Skiers and snowboarders have no shortage of options to show their stuff this season
By Brooke Geery
The Loaded Turkey Rail Jam is this weekend at Killington Resort.
Killington and other resorts in Vermont made the safe choice to cancel all but a few spring events last season — just another thing the pandemic took precedence over. But this season, thanks to vaccines and loosened restrictions, events are making their glorious comeback to the Green Mountains. Festivities kick off this weekend with the Loaded Turkey Rail Jam at Killington, and this is just the beginning. To help you plan your visits (or for the locals, your vacation days), we’ve put together a list of the can’t-miss on-snow events happening this season at the Beast and beyond. Mandatory disclaimer: This is by no means a complete list and all events are subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen factors.
Loaded Turkey Rail Jam
Saturday, Nov. 20 at 10 a.m. at Killington Resort
The official kick off to the freestyle contest season is happening this Saturday, with a rail jam open to skiers and snowboarders of all ages. Entry is $20, and the top prize is a (frozen) turkey. Second and third place finishers will receive all the fixins.’ In it’s 10th season, this rail jam attracts riders from all over New England and beyond, and is sure to feel like a long-overdue reunion. After the final competitor drops, or whenever you’re ready, head down to Darkside Snowboards (1842 Killington Road in Killington) from 12-6 p.m. for a party featuring videos, refreshments, vendors and more. This is your chance to catch the premiere of the “GoonGear movie,” as well as “FAFO,” “Spot Heads 2” and “Zoop Vol 1.” Movies show at 5 p.m on the outdoor big screen.
The Homelight Killington Cup
Nov 27-28 at Killington
The best Alpine skiers in the world are coming back to rip down Superstar at speeds mere mortals should never attempt. Past events have brought well over 40,000 spectators to Killington, so to protect the wellbeing of this year’s attendees, the resort is requiring tickets for all spectators, as well as proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test. General admission tickets are $5 per day/$10 for the weekend and can still be purchased at Killington.com. Grandstand seating is also available from $45-$170, however preferred parking access is already sold out!
Michelob Ultra Ski Bum Race Series
Kick off registration party:
December 15 at 4 p.m. at Mogul’s Sports Pub
Race days: Wednesday, Dec. 22-March 16, 2022 a 10 a.m. (excluding Dec. 29 and Feb. 23)
The season-long race series is for those who enjoy the thrill of competition, but aren’t necessarily looking to make a career of skiing or snowboarding. Sign up as a team for $250 or individual for $60, and that fee allows you to choose any 10 race days to compete. Races take place on Highline, and competitors will be treated to exclusive after-parties at local establishments, and a free T-shirt. These race day parties include a food buffet with drink specials, raffles and other prizes and are always a great time! If you can’t make the kick-off party to register, you can still sign up at the Killington Ski Club any time after the party.
Mini Shred Madness
Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022 at Killington and Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022 at Pico at 10 a.m.
The cutest rail jam known to man is back for two stops this season. Groms aged 9-13 are invited to show off their skills on a mellow park set-up made just for the kids. This is a chance to get a feel for park riding and learn the skills needed to successfully navigate the park. At Killington, the event is held in Red’s Backyard on Ramshead, and the Pico event will take place in the Gold Rush terrain park. Registration is $20, and will open closer to the event, as well as being available on site.
The OG Invitational
Feb. 12, 2022 at Suicide Six
In 1982 the first ever national snow surf championships were held at Suicide Six, kicking off what would become modern snowboarding, as well as the US Open snowboarding championships. Founder Paul Graves is bringing back the event, where many of the original riders will gather to celebrate its 40th anniversary. For more information, visit theoginvitational.com.
Slash and Berm
March 4-6, 2022 at Killington
Skiers and snowboarders will race through berms, bumps and jumps in the Stash at Killington, all raising money for a good cause. This spring event is known for its unique and creative race courses and marks the beginning of the Bear Mountain terrain park’s spring excellence. More details will be released as the date draws near.
Sidehit Seance
March 19, 2021 at Sugarbush
Seattle, Washington-based Snowboy Productions is bringing its 25 years of event production skills to Sugarbush Parks for a spooky event celebrating all things rad. Pros and other VIP snowboard types will be on hill to film the special build from March 16-18, and then the set-up opens to the public, for the just price of a lift ticket, on March 19. This is the only East Coast Snowboy event scheduled for this season, and it is a great chance to rub elbows with top pros from around the globe!
Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge
April 2, 2022 at Killington
Soft bumps and strong knees are the theme of the annual Bear Mountain mogul challenge. Amateur bumpers look forward to this head-to-head competition on Outer Limits all season long, as it finally determines who is truly the baddest on the hill. This coveted competition is known to fill up fast, so be sure to check the events tab at Killington.com and get your name on the list as soon as registration opens.
