X Games 2026 Returns to Aspen for Historic 25th Year

The Winter X Games is back in Aspen for its 25th consecutive year, marking a historic milestone for the iconic action sports event. Taking place at Buttermilk Ski Area, the 2026 edition promises to deliver unforgettable performances from the world’s top athletes, alongside exciting new developments for the brand’s future.

A Legacy of Excellence: 25 Years in Aspen

Since 2002, Aspen has been the proud host of the Winter X Games, creating a legacy of innovation and excitement in the world of action sports. This year’s event, set to run from Friday through Sunday, is poised to be the largest since 2020, just before the global pandemic disrupted the sporting world.

"Thank you to the town of Aspen for 25 years. That’s iconic," X Games CEO Jeremy Bloom stated during the pre-event press conference. "I can say, which was not the case last year, we are not going anywhere. We look forward to the next 25 years here in Aspen." Bloom, a former Olympic moguls champion and University of Colorado football star, has been at the helm of X Games since 2025, bringing fresh vision to the brand.

New Brand Identity and Expanding Horizons

Under Bloom’s leadership, X Games has undergone several transformations. The brand introduced a new logo in September 2025, signaling a fresh direction while honoring its rich history. Additionally, the organization is set to launch a new team-based league this summer, further expanding its reach in the action sports community.

The surge in new sponsors for 2026 reflects the growing appeal of X Games. Brands eager to associate with the energy and innovation of action sports have flocked to partner with the event, recognizing its cultural significance and global reach.

Star Power: Athletes to Watch at X Games 2026

Among the standout athletes returning to Aspen is Australian snowboarder Scotty James, who expressed the profound impact of X Games on professional careers. "For us athletes, the only other time we would sit in a row and look at press like this is the Olympics," James said. "X Games in Aspen, the town really embraces this event and I think for us, we always really enjoy coming here. We have an amazing platform to showcase what we’ve been working all year round for. It’s an exciting time to be here."

Jamie Anderson: A Mother’s Return to Competition

One of the most anticipated returns is that of Jamie Anderson, the 35-year-old snowboarder from Tahoe. Anderson, a 21-time X Games medalist, had taken a hiatus from competition to become a mother. Her comeback has been closely watched by fans and fellow athletes alike.

"I feel so happy to be back. X Games is really where my snowboard career started," Anderson shared. "It’s a privilege to be back, especially as a mom. I didn’t really see this coming, but here we are. Buckle up." Despite a challenging fall during a recent slopestyle World Cup competition at Snowmass, Anderson remains determined to compete in the women’s snowboard slopestyle final, which kicks off the event on Friday morning.

Snowmobiles Make a Welcome Return

Another highlight of this year’s X Games is the return of snowmobile competitions. A longtime staple of the Winter X Games, these events were last featured in 2020 but were omitted during the pandemic-era 2021 competition that was held without spectators.

The reintroduction of snowmobiles, complete with the beloved "vroom-vroom" sounds, promises to bring back a favorite for fans and participants. These high-speed contests add an extra layer of excitement to the already thrilling weekend of action sports.

The Impact of X Games on Action Sports Culture

For decades, X Games has served as a platform for athletes to showcase their incredible skills and push the boundaries of what’s possible in action sports. The event’s influence extends beyond competition, shaping the culture and evolution of sports like snowboarding, skiing, and skateboarding.

"It’s an exciting time to be here," James noted, reflecting the broader sentiment among athletes. The opportunity to compete on the X Games stage is often a career-defining moment, providing exposure and validation that can launch athletes to new heights.

Looking Ahead: The Future of X Games

With a commitment to staying in Aspen for the foreseeable future and a lineup of innovative new initiatives, X Games is positioning itself for continued growth. The addition of a team-based league and the ongoing development of new events demonstrate the brand’s dedication to evolving with the action sports community.

As the 25th anniversary approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Fans and athletes alike are eager to witness the historic weekend at Buttermilk Ski Area, where history will be made and new legends will be born. The X Games Aspen 2026 is not just a celebration of the past 25 years but a bold step into the future of action sports.