New Matchstick Lounge debuts at Crested Butte’s Elevation

Matchstick Productions needs no introduction. It is the world’s most award-winning ski film brand and a fully equipped manufacturing boutique. Their films inspire the storyline and Huck Da equally. This unique combination has received massive support over the past 30 years, with MSP producing more than 25 films and 120 television series, as well as six nominations for the Sports Emmy Awards. Matchstick Productions has secured a leading position among the world’s largest outdoor advertising companies. Not bad for a company that started small in the ski town of Crested Butte, Colorado.

Now Matchstick Productions is trying to showcase its films and its love of its hometown’s reputation as an iconic ski resort in a new way. Starting this March, Matchstick Productions announced a new partnership with Elevation Hotel & Spa, the only ski resort located at the foot of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, introducing a new lounge concept called the Matchstick Lounge.

A place and atmosphere that ignites your passion

Photo Credit: Hotel Elevation

With a great location right at the foot of Crested Butte and a unique concept, the Matchstick Lounge is sure to ignite your passion. Yes, there will be a pool table, darts and TVs like most ski bars. However, it is the theme and experience that sets this lounge apart from others.

Inspired by MSP’s rich history in extreme sports and its cutting-edge content, the Elevation Hotel’s new lounge will feature 30-year-old MSP movie posters, vintage cameras, skis and behind-the-scenes production photos; in addition to a pool table, darts and state of the art AV for sporting events, film screenings and world premieres.

“For over 30 years, the Matchstick Productions team has been proud to call Crested Butte home,” said Murray Weiss, Executive Producer and Director of Matchstick Productions. “We’re excited to partner with Elevation to open a space where we can celebrate the sport we love while sharing our passion for cinema.”

An exciting place for everyone

Photo Credit: Hotel Elevation

As mentioned earlier, this is more than just a regular ski bar. The Matchstick Lounge is set to be an exciting destination for locals and visitors alike. Film screenings, sports signings, industrial and resort parties will become the norm throughout the year.

But what’s an après-ski bar without food and drink?

The Matchstick Lounge will have it too, offering food and drink through the Elevation Hotel’s José Crested Butte and Billy Barr. José offers a selection of regional Mexican-inspired dishes, cocktails and an extensive tequila collection, while Billy Barr offers a selection of Crested Butte-inspired dishes, including paninis and sandwiches, cheese and charcuterie, and signature cocktails.

“We are thrilled to launch this project in partnership with our friends at Matchstick Productions,” says Nick Klaus, Managing Director of Elevation Hotel & Spa. “Given the hotel’s proximity to ski lifts, we know it will become a popular destination for skiers and mountain bikers to gather and immerse themselves in the incredible content that MSP is known for.”

Location is key, and Crested Butte’s Elevation Hotel certainly has it. Combine the Elevation Hotel’s proximity to the foot of the mountain with Matchstick Production’s prowess in the world of ski media and you have the makings of a highly creative lounge concept that is sure to draw in all who pass by.

Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski clothing and media brand All About Après and co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. Rich is no stranger to the skiing and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor to many publications on topics such as skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is skiing and having fun with nice people. You can find him perfecting his craft, carving turns and drinking beer in Vermont’s Green Mountains. @allaboutapres