Spring Skiing and Closing Day Traditions
While the close of 2020 ski season came abruptly for most, it hasn’t shut down our urge to once again participate in after-ski alpine gatherings better known as après. Some of the wildest such events annually occur on Closing Days, largely considered the Super Bowl of skiing for resorts across the world.
In honor of these festivities, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite spring skiing images and highlighted a few of our favorite modern traditions.
Our top modern Spring Skiing Traditions
Aspen Highlands, CO
One of the most famous Closing Day parties in the world, Aspen Highlands is a favorite among tourist and local party-goers alike. Well known for popping egregious amounts of Veuve Cliquot at Cloud Nine, the party continues at the base for live music and costume-filled chaos.
Vail, CO
Host to the World Pond Skimming Championships, Vail brings out some of the most daring participants who see how far they can skim before taking a slushy crash landing. Also hosting costume-laden live music and log runs, Vail’s spring festivities are truly a wild scene.
Squaw Valley, CA
Often extending into summer months, Closing Day seems to never come at Squaw. Best known for its Freedom Fest, skiers spend the 4th of July taking turns in their American flag swimwear and pool hopping across the 19 decks or patios across the resort.
The Beach at A-Basin, CO
Why party on one weekend when you can party every weekend? The Beach is considered a local tradition at A-Basin where a strip of parking lot is set aside for themed tailgates each weekend. Think Drinko-de-Mayo mixed with Daytona Beach at 12,000 feet...
Killington, VT
Known as The Beast of The East, Killington’s closing day is a groovy ode to the Grateful Dead. Tie-dye-wearing locals tempt their fate at pond skimming in a more laid back affair as is expected from the Green Mountain State.