This morning, the Vail Valley Partnership put on a breakfast scrambler at the Vail Chophouse for local businesses to meet and greet. Being a Connecticut native and a new intern onboard with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, I enjoyed having the unique opportunity to interact with fellow business people in the Vail Valley so soon.

A common thread of the conversations I had has stuck with me throughout the day: a lot of the people that migrate to Vail have a past story, a hometown that is probably not close by, and a common interest for adventure and natural beauty. It’s easy for those of us who are new to the area to quickly feel at home; many of us are making new friends, new business contacts, and establishing a comfort level with the unparalleled setting of Vail.

Although I’m new to the Valley, I have been living in Boulder for over a year. No, I wasn’t a CU student like most 20-something-year-old people living in Boulder. I was one of the drifters that packed up my car after college, and… drove. Having a fellow Tulane friend that relocated to Boulder allowed the move to be a smoother transition, but I really had no idea what would come my way. To be honest, I had imagined that I would be moving back to where I thought my heart remained, in New Orleans. However, since the epic road trip out here, I haven’t been able to consider the thought of parting with Colorado. Not yet. It’s difficult to pinpoint why, but I think it has a lot to do with the humility that comes along with the awe-inspiring Rockies.

Relocating to the Vail/Beaver Creek area has already been an exciting last three days (I told you I’m brand new). My first few days on the job couldn’t have been more informative in a comfortable, yet enthusiastic and professional atmosphere. So far with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, it’s become apparent that I will be embarking on a journey with a talented group of young, innovative, and enthusiastic individuals. On my first lunch break, we ventured into the village to enjoy some local, casual dining at the Tap Room. Naturally, I ordered a sandwich called the “hippie wrap” – a fine vegetarian option that other hippies coming up from Boulder might appreciate. The menu also included a wide variety of pub fare for all you meat eaters, and a decent beer selection, hence the name of the establishment. I was also pleased to attend the last Hot Summer Nights concert at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater with co-workers, followed by some quality time on the town in Vail Village.

I look forward to the next few months that await me with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals and being further immersed in the serenity of Colorado. We are a team of friendly, knowledgeable, locals, and are eager to assist those of you with that itch to venture out here too. We provide a variety of lodging and concierge services, such as lift tickets, local advice, and adventure packages. Check out our website for upcoming events and more information, or give us a call at 1-888-866-2305.

As the sun sets in the beautiful Vail Valley on a perfect summer night, the only place you need to be is at the Gerald R. Ford Ampitheater listening to free music, hanging with your friends, and enjoying some great people watching. Tonight Toad the Wet Sprocket is on stage as part of their summer tour for everybody in The Valley to enjoy. Dancing is encouraged, but not necessary. Food can be brought in, blankets are always a good idea,  and with all these combined, your fun-meter is guaranteed to be overflowing.

If you enjoy any of the following: fun, friends, food, sunshine, mountains, the 90’s, dancing, laughing, music, meeting new people, getting out of your house, or enjoying some local mountain culture, then I should see you at the amphitheater tonight in East Vail. I’ll be there tonight with my friends from here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, and you owe it to yourself to come and enjoy some free music as well.   I see only positives coming from an evening of fun at the Hot Summer Nights concert series this evening.

Toad the Wet Sprocket is one of the most popular alternative rock/folk bands of the early 90’s, with two platinum albums and multiple chart topping hits, and you can see them FREE tonight.

For more information regarding the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, the Vail Valley or on finding lodging in Colorado, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305. See you there. You owe it to yourself.

When: Friday-Sunday August 20-22, 2010 

Where: Gerald R. Ford Amphitheatre in Vail, CO. 

Time: All day. 

Ticket information: General admission 2-day pass: $70. General admission 1 day pass: $35 in advance, $45 day of. 

Details: Vail, Colorado is proud to host it’s very own Soul Music Festival this summer of 2010. The three-day, two-night celebration is a Legacy Entertainment Inc. production, featuring a wide selection of live performances, cultural activities and empowerment events. The artists scheduled to perform at the Vail Soul Music Festival include Grammy-award winning musicians, up-and-coming artists and local talent. Genres to be performed at the Festival include Blues & Neo Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Alternative Rock  and Hip-Hop. 

For those interested in obtaining the complete Vail Soul Music Festival experience, 2-day tickets are available with unlimited access to all the performances, events and activities. The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheatre is an outdoor venue with both covered seating and open seating on a grassy hill. In addition to the performances, events and activities, the Soul Village Expo will be made available for vendors to promote and sell their products. 

Featured Artists: 

Raphael Saddiq: From creating platinum records with Tony! Toni! Tone! to being a Grammy winning producer, Raphael Saddiq has been one of the most influential artists of his generation. Saddiq’s innovative style can be described as a combination of classic R&B with 60s soul. As a solo artist, Saddiq has only added to the immense amount respect he had already earned in the music industry. 

Dwele: The 28-year Dwele first emerged on the music scene two years ago with his critically acclaimed album “Subject”. Dwele’s genre can be classified as a mix between Jazz and R&B with a hint of hip hop. 

Liv Warfield: Currently most famous for her recent album “Embrace Me” Liv Warfield is an up-and-coming soloist with the voice of a star. While her genre mostly falls under the direction of R & B, her innovative style has been known to mix in a touch of Rock n Roll. 

Jonathan Bryant: One of Colorado’s most promising young performers, Jonathan Bryant is quickly on the rise with a distinctive voice and style. Bryant’s music incorporates R & B, Soul and Gospel.

This past weekend I went to the Teva Mountain Games, my first one ever. After being in Vail for two weeks, this was definitely the highlight of my stay. The events, the crowds and the atmosphere were mind blowing. Friday I was able to take a couple hours off work to head down to the Village for a sneak peak of what was going on. I had enough time to catch the freestyle female kayakers and the men’s world cup bouldering qualifiers. I was amazed. The strength and stamina of the athletes blew my mind!

I had never seen live competitions of either of these sports so my eyes were glued. The kayakers did crazy flips and turns and jumps that I didn’t believe were possible in a kayak. There was even a 16-year-old girl competing! These women were amazing at what they did. But what truly blew my mind was the bouldering. The strength of these competitors and the resilience was unlike anything I’d ever seen before. And as a fan of rock climbing, I know all too well how hard it is to go up a wall. But these guys made it look so easy! It was incredible and definitely my favorite event of the weekend.

Friday was a nice introduction to what was to come, but the real festivities happened on Saturday. The streets were teeming with people, white tents were set up everywhere and the smell of BBQ and beer was intoxicating. Everyone was happy and carefree, and the weather was absolutely gorgeous. It was a perfect day to be outside with friends. This time I got to see the dogs jumping events and some more of the bouldering. Most of my time was spent just lying on a field munching on a pulled pork sandwich while enjoying the summer sun and the awesome atmosphere.  After all, that’s what weekends are for.

The Teva Mountain Games bring more than 2,000 professional and amateur athletes to Vail to compete in kayaking, bouldering, climbing, fly fishing, mountain biking, stand up paddling, road cycling, running and rafting events. But people won’t be the only contenders at the event. Dogs will also have the opportunity to showcase their talents and win notoriety at the Games.

Dogs will have the chance to compete in three events: Speed Retrieve, Extreme Vertical, Big Air Wave and Doggy Dash. The events measure speed, height and length. The Speed Retrieve, the newest of the competitions, is a game of speed. A toy duck is placed at one end of the pool and the dog must jump in from the dock and fetch it. The judges measure the time it takes the dog to reach the duck. The Extreme Vertical measures the height of a dog’s jump. This is accomplished by positioning the dog on a 10-foot-high platform above the water and making him jump to get his toy. The Big Air Wave is all about distance. The dog runs down the dock and jumps into the water after his toy. The distance is measured up to where the dog hit the water. The final event, the Doggy Dash, involves owner and dog running through an obstacle course as fast as they can.

For the first time in the history of the Teva Mountain Games, the Speed Retrieve, Extreme Vertical and Big Air Wave will be Zone Qualifiers for the 2010 DockDogs World Championships. The winners of each event will automatically be invited to the championship for that particular discipline. This goes to prove the intense competition at the Games, for people and dogs.

The dog events will take place throughout the weekend. A complete schedule of events is available. Online registration is $20 to $25, depending on the event. It is open until 5 p.m. Friday, June 4.

If you need help finding pet-friendly lodging or planning other activities to do with your dog while you’re here, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals by calling 1-866-348-5129. They will help you plan your entire Vail weekend.

Our last Vail Teva Mountain Games update was all about general event information, an overview and the schedule of the first day- June 3 with the Bud Light Lime Steep and Creek Competition and the free concert in the Vail Valley.

Today we will tell you more about the IFSC Bouldering World Cup which is scheduled as of today for Friday June 4^th with the women and men qualifiers, and then with the semifinals and finals scheduled for Saturday June 5^th. The IFSC Bouldering World Cup will be presented by Pyramide and will take place at the Mtn. Plaza at the Vista Bahn Lawn.

Bouldering is a kind of rock climbing. But in contrast to rock climbing, bouldering is usually without a rope, not very high up, rarely higher than 3-5 meters, more vertically along the rock or boulder.  Bouldering is practiced on large natural boulders, rock faces, and artificial boulders, in gyms or even on buildings or public architectures. Unlike traditional climbing that requires a lot of endurance and longer stretches, bouldering focuses on short term power, strength and dynamics. There are three main disciplines in bouldering- lead, boulder and speed.

IFSC stands for “International Federation of Sport Climbing”.  The IFSC World Cup Serious 2010 consists of about 16 competitions all around the world. The world cup started off at the last weekend of April in Trento- Italy. The next bouldering world cup competition will be next weekend, May 14^th in Greifensee- Switzerland. The third IFSC World Cup will take place in Wien- Austria. After three weekends in Europe, the bouldering competitors will come to the US- to Vail where they will compete during the Teve Mountain Games from June 3^rd till June 4^th. After that they will go to Moscow, Eindhoven in the Netherlands, Sheffield- Great Britain, Chaarmonix- France, Daone- Italy, Munich- Germany, and then in August in Xining- China, Chuncheon- Korea, in September back to Europe to Imst- Austria, Puurs- Belgian, at the end of October to Huaiji- China and then for the last bouldering competition one more time to Europe to Kranj in Slovenia.

This is going to be an amazing event. Only the very best boulder competitors from all around the world will give their very best. Come out and watch it. In case you need a place to stay check out Lodging Deals provided by Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals!

See you all !!!!

The Teva Mountain Games are the nation’s largest mountain sport event. Celebrating mountain lifestyle, outdoor competitions and events and music concerts- the 2010 Teva Mountain Games hosted form June 3 to June 6 in the Vail Valley are gone be an incredible event you should not miss.

Top professional and also amateur athletes from all around the world will compete in eight different sports in overall 24 different disciplines for over $ 100,000 in prize money. The eight sports are biking, climbing, dogs competing, running, fishing, kayaking, rafting and stand up paddling.

As of today, the 2010 Teva Mountain Games will start off on Thursday June 3 at 10am with the Bud Light Lime Steep Creek Championship which will be presented by Thule at the Homestake Creek, Red Cliff. Homestake Creek is dropping 480 feet per mile which makes this competition one of the most popular and interesting not only to race but also to watch. If you want to compete in the quarter mile creek race register fast- there is only a limited number of starter places for the first round- so make sure you get in there! The ten fastest female and the ten fastest male will then compete in a second round and the fastest time will determine the winners.

Registration for the race on race day opens at 8am at the Homestake Creek – Red Cliff. At 8.30am there will be the possibility to practice in the Steep Creek. At 9.30am the time trail will start. So if you are only there to watch the challenging race- try to make it there by 9.30am to see all competitors. And then at 10am the Steep Creek Championship will kick off. Check regularly the Teva Mountain Games website to see if there were any changes in the schedule!

The Steep Creek Championship is gone be a popular and promising competition since there will be professional athletes from all around the world to win the $ 2000 Price money for the first man and for the first woman. The second man and woman can each win $ 1000 and the third will get $ 500. The 2009 winners of the Steep Creek championship are Mike Dawson from New Zealand and Nikki Kelly.

To round the first day and the first competition of the 2010 Teva mountain games up- there will be a free concert in the heart of Vail Village. Starting at 7pm at Checkpoint Charlie there is gone be the first half of the Bud Light Mountains of Music show where DJs and Band will rock the village.

Try to make it to Vail to the first great day of the 2010 Teva Mountain Games. If you need some great lodging deal to stay for the whole games check this out!

Tubing has always been one of my favorite past times for summer (along with a cold beer, a foot- long brat, and a Rockies’ team win at Coors Field), but a shiny new gem has caught my eye: kayaking. One of the most popular competitions at the Teva Mountain Games (June 3-6 this year), I know it is harder than it looks but I think I can do it. Having never even sat inside of a kayak, I thought it would be a smart move to learn a few things, and I couldn’t have picked a better place than Vail to do it!

After some web browsing, I’ve made a plan of action that I intend to take over the next few weeks, just in time for the Teva Mountain Games! I’ll let you know how it goes!

Step 1: Learn about kayaks. Did you know that there are over 7 types of kayaks?

Some are made for quiet, fishing trips, while others are made to navigate whitewater rivers! I think I will start out easy on a recreational kayak- until I find my sea legs! While researching, I found that there is a serious lack of safety education when it comes to recreational kayaks. This will be my next step because I value my ability to enjoy the great outdoors, especially in the Vail Valley area! With companies such as

Step 2: Attend a kayak safety course. Knowing what safety gear I need could help me avoid sticky situations! There are many procedures that I need to know and be able to execute such as we exiting, t-rescues, and self-rescues that will all be covered through the right training courses. The internet may be useful, but it doesn’t quite match the feeling of getting water up your nose while you are locked into a floating boat! Use this website for teaching children about boat and kayak safety.

Step 3: Take a class. At first, I wanted to jump in, but after plenty of reading and realization that I can’t tackle white water on my first day, I’ve decided that a class with certified professionals is my best option. They provide the equipment, knowledge, and training I need to be on my way. It may not be tomorrow, but I will start out my kayaking adventure right! In most cases, safety is the main focus of beginner classes, followed by skill and then actual water time. As demonstrated in this video, anything can happen while you kayak! Watch this shocking video of what happened to some ocean kayakers! Kayakers are terrifyingly surprised during their trip…

Step 4: Get on the water! After I become confident in my skills, it’s time to play! I can’t wait to explore the area’s natural playground where river meets adventure! Hopefully, if I love it enough, then someday I, too, will be competing in the Teva Mountain Games!

Step 5: Watch and admire the pros! I appreciate every athletic competition more, whether it’s basketball, softball, or even tennis, after not only learning about how difficult it is, but by trying it out! My admiration grew after realizing that navigating a thin, light weight craft through raging waters doesn’t happen overnight. Hopefully, while attending the Teva Mountain Games I will be able to pull aside some pro’s and learn what their experiences were to get here! Good luck to all of the Kayaking athletes who are competing in the 2010 Teva Mountain Games!

Summer in Vail at the Teva Mountain Games:

The count-down is on! There are officially 40 days until the 2010 Teva Mountain Games. But if you’re not the athletic type, there are plenty of other things that will be going on to keep you entertained. Here are 5 awesome events and opportunities that will be at this year’s Teva Mountain Games!

1. Free Concerts! It may sound too good to be true, but I tell no lies! There will be two nights of free concerts at Checkpoint Charlie’s located in the Vail Village. The first concert is scheduled for Thursday, June 3 and the second concert is that Saturday, June 5. Both nights will feature various DJ’s and bands. Who exactly will be performing has not yet been determined so keep checking back to find out!

2. Parties! After a long day of watching or participating in these grueling athletic feats, take some time to relax and enjoy the nightlife here in Vail. The Teva Mountain Ball is on June 6 at 10 pm. Everyone is invited to dress up in the finest prom attire and dance the night away! Historically, this is the party that you do not want to miss! Also, the first annual C4 Waterman Sup and Subs party will feature the Outdoor Reels film screening and hold a luau. So, get your grass skirt ready and your tuxedo pressed because these parties will be EPIC!

3. Outdoor Reels! Film makers from across the nation will be showing their newest films on Friday, June 4. There will be a cash bar and a question and answer session after each showing. This will be a rare chance to really hear the inspiration behind these great films and have fun doing it!

4. Volunteer! If you want to get special access to the events but don’t want to pay for it, consider being a volunteer. Volunteers help make any event happen and give people an opportunity to be involved instead of just attend. You can apply to be a volunteer online at no cost!

Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals has LODGING DEALS on our website, Teva Mountain Games Lodging

With summer just behind some April clouds, I am excited to be outside as much as possible, including for eating! When I am not backpacking or hiking, I take a work break refuge by eating outside- almost any patio will do, but if you are looking for the best where you can still enjoy the Teva Mountain Games atmosphere, then don’t fret, I did an office poll of where the best places to snag a snack where sunglasses are required, and why. Here’s what we came up with:

Vendetta’s. Not only is this the best place to grab a late night snack, but Vendetta’s back patio catches some great late afternoon sun. Try a “Ray Jay’s Wave” pizza (Canadian bacon, green peppers, and pineapple) for a full summer effect.

Red Lion. Located in the heart of everything that is happening in Vail, get here early because the Red Lion always has a full patio. I recommend trying their dry, smoked ribs with a local Colorado brew… 1554 by New Belgium goes great with a burger, too!
La Bottega. Enjoy the northern Italian casual restaurant, and take a look at their lunch menu. Watch out!  The sandwiches are very large, and make for a great split meal, and I haven’t found a better Meatball sub in all of Colorado! La Bottega’s patio is in Vail Village, and is one of the best spots for people watching.
The Marketplace. Across from La Bottega is the Marketplace that also includes the Tavern. Don’t want to stay for lunch? No problem, the Marketplace has a steady supply of fresh, organic meats, cheeses, and produce for you to create a personalized and healthy meal.

Big Bear Bistro. Located at the top of Bridge Street, Big Bear Bistro is the place to stop for breakfast! Featuring fresh, and locally roasted Vail Mountain Coffee, they make getting your travel group ready for a day of kayak, raft, climbing, and even canine competition viewing easy. My top recommendation: try their breakfast burrito, complete with Mike’s Finest Green Chile. Stop by in the afternoon, or call in- they do pickup as well as delivery in Vail Village.

Looking for a place to stay? Our office offers condos, private homes, and pet-friendly lodging!

Spring Back to Vail starts off TODAY!!!

Yesterday we had some more snow showers in the Vail Valley, and today- perfectly timed for the start off day of the Spring Back to Vail week, we have sunshine, blue sky, perfect conditions and about 50F. So perfect conditions to get up, enjoy some more skiing before getting to the first event of Spring Back to Vail- the Bud Light Apers Party at Los Amigo’s from 4-5:30PM. After that you should come right to the last time STREET BEAT- the free outdoor concert in Vail Village at Checkpoint Charlie. No matter if young or old- kids, mums, dads and grandmums…everybody loves the free concerts of Street Beat. Today there will be a Thriller featuring DJ Logic show with a Michael Jackson costume competition and the Volvo Giveaway event. After Street Beats it is not done- keep partying at the Bud Light Post Party in The George from 8PM till closing….

Then on Friday there will be a free concert and a free movie. Spring Back to Vail invited Sierra Leone’s Refugee All- Start which will show an impressive documentary about their country, life and how they made it to America and they will as well have a concert. The documentary will start a t 6 PM and the concert after the documentary will last until 10PM. In addition to the concert and the documentary there will be Bud Light Apres Parties from 4-5:30PM in the Red Lion and the Arrabell, and then a Bud Light Post Party in The Club from 10-12AM.

Then on Saturday after an amazing day skiing there will be the free concert with Wyclef Jean and the very special guest Robert Earl Keen. The concert will start of at 5PM in the Ford Park. Wyclef Jean is known for his amazing concerts and nobody should miss the opportunity to see and hear him on stage for free!

In addition to the free concerts there are Apres Ski Parties presented by Bud Light and Captain Morgan hosted in Whiskey Jack, Vendettas, Los Amigos, Tap Room, Samana and The Club.

Then on Sunday it is finally the very very last day of skiing- Closing Day in Vail. Get your old school ski costume on and come up on the mountain. See the Rockstar World Pond Skimming Championship and enjoy another free concert from Guster at the Vail Village.

This is gone be an incredible time. If you cannot make it for the Street Beat today come up latest on Friday or for the amazing free concert on Saturday. If you need some last minute lodging check out the special Spring Back To Vail Deals here!!!

See you all soon !!!

1. 

   by RaceFace.com

   Sunscreen! Even you have a darker complexion Vail is over 8,000 feet above sea level and the sun here will fry you crispier than a trout fillet! Also bring a hat and sunglasses for added protection. All the events during the Teva Mountain Games are outside, so come prepared. Spend a few minutes in your vacation rental applying sunblock, especially on your children.

2. Walking shoes. Although I also love girly wedges with glitz and glam, showing off a new pedicure is not my goal during the Teva Mountain Games. Save the pedicure show for the Vail Arts Festival in Lionshead Village June 25-27.
3. Pet leash and doggie bags. Although I doubt my girl, Piggy, will be competing in the Dock Dogs competition (where dogs compete in vertical, distance, and strategy competitions), leashes are required throughout the Town of Vail during the Teva Mountain Games. Don’t forget to make your favorite family friend earn their fun- Pig has a backpack and carries her own supplies such as food, water, and even her doggy bags.
4. Re-usable water bottle. Don’t waste resources while keeping yourself healthy and hydrated during the Teva Mountain Games. In the summer heat in Vail, it’s easy to get distracted and forget to drink the recommended 8 glasses a day. Thirsty? Gear Town, located on Meadow Drive, will have many water stations where you can refill that eco-friendly water bottle.
5. Camera. Whether you are competing in the photo competition recording family memories, keep your camera accessible because you won’t want to miss a great shot! Another idea: in order to stick to your budget, bring your camera along with you throughout Gear Town, take pictures of your favorites, then go through to pick out your favorites. Some of the best and newest gear can be sampled, tested, and bought. A few of the sponsors attending the 2010 Teva Mountain Games are: Nalgene, Osprey Packs, Trek Light Gear, and Badger Mountain Campers.
6. A rockin’ Prom Tux or Dress. Don’t forget to dig out that high school prom dress or tuxedo, because the Teva Mountain Ball is back! Located at Samana Lounge, and at the low price of $5, you will be one glass Teva

   slipper away from missing the 8 am 10k Spring Runoff!

7. Save by staying in an alternative lodging option. Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals offers private homes, condos, and even pet-friendly lodging. Check out your options, utilize fully-stocked kitchens, use the complimentary concierge service, and get advice from a local staff. We live and love here!

Like every year, Vail will pull of one of its biggest and most fun events at the very end of the season-  SPRING BACK TO VAIL from April 12 to April 18 in Vail and on the mountain at Vail. SPRING BACK TO VAIL is Vail’s huge end-of-the-season bash with free concerts from national headliners, on-snow events and crazy fun street parties. The most famous event is the well known greatest spectacle of all – the World Pond Skimming Championships.

You have never heard of pond skimming- then the best thing is to come up to Vail and check it out- you will have a blast….Here a short explanation: Pond Skimming is a competition anyone can enter, sometimes in a costume or even in a bathing suit. The goal is to get enough speed going down the mountain so you can skim the pond which is set up at the bottom of the mountain and get to the other side without ending up in the pond. The faster you ski, the better chance you’ll have of making it to the other side of the pond

Friday, April 16
Free Movie and Concert
Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-stars documentary
Sierra Leone’s Refugee All-stars concert
Location: Checkpoint Charlie in Vail Village
Time: 6pm-10pm

Saturday, April 17
Free Concert with Wyclef Jean presented by Bud Light
Opening: Very Special Guest Robert Earl Keen
Location: Ford Park
Time: Robert Earl Keen at 5pm; Wyclef Jean at 7pm

Sunday, April 18
Rockstar World Pond Skimming Championships
Location: Golden Peak on Vail Mountain

Time: 2:30pm-4:30pm  ****Free BBQ****
Guster
Free Concert
Location: Checkpoint Charlie in Vail Village
Time: 4:30pm immediately following Pond Skimming

Most people stay Thursday till late Sunday or even early Monday –

Check out special lodging deal here !!!!!

JAZZ MUSIC, the American invention that was conceived during the Harlem Renaissance, has an important place here in Vail. The Vail Jazz Festival, which begins June 27^th and lasts until September 6^th, will feature an array of performances and a variety of venues including Jazz at Farmer’s Market, Jazz at Vail Square, and topped off by the Labor Day Weekend Jazz Party. Last year’s Jazz Festival provided the town of Vail with extraordinary performances that left everyone wanting more. This year is sure to have the same level of fantastic entertainment in the cool mountain setting.

Henry Bulter: Performer at Vail Jazz Festival

To kick it all off, The Vail Farmer’s market will present 10 free concerts, scheduled every Sunday from noon until 3:30pm. Local and regionally-based talent will provide natural musical accompaniments to the fantastic shopping and amazing food that The Farmer’s Market is already famous for. This is summertime hot spot for locals and visitors alike with activities and entertainment that the whole family can enjoy!

The Vail Jazz Foundation has also planned a series of evening performances, Thursdays at the Vail Square in Lionshead starting August 5^th and lasting until September 2^nd. The sounds of Jazz will permeate the cool evening air at this venue which offers over 250 covered seats for attendees to sit and enjoy the fantastic music.

The icing on this jazzy cake is the 15^th annual Labor Day Weekend Jazz Party from Thursday, September 2^nd until Monday September 6^th. This internationally acclaimed event will feature five days and nights of the world’s greatest jazz musicians. The event is hosted by the Vail Marriot Resort in Lionshead and will provide an intimate cabaret-style venue for these spectacular musicians to perform. Musicians are given creative license to engage in awesome jam sessions with other featured artists. You can’t miss this spectacular event! Tickets can be purchased through the Vail Jazz Foundation Office for $45/afternoon, $55/evening, and $350/event. For more information, you can call the Jazz Foundation at 970-479-6146 or you may order your tickets online, beginning in June at www.vailjazz.org.

Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals is extreemely excited about all of the upcomming summer events, including the Vail Jazz Festival. If you have any interest in music, I encourage you to look into planning a visit to Vail so that you may partake in this acclaimed event. The summer months are so fantastic here and the Vail Jazz Foundation really does a fantastic job at making this a top notch event!

Summer in Vail keeps getting better with this year’s addition of the first annual Colorado Soul Festival, to be held August 20-22, 2010. The Soul Festival is produced by Legacy Entertainment, out of Denver. Legacy Entertainment is no stranger to the Vail Valley, due to their commitment to producing an annual women’s retreat at the Vail Cascade Resort and Spa for the last three years.
The mission of Colorado Soul Festival is to celebrate the heart of soul music with top musicians, empowerment seminars, workshops and cultural activities. The festival will feature live performances by some of the greatest Rhythm & Blues, conscious Hip Hop, alternative Rock, Blues &Soul artists from around the world. Producers estimate that the first annual festival will bring in 2,500 attendees over the span of the three day summer event.
The Soul Festival comes at a great time for Vail Valley businesses. As the summer winds down, in turn does summer business although the weather during this time of year is beautiful.  I know I’m excited to put on my dancing shoes and experience what soul music is all about!
CSA

Vail America Days

July 4^th 2010- from the early morning till the very late night!!!

Every city, town and village has their own unique celebrations for the 4^th of July, but in the past years, Vail America Days exceeded them all. Celebrate the birth of American in one of the finest and highest mountain location in the United States- up in VAIL- Valley!!!

As in the past years, the celebration starts with a red, white, and blue parade that winds its way through the downtown area of Vail Village. That is followed by an All-American picnic, entertainment in Vail Village and Lionshead, a concert at 2pm at the Ford Amphitheater and free music at the Ford Park all afternoon and into the evening. As alternative you can also go to the Fourth of July Clambake in Beaver Creek where you can enjoy free live entertainment, barbeque, seafood and other food, plus outdoor fun for everyone regardless of their age- fun for very little to older generations is guaranteed. And the very end, finish an amazing 4^th of July day off with viewing the fabulous Vail America Days fireworks which take place at approximately 9:45pm Pat Golden Peak.

If not Vail than 4^th of July in Breckenridge:

4th of July in Breckenridge includes: free concerts at the River walk Center, Mountain bike races, kids activities on Main Street, art festival, the amazing 4th of July in Breckenridge fireworks display, and our Fourth of July parade down historic Main Street. 4th of July in Breckenridge is one of our most attended events because it is during our beautiful summer season.  If you like mountains and nature, but not snow and below zero temperatures, a summer vacation during 4th of July in Breckenridge is perfect for you. The temperature is usually between 60-75 during the day, no humidity, and full sun.  Please be sure to bring plenty of sun block, you will need it.

Here the Breckenridge Schedule:

8:30AM, 10k Firecracker trail run- Mountain bike trail race around Breckenridge.

10AM is the garden party Brunch at the Barney Ford House

10-6 is the July art festival- this is the 25th annual art festival of Breckenridge, held at Main street station, free admission.

11AM Parade

The firecracker 50 mountain bike race will kick off just before the parade starts- this is the 5th annual 50 mile mountain bike race, which starts from Main Street in Breckenridge and ascends 12,000 feet up into the Rockies.

All day long Kids activities,  on the fourth- Includes the classic water fight put on my our own red, white, & blue fire department, as well as inflatable bouncing madness in our town square.

2PM Royal Crown big band concert- This event is held at the river walk, bring your dancing shoes.

8:30PM National Repertory Orchestra- The NRO puts on the annual concert celebrating independence day. This event is held at the River walk center in Breckenridge and is free of charge.

9PM Fireworks!!- Right after the free concert put on by the NRO, tilt you head up and witness the annual fireworks display.

20th Annual Taste of Vail

From Thursday April 8, 2010 until Saturday April 10, 2010

Vail is gone have its 20th food and wine festival. The annual three-day event is held at several venues throughout Vail Village. Participants at the Taste of Vail will enjoy the best wines from over 50 of the country’s most noted vintners. In addition, visitors will dine at Vail Valley’s world-class restaurants, fine wine poured by winemakers and winery owners from top wineries around the globe, participate in interactive seminars, auctions and dance. As well as going to the Colorado Lamb Cook Off, après ski tasting and the popular mountaintop picnic sensory extravaganza at the top of Vail Mountain. The event will start of on Thursday morning with Celebrities on Snow, the Belgian Beer Lunch and the 5^th Annual Colorado Lamb Cook- Off and après ski tasting. Then on Friday there will be again Celebrities on Snow, a seminar, mountain top picnic, and live auction chef showcase and at night a cigar seminar. Saturday will start off with the aphrodisiac foods army reiley, and the Josh Wesson Seminar. In the afternoon, the Taste of Vail Festival will finish   off with a Pinot Noir Speed Dating Style Seminar and the Great Tasting and Dinner Dance.
In the past years, Vail could welcome more than 5,000 people for the Taste of Vail Festival.

So mark the date- be part of the event and enjoy amazing days in Vail during the Taste of  Vail.

Click here, here and here to see some fun videos from the past Taste of Vail Events !!!

The Vail Film Festival, scheduled for April 1-4, is a premier annual event that attracts up and coming celebrities and filmmakers for 4 days of artistic appreciation. The Program Categories include Features, Documentaries, Short Films, Activism Showcase, Family Showcase, Adventure Film Showcase, and Student Films. There are a variety of passes available for purchase. The passes are priced from $65 to $500+. The Vista Pass, which costs $65 permits access to films, panels, and the festival’s hospitality lounge. The Patron Pass is the most expensive, starting at $500. This is the premier pass and grants VIP access to the films, panels, opening night party, filmmaker reception, first track skiing (Mountain opens early for festival pass holders), and access to private VIP Cocktail Reception with attending celebrities (among other perks). Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals can provide you with a variety of ski in-ski out accommodations which will make it easy to take advantage of the first track skiing perk! With over 36,000 local accommodations to choose from, you will truly feel like an A-lister! Celebrities who have been honored in the past at the Vail Film Festival include Sophia Bush(2007), Hayden Panettiere(2007), Olivia Wilde (2008), and Adrian Grenier (2008).

Visitors wanting to attend the Vail Film Festival but who also love to ski or snowboard are covered. All Film Festival activities are scheduled in the afternoon and evening. Additionally, with the purchase of a pass, visitors will get deeply discounted lift tickets. Other great events including the Street Beats featuring Danielia Cotton, Taste of Vail, and Spring Back to Vail will also be taking place in the following days, just more reasons to extend your stay!! The Vail Valley is only so large, so Book your accommodation today and partake in one of Vail’s most prestigious events!

When you thinking of heavy drinking on the weekends, Coffee usually isn’t the first thing that comes to mind – not the case for me! After the weekends, I have to practically detox from coffee overdose. Waking up at 5 am to work at Loaded Joes Coffeehouse on Saturdays and Sundays, I definitely have to keep myself on a steady coffee fix to make it through the morning! If you’ve never checked it out, Loaded Joes conveniently has two locations in the Valley; one in Vail next to the Covered Bridge and the other in Avon beside Finnegan’s Irish Pub.
Vail’s Loaded Joes is more of a fast-paced coffee shop where you can get a quick sandwich, wrap, bagel, or pastry and get yourself out to those slopes! Plus, right now, during the entire month of February, if you stop in between 9pm-2am at the Vail location you can put your name in a drawing for $1000 to use at Loaded Joes. Now that’s a lotta lattes!
If you prefer more of a lounge and local atmosphere, make sure to sit around the bar at the Avon’s Loaded Joes. They also have nightly events that, I can vouch, are so much fun! Last night, most of us who work here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals went out to Open Mic night at the Avon Loaded Joes to support our co-worker Nick, who was playing his first open-mic night. Watching the singers and instrumentalists with a drink in hand was a nice, chill ending to Valentine’s Day! Check out the Calendar of Events so you don’t miss out on what’s happening at Loaded Joes. http://loadedjoes.com/index.php?option=com_eventcal&Itemid=27

So if you’re coming to the area, you’ve got to stop in at Loaded Joes and if you’re here on the weekends, come visit me on Saturday mornings in Vail and Sunday mornings in Avon at Loaded Joes!

The festivities haven’t stopped in New Orleans since the Saints took Super Bowl XLIV.   Now it’s Vail’s turn to do some celebrating.   CarniVail, February 14-19, brings the best of Bourbon Street to Vail Village for days of music, parades, greasy foods and partying. The Fat Tuesday celebration kicks off tomorrow afternoon at 3 pm with the Bud Light Parade and Street Party, featuring a performance from a local favorite, the Frogs Gone Fishin’. That is as long as the Frogs make it back from the real Mardi Gras celebration in NOLA where they also preformed.  The parade will conclude with the official crowning of the CarniVail King and Queen. Only in Vail do we find a way to incorporate Homecoming with Fat Tuesday… The party continues at Samana Lounge with EOTO, “Elephants Only Talk Occasionally”. EOTO consists of Jason Hann and Michael Travis, of the String Cheese Incident. So prepare yourself for lots of hippies and if we’re lucky hula hoops, at this funky fresh show.  Make it a good Fat Tuesday!

CSA