Christina Brusig, executive director of the Glenwood Springs Center for the Arts, says the Winterfest opening is possibly the most inclusive of the year at the art center.

That’s because for the past four years, the center has teamed up with the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association to host Business After Hours at the Winterfest opening. Throw in a chocolate fountain, complimentary drinks, catered food and an ugly sweater theme, and you’ve got yourself quite the event to enjoy.

“Chamber members can come and enjoy all of our arts and crafts as the first sneak peak,” Brusig said. “We just make it a really extravagant time. We have a chocolate fountain and catered meals. It’s probably our most inclusive opening of the year. Community members can come in and view all of the art and meet all of the artists that are present.”

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About 40 artists will have work for sale in Winterfest, which features about 800 items total, according to program assistant Brie Carmer. The show includes photography, oil, acrylic, watercolor, jewelry, handpainted glassware, clay, essential oils, soap, blown glass and more. There is also a mug wall with 20-30 mugs costing $15-35, Carmer said.

“The best part to me is that we have really affordable, one-of-a-kind gifts,” Brusig said. “You can give a truly unique handcrafted gift that’s made right here in the Roaring Fork Valley.”

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While the Winterfest selections will be on display and for sale through Dec. 21, Brusig encourages community members to attend the opening on Friday. Not only will there be more options the earlier you come, but the opening makes for a wonderful evening, she said.

“It’s just a fun, social evening that really kicks off the Christmas gift buying season.”