Vail – October 16, 2026 -- Vail Mountain is opening its winter with ILLENIUM at the new Dobson Arena on December 11, part of a 2026/27 music lineup that includes seven on-mountain performances, three more than last season, and two brand-new venues.
ILLENIUM and Ian Asher headline Dobson Arena
GRAMMY®-nominated, multi-platinum artist ILLENIUM kicks off the season with a marquee show on December 11. Surprise performances are possible throughout the weekend, and Vail says artist announcements will appear at @VailMtn.
On January 16, Southern California DJ and producer Ian Asher takes over the same stage. He is best known for viral electronic and house remixes, including the billion-stream "Makeba" remix, which earned Remix of the Year honors.
Dobson Arena has been converted into an entertainment venue with more than 56,000 square feet of production capability. Shaydar Edelmann, vice president and chief operating officer of Vail Mountain, said the resort is working with the Town of Vail and community partners to give guests more chances to hear music together.
Last season's sunrise concert returns as inspiration
The 2025/26 season brought on-mountain performances from SOFI TUKKER, Dillon Francis, Chris Lorenzo and John Summit. It also included the first sunrise concert beneath the Legendary Back Bowls sign. More artists, venues and mountain activations will be announced throughout the winter.
Après lineup grows around the music
- Vail Ice Bar: The tradition returns next to the Legendary Back Bowls Gate, with drinks, music and après on the mountain.
- Après All Day at Express Lift: Located at the base of Gondola One from opening day, it features more than 50 performing artists, nearly double last season. Live DJs play every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., in collaboration with Outer Range Brewing.
- Chasing Rabbits: The Rabbit Hole returns with late-night DJ sets after lifts close. Previous performers include Loud Luxury, Dombresky and Chris Lorenzo. This winter's lineup, still to be announced, already includes a Coachella headliner and a Billboard Music Awards nominee.
- Stoke Sessions: Live music every Friday for the first month of the ski season, with the lineup coming soon via @discovervailcolorado.
Epic Pass discounts for young skiers
Epic Passes for the 2026/27 winter are on sale now. Skiers and riders ages 13-30 can save 20% on an Epic Pass or Epic Local Pass. Buyers of either pass also receive five Epic Friend Tickets, which give 50% off adult lift tickets and 25% off child lift tickets.