Ever hear the story behind Aspen Skiing Company?

“Ski Co” -- as it’s affectionately referred to by locals -- was born out of a group of WWII vets prospecting the untouched tracks of Pitkin County, Colorado, in January of 1946.

Makes sense that these guys – with the help of a local bartender – would come up with an excuse to party during the lull after New Year’s...

It’s called Wintersköl and it’s going on Jan. 12-15, 2012.

Think of it as Aspen’s cure for the holiday hangover: a four-day bender – err, winter carnival that celebrates everything Aspen. A lounge-like village will be erected at the Ajax Gondola and offer spa services, an Internet café, and daily après-ski parties, DJs included.

Don’t miss the canine fashion show (you thought your dog’s sweater was fresh) and Soupsköl, a soup-cooking contest that brings the best chefs in town to the judge’s table. Each participating restaurant offers free samples to the public, who then votes for the winner.

We’ll drink to that.

If you want to celebrate Wintersköl this year, check out this lift and lodging package from Ski Co