Gondola Gossip

For locals & for Visitors

Over 60% of ski and snowboard travelers say the apres and nightlife scene play a role in their resort choices. With increasing uncertainty regarding snowfall, especially during the early and late season some resorts have decided to diversify and invest in complimentary attractions including national recognized musical acts. That being said, not all resorts and communities have the same passion, will and venues to host these types of live music events.

Millennials spend more money on travel and entertainment. So if you're looking to put heads in beds visitors are far more likely to schedule a trip that combines their passion for both the mountains and music. Do you know what kinds of music people listen to? If one of your favorite bands is playing at a venue in one of your favorite mountain resort towns…you don't have to be a genius to figure out when and where my friends and I are planning our mountain trip! When you're booking in advance its nice to know there is another reason you'll enjoy the trip just in case the condition are less than perfect.

Deep Powder Days are still the best. But, on the other hand… if we're planning a trip solely based on resort name or snow conditions you might be increasing the likelihood of being disappointed by poor snow conditions or inclement weather by the time you get there. The same local restaurants and bands will be there day in and day out when the snow is deep and when there isn't much to speak of… they'll be there waiting whenever visitors show up not necessarily giving them a reason to show up.

A balance of music genres and styles complimented by national known acts with songs people know and love is more and more difficult to find and enjoy. Many destinations have lost sight of the distinction between the music they and their friends like and the fact that visitor may enjoy something other then the same artists or style of music over and over. Just because there is an audience, doesn't mean other styles and genres wouldn't have an audience too. Plus, most in-door mountain venues hold only 400 to 500 people comfortably at the same time.

Think about it this way… the local musicians promote themselves and venues, usually on facebook, where they're playing to their local friends. Perhaps some people will tell visitors about their friends show, but visitors are not coming and booking hotel rooms, etc. These are local shows where the venue is hoping to capitalize on locals as their primary customers not a destination audience. This is a strategy that hedge the venues bets on entertainment cost, while having a local audience at the bar regardless of snow conditions.

It's up to you. Some folks enjoy heading to their favorite mountain destination each year, and pretending to be a local. Others are looking for more events, nightlife and entertainment options to make the most of their travel dollars regardless of snow conditions.