local
Summer season kickoff
By Andre Salvail/Aspen Daily News at Aspen Daily News
· June 19, 2026
· 1 min read
Aspen chef Emily Oyer raises two ears of corn above a cooking demonstration table during the Aspen Chamber Resort Association’s annual Hotel Jerome luncheon to kick off Food & Wine weekend and the summer tourism season. Corn accompanied the main…
Why this matters in Aspen News
The annual Hotel Jerome luncheon marks a pivotal moment for Aspen's economy, as it signals the start of the summer tourism season. With the ski resorts closed, the town's businesses rely heavily on the influx of visitors drawn to the Food & Wine weekend and other summer events. The presence of local chefs like Emily Oyer, showcasing the best of Aspen's culinary scene, is crucial in attracting and retaining these visitors. As the summer season gets underway, the city's infrastructure and services will be put to the test, from the Aspen Police Department managing crowds and traffic, to the Aspen School District's facilities being used for various events and activities. The success of this season will have a direct impact on the local economy, making the Hotel Jerome luncheon more than just a social event, but a key indicator of the town's economic vitality.
About this story
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Category: local ·
Published: June 19, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Daily News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Aspen chef Emily Oyer raises two ears of corn above a cooking demonstration table during the Aspen Chamber Resort Association’s annual Hotel Jerome luncheon to kick off Food & Wine weekend and the summer tourism season. Corn accompanied the main…
When was this published? This article was first published on June 19, 2026 by Aspen Daily News and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Andre Salvail/Aspen Daily News at Aspen Daily News. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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