlet that promotes emotional regulation, resilience, and stress relief, all shown to improve mental health.

Bell reflects on a moment that sticks with her from the program’s recent 12-week residency at Silverthorne Elementary.

“We had just put the opening dance together for the first time, and after a 4th grade class finished, I asked the students, ‘How did that make you feel?’” she says. “I heard responses like ‘wonderful,’ ‘amazing,’ and ‘confident.’ Then one student quietly said, ‘Not good.’ When I asked why, they said, ‘Because I didn’t try hard. I let myself and my team down.’”

The power in that moment came not from the dancer’s struggle, but from the child’s self-recognition and accountability.

“Sometimes we are planting tiny seeds, teaching students that showing up matters, that effort matters, that teamwork matters, and that giving your all pays off,” Bell says.

Since its inception, Celebrate the Beat has provided life-changing arts education in more than 100 Colorado schools. During the 2024–25 school year, Celebrate the Beat served third, fourth, and fifth graders with in-school residencies at Summit County schools. Next up, Celebrate the Beat aims to launch programming in all Summit County elementary and middle schools.

“Finishing up our second school year here in Summit, it’s wonderful to see the seed planted and know the transformations that are happening in our classrooms each day,” says Artistic Executive Director Kris Walsh.

Community partnerships with The Summit Foundation, Slifer Smith and Frampton, BGV Gives, Alpine Bank, Rotary Clubs, local towns, and Proyecto Thrive support Celebrate the Beat.

This summer, look for Celebrate the Beat kids’ summer camps in Frisco and a Tennis Tournament in Breckenridge for adults and children.

Visit to learn more: ctbeat.org/summer

Have You Heard the News?

By Alyssa Pullekines

New Shops are Open Along Main Street

The wonderfully dynamic retail landscape on Main Street welcomed great new businesses this past season. From new experiential focused spaces to Western wares with a risque edge and eclectic books + souvenirs, we took time to get to know a few of our newest downtown neighbors.

Ramblin’ Ma’am

Ramblin’ Ma’am opened in October 2025. Owner Lizeth Morris, a long-time local and busy homeschool mom of four, took over the retail space from a family member with a vision of creating a community focused space with something for anyone. Offering everything from kids games and books to a small selection of apparel, plants, homegoods, and fun gifts, the shop is primarily focused on its hand curated Library. “The crown” of the store, Ramblin’ Ma’am’s book selection boasts national bestsellers, special edition classics, and works from local authors. In an effort to create a (literally) warm, community focused environment, Morris has equipped the retail store’s courtyard with a cozy firepit that gets lit Fridays through Sundays, hosts free monthly shopping events, and hopes to launch a book club in the near future.

Find them locally at 310 S Main St or online at www.ramblinmaamboutique.com

Rugged & Roses

Kelly and Aaron Boyd, known best as local owners of The Horseshoe, recently expanded their endeavors as restaurants turned retailers. Their indie-western inspired boutique, Lace & Lariat, opened in November 2023, and they have more recently opened Rugged & Roses in November 2025. Embodying “refined western meets wild soul,” the new store offers structured Western wear for men & women including furs, leathers, and elevated apparel from lines such as Double D. Like their sister store Lace & Lariat’s well-known Hat Bar, they offer a fun, interactive Boot Bow Bar where customers can bring their own boots or purchase from a limited store inventory to personalize with playful charms and accessories. The most unique offerings, though, can be found in what they call the “Blush Room.” Recognizing a gap in the market for adult-friendly goods and lingerie, the Blush Room is curated with refined yet risque merchandise that is perfect for bachelorette parties, honeymooners, and couples on romantic getaways. You can even plan a private party with them to capitalize on the fun.

Find them locally at 411 N Main St on online at: instagram.com/ruggedandroses

Peak 18 Golf

Coming to Main Street Station shopping plaza on the south side of town in July 2026, Peak 18 Golf is a fresh, experiential destination. Owners Austin Flook and Kristina Zwettler were inspired to open the new venture by their shared love of golf and an opportunity to plant deeper roots in the community. The new space will be home to a series of golf simulators ranging from high end tech for the best of golf pros to beginner and kid friendly put-put options. Refreshments, mocktails, and cocktails will be available for purchase in the relaxed, activity focused environment, while their retail offerings will include Peak 18 swag like hats, accessories, and branded apparel. Intended to be the perfect apres spot and ideal for large groups or private events for all ages, it will be the first and only golf-focused destination on Main Street. Find them locally at 505 S Main St, Unit or online at www.peak18golf.com

Beloved Boutique

A Downtown Breckenridge Gem for Over 13 Years

Nestled in the heart of downtown Breckenridge, Beloved Boutique has been a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike forover a decade. Founded in 2013 by Mindy, a creative visionary with a passion for fashion and community, Beloved offers an inviting and shoppable space where every visit feels like a treat.

Mindy’s eye for curating high-quality, affordable women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories is unmatched. From timeless wardrobe staples to trendy must-haves, the boutique boasts a

selection that’s both stylish and budget-friendly. With an emphasis on creating a welcoming atmosphere, Beloved reflects Mindy’s belief that fashion should empower and inspire.

As a locally owned and operated small business, Beloved has become more than just a store—it’s a staple in the Breckenridge community. Whether you’re seeking the perfect outfit or simply a warm, enjoyable shopping experience, Beloved delivers. Stop by today and discover why this boutique has been adored for over 13 years!

115 S Main Street - Breckenridge, CO Insta: belovedboutiqueshop www.belovedboutiqueshop.com

Local Lifestyles

Meet Breck’s Women’s Backcountry & Yoga Pioneer

By Shauna Farnell

Meet Breck’s resident yoga and women’s backcountry pioneer, Jasmine Leslie Ross. Over the past 35 years, Ross has quietly helped shape Breckenridge’s culture of connection through skiing, yoga, meditation, creativity, mala bead-making and community-building.

Growing up in Westchester, New York, Ross learned to ski at age 2. Recreational ski racing eventually led her to teaching at Mt. Snow, VT during college and later supporting rafting, backpacking, and climbing trips throughout Utah and Colorado.

A winter mountaineering course through NOLS during college introduced her to telemark and backcountry skiing.

“It was 30-below every day for two weeks,” she recalls. “We spent most of our time route-finding and trying to stay warm.”

Though the intensity initially made her question whether she wanted to pursue guiding, the experience planted the seed for what would later become Babes in the Backcountry.

After moving to Breckenridge in 1991, Ross immersed herself in mountain life—working as a Summit Huts hut master and event planner, jewelry maker at FineLine Studios, adaptive ski instructor for the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center, and student of yoga, tai chi, and qi gong.

In 1996, she founded Babes in the Backcountry

“What I noticed was that there were far fewer women than men visiting the huts and getting into backcountry skiing. We were missing an educational piece that felt approachable and digestible for the recreational user—not just the snow scientist or avalanche professional,” she says.

Ross created the program to make backcountry education more accessible, relatable, and less intimidating, especially for women entering the sport. Enlisting fellow guides, avalanche educators, and yoga instructors, Babes combined telemark clinics, hut trips, movement, and mentorship.

“At first, the industry didn’t really see all-women offerings as viable,” she says. “But people were hungry for it. It grew.” At the same time, Ross was exploring the freeskiing competition scene on telemark gear before telemark-specific events existed. After placing sixth at the Crested Butte Alpine Extremes, she traveled internationally competing, teaching clinics, and working with brands including Patagonia, Black Diamond, and Scarpa to help develop women’s-specific gear.

Eventually, the pace became unsustainable

“My net got really wide,” she says. “I was competing, running Babes, trying to do a lot. I knew I had to root down and be here.”

Back in Breckenridge, Ross noticed another missing piece in the community: yoga. In 2010, she and her husband, Jason Rodon, opened Meta Yoga Studios, Breckenridge’s first yoga studio.

“There was a need. We were impassioned. We kept moving forward,” she says.

Ross also became known for creating community-centered offerings beyond the studio, including Acoustic Flow yoga, mindfulness workshops, and movement classes for local businesses and organizations including Building Hope. She taught breath and movement sessions for Beaver Run employees and later began offering “Resilience Reset” programs for Town of Breckenridge staff focused on nervous-system regulation through movement, meditation, and breathwork.

Today, Ross continues teaching meditation and yoga at the Breckenridge Recreation Center and Kindred Resort in Keystone while also officiating weddings through her company Summit Celebrant, writing highly personalized ceremony scripts centered around connection and meaning.

This summer, she is collaborating with Breck Create and BIFA artist Laurie Shapiro on immersive mindfulness activations designed to help participants slow down and reconnect with themselves.

“My series is called Inner Space—bringing people into a place of ease and calm through breath, movement, and meditation to help spark their inner spirit and reconnect with what lights them up,” she says.

When reflecting on her decades in Breckenridge, Ross says the common thread has always been connection.

“Whether it was through Babes in the Backcountry, Meta, officiating weddings, or the work I’m doing now with Breck Create and Building Hope, the heart of it has always been helping people slow down, breathe, reconnect through movement, nature, and community, and rediscover what truly inspires and lights them up.”

Find Her Now:

www.summitcelebrant.com

GOLF

A Glimpse into the Course that Feels Like a Private Club

Breckenridge

Golf Club Manager Embodies the Homegrown Nature of the Beloved Club

By Shauna Farnell

Growing up in Breckenridge, when Grant Johnson started a highschool job as greenskeeper at the Breckenridge Golf Club, he never imagined how it would set his path.

After a post-college stint at a private course in the Bay Area, Johnson found his way back to the Breck. Now, almost 30 years after that teenage job, he’s managing the club.

“I came back because I wanted to live here,” he says.” It was no question that Breck is where I wanted to raise my family.”

Once the site of a tent city for gold miners, the Breck Golf Club launched in 1985 with its first nine holes – the Bear course. The Beaver course, named after the beaver ponds along holes 6, 8 and 9, came two years later.

“Breck was not sure at the time with tourism about how a golf course would be a big enough draw to sustain itself. It became near and dear in people’s hearts,” Johnson says.

With both courses instantly beloved and well-used by locals and visitors alike, in 2001, the Club built another nine holes –the Elk course.

“They built the Elk course when I left for college,” says Johnson, who returned to the Breck Club as Assistant Superintendent in 2012. “Coming back and seeing that was really neat. As course management, equipment and technology have evolved, golf course conditions have continued to get better and better.

The town is great about the golf course reinvesting its profits back into the course. We get feedback all the time that it’s the best it’s ever been.”

The World’s Only Municipal Jack Nicklaus Signature Designed Club

All three courses have undergone major renovations over the years. New this summer, the latest investment is expansion of the Clubhouse’s already expansive deck. Home to the Tee One restaurant,

which has daily happy hour and live music on various evenings, the deck sits over a lake with views across the greens to Mt. Baldy.

Also home to a golf simulator, the Breck Clubhouse is busy year-round (in the winter sharing space with the Gold Run Nordic Center), with professional lessons for every level of golfer and a popular winter league.

Best Views and Tricky Holes

With sprawling greens, ponds, rolling hills, pine forests, aspen groves and wildflowers, the Club is frequented by deer, elk, fox, moose and a myriad of bird species. It’s certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP) for its environmentally responsible maintenance practices, protecting wildlife habitats.

“The views and surroundings are what really set us apart,” Johnson says. “Our greens are top notch. From the No. 7 Elk tee, you see the outline of Buffalo and Peak One. From the No. 9 Bear tee, you see the whole Ten Mile Range –Peaks 7 to 10. It’s especially stunning the first third of the year when there’s still snow on the mountains and you’re on this nice green course.”

Johnson considers the Bear course the best opportunity to score well, particularly at holes 1-6. However, Club staff refer to the Bear’s 7, 8 and 9 holes as “The Bermuda Triangle” that can easily derail a tight round. The Beaver Course is strewn with ponds and forced carries over water while the Elk course is wide open and more spread out, with forced carries over native shrubs.

Community Vibe

The Breck Golf Club has the look and feel of a top-tier private course. Owned and operated by the Town of Breckenridge, it makes every effort to be welcoming and accessible, especially for locals.

“Since Covid, golf is just booming. We were so busy that locals were having an issue with not getting tee times. We started setting aside local blocks – tee times every day,” Johnson says. “While it’s not a private course, people in the community take a lot of pride in the home course.”

We welcome golfers of all abilities and strive to provide that hometown, community feel. We love that people can get custom fit for clubs rather than go to Denver. As far as a resort course, we’re right up there, but with competitive prices. It keeps people coming back.”

Breckenridge Golf Club Details -

Breckenridge has three championship nines, the BEAR, the BEAVER and the ELK. All three nines are Jack Nicklaus signature courses.

Breckenridge Golf Club offers daily rates based on low or high season dates. Senior, junior, military or discount rates are not available.

The club offers Happy Hour rates each day as well as 9-hole rates at certain times. All 18-hole times are sold at 18-hole rates. If they have not sold 18-hole times by the day of play, they will allow those times to be booked for 9-hole play.

All tee times must be booked through our website or Supreme Golf in order to be honored. Tee times booked outside of four days may be made online with credit card payment at the time of booking.

Breckenridge Golf Club offers a variety of lessons and programs to help you take your game to the next level or introduce you to the fundamentals of the game. Private instruction is available from PGA Professionals and/or qualified instructors. Adult and Junior Golf Clinics are also available throughout the season.

Competitive Men’s League and Women’s League play weekly. Mixed Team events held throughout the summer have fun formats definitely geared towards the social factor.

Nine and Wine golf outings are special dates to socialize with other golfers while you sample and learn about select wines. Five-Hole Family Nights gets busy families playing together while enjoying spectacular summer evenings.

The Breckenridge Golf Club has a well stocked golf shop with apparel, accessories and equipment.

The Tee One Restaurant offers a full menu and bar. On course cart service includes food and beverage selections. www.breckenridgegolfclub.com

There’s a difference between having an agent and having a team in your corner.

High Rockies Homes was built specifically for this market — and specifically for clients who want to make decisions they’ll feel confident about, not just at closing, but for years after.

We are a team at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty with more than 24 years of combined experience in Breckenridge, Summit County, and Park County. When you work with us, you don’t get an agent — you get a full team behind you, every step of the way.

When you’re ready to make your move, reach out. We’d love to hear from you.

Luxury Crafted from Humble Roots - Sweethomes of Colorado

Craftmanship From Local Artisans in the Construction and Building Business

Sweet Homes of Colorado, Inc. presented a newly built home along the shores of the Blue River in Blue River, Colorado, during the 30th Annual Summit County Parade of Homes. With its strong lines and nod to the rustic with the reclaimed wood ceilings, I was enamored the moment I stepped inside.

This project represents a stunning collaboration between Alan Guerra Architecture, Collective Design, and Sweet Homes of Colorado, Inc. Its form, light, and layout were captivating. This home seamlessly blends with and captures its natural surroundings. The home’s distinctive form complements the curves of the Blue River.

To combat the shade of the forest surrounding the property, windows were placed high up on the walls, just below the roofline, to respond to the sun’s angles throughout the seasons, ensuring brightly lit interiors throughout the day. The house exterior mimics the surrounding rocks, trees, and the deep woods in which the structure resides.

The layout of the great room, facing upstream, captures a pictureperfect view of the river. Expansive decks on the back side of the house seem to embrace these views, connecting interior and exterior spaces with floor-to-ceiling Glass Door Systems. It’s a wonderful way to bring the outside in on beautiful days along the Blue River.

The primary suite is oriented downstream and offers a more secluded space where the sounds of the murmuring river and pinescented forest fill the room. Meticulously designed fireplaces in the great room and primary bedroom create a striking focal point that blends form with function. The downstairs acts as a secondary living space with a walkout to the river, where everyone can gather around a grand firepit. More bedrooms are also found on this level, including a custom bunk room.

The home’s modern, clean lines are subdued by subtle rustic touches that enhance its streamside mountain setting. The interior designer collaborated closely with the homeowners to curate and finalize all finished wood flooring, ceiling treatments, interior door designs, hardware, and wall coverings. Both the cabinetry and tile selections maintain sleek simplicity while adding inviting warmth and texture throughout the spaces.

We loved seeing the custom dog wash station tucked away beneath the stairs in the mud room. This is a beautiful family home that impressed all who were able to tour its spaces.

The Breckenridge Spirit of ’76

By Leigh Girvin

Excitement ran high in Breckenridge in 1976 for the Bi-Centennial, joining celebrations around the country for the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence

At the time, Breckenridge was at a crossroads, looking to the future as one of Colorado’s fastest growing resort communities while trying to maintain its mountain town culture and identity. A new exhibit at the Welcome Center Museum examines this push-pull that faced Breckenridge in 1976, with themes that still echo today, fifty years later.

Built around photography by Alden Spilman, the exhibit immerses the viewer in 1970s Breckenridge, allowing a sensation of being there. Images evoke joy and simplicity, the pleasure of hanging out with friends, playing music, gathering for a beer. The town itself is almost unrecognizable, highlighting changes over the past 50 years, and illuminating the community’s desire to preserve Breckenridge’s culture and history before it was gone.

The pride of the people of Breckenridge in their town and country shines through the photographs. The Bi-Centennial was a time of looking to the future with hope and expectations of prosperity and opportunity, rooted in a celebration of the country’s common past.

On July 4, 1976, the noon whistle and bells from the town’s three churches chimed in unison to call the people to Main Street to start the party. Earlier that day, scores of people Jeeped and climbed Peak 10 for the annual Fourth of July Bowl ski rendezvous on summer snow. Festivities familiar today brought the community together with a parade, firehose water fights, games, food, and dancing in the streets.

FLY FISHING

The exhibit shows the action of the holiday contrasted against the setting of a quiet mountain town with more vacant lots than buildings, sparse crowds, and massive rock piles left by dredge boat mining that marred the western views.

And it shows a town on the cusp of great change. Aspen Ski Corporation came on the scene in 1970, bringing new investment and ski area expansion. The I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel opened in 1973 easing access to Breckenridge. Nearby Dillon Reservoir attracted water sports and new development. The decision to reject the 1976 Winter Olympics had been made, but still rankled. Nationally, the country remained unsettled by Watergate and the Vietnam War.

In Breckenridge, modern condominium buildings popped up near dilapidated miners’ homes with laundry hanging outside. Old houses still heated with coal. Architecture of the time was a mish-mash of historic Victorian, Bavarian-inspired lodges, and ultra-modern structures like the Bell Tower. Between 1970 and 1974, property values grew 500% and new construction added 3000 guest rooms, exacerbating concerns about housing for residents.

The odd assortment of residents who came in the 1960s and early 70s formed a community of souls who could withstand the remoteness, lack of infrastructure, and long winters. They thrived through resourcefulness, irreverence, acceptance of non-conformity, and most importantly, the need for each other.

Spilman remembered those times as a diverse collection of individuals who disagreed, talked it out, got to know each other, and found points of commonality. “It was a time of deep connection without hostility toward one another,” he recalled.

Yet by ’76, this disparate group had to start making room for more people, the extractors and developers from a corporate background, driven more by profit and less by sensitivities to local concerns. To address these changes, Mayor Chuck Struve said: “We were in a spiral of growth, and…we put a lid on it.”

Spilman’s images of the town, people, and infrastructure improvements point to these changes. Spilman -- artist, carpenter, and former photography instructor at the nascent Colorado Mountain College -- always carried a camera. “I tried to capture the emotion of the moment, an interaction between people, an unguarded gesture. The sweetness of early Breckenridge shows in images like the ice cream truck or kids skiing in the street or dogs following a pretty woman.”

Exhibit curator, Kris Ann Knish, Archivist and Museum Collections Manager for Breckenridge History, describes Spilman’s photography as the inspiration for the exhibit: “Alden captured the joy and sense of home that permeated Breckenridge at the time. People who look back on those days, whether they still live here or not, think of Breckenridge as their home. It comes up time and again in oral histories and other records in the Breckenridge Archives. The images are filled with a nostalgia that we still sense today.”

“Spirit of ’76: Breckenridge in a Season of Celebration and Change” was created by people of Breckenridge almost entirely within house, including fabricators, collaborators, writers and photographers. Now open in the Breckenridge Welcome Center Museum on Main Street, the show will remain through 2027. In addition to Spilman’s photos, the exhibit includes the long-lost Kingdom of Breckenridge Welcome sign, now restored to its original splendor, signs from businesses that exist only in memory like the All American Bar, town and ski area maps of the day, and interactive displays of interest to all ages. For more information: www.BreckHistory.org.

RECK

BIKE RUN

RACEBRECK RACEBRECK RACEBREC

RACEBRECK RACEBRECK RACEBRECK

FUN

One Ski Hill Place

Luxury and Leisure at the Base of Peak 8

By Lisa Blake

There’s a peaceful ease that comes with staying at the base of Breckenridge’s Peak 8, just far enough away from town’s buzzy Main Street, stream of cars, and ice cream shop lines to gain the quiet that allows you to hear the bees moving between the wildflowers.

A One Ski Hill Place perch means watching the sun rise from behind the eastern peaks, casting its rosy summer swell on a landscape of wide possibilities. Will you spend the bluebird day riding the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, whipping down the alpine slide and playing rounds of mini golf at Breckenridge Fun Park just outside your front door? Or will you take the free BreckConnect Gondola and whisk down to town for a day of boutique shopping and patio sipping? Perhaps Breckenridge’s hundreds of miles of woodland singletrack are calling to you or a whitewater rafting trip is in the cards.

Guests who wake up at One Ski Hill Place are presented with town and mountain recreation and exploration splayed out before them. During summer months, the wintertime RockResort ski-in and ski-out condominiums provide a pristine basecamp. Summer guests walk out and onto ski slopes (greened up into natural hiking and biking paths).

Park your car in the underground parking garage and forget about it. There’s no need to drive anywhere; the BreckConnect Gondola serves as free step-on-and-go transit to town where a gratis Main Street trolley and bus systems link to trailheads, restaurants and points around the county.

Couples, families, groups, girls weekends and wedding parties settle into the upscale mountain residences, savoring stone fireplaces, full gourmet kitchens, panoramic mountain views, and a quiet atmosphere that’s upscale without any pretension and feels a little like your own private mountain home.

Amenities are king at One Ski Hill. An indoor pool complements outdoor hot tubs. Time in the fitness center pairs well

with the steam room and spa. The bowling alley, game room and theater lounges are downtime go-tos. Ask the concierge about s’mores kits for the fire pit outside.

When you don’t feel like cooking (though the state-of-the-art kitchens give Top Chef vibes), onsite dining in the One Ski Hill Place Living Room satisfies with breakfast, lunch and apres offerings. For dinner, make a reservation in town at celebrated restaurants like Rootstalk, Aurum Food & Wine, Hearthstone Restaurant or the Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant. www.breckenridge.com

Dine Local

Breckenridge is a culinary destination with some of the best restaurants, eateries and cafes around. From James Beard Award winning chefs, to fine dining and fun dining, you are going to find your new favorite restaurant here. Get ready foodies!

Chalet Breckenridge

A new subterranean ultra lounge is reshaping the local after-dark scene

By Lisa Blake

Past the faux Japanese candy shop storefront, down a few stairs, and into the sunken dimly lit Chalet lounge, there’s no sign of the scruffy poolhall that formerly resided in the La Cima Mall space.

Stoic Chesterfield sofas are strategically situated into conversation nooks, gold sconces and thick-framed Western landscapes rest flush against maximalist botanical noir wallpaper. Layer upon layer of leather and plaid and classic taxidermy share sightlines with a rock fireplace, a bearskin rug and floating bookshelves. Local art beams from 23 framed backlit TVs, accompanying QR codes making purchasing the original a simple click away.

It’s all very Instagrammable, very ski-town sexy, very unlike anything else in Breckenridge.

With help from financial backers and partners Mark and Kim Rizzo, Breckenridge restaurateur Terry Barbu opened Chalet Breckenridge on December 30, 2025, ringing in the new year with bottle service and a high-energy DJ-fueled party.

Barbu, who owns several Breckenridge eateries—Breckenridge Ale House & Pizza, Flip Side Burger, BoLD, the Blue Stag Saloon, and Whiskey Star Smokehouse among them—has designed and launched more than 100 clubs and restaurants across the U.S.

Chalet Breckenridge is his latest and may just be Barbu’s magnum opus.

“This concept has been in my head for years and years and I have finally been able to produce it with the right space,” Barbu says. “For Chalet, we thought, ‘what could we create if we had no budget limitations and we wanted to absolutely blow people away?’”

Barbu nods to his wife, Ireland, who spearheaded the design execution, scouring online marketplace forums, Denver antique mall stores, and Frisco’s iFurnish showroom to pull the look together.

Coined as a speakeasy, Chalet was produced for the over-30 crowd looking for a post-dinner nightcap before the younger set packs in and the music gets louder. As the night progresses, the energy crescendos and the DJ shifts from Sinatra to heart-thumping house beats, lifting the veil on the ultra lounge—a club experience without a dance floor, Barbu explains. “We really can’t get too loud until 10pm.”

“We bought sturdy furniture and tables to be danced on,” he says. “I tell our DJs I want people with their hands in the air, not rocking back and forth. We want Chalet to be fun, a party, exciting and energized.”

Chalet’s allure begins with its intentionally unmarked entrance, continues into its signature frothy topped espresso martini served in a chilled coupe glass (the satisfying eyebrow-raising depth lies in the black walnut liqueur), and moves into the six private co-ed bathroom stalls, each carrying a different theme spanning clustered disco balls to gilded and floor-to-ceiling mirrored renditions.

Chef Ryan Caswell’s (ala Modis, Blue Stag and Whiskey Star) menu is designed for upscale après-ski nibbling and consists of shareable bites like herbed Greek olives, figgy brie, and pimento cheese dip alongside charcuterie boards and a trio of flatbreads. Scotch and cheese pairings come together in rich, bold sherry and soft oaky sips enjoyed with appropriately matched creamy, nutty and sharp cheeses.

A specialty mocktail menu plays with zero-proof bourbon and tequila, calling in yuzu, beets, citrus and honey. After 9 p.m., Chalet is 21 and up, a dress code is enforced (no hoodies, hats, sweats) and bottle service is encouraged.

“We’re not charging for the seats, not charging a cover,” Barbu says. “We’re not trying to be pretentious; we’re trying to have fun.”

www.chaletbreckenridge.com

Mythology Tasting Room

Mythology Distillery Opens a Breckenridge Tasting Room

Mythology Distillery opened a Breckenridge Tasting Room built around post-adventure stories and the connections made through travel, Mythology Distillery’s spirits have earned more than 60 national and international awards. The Denver-born distiller opened a Breckenridge tasting room in March. If you haven’t found it yet, it’s because it’s a bit hidden, tucked behind Rootstalk on the north end of Main Street.

By Lisa Blake

The satellite tasting room—there’s a Denver Highlands neighborhood outpost and a larger Steamboat Springs campus with a whiskey garden—rests inside a stylish renovated historic barn. Pop by, say hello, and request an ushered tasting of Mythology’s full portfolio: whiskey, gin, vodka, specialty spirits, and exclusive tasting-room-only releases. Curated whiskey flights and bottles to take home are also available.

www.mythologydistillery.com

Steakhouse Fare with a Latin Flare

Breckenridge Distillery Executive Chef Diego Rotea puts a global spin on the restaurants summer menu

Sugary sweet, hand-plucked Olathe corn is smoked in its husk. Deep red Colorado-farmed beets mingle with watermelon and serranos. Cotija pork rind-dusted diver scallops maintain their rich, buttery, tender finish in an elote-cream sauce next to vibrant carrot-juice-infused bucatini pasta.

Like his summer menu, Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant executive chef Diego Rotea is fun, bright and interesting. Rotea took the helm at the steakhouse on

By Lisa Blake

Airport Road in August 2025 after being recruited by the distillery from his post at Blue River Bistro and Bistro North.

Rounding out his inaugural year, Rotea says the distillery community has welcomed him and his globally inspired, ingredient-driven approach with open arms. Lunch, après and dinner guests can expect color, spice and unexpected pops across dishes that meld Colorado’s bounty with robust Peruvian and Argentinian flavors.

Rotea, who turns 31 in June, describes his culinary style as playful refinement, balancing Colorado ingredients and South American influence, while making space for Breckenridge Distillery’s award-winning spirits to shine through in sauces, glazes and braises (catch distillery mixologist Billie Keithley’s homemade herbal vermouth in the lamb demi glaze).

“The foundation is serious technique, but there’s always room for surprise, humor and creativity,” he says. “I believe that if something is edible, it’s been used by a culture somewhere—and it has the potential to be made delicious.”

Rotea’s penchant for boundary pushing shows up in his summer swordfish ceviche dashed in lime crema, avocado mousse and li hing mui—a salted, sweetened plum powder Keithley discovered on a trip to Hawaii.

As an Argentine hailing from West Lafayette, Indiana, with a stint cooking in Dallas, chef gets giddy when he plays with the distillery restaurant’s contemporary steakhouse heritage. He sources coveted butcher’s secret cuts—a petite two-percow tenderloin that Rotea describes as a highly flavorful mix of flank and filet— from Fitch Ranch in Grand County. Order it with the steak sauce flight and relish the melty bites with drips of rum cask reduction, au poivre, and chimichurri.

“During my travels through Argentina, I immersed myself deeply in the local food culture, learning firsthand about traditional Argentine asado and the philosophy behind cooking with fire, patience, and respect for ingredients,” Rotea notes.

Full-circle sustainable fact: Breckenridge Distillery sends its used mash from the distilling process to Fitch Ranch to feed the family-owned operation’s cattle.

Rotea encourages his sous chefs, Nico Blessing and Jordan Henson, to be curious and creative and to hold nothing back.

“When I first got here, they were sitting in line cook roles, so I properly staffed it up, giving them the opportunity to create,” he says. “When people feel invested and inspired, productivity and creativity naturally follow.”

The team strives for balance and intentionality across seasonally shifting menus. This summer, diners taste the magic in house cured pork belly fire-roasted poblano soup, a Sakura Farms pork chop with spicy Palisade peach chutney,

and a 12-hour bolognese—that Rotea is particularly proud of—using pork and filet and served with burrata and basil.

This winter, a longtime seasonal local and first-time distillery restaurant guest reaffirmed Rotea’s dedication. Dining alone, she sat at the chef’s bar, observing the open kitchen from the beginning of dinner service until closing time, savoring multiple courses and drinks.

“Before she left, she told me that it was the best dining experience she’s had in a decade. It was really heartfelt,” Rotea says. “That’s why we do this work. Being able to see that experience she had means everything.”

Watch for Rotea and Keithley pairing exquisite bites and cocktails at Breck Create’s A Creative + Culinary Affair on July 16.

1925 Airport Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424 (970) 547-9759 www.breckenridgedistillery.com

Wasabi

Is this Breck’s Last Summer of Authentic Japanese Sushi?

By Shauna Farnell

Wasabi set to close its doors after 24 years

It’s a peaceful June afternoon and Hiro and Mari Arai are hard at work prepping to open for the evening. The Japanese couple have quietly run Wasabi, a small sushi restaurant tucked into a corner of Main Street Mall, for 24 years.

This summer – Sept. 26, to be exact – will mark Wasabi’s farewell.

“We are all sad about it,” Mari says. “I just want to see all of our local and long-time customers.”

Not many people realize that Hiro Arai is responsible for bringing authentic Japanese sushi to Breckenridge. Hailing from a small prefecture near north Tokyo, Hiro grew up working as a butcher, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

Also learning the art of sushi-making, he moved to Aspen in the early 1980s to work in a sushi kitchen. Then, in 1988, he was summoned to Breckenridge in 1988 by Japanese sporting goods retailer Victoria Company Ltd. The company owned Breck-

enridge Ski Resort from 1988 to 1993, led by former Japanese Olympic skier Kaz Sakaguchi, who, during his time here, had a hankering for cuisine from his homeland. Kanda, also owned by Victoria Company, was Breck’s first sushi restaurant.

“Kaz wanted to eat Japanese food in Breckenridge,” Hiro says, displaying an aged matchbook from Kanda as well as a Breckenridge Resort recruitment poster from the late 80s, featuring a crowd of people with Sakaguchi in its midst, sporting the resort’s pastel-colored uniform of the era, which former employees recall resembling a satiny spacesuit.

Hiro and a team of Japanese chefs ran Kanda until it phased out along with the Japanese company’s ownership of the resort. Hiro went on to head up the kitchen at Jacksan Sushi House during the mid-1990s.

“It was so popular,” Hiro recalls. “People waited outside for two, three hours.”

With the help of an investor – and Mari, who Hiro met and married in Tokyo after being introduced by mutual friends – Hiro opened Sushi Breck in 1996, operating in the space now occupied by Mountain Flying Fish.

In 2002, the Arais opened their own restaurant, Wasabi, originally conceived as a lunch spot.

“We started this for lunch-only for local people,” Mari says. “Then people started talking, saying, ‘why don’t you stay open for dinner?’”

Opening for lunch and dinner meant 15-hour days, seven days a week. The couple powered through for about 10 years. For the last few years, however, Wasabi has shifted to a dinner-only operation.

Despite numerous Asian fusion restaurants now sprinkled amid Breck’s dining landscape, Wasabi is still the only place in town serving authentic Japanese sushi.

“Our sushi is fish and rice,” Mari says. “In Japan, we have two kinds of sushi rolls – cucumber and tuna. Some people are looking for fancy sushi rolls, with mayonnaise and a lot of different ingredients. Our sushi is authentic. Fresh and authentic.”

Wasabi’s fish is sourced fresh (flash frozen) from Japan, shipped at least five days a week. Hiro makes all of the sauces – including the soy sauce – from scratch. The menu is expansive, and does include numerous rolls, all centered around large chunks of fresh fish. Wasabi also serves hot dumplings, fresh teriyaki dinners, Udon and Soba noodle soups as well as an impressive assortment of wine and premium sakes.

“Our restaurant is mostly fish and rice and sauce,” Hiro says. “That’s the difference. It’s not fancy.”

Although the Airas had planned to retire in a year or two, Wasabi’s closing comes sooner than planned, as the restaurant’s building owner is selling the property.

“I enjoy my time as sushi chef,” Hiro says. “I enjoy meeting so many people. But 10 more years like this? I can’t do that. I’m old.”

You have until Sept. 26 to experience Wasabi for the last time.

Location:

On the west end of Main Street Mall in Breckenridge, Colorado 311 S. Main Street - facing Skelly Pond and Peak 8 www.wasabi-breckenridge.com

Traverse Restaurant & Bar

The Traverse’s New Chef Brings a Little Kick to the Elevated Menu

By Shaunna Farnell

The Breck Lodge and Spa restaurant offers unique flavors and best views around

As a testament to the stunning view from The Traverse restaurant – looking upon Breckenridge Resort and the entire Ten Mile Mountain Range from on high – the place’s own staff chooses it for their personal events.

Chef Michael Cruickshank got married there this spring and Dining Manager Myles Ridenour and his bride will do the same this summer.

“There’s no better view,” Cruickshank says. “It’s quiet here and you can really enjoy the peace of it.”

“It’s a special place,”

Ridenour agrees. “You can see three fourteeners from here.”

Growing up in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Cruickshank learned to cook with his grandmother.

“I started by watching her cook,” he says. “I always found it interesting.”

Working his way as a line cook and sous chef through kitchens like the Ritz-Carlton and The Broadmoor, Cruickshank’s knowledge expanded to global palates.

“In hotels, I got familiarized with different chefs and cuisines,” he says.

Named head chef at The Traverse this winter, Cruickshank keeps a few sprinkles of his Jamaican roots on the menu. Although selections change depending on what’s fresh for the season, mainstays like the jerk chicken wings come with a distinctive Jamaican kick, as do the flavorful porkchop and Jamaican green curry salmon plates.

“He puts his own twist on mountain-elevated cuisine,” says Ridenour, who helps create the cocktail menu, also featuring fresh-squeezed juices and house-made simple syrups.

“He brings flavor and spices that are unique.”

The Jamaican spice is comprised of scotch bonnet pepper, ginger, fresh thyme, garlic and soy sauce. However, many of The Traverse’s most popular dishes feature a special blend of complementing flavors. The elk tenderloin is served with a Breckenridge Bourbon blackberry demi sauce, the lamb chops with rosemary mint jelly, the butternut squash ravioli with brown butter.

The flavorful flare also appears in Ridenour’s cocktails, notably the summertime favorite lavender martini.

“We make everything fresh and locally source what we can,” Ridenour says. “There’s always a daily special. Patio seating is the best for summer.”

www.thelodgeatbreckenridge.com/breck-dining

Breckenridge Distillery

Tours, Tastings and More in Breckenridge, Colorado

FROM TOURING THE Award-winning spirit’s production facility to indulge in world-class cuisine, Breckenridge Distillery is truly an adventure for the senses. Whether you have time for the full experience at the Distillery on Airport Road, or you’re simply curious about tasting its award-winning spirits while strolling Main Street, the Distillery makes it easy, fun and delicious to discover what it’s all about. Here are 10 ways you can experience the Breckenridge Distillery.

MODERN-AMERICAN STEAKHOUSE

Breckenridge Distillery’s modern-American steakhouse atmosphere showcases seasonal and approachable dishes that impart not only the fantastic spirits of Breckenridge Distillery but also, their upscale mountain dining experience. Their family style menu features locally sourced steaks from Fitch Ranch. As always, the menu revolves around local produce, comfort foods with a twist and shareable dishes meant to encourage interaction and conviviality. Join them daily for lunch, happy hour and dinner. Visit our website for hours and offerings. Book a reservation at breckenridgedistillery.com/restaurant.

COCKTAILS

If it’s edible, chances are Liquid Chef Billie Keithley has made a cocktail out of it. And that’s one of the reasons she loves working for the Distillery so much. Billie Keithley was named Icon of Whiskey for Bar Manager of the Year, a tribute to her creative cocktail menu. “You will find suds, bubbles, fire or smoke on our menu, giving the guest and exciting experience paired with bold and seasonal flavors,” says Keithley. Popular menu staples include the Obi Wan Old Fashioned, made with Breckenridge Port Cask Whiskey. Ask for it smoked!

PRIVATE DINNERS AND EVENTS

Book a private dinner, wedding or family event at the Breckenridge Distillery. Parties up to 30 people can reserve their exclusive spaces surrounded by aging whiskey barrels, old barn wood, leather couches and an authentic mountain vibe. Their exclusive, private dining areas come with a personal wait staff and can be used for families, micro conferences, executive meetings, or small parties. For inquiries and bookings, email events@breckenridgedistillery.com

PRIVATE VIP TOURS

Breckenridge Distillery offers guests a VIP experience during their After Hours tours. Use your senses to experience the inner workings of how these handcrafted spirits go from grain to bottle while learning about the history of whiskey and how the distillery was founded. Enjoy samples of their award-winning spirits along the tour. Tours are offered at 5:00 pm and 6:15pm by reservation only. Book a VIP tour at breckenridgedistillery.com/tours.

TASTINGS & FOUNDER’S EXPERIENCES

The Breckenridge Distillery offers one of the most highly awarded craft bourbons in the U.S. Guests can choose from a limited menu of spirits and have the option to upgrade their tasting to try their highend flights. Tastings are on a first-come, first-serve basis at both Distillery locations. Looking for a more personalized and unique tasting experience? Try one of their elevated high-end flights or a chocolate and spirits pairing. Book at breckenridgedistillery.com/ tours.

WEEKLY TOURS

On their weekly tours, guests can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Breckenridge Distillery’s production facility. This abbreviated tour starts by tasting their award-winning Breckenridge spirits in the Founder’s Lab. Their expert guides will take guests on a 45minute tour through their original and active production facility and our Grand Barrel Room. Guests will learn about their whiskey production and get a brief history of this rich spirit. Book a tour at BreckenridgeDistillery.com/tours.

BLEND YOUR OWN WHISKEY

Nerd out with our distillers and become a master blender for a few magical hours. Breckenridge Distillery’s distillers are experts in nosing, flavor categorization and pairing substrates together to create a whole that far exceeds the expected sum of its parts. Guests will be taught to break down aggregate flavors while building a whiskey blend complete with mouthfeel and finish. Your blend will be hand bottled with a customized label. By reservation only. Book at breckenridgedistillery.com/tours.

BOTTLE YOUR OWN WHISKEY

Breckenridge Distillery’s newest experience invites guests to handbottle a premium whiskey, thoughtfully selected by their Master Distiller. Each bottle is finished with a one-of-a-kind, distilleryexclusive label. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, this experience offers a rare opportunity to take home the true spirit of Breckenridge—crafted by hand and finished by you.

MAIN STREET TASTING ROOM IN DOWNTOWN

In the heart of downtown Breckenridge, get a taste of not only the Distillery’s spirits but also a taste of what the Breckenridge Distillery is all about. From merchandise to personable, knowledgeable staff, this small tasting room is a glimpse of what you can experience at their main location on Airport Rd. Learn about current hours and offerings at breckenridgedistillery.com.

SHOP YOUR LOCAL RETAILER

Breckenridge Spirits are available nationwide at your local retailers. Shop your local retailer or get home delivery on your favorite Breckenridge spirits. Visit breckenridgedistillery.com to get delivery. Looking for fun cocktail recipes? Visit Billie’s Cocktail Lab on their website for 100’s of hand-crafted cocktail recipes.

Distillery Bar & Restaurant Main Street Tasting Room 1925 Airport Road, Breckenridge 137 S. Main Street, Breckenridge 970-547-9759 www.breckenridgedistillery.com

Continental Divide Winery

Create Your Own Custom Wine at Continental Divide Winery

Continental Divide Winery, Breckenridge’s original locally owned winery, gives you a fun and unique opportunity to be a winemaker for a day! Explore the art of wine blending with guidance from their professional staff. Use authentic vintner equipment to custom craft your own personalized wine blend, then bottle, cork and label your custom-crafted wine as a souvenir of your experience.

Awarded Best Winery Experience by Lux-Life Magazine, the Wine Blending Experience is an interactive and enter-

taining two-hour program offered daily (reservations required). “Think of this as high school chemistry where you play with wine instead of chemicals,” explains winery founder Jeffrey Maltzman.

Verified customer reviews sum up the activity best. “The best thing we did in Breckenridge! I cannot recommend it enough!” wrote Eileen from Boston, MA. “This was such a unique cool experience,” boasted Brittah from Big Lake, MN. “I loved learning and experimenting with how the flavors changed as we made our blends,” wrote Steve from Denver, CO.

The winery’s Main Street Station tasting room is open daily. Wine Tasting reservations can be made through OpenTable, but walk-ins are welcome.

To book a Wine Blending Experience call 970-771-3443 or book online at cdwinery.com.

Continental Divide Winery Main Street Station 505 S. Main Street Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-771-3443

www.cdwinery.com

Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

For more than 40 years, Mi Casa has been serving up bold Mexican flavors, handcrafted margaritas, and mountain-town hospitality just steps from the base of Peak 9. Whether you’re joining us after a day outdoors or celebrating with friends and family, Mi Casa offers a lively, welcoming space that’s full of flavor and fun.

Happy Hour + Free Chips & Salsa

Every day from 2–5pm, enjoy one of the best Happy Hours in Breck with unbeatable deals on house margaritas, draft beer, signature cocktails, and shareable bites. It’s the perfect way to relax, refuel, and soak in the vibe.

Outdoor Dining with a View

Take in the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery from our spacious outdoor patio. Whether it’s a quick lunch, happy hour, or long summer sunset, outdoor dining at Mi Casa offers unbeatable views and a vibrant atmosphere.

Large Group Dining - Room for the Whole Crew

Planning a celebration, group dinner, or special event? With large dining areas and flexible seating, Mi Casa is ideal for private parties, reunions, and group reservations of all sizes.

Flavors Everyone Will Love

From sizzling fajitas and fresh tacos to gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free options, our menu has something for everyone. Don’t miss our famous queso and handcrafted margaritas made with topshelf tequila and ffresh squeezed juices.

Come Taste the Tradition

Open Daily: 11:30AM-9PM

Happy Hour: 2-5PM

For Pickup Orders: Micasabreck.com 600 South Park Avenue, Breckenridge 970-453-2071 www.micasabreck.com

The Carlin

Rooted in Enlightened Hospitality, The Carlin combines exceptional dining, craft cocktails, live music, and luxury accommodations for a Breckenridge experience unlike any other, where every detail is designed to elevate your stay.

THE RESTAURANT

The Carlin restaurant o ers an open-kitchen dining experience featuring coastal-inspired avors, fresh oysters, nightly cuts and fresh catches, seasonal specialties, and sophisticated cocktails. Anchored by a wood-burning oven and raw bar, the menu is complemented by a distinctive weekend brunch. Perfect for celebrations, date nights, and everything in between.

THE TAVERN

Tucked below the main level, Tavern Underground serves craft cocktails, elevated tavern fare, and a rotating lineup of live music in a warm, inviting atmosphere. It's the ideal place to gather with friends or settle in for date night.

THE INN

Inspired by the charm of a Swiss chalet, The Carlin's four luxury guest rooms o er an intimate alpine retreat that blends mountain character with modern comfort. Thoughtfully designed and beautifully appointed, each stay is lled with comfort, convenience, and unexpected touches.

200 N Main St, Breckenridge • 970.771.3795 TheCarlinBreckenridge.com • @carlinbreckenridge

Radicato

Radicato, the second restaurant from James Beard Award winner Chef Matt Vawter, is a modern Italian restaurant in the heart of Breckenridge. Opened in June 2022, Radicato celebrates seasonal, technique-driven cuisine inspired by Italy’s culinary traditions while highlighting locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant showcases the best of Breckenridge and Colorado, exploring the connections between farmers and diners and creating an atmosphere built for connection.

Vawter owns and operates Radicato alongside partners Chef Cameron Baker and Director of Operations Patrick Murphy. The team of hospitality professionals is dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences and executing Vawter and Baker’s vision for “Mountain Italian” cuisine. Ingredients are carefully sourced and featured on ever-evolving seasonal menus. Open seven days a week, Radicato offers a range of options, from happy hour and an à la carte menu of pastas and entrees to a tasting menu with optional wine pairings.

T

he setting changes with the seasons. In winter, the dining room glows with warm light from Blue River Plaza, making it the perfect place to watch the snow fall on a winter evening. In summer, two outdoor seating areas offer fresh air, the sounds of the Blue River, and views of the Ten Mile Range. Inside, the dining room stays intimate, a space where guests can settle in and connect.

Hospitality is the central focus of the entire team, with one goal: creating world-class dining experiences for everyone who chooses to spend an evening with them.

137 S Main Street Breckenridge CO 80424 www.radicatobreck.com

Rootstalk

Rootstalk is a modern American restaurant founded by James Beard Award winner Chef Matt Vawter, built on the idea of connection and coming home. Born and raised in Summit County, Vawter spent the formative years of his culinary career in Keystone and Breckenridge. After time away, he returned with the dream of opening a place of his own and helping grow the region’s culinary landscape. He opened Rootstalk in December 2021, and his commitment to excellence was recognized when he won the 2024 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Mountain.

Vawter established the restaurant in a historic home on North Main Street. The name reflects the interconnected root systems of the Aspen groves surrounding Breckenridge, a nod to the connections fostered between guests, local producers, and the community. Rootstalk explores that idea through its cuisine, hospitality, and beverage programs, bringing locals and visitors together over shared meals.

The team’s approach is “Elevated, Everyday Dining.” The cuisine is ingredient-focused and technique-driven, working with farms, ranchers, and quality producers from Colorado and beyond. Cocktails are made with intention, and the wine program favors small-scale producers from around the world, classic to esoteric. Dinner is served nightly, with seven-course tasting menus paired with wine or non-alcoholic cocktails, a chef’s counter experience, and an à la carte menu. Two distinct dining areas complement each other: an airy upstairs with Main Street views, and the more intimate Root Cellar below. In summer, the flower-filled patios offer al fresco dining.

207 North Main Street, Breckenridge, Colorado www.rootstalkbreck.com

Summit Chamber Business Excellence Awards 2026

Each year The Summit Chamber of Commerce spotlights the incredible businesses and individuals who make our mountain community thrive – those who foster economic vitality and make sure that our local enterprises have the resources they need to succeed.

On April 9, 2026 the Summit Chamber welcomed the community to Warren Station in Keystone for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards - an evening dedicated to celebrating the businesses, organizations, and individuals helping Summit County thrive.

While the awards have always been about recognizing excellence, this year also highlighted something essential to the future of our community: the importance of supporting local in a meaningful, intentional way.

The Chamber’s Business Excellence Awards celebration represents the pinnacle of this commitment. These awards recognize those who embody the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and community dedication that defines Breckenridge and Summit County.

Read on to learn a bit more about each of this years winners, and discover all of the Runner-Ups who are helping make our communities a great place to live, work, and play.

New Business of the Year Echo Adventures

ECHO Adventures delivered licensed youth programming across Summit County, including outdoor-focused summer day camp with daily field trips, hiking, swimming, and team-building. Out-of-School Adventure camps during school breaks provides enrichment classes for ages 3–6 hosted at the PlayGarten; and family community festivals celebrating Halloween and the winter season. Each program blends adventure, creativity, and positive mentorship in safe, high-energy environments.

New Business of the Year Runner-Up: Playgarten

beLocal Business of the Year A&A Pet Supplies

A&A Pet Supply is Summit County’s largest locally owned pet supply store and grooming salon. The store offers a wide selection of pet foods, treats, toys, supplements, coats, boots, and more—curated for the dogs and cats of Summit County. A&A Pet Supply also provides full-service grooming and a self-serve dog wash, supporting pets and their people through every season of mountain life.

be Local Business of the Year Runner-Up: Creative Cabinetry Corp

Business Team of the Year Summit Express

Summit Express provides scheduled shuttle and private car service from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Summit County destinations, plus in-town transportation for weddings, reunions, corporate events, school functions, concerts, and outdoor adventures like rafting, biking, and hiking. At Summit Express, their culture is built on ownership, teamwork, and service. Every team member—from dispatch and reservations to drivers and operations—takes pride in doing the details right and stepping in to solve problems fast. The team communicates clearly, supports one another during peak demand and winter weather, and holds a high standard for safety, professionalism, and guest experience. That shared commitment drove their 2025 success: more consistent on-time performance, smoother coordination for groups and events, faster issue resolution, and stronger guest loyalty. They celebrate wins, learn from errors, and continuously improve—so guests and partners can count on them every day for their transportation needs.

Business Team of the Year Runner-Up:

Summit Daily News

Medium Business of the Year Summit Daily News.

The Summit Daily News has two main missions: Inform the community and support local businesses. The Summit Daily News offers the following products to their readers and advertisers:

• In print, the company offers a six-day-a-week newspaper, bimonthly real estate magazine, biannual visitors guide, annual trail guide and annual readers choice results guide. The comapny also offers design and printing of magazine products to their clients.

• For digital, the Summit Daily News has a website in addition to a full digital marketing agency suite of products.

Medium Business of the Year Runner-Up: Dillon Family Dental

Large Business of the Year Summit Express

Summit Express provides scheduled shuttle and private car service from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Summit County destinations, plus in-town transportation for weddings, reunions, corporate events, school functions, concerts, and outdoor adventures like rafting, biking, and hiking.

Large Business of the Year Runner-Up: Homewood Suites by Hilton - Dillon

Non-Profit Program of the Year

Elevated Community Health

Elevated Community Health (ECH) provides integrated, patient-centered for all through primary care, dental, and behavioral health services across Summit, Lake, and Park Counties. It operates 15 locations, including the newest Pediatric Dental Office. Through this location, ECH delivers accessible, high-quality care for children by integrating with school-based screenings, referrals, Medicaid acceptance, and a Sliding Fee Scale (SFS) program to ensure continuity of care and lifelong oral health.

Non-Profit Program of the Year Runner-Up: Cafe Food Rescue

Ben Fogel Chamber Champion

Corry Mihm

Corry’s connection to Summit County spans several decades. She first arrived alongside her brother, who came for a ski patrolling job, and like many in those early days, she built her life here by working across a wide range of roles - from restaurants and hotels to events and accounting. Along the way, she built not only a career, but a life rooted in community - meeting lifelong friends and her husband, and creating a home she feels grateful for every day.

Her commitment to giving back was instilled early on. Raised by small business owner parents, Corry developed a deep appreciation for volunteering and supporting others - values that have remained central throughout her personal and professional journey.

Corry’s impact on the local business and tourism landscape is both significant and lasting. She served for approximately nine years as the leader of the Breckenridge Resort Chamber (now the Breckenridge Tourism Office), helping guide the organization

during a pivotal period. She later founded her own company, Project Works, to focus on work that is both meaningful and impactful for the community.

Through Project Works, Corry partners with associations and businesses on marketing, events, business intelligence, and association management. Her experience spans work with destination marketing and economic development organizations, associations, private research and event companies, as well as hotels and restaurants. Across all of these roles, a consistent theme has been her ability to connect people and ideas in ways that move communities forward.

A central part of Corry’s work has been building relationships among businesses, nonprofits, and stakeholders to serve the greater good. Her efforts have focused on strengthening community vitality and developing strategies that enhance the places where we live, work, and play. She is a passionate small business advocate who operates where the art and science of business meet - always with an eye toward collaboration and long-term impact.

What makes Corry such a deserving recipient of this award is her belief that working together is the key to building a stronger community. She consistently seeks opportunities to support others, foster connections, and leave things better than she found them. Corry Mihm embodies the values at the heart of the Chamber’s mission, and we are honored to recognize her as our 2025 Ben Fogle Chamber Champion.

Government Department of the Year

Summit County Sheriff’s Department - School Resource Officers

The Summit County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officers (SROs) serve six schools in unincorporated Summit County with the mission of ensuring safe schools, reducing school violence, and fostering positive relationships between students and law enforcement.

The program’s objectives include preventing school crime, improving emergency preparedness, mentoring students, and education on various topics such as drug use, tobacco use, bullying, internet safety, and safe driving.

These organizations and individuals represent the best of Summit County’s business community and contribute immensely to our area’s economic vitality and quality of life. We look forward to seeing their continued success and positive impact in the years to come.

The Summit Chamber and Breckenridge Magazine congratulates all winners and nominees of the 2026 Business Excellence Awards.

For more information about the award winners or to learn how your business can get involved with the Summit Chamber, visit the website listed below or contact info@summitchamber.org.

www.summitchamber.org

Bruce Horii

It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of our friend, mentor, and steadfast champion of our business community, Bruce Horii. While he was a passionate advocate for local businesses, Bruce’s impact reached far beyond the Breckenridge business community—he was a champion for all of Summit County.

In 2024, Bruce was honored with the Ben Fogle Chamber Champion Award in recognition of his longstanding support of the Summit Chamber’s mission and his unwavering commitment to our business community. Through his selfless volunteerism, dedicated leadership, and generous spirit, Bruce played an instrumental role in fostering growth, collaboration, and connection throughout Summit County.

But Bruce’s contributions extended well beyond the Chamber. He was a true fixture in our community—the warm smile and welcoming hug waiting for you at nearly every event. He was the person people turned to for advice, encouragement, and support. In fact, it’s hard to think of a meaningful community gathering where you didn’t see Bruce and his wife, Donna, sharing their time, energy, and kindness with others.

Bruce embodied warmth, generosity, and a genuine care for those around him. He loved this community and the people in it as though we were all family. His ability to make others feel seen, valued, and supported was a gift that touched countless lives.

Bruce’s influence will continue to be felt for years to come through the relationships he built, the lives he touched, and the community he helped strengthen. Summit County is better because of Bruce, and we can all honor his legacy by striving to share the same kindness, compassion, and spirit of service that he showed every day.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

~ Cheri Ryan Executive Director Summit Chamber of Commerce

by Elaine Collins

by Elaine Collins

The Summit Foundation Golf Tournament

by Mountain Cat Media

Breck Create Other Worlds Opening

by Holly GoSpritely Media

Where

to Find Free Live Music This Summer & Fall

By Shaunna Farnell

History is Fun with Breck History Tours & Events

From the trails above Breckenridge, one can often hear the distant sounds of live music rising above town. Sitting in natural amphitheater, Breck is home to several epicenters of free live music this summer, ranging from regular après gigs to regional bands blasting good vibes from an airstream trailer and orchestra musicians popping up around town.

Après spots

Motherloaded Tavern unleashes free live music on its patio from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday all summer.

Rocky Mountain Underground (RMU)’s two locations get their rock on. The OG’s big patio and stage setup and the 112’s rooftop, where singer/songwriters sit and play amid the crowd, offer free live music most Saturdays and sometimes Friday and Sundays.

Airstage shows

NRO outdoor classical concerts

There are so many things to do besides ski and snowboard in our beautiful town. Some say History is boring but not when Breckenridge History presents it! This community-supported, nationally recognized leader in local historic preservation, historical interpretation, and tourism offers spectacular tours, events and museums that you won;t want to miss. .

Museums

Barney Ford Museum

Edwin Carter Museum

Breckenridge Welcome Center Museum

Alice G. Milne Memorial Park

Broken Compass’ OG location (on Airport Rd) hosts free music Acoustic Sundays from 4-7 p.m.

Gold Pan Saloon usually cooks up live tunes from 4-7ish on Saturdays.

Breckenridge Resort often has a talented regional act or artist often sets up at the Peak 8 base area most weekends.

Guided Activities

BBQ at the Base Music, Festivals and Fun

Flyfishing

Go Fish with our Towns Incredible Guides

These high-energy free outdoor concerts don’t actually happen inside the airstream trailer on display at the Breckenridge Arts District (the corner of Ridge and Washington St.), but it does help with the vibe. This summer’s lineup hits just about every musical genre from folk to funk, rock to bluegrass. There are a few seats (and a little shade) already in place, but most people bring camp chairs and the throng of dancers in front of the stage builds as the evening goes on. Well-behaved leashed dogs are also welcome. Beer and canned beverages are available for purchase. Concerts are every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. June 11 through Sept. 17. Check out the lineup by searching Airstage Summer Aprés at www.breckcreate.org.

We are not playing cards here. Our Gold Medal rivers are available to anglers all season long and is a beautiful way to take in the spectacular scenery that Breckenridge offers. Enjoy the outdoors with a guide and learn from some of the Best Anglers in the country. Want some solitude? Some gear (subject to availability) is available for those looking to get out on their own.

The National Repertory Orchestra, comprised of 80plus talented young musicians from around the country and beyond, performs ticketed shows every Wednesday and Saturday evening at the Riverwalk Center downtown. Also, quartets and quintets pop up for free afternoon shows around town all summer. Look for them at Barney Ford Museum (June 25), Blue River Plaza (June 30, July 4, ), Milne Park (July 2), Breck Alpine Garden (July 30) and on the Trollstigen Trail (July 16). They play all day around town during Symphony in the Streets July 6 and the NRO Distilled free music series lands at the Breckenridge Distillery on June 23, 30, July 7, 14, 21 and 28. Learn more at www.nromusic.org.

Walk Through History Tour

You don’t want to head out without a Colorado State fishing license. Head to these great shops:

Mountain Angler -311 S. Main Street www.mountainangler.com

Breckenridge Outfitters - 101 N. Main St. #B www.breckenridgeoutfitters.com

Walk Through the Darker History Tour

Snowshoe the Golden Horseshoe

Tombstone Tales Tour

Other Historic Activities

Gold Panning in Lomax Gulch

Victorian Tea

Head here for details: www.breckhistory.com

This summer, the mountains come alive at Beaver Run with an unforgettable lineup of live music, festivals, food, drinks, and family-friendly events from June through September. From outdoor concerts and holiday celebrations to beer and wine festivals featuring nationally touring artists, Summer Fest at Beaver Run is your soundtrack to summer in Breckenridge. Grab dinner, drinks, and a seat on the lawn while enjoying an incredible lineup of artists all season long.

Location: Beaver Run’s BBQ at the Base, Peak 9 Yappy Hour: 3 PM – 6 PM Featured Performances: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM www.beaverrun.com/summerfest

Snowcat Adventure

See the Mountains Like Never Before Enjoy a snowcat ride in Breckenridge like you experienced before!

Join the Breckenridge Nordic Center’s award an adventure on their state-of-the-art Prinoth Snowcat, and built in Italy. Ride in comfort in the heated, you can experience our beautiful forests with a and hot chocolate at one of the Nordic Centers destination The tour is approximately 90 minutes along beautiful

www.breckhistory.com

Breckenridge Outfitters is an Orvis endorsed, Full Service Fly Fishing Pro Shop and outfitter located in beautiful downtown Breckenridge Colorado. We offer numerous guide trip options. Whether you are a world class angler or just wanting to learn, we offer a wonderful experience and is a great activity for the entire family.

101 N. Main Street #B

Breckenridge, CO 80424 970-453-4195

www.breckenridgeoutfitters.com

Calendar of Events

June

June 20, 2026 – April 2027

Other Worlds

Site-specific installations transport patrons of all ages to worlds deeply rooted in themes of nature, the mountains, some wild and not so wild animals and of course, monsters at the Masonic Hall. www.breckcreate.com

June 7 - September 6

Breckenridge Sunday Market

Main Street Station 505 S Main St, Breckenridge, CO, United States

2026 Breckenridge Sunday Market The Breckenridge Sunday Market is bigger and better than ever featuring over 70 vendors from all over Colorado. -

June 26

Breckenridge Agave Festival

June 26 - June 28

Experience the best of Mexican spirits and culinary delights at Breckenridge’s Agave Festival, a thrilling celebration nestled in the picturesque Colorado mountains.

Main Street Station - 505 S Main Street

June 26

BBQ at the Base Summer Music Series featuring Dollhouse Thieves

3:00 pm - 9:00 pm

BBQ at the Base Summer Music Series Fueled by Monster Energy Enjoy free live music throughout the summer at BBQ at the Base on Peak 9! Grab dinner, drinks too. www.beaverrun.com

July

July 2 - July 6

43rd Breckenridge July Art Festival

Nationally ranked fine art festival set under the beautiful backdrop of Breckenridge, Colorado. Juried art show will feature top artists in 13 categories. Artists will all be present to discuss their original work and do demonstrations. Come see our flower installation to celebrate wildflower week! Free admission www.mountainartfestivals.com

July 2 - July 6

4th Fest

Beaver Run 4th Fest

Beaver Run Resort 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, CO

July 2–6, 2026 Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center –Peak 9, Breckenridge, Colorado Celebrate Independence Day week at Beaver Run www.beaverrun.com

July 2 - July 12

Breckenridge Wildflower Week

Welcome to the first-ever Breckenridge Wildflower Week. Experience beautiful blooms during Peak Week in Breckenridge, Colorado www.gobreck.com

July 4

July 4th in Breckenridge

Independence Day Celebration – July 4: A “Purple Mountain Majesty” themed day with a parade, art markets, the Sam Grisman Band, and a “Stories in the Sky” drone show. www.gobreck.com

July 5

July 5th Brunch at BBQ at the Base

10:30 am - 1:30 pm

Wrap up your Independence Day weekend with a Brunch at the Base of Peak 8. Spencer’s Steaks & Spirits 620 Village Road www.beaverrun.com

July 11

Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival

The annual Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival is one of the premiere summer events in the Rockies, bringing in over 40 of Colorado’s Breweries. Beaver Run Resort 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, CO www.summer.breckenridgebeerfestival.com

July 11

A Creative + Culinary Affair

Step into an unforgettable evening of art, flavor, and imagination—all in support of Breck Create’s free education and community programs. www.breckcreate.com

July 24 - July 26

Breckenridge Food & Wine Festival

The Grapes Are Calling from Breckenridge. The Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival brings you a unique, wine-tasting experience with over 300 wines from across the globe! Main Street Station, 505 S Main Street.

July 24

BBQ at the Base Summer Music Series featuring Zea Stallings Duo @ 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm

BBQ at the Base Summer Music Series Fueled by Monster Energy. Enjoy free live music throughout the summer at BBQ at the Base on Peak 9! Grab dinner & drinks. Beaver Run Resort - 620 Village Rd, www.beaverrun.com

July 31

BBQ at the Base Summer Music Series featuring Tyler Griffith @ 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm

BBQ at the Base Summer Music Series Fueled by Monster Energy Enjoy free live music. Grab dinner and drinks too.

www.beaverrun.com

August

August 6 - August 8

24th Annual Breckenridge August Art Festival

Join the August Art Festival in beautiful Breckenridge, Colorado! This nationally ranked art festival features artists in 13 fine art categories. Main Street Station, 505 S Main Street. www.mountainartfestivals.com

August 9 - 14

Breck Epic

The Breck Epic is a 6-day mountain bike race held in and around the backcountry surrounding Breckenridge. www.breckepic.com

August 20 - 23

Breckenridge International Festival of Arts

The International Festival of Arts returns with psychedelic installations and headliners Beats Antique and Pattie Gonia. www.breckcreate.com

August 20 - 22

Breckenridge Wine Classic

The Breckenridge Wine Classic takes place in the picturesque mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado.

Join us August 20 – 22 for an all-inclusive wine-tasting festival featuring live music and delectable bites. www.breckenridgewineclassic.com

For September, October & November Events

SCAN THE QR below and head to our Online Calendar that is updated weekly with new events:

No Kings in This Kingdom Welcome to the Kingdom of Breckenridge

By Shauna Farnell

Founded as a town in November 1859, Breckenridge has always been a royal oasis of nature’s gifts. Allegedly omitted from official maps of the United States in the early 1900s, it eventually became known as a kingdom – a slice of history that gave birth to a mindset that some people, especially long-time Breck locals, still embrace today.

In the early days, the area’s natural gifts did not fall from the sky, but came from within the earth. People flocked here in search of gold, as evidenced by the remnants of mines, mine tailing piles and dredge boats in and around town. The mining rushes ebbed and flowed over the years, reaching a high note with events like the discovery of Colorado’s largest gold nugget, Tom’s Baby (which you also may know as one of the steepest ski runs at Breck Resort, under E Chair on Peak 9). Breck’s economy took a dive during the Great Depression, which is when a group of local women came across maps they claimed showed that Breck had never been formally annexed into the United States.

“They contacted the governor and made this huge spectacle. There was a massive turnout. The governor came up, there was a marching band and flag-raising. It made national news,” says Breckenridge History Director Larissa O’Neil. “A Colorado historian contacted them and was like, ‘hey ladies, there’s this other treaty and Breckenridge has always been part of the United

States.’ But the ladies didn’t want the fun police raining on their parade, so they ignored it and went on with their event.”

Run annually for decades to come, the event became No Man’s Land, including beard-growing and chainsaw-carving contests. In the 1960s, the bigger event, launched by ski resort founders Trygve Berge, Bill Round and Sigurd Rockne, was Ullr Fest, complete with a Main Street parade, local king, and queen. The aim was to lure more skiers into town after the resort’s rather slow first season. The town produced its own currency in honor of the event, but the U.S. Treasury put a quick end to it. It was around this time, in the early 1970s, that the town’s Chamber of Commerce placed a sign on Highway 9 reading “The Kingdom of Breckenridge Welcomes You.”

“The idea has stuck ever since,” O’Neil says. “Breckenridge has this desire to be seen as a different sort of place from the rest of the country – whimsical and fun and eclectic.”

As the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary and Colorado its 150th in 2026, Breck History is launching a special exhibit at the Welcome Center Museum this April. Stop in to check out the “Kingdom of Breckenridge” road sign and many other artifacts from Breck’s most character-building and debaucherous era.