The Ultimate Guide to Ullr Fest Breckenridge

Breckenridge Ullr Fest bonfire

Ullr Fest Breckenridge, 2019

Ull Frest in Breckenridge 2019, December 11-15. This is the first year that Ull Fest will happen in December, moved from January in previous years. Ullr Fest will celebrate 57 years this December.

The Ullr Ice Plunge has been canceled for the 2019 season due to current weather conditions.

What is Ullr Fest?

Ullr Fest is an annual Breckenridge event that lasts for 4 days. All the locals and visitors gather in the Town of Breckenridge to celebrate the God of snow and sports – Ullr. People believe that by praising this Norse God it will bring a ski season full of snow. When there is a lack of snow – skiers and other winter sports enthusiasts pray to Ullr.

You can find out more info here.

Who exactly is the Ullr?

Ullr Fest Breckenridge
Acrylic painting by Floyd Johnson, ULLR Ski Club member 1960s-1980s

Ullr was the son of the grain goddess Sif, and therefore the stepson of the thunder god Thor. Ullr was an excellent archer, hunter, skater, and skier, handsome and warlike. However, most important to us snow lovers, Ullr is the god of skiing. As the undisputed master of skis, he often used his skill to escape from foes or track down prey in addition to shredding fresh POW.

It is said that Ullr was such a great skier that he would streak across the sky leaving the brilliant stars as his trails. He was such a good archer and ski-runner that no one could rival him. Though very skilled, Ullr guarded his knowledge closely and refused to show the other gods how to ski.

Within the winter skiing community of Europe the Old Norse god “Ullr” is considered the Guardian Patron Saint of Skiers. A Ullr medallion or Ullr ski medal, depicting the Scandinavian god Ullr on skis holding a bow and arrow, is widely worn as a talisman by both recreational and professional skiers as well as ski patrols in Europe and elsewhere.

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How did Ullr Fest start in Breckenridge?

It all started after Breckenridge Ski Resort was opened. A couple of locals organized the Ullr Dag festival. Back in the day, there were a lot of ski school instructors from Norway, where they had a long tradition of celebrating the god of snow – Ullr. The festival had events that are very similar to today’s celebration such as ski parade and competitions. The first crowned King and Queen for Ullr were Governor John Love and his wife Ann Love. They opened the parade by flying four jets above Main Street and finishing it with a bonfire.  In Breckenridge, we continue to celebrate and hold this festival as a thank-you to Ullr for the greatest snow each year.

Ullr Fest Breckenridge Line Up of Events 2019

December 11

  • CROWNING OF THE ULLR KING AND QUEEN – Doors Open 6:00 pm and Crowning at 6:30 pm at  Riverwalk Center
  • BRECK’S GOT TALENT – Show at 6:30 pm at  Riverwalk Center
  • LIVE PAINTING DEMO AND POSTER SIGNING WITH DAVID V. GONZALES – Live Demo at 6:30 pm at Riverwalk Center

December 12

  • WORLD’S LONGEST SHOTSKI® UNOFFICIAL WORLD RECORD BREAKING ATTEMPT –  At 3.45 line up at Breckenridge Main Street – You need to register and you can do it here.
  • ULLR PARADE –  At 4.30 at Breckenridge Main Street – If you want to register your float, do it here. Your float needs to be registered by December 11, 5.00 pm.
  • ULLR BONFIRE – At 5.00 – 7.00 pm at South Gondola Lot. We will burn Christmas trees from previous years.

December 13

December 14

  • ICE SKATING PARTY – At 1.15 – 3.00 pm at Stevephen C. West Ice Arena | $4 skate rental, free entry
  • ULLR ON THE EDGE – At 4.00 pm at Arts Alive Gallery, 500 S. Main Street

December 15

  • LIVE PERFORMANCE FROM THE WOOD BROTHERS – At 7.30 pm at Riverwalk Center | $41 advance /$46 day-of-show *STANDING ROOM ONLY*

Ullr Fest Breckenridge FAQ

Is Ullr Fest Suitable for Families?

Yes! Breckenridge Ullr Fest is a family-friendly event, however, to participate in certain events like the Shotski®️, you must be 21+ with a valid form of ID.

Are Dogs Allowed at Ullr Fest?

Pets are allowed at Ullr Fest outdoor events like the Shotski®️ (if not participating) and Main Street Parade, however, please be aware that there will be loud noises, motor vehicles, crowds and can get very cold. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times and are advised to stay on Main Street sidewalks. Dogs are not permitted at the Ullr bonfire and indoor events unless they obtain the proper paperwork.

 

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Aleks Matthews

I'm Aleks Matthews, the lifestyle blogger, and Realtor at Breck Life Group - eXp Realty. I live and work in Breckenridge, Summit County, Co area and love everything this beautiful area has to offer. If you live in Breckenridge or in Summit County or are thinking about moving here, you have come to the right place! Stay up to date with Breckenridge and Summit County Events, Restaurants, Outdoors, Real Estate and more!

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