Destination: Festive Adventures

Your guide to holiday events across Ikon Pass destinations.

The holidays are upon us, and there’s no better place to celebrate than on the mountains. From festive events to unforgettable experiences, Ikon Pass destinations are ready to make this season extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for holiday magic in a cozy lodge or adventure on the slopes, now’s the time to plan your escape. Events are waiting, snow is falling, and Ikon Passes are still on sale – don’t miss your chance to make this winter one to remember.

ROCKIES

Copper Mountain
Drop in for Copper’s Holiday Celebration (Dec. 24). Enjoy the day skiing followed by very merry holiday season celebrations with a DJ, torchlight parade, and spectacular fireworks extravaganza. It all goes down at Eagle’s Landing in Center Village and is free to attend. Plus, take your last laps of 2024 and celebrate New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) with a DJ set, torchlight parade, dinner, drinks, and fireworks. Check out more winter events and activities at Copper Mountain.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Get ready for a holiday season that only Jackson Hole can deliver, blending mountain thrills with festive chills. WinterFest (Dec. 21-31) brings together festive activities like cookie decorating, skating with Santa, and the unforgettable Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade, where skiers light up the slopes in a glowing descent. Celebrate Christmas Day on the mountain with fresh powder and a cozy holiday brunch. Then, ring in the New Year with live music, dancing, and fireworks in Teton Village for a night of mountain-style revelry to start 2025 on a high note. And don’t miss Kids On Snow Weekend (Dec. 13-15) or Ski in Jeans Weekend (Dec. 6-8) for a playful start to the season. Check out more winter events and activities at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Steamboat
At Steamboat, the holidays bring magical celebrations for everyone. Kick things off with Santa Saddles Up (Dec. 14), where Santa himself makes a grand entrance on horseback, followed by hot chocolate, cupcakes, and photo ops on the Steamboat Stage. That same evening, the Holiday Drone Show lights up the night with a mesmerizing display, leading into a Holiday Skate Party and night skiing. On Dec. 21, the Holiday Balloon Glow illuminates the Mountain Village with vibrant hot air balloons while guests enjoy slope-side dining and night skiing. And on Dec. 28, join the Hanukkah Mountain Celebration with songs, jelly donuts, and the lighting of the menorah, bringing warmth and unity to the season. Check out more winter events and activities at Steamboat.

Taos Ski Valley
Snowball (Dec. 31) at Taos Ski Valley with an unforgettable evening of mountain festivities. Begin with a mesmerizing torchlight parade, followed by a dazzling firework show lighting up the slopes. Warm up with the Snowball Buffet’s hearty dishes, then head to the Martini Tree Bar for live music and a toast to the New Year. Earlier in December, gear enthusiasts can join Public Demo Days (Dec. 20-21) testing out the latest skis and snowboards from top brands, ensuring the perfect setup for the season ahead. Check out more winter events and activities at Taos Ski Valley.

Winter Park Resort
Experience the magic of the season at Winter Park’s Deck the Slopes (Nov. 30 – Dec. 24). The resort transforms into a festive wonderland, offering plenty of fun activities for the whole family, including dazzling holiday drone shows, and even a chance to meet a live reindeer. For an extra dose of celebration, head to the Town of Winter Park on Dec. 31 for New Year’s Eve festivities, ringing in the New Year with alpine style. Check out more winter events and activities at Winter Park Resort.

WEST

Mammoth Mountain
Light up the festive season with Mammoth Mountain’s iconic Night of Lights (Dec. 21) where the Sierra skies come alive in a breathtaking display complete with a spectacular fireworks display, live music, and a torchlight parade. For an even more magical experience, book your tickets for rooftop viewing to take in the sights from above. Warm up with hot cocoa, cozy around the fire pits, and make it a night to remember with family and friends. Check out more winter events and activities at Mammoth Mountain.

Palisades Tahoe
Get ready to party into the night and dance yourself warm, kicking off the 2024-25 winter season at Palisades Tahoe with Tahoe Live (Dec. 14-15) featuring a massive line up and electrifying performances by the likes of Lil Wayne and Diplo. Check out more winter events and activities at Palisades Tahoe.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Alyeska Resort
Get ready for Ullr Fest (Dec. 7), the ultimate celebration of winter as we pay tribute to Ullr, the Norse God of Snow, in hopes of a season full of powder. Expect cold beverages, hot fires, and a spectacular fire-spinning performance that will light up the night. Check out more winter events and activities at Alyeska Resort.

Schweitzer
Ski With Santa (Dec. 23-24) gives you the chance to rip it up with the Big Guy. Catch him and Mrs. Claus cruising the slopes between 1:00pm and 3:30pm, handing out candy to good girls and boys. Then, don’t miss the Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Tubing Party (Dec. 31) with late night tubing, snacks, hot chocolate and more at Hermit’s Hollow tubing center and yurt – plus a sparkler celebration for a New York New Year’s Eve. Check out more winter events and activities at Schweitzer.

EAST

Camelback Resort
Set your excitement levels to maximum for Santa’s Arrival (Dec. 6) at Camelback Resort. Between 7pm and 9pm join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a joyful evening as they light up the Resort Christmas tree, complete with live entertainment, kids’ activities, and a cozy hot cocoa bar. Then, ring in the New Year a bit early at the Noon Year’s Party (Dec. 31). Dance to a DJ set from 11am to 1pm, enjoy a festive toast, and snag some cool swag – all while soaking up a bit of nostalgia with vintage mountain videos on display. Check out more winter events and activities at Camelback Resort.

Loon Mountain
All aboard Santa’s Steam Train Express (Dec. 27). Hop on Loon’s legendary steam-powered locomotive along the J.E. Henry Railroad, and journey through the frosty mountain landscape toward the Kancamagus. Indulge in hot chocolate, cozy up under the stars, and listen to a holiday tale narrated by a special guest – with all proceeds benefiting the Loon Mountain Area Community Fund. Join for an unforgettable winter’s night on the rails. Check out more winter events and activities at Loon Mountain.

Sugarloaf
Experience the magic of the season at Sugarloaf, starting Dec. 21 with the annual Tree Lighting Festival (3-6pm) and Holiday Gift Bazaar (10am-5pm). Then dive into a week filled with non-stop activities and entertainment on and off the slopes, from live music, ice cream socials and marshmallow roasting, to horse drawn carriage rides. Make the most of this special time in the mountains with fireworks and special NYE Celebration from 9pm-12:30am on Dec. 31. Check out more winter events and activities at Sugarloaf.

MIDWEST

The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Experience the winter magic of The Enchanted Trail at The Highlands (Dec. 13, 2024 – Feb. 22, 2025). Enjoy a serene, snow-covered path illuminated by soft, twinkling lights, guiding guests on a peaceful journey surrounded by the beauty of nature. At the end of the trail lies a cozy yurt where you can warm up by the fire and enjoy a hot drink. Celebrate Santa’s Holly Jolly Yurt on December 13 ,14, 20, 21 with a visit from Santa himself between 6-8pm for a festive, family-friendly experience that will fill you with the holiday spirit. Make sure to purchase your tickets between 5-7pm time slots so you don’t miss Santa. Children 5 and under are free. Check out more winter events and activities at The Highlands.

EASTERN CANADA

Blue Mountain
On Dec. 20, bring your holiday spirit to the slopes for the annual Santa Ski. Deck yourself out in your jolliest Santa gear and hit the mountain, all while supporting a local charity. It’s holiday cheer with a twist of adrenaline. Also, celebrate the start of the season with Blue Mountain’s Pass Holder Kick-Off (Dec. 13). Ride or slide into the first week of night skiing, open until 9pm, and enjoy an evening packed with live entertainment, games, swag giveaways, photo ops, and après. The perfect way to dive into winter. Check out more winter events and activities at Blue Mountain.

Tremblant
Experience the magic of the holidays at Tremblant’s Holiday Season Celebrations (Dec. 21, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025) with daily entertainment, activities, and games for all ages. Don’t miss Santa’s visit on Dec. 25, and be sure to join the lively New Year’s Eve party on Dec. 31 to ring in 2025 with a bang. For a cozy and intimate evening, head to the Saint-Bernard Chapel for Luminosa, a series of themed piano performances. Make sure you secure your tickets for an unforgettable night of music in a beautiful setting. Check out more winter events and activities at Tremblant.

For even more merriment, visit your favorite destination’s website to see how they’re celebrating this holiday season.