When you love what you do, it really doesn’t feel like work. That’s what Helmut Fricker said after reaching two milestones this week: turning 88 on June 24 and playing at Beaver Creek for 44 years.

Originating in the mountains of Tibet perhaps 2,000 years ago, how did this instrument journey to the Rocky Mountains? In the case of Western slope musician Helmut Fricker, he brought it with him!

The après ski scene just got a little more lively – and traditional – in Vail Village. Sarah’s Lounge in the Christiania Lodge has reopened to the public and is bringing the smiles, oom-pah music and ...

Lionshead Mall and Vail Square — noon to 10 p.m. Noon, Vail’s 2013 Oktoberfest opens to public. Noon to 2 p.m., Helmut Fricker and the Rhinelanders Band. Noon to 5 p.m., Kids Area with entertainers ...