It happens every year. It’s a tradition in Crested Butte. The people of the community come together to celebrate the passing of another summer, welcoming fall and the impending winter in the festival of Vinotok. Though it’s not yet the New Year, Vinotok allows Buttians to start anew- they are asked to write their gripes down and put them in a boxes stashed all around town. These gripes become part of the infamous “Grump”. Every year, a new grump is built, housing the gripes of the Buttians. And every year, this Grump is put to trial. The Grump stands no chance for any hope. Every year, the Grump is sentenced to burn- in the name of Vinotok, in the name of the endless cycle of death and rebirth, and in the name of Crested Butte.
The trial of the Grump.
Inevitably, the Grump was sentenced to burn. A procession was lead to the burning site.
Info on the Annual Pearl Pass Tour
The Grump himself.
One last look at the Grump.
And all who watched wanted him to burn
as the Grump stared at us with his evil eyes.
And let the Grumps and Gripes burn!
Gripes be gone, let the celebrating begin. Bring on the Winter!
The Green Man.
Another Vinotok, another year. Ullr bring us a good winter here! 
A little video I put together captures the spirit of Vinotok even better…
Vinotok 18 Sept. 2010 from 14erskiers on Vimeo.
