The question was popped and she answered with a resounding “yes!” Now that the engagement is set, the planning can begin. Any wedding planning will inevitably come with a mile long to-do list, but planning a wedding a mile high comes with special considerations. Mountain seasons are unique due to the high alpine environment. This environment is the also the reason Breckenridge sees bluer skies, more vibrant sunsets and fields of flowers or fluffy falling snow, depending on when you visit. To be sure you pick the perfect time for your big day, check out our tips on what to expect for each mountain season, and how to prepare the perfect ceremony.
Winter
When: Mid October - April
Mid October through April is considered the winter season in the mountains, with the ski season staring a couple weeks before thanksgiving. This time brings lots of snow beautiful views as the peaks turn from deep brown to stark white. For the lowest room rates for you and your guests, try and book a date between Thanksgiving and Christmas. There will still be plenty of snow for those beautiful winter wonderland backdrops and guests can spend their free time exploring the slopes of Breckenridge. Plan on having an earlier ceremony if booking during this time, as the days are shorter. If you are wanting longer, sunnier winter days then try snagging a date in April when temperatures can reach up into the 40s. Early and late ski season are generally less crowded so you don’t have to sorry about strangers getting into the background of your photos if posing on the mountain.
Spring
When: May - Early June
If you would like a mountain wedding without the steep (pardon the pun) price tag, May and early June are where you should set your dates. Springtime in Breckenridge can be fickle, however, as it is not uncommon to have warm and sunny weather one day then wake up to six inches of snow the next. Such inconsistent weather can make planning an outdoor ceremony challenging and melting snow can mean lots of mud. The upside is that hotel rates will be extremely low for you and your guests! If your heart is set on a May mountain wedding, pick an all indoor venue and enjoy the uncrowded off season.
Summer
When: July - August
Book early! Every time of year is beautiful in the mountains, but summer is a bride’s dream. Purchase summer lift tickets for your wedding party and ride the chairlift on peak 8 to take your photos amongst all the mountain wildflowers or drive up the service road on Peak 9 for free. Plan your ceremony for 4 or 5 pm as Breckenridge has daily rain showers around 1 or 2 pm almost every day. Late afternoon ceremonies are also perfect if you want to be exchanging “I do’s” under a colorful rocky mountain sunset. July is the peak of the summer season, but will fill up fast so be sure to book early and claim your dates.
Fall
When: September - Mid October
Summer is the most popular time for mountain weddings, however fall is a close second. Shades of red, orange and yellow overtake the mountains as the aspens turn in preparation for winter. While it is impossible to predict the exact time the aspens will start to turn, the second week of September is usually the best bet. Fall, like spring can have varying weather during from cooler 50 degree days to sunny and 75. Unlike spring however, fall tends to be warmer during the day and guests can still take advantage of hiking and biking around Breckenridge in their free time.
No matter what season you decide to tie the knot in, Breckenridge is a beautiful place for a mountain wedding. If you would like to inquire about availability, venues or more tips on how to make your ceremony perfect, check out our wedding page or email our experienced Wedding Sales Manager. Congratulations and happy planning!
