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Large orbs illuminate Aspen pedestrian mall with holiday glow

New light orbs illuminate Aspen's pedestrian mall on Wednesday evening.
Ray K. Erku/The Aspen Times

Aspen’s pedestrian mall is radiant this winter with a luminous upgrade: white orbs that light up the snow with a soft, inviting glow.

This new installation is more than a visual treat — it’s a collaborative effort that blends artistry, sustainability, and energy conservation to rejuvenate downtown Aspen.

The display — a partnership between Aspen’s Parks Department, the Downtown Business Services Department, and Tim Sack of Buckhorn Public Arts — addresses aesthetic concerns while navigating the challenges of the area’s aging energy infrastructure.



“It started as a necessity,” said Steve Barr, Aspen Parks Department parks operational manager. “There was some discussion in previous years amongst a few departments within the city that the holiday light display on the malls was a little dark and one-note. It was at this time that the parks team explored a couple of subtle upgrades in the hopes that this could provide an enhanced experience.”

Early efforts fell short due to infrastructure limitations. 




The team stands in front of the orbs. (Left to right) Steve Barr, Aspen Parks Department parks operational manager; Emmy Garrigus, lodging and commercial core program manager with Aspen Community Development; and Tim Sack of Buckhorn Public Arts.
Westley Crouch/The Aspen Times

“Our previous attempt stressed the power infrastructure, resulting in random outages,” Barr explained. “However, feedback from the community and local groups reignited the push for something more dynamic.”

This led to a collaboration with Emmy Garrigus, lodging and commercial core program manager with Aspen Community Development, and Sack. He recalled how he became involved. 

“I inquired how we could help by potentially making it a public art project,” he said. “The city welcomed the creative help, and while this year we didn’t have the budget to commission an artist project, we did have some budget to activate.”

The team aligned around a shared goal to create a cleaner, more inviting, and visually interesting display that functioned within the constraints of the existing energy grid. 

Sack’s solution: durable, glowing orbs.

“These glow balls were the best and most impactful solution I could find that would also handle the tough conditions of being outside through an Aspen winter,” he said. “My goal was to bring a welcoming and elevated illumination to the often dark walking malls.”

Barr credited Sack for his expertise. 

“We are so happy to be partnering with Tim and his organization because it introduces a third party that is trusted with a long list of successes in the public art arena,” Barr said.

The new lights, which can shift from pure white to rotating colors, aim to transform the pedestrian mall into a more vibrant and engaging space. Garrigus highlighted the broader impact. 

One of the orbs hanging above the pedestrian mall.
Ray K. Erku/The Aspen Times

“The installation sparks curiosity and delight among viewers, and we’re hopeful that businesses benefit from increased foot traffic as people visit the mall to enjoy the moment created by the globes,” she said.

Sack shared his satisfaction with the outcome, noting the improved ambiance. 

“The pedestrian malls are now more inviting and illuminating than in years past,” he said.

By infusing the mall with a soft, enchanting glow, the project not only enhances the evening experience for visitors but also supports local businesses. 

“The new lighting is a great reason to visit the pedestrian mall,” Garrigus said.

To help with projects like these, visit buckhornpublicarts.org to learn more or make a donation.