Mountain Mayhem: Harvest Party

More than 800 community members over two days took part in Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES)’ Harvest Party at Rock Bottom Ranch. In the past, the fall tradition was held on one single afternoon with upwards of 1,400 guests. This year, it took place on Saturday, Oct. 16, and Sunday, Oct. 17, divided into four separate time slots to make a socially distant celebration on the picturesque plot of land near Willits. And, best of all, the weather cooperated with a glorious weekend of sunny skies and mild temperatures.

Access to the sold-out event included pumpkin carving, hayrides, farm tours, an opportunity to harvest and keep vegetables, play ranch games, make crafts and press apple cider. Food trucks offering salads, pizzas and empanadas were on site, offering fresh and healthy options for purchase. Each day featured live music in the open air barn with Elk Range followed by Citizen Twang on Saturday and Dan Sheridan followed by Hell Roaring String Band on Sunday.

Alix and Fabrizio Zangrill of Monkey House Carbondale were the premier Barnraiser Sponsor, Forum Phi underwrote the pumpkin patch, Alpine Bank sponsored the apple cider press, Of Grape and Grain provided the wine and Four Dogs in Basalt provided the beer. Seed Sower sponsors included Christie’s International Real Estate, Holy Cross Energy, Reese & Henry and Company, and KO Public Affairs.

“I think it’s important to remind people that harvest celebrations happen all over the world with food, traditional games, music and more to give thanks to the natural world which provides us so much!” noted Development Director Christy Mahon.

Thanks to ACES for continuing this tradition and connecting our community with nature in every season.