The Summer Teva Mountain Games held in Vail, Colorado is pretty much one of the coolest events held all summer.  The Games combine athletes, art, and music, all in the beautiful mountain setting of Vail, Colorado.  This year’s event will kick off May 31 and conclude June 3, 2012.  So I’d like to let you know why the Teva Mountain Games are at the top of my summer hit list.

1) Swag!  Who doesn’t love free stuff?  At the Teva Mountain Games, free is pretty easy to come by.   Being a respected and well established event has its perks when it comes to attracting Sponsors. Whether is free stickers, socks, or Chipotle burritos, – there is swag to be had!  At Teva, the vendors’ line up tents throughout Vail Village, which is better known as “Gear Town”.  Gear Town attracts really cool companies who are there to educate and introduce their products to like-minded consumers.  In fact, I’ve discovered some really cool companies through Gear Town over the years!

2)  Free Music!
The Vail Valley Foundation never disappoints when it comes to booking amazing artists to perform for free during the event.  Last year at the Teva Mountain Games The Dirty Heads and Xavier Rudd both put on amazing shows!  Organizers haven’t released the line-up for this year’s event yet, but I’m confident that when they do, it will be something to look forward to.

3)   Amazing athletes
No matter what event you find yourself at during the Games, you’re going to have a good time.  Athletes come from around the globe to compete in kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, rafting, and much more during the Games.  There are even competitions for our little furry friends in Golden Peak.  Last year our office dog Aussie got a taste of the action in the Duck Dogs Competition.

4)      Participate!
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to engage in some friendly competition at the Teva Mountain Games.  There is a 10k, Vail Pass Marathon and Mud Run among other events that anyone can register for.  Last year me and a few girls I work with did the Mud Run and has a blast and half!

Lodging in Vail comes in a great price during the summer months.  I recommend calling one of our Destination Specialists today to learn more about the Teva Mountain Games and secure a place to stay!

Located just 75 yards from the ski lift to one of the best ski resorts in America lies the Vail 21 condominiums. The property offers a location that can’t be beat along with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Choose from one, two or two plus loft bedroom condos, able to sleep from two to six people.

Staying at Vail 21, you are able to cook a tasty dinner for your whole group in the comfort of your own full size kitchen. Guests may kick back and relax in front of the fireplace in the spacious living room or recline and gaze out on incredible mountain views through the floor to ceiling windows. Or step outside and take a breath of fresh mountain air from your private balcony. If you feel like leaving the condo, there is plenty to do in the town of Vail.

You can ski or snowboard in the breathtaking mountains, go ski biking (which is always a blast), build a giant snowman, go ice skating or just take in the beautiful scenery. In the Village you can find everything from world-class shopping to souvenir t-shits, or from interior decor to outdoor sporting gear. Also during the winter there are a variety of wonderful events such as live music, sports competitions, baking competitions and Christmas celebrations. Getting around town is made easy by the Vail free bus, so don’t hesitate to make a full list of activities to do while you are visiting. When you are feeling hungry and don’t feel like cooking at home, be sure to visit one of the many delicious restaurants in Vail for a variety of dining options.

When you return to Vail 21 condos, unwind in the outdoor rooftop and sauna. Keep your family and friends updated about your wonderful experiences throughout your vacation through complimentary internet, or watch your favorite game or television show on the TV. There is also a laundry facility at Vail 21, making laundry while on your vacation a breeze. Finally, there is daily housekeeping at the condos, giving guests the comfort of a hotel.

And remember, when you book by December 15^th you can save 15% OFF your lodging!

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals Launches Inaugural
Publication of Elevated Living

 

 

Vail, CO, - Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals (RMVR) is pleased to announce the release of their inaugural  publication of Elevated Living, a magazine dedicated to mountain travel enthusiasts looking to plan the perfect mountain getaway.

 

Elevated Living, designed by Diana Flores, is a publication featuring over 100 short-term rental properties in the most sought after Colorado resort destinations such as Aspen, Vail, Telluride, Breckenridge and many more.  The magazine was created to embrace, guide, and inspire those who share in RMVR’s passion for the mountains.

 

“Elevated Living is a natural extension of our marketing as a way to tangibly present our services and the expansive lodging inventory RMVR offers.  Elevated Living was designed to encompass everything you want and need to know when planning a ski vacation.  These details are found in the local insight provided by articles written by our staff, mountain statistics, property details, ratings, maps, and resort information”, stated James Bengala, President of Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals. “We’re working hard so you can play harder.”

 

The Publication was received by over 9,000 households across the world.  Elevated Living is also being offered free of charge through email request, or can be found online at http://tinyurl.com/elevatedliving.

 

About Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals
Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^®.  Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, founded by Tommy Z. Hoffman in 1998, provides comprehensive Lodging, Concierge, and Real Estate services in the Rocky Mountain region.  RMVR utilizes a local staff to provide a customized vacation experience for guests, offering 24/7 online booking with Destination Specialists located in: Aspen, Snowmass, Vail, Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper, Telluride, Crested Butte, and Winter Park.  To learn more call (877) 578-1507, or visit RockyMountainVacationRentals.com.

 

 

 

Contact
Cali Adkisson
877-578-1507

Cali.Adkisson@RockyMountainVacationRentals.com

 

Check it out!

Vail Valley Bizwatch: Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals

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.

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 !!!!

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!

Its almost that time of year again, we all know it, some of us dread it, but most of us cant wait for the parties…wedding season is fast approaching and the invitations have been sent.  As I check my mail box I look for the next invitation I cant help but think about my ever dwindling pocket book.   While I love weddings I also know they start to get pricey, especially when you have more than a couple of weddings to attend and be a part of.  And its not just the weddings, I have to think about the bachelorette party and bridal shower with each of these momentous events. So I have to wonder how can I keep this affordable, fun, and special for groups large and small.

I love living in the mountains for a number of reasons, and yes I still like it in the off season just after the ski season is over and right before summer gets into full swing.  The off season is the perfect time to host a bachelorette party or even a bridal shower.  It is exciting and sometime stressful planning these events for my friends and family but since I am in the travel industry with Rocky Mt Vacation Rentals and Rocky Mt Group Travel I am happy to take on the task of planning for the group.  So here are some helpful tips.  Ask for a group rate- you have more than 10 people traveling with you, then it is a group and discounts are available.  Take time to research when the peak and low season travel seasons are.  Traveling in the off season discounted lodging rates are often available.  Find out what local events are going when you are traveling.  Work with locally operated companies, they will have a better insight as to what to do, where to go, what the most recent specials are, and more.

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!

This year’s end of season “Spring Back to Vail” celebration is sure to be the best yet!  The town of Vail has planned a FREE three day free concert series that will feature Wyclef Jean, Guster, Robert Earl Keen, and Sierra Leon’s Refugee All Stars. Other on-mountain events and in-town parties including the World Pond Skimming Championships will also be taking place April 12^th through the 18^th. The concert series begins the night of April 16^th with Sierra Leon’s Refugee All Stars. Their reggae sound and celebratory vibes are sure to get this party off on the right foot! Rober Earl Keen, one of my personal favorite country musicians, is scheduled to perform the following night. I’m not kidding, his song “Feeling Good Again” ranks into my top 20 songs of all time and will surely get the crowd swaying to his unique and alternative sound.

Wyclef Jean is scheduled to take the stage after Keen. He has recently been featured in the media for his participation in the Haiti relief efforts. He has numerous hit songs and has been a staple in the music scene for years. Jean broke through the musical scene in the mid-‘90s as a member of The Refugee Camp (The Fugees), a three-member group that included Lauryn Hill and Prakazrel “Pras” Michel. Blending hip-hop, reggae, R&B and folk, Jean broke off on his own in 1997. His show at Spring Back will be the first concert to debut songs from his new album “Wyclef Jean,” which was released in February 2010. To close out Spring Back’s three-day concert series, American alternative rock band Guster will perform on Sunday. With 12 albums and 13 singles, Guster’s sound includes bongos, cymbals and other drums.

All of these artists are extremely talented so don’t miss their performances! If your wanting to stay in Vail for that weekend, you can take advantage of Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals great spring break lodging deals! You can book lodging that is literally in the village so that getting to and from the concert will be as easy as walking across the street! This is truly a once in a life time experience complete with all the parties, events, and music that you can imagine! 

Robert Earl Keen

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

The Vail Arts Festival at Lionshead Village is a three day event that showcases over 75 artists from all over the U.S. This spectacular event will include artwork of various media ranging from large-scale sculptures, to jewelry, to paintings. As an artist myself, I have always been eager to attend this and other art festivals (including the Breckenridge Art Festival) in the past. Never have I seen so much talent in such a laid back, natural atmosphere. It beats walking through a stuffy gallery or museum and it is truly an event that the whole family can enjoy. There is awesome food, live music, and so much engaging artwork, you will surely want to spend more than one day enjoying it!! The Breckenridge Art Festival, which occurs over the 4^th of July weekend (2nd-4^th, 2010, is ranked the 18^th best art fair in the United States by the Art Fair Source Book. Last year at the Breckenridge Art Festival, I was blown away both by the artists and the incredible food. Yes, I think it was the gyro stand that truly left me speechless!

 

(The Breckenridge Summer Arts Festival)

 

Imagine:  As you casually stroll between booths, the smell of festival food wafts through the 70 degree summer air. You stop and gaze at a magnificent piece of artwork that catches your eye. The artist is sitting in the nearby shade, watching all the on-lookers peer in at his work. He approaches you and tells you about his artistic inspiration, his work, and its meaning. After a short discussion, you move on and continue to enjoy the unique artwork and the beauty of the mountains.

 

The weekly Vail Market  is a farmer’s market and art show that offers fresh Colorado farm and gourmet products. This event is accompanied by live music, delicious snacks, Colorado wines, a mechanical bull, railroad rides, caricatures, free balloons, local arts & crafts, flowers, and more! This is the largest farmer’s market in Colorado with over 100 tents each week! During your summer stay in Vail, it is worthwhile to visit the Vail Market, happening every Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:30pm, June 20-Sept 12, 2010.  

There is no better time to visit Vail, CO than in the summer. The Vail Arts Festival, and other spectacular events including, Spring Back to Vail, The Vail Film Festival, and Taste of Vail will attract thousands of visitors to the gorgeous mountains this year. If big events are not your thing, I guarantee that your summer vacation in Vail will be epic! You can strap your mountain bike to the back of a chairlift and bike down. You can white water raft. You can hike to the peak of a 49,000 foot mountain for peat’s sake!! And with the sun always shining, you can even catch some rays hanging by the pool!! So get up here! Book your vacation now and enjoy all that Vail has to offer this summer!

(A hike through the picturesque mountains is far more entertaining than lying on some beach!)

So you want to come out to the Mountains for vacation but are unsure of what to do with the kids? Bring them along of course! There is a great assortment of activities that children can do around here besides just putting them in ski school all day or finding a sitter.

I’m so excited for my younger sister, who is 8, and mom to get here at the end of the month; even living here I’m having a hard time narrowing down exactly what I want us all to do together because there is so much offered for all ages!

To give you some suggestions, I will list a few of the things I am planning to do as well as some other activities you should try:

• Dog Sledding ride (because my sister aspires to be a musher someday )
• Ice Skating in the middle of either Beaver Creek or Lionshead Village
• Snowshoeing or Nordic (cross-country) skiing, which is a bit quicker to pick up for the kids than alpine skiing
• When you call www.RockyMountainVacationRentals.com to book your vacation make sure to inquire about a place with a hot tub or heated outdoor pool, which the kids would love!

As summer approaches, there are these additional activities you can do with your family:

• Kids ride the gondola for free!
• Go to the top of the mountain in Lionshead to enjoy all kinds of free activities such as volleyball, horseshoes, and bocce ball at Adventure Ridge
• While you are at the top of the mountain, visit the Discovery Center for free and opt in for a guided nature hike!
• Skateboard at the Vail Skatepark
• Activities near water such as whitewater rafting, fishing, and canoeing
• Bike trails, hiking, rock climbing, and public parks
• Indoor open-ice public Ice Skating
• And if you want a quick break, you can drop your child off at Imagination Station in Lionshead for up to three hours where the staff guides your child through activities based on their interests!

If you are looking for more info on a specific activity, visit Vail Recreation District’s website at http://www.vailrec.com/.

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!