By Nicole Fitzgerald
What: Ullr Party
When: Thursday, Nov. 16
Where: Blackcomb Base II
Admission: Free
After a disappointing snowfall two years ago,
Whistler-Blackcomb decided to resurrect the age-old tradition of a pagan party
worshipping the Norse God of snow, Ullr, to curry snowflake favour.
The sacrificing of skis was a great success last year, drawing
more than 1,000 snow revelers and resulting in Blackcomb Mountain’s earliest
opening in 20 years and a winter season packed with powder right through to
April.
Whistler-Blackcomb organizers ensure Ullr will continue to
smile on our mountains with another Ullr Party Thursday, Nov. 16 at Base II of
Blackcomb Mountain.
“After last year’s event, we had the most amazing ski season, so we are hoping the same will happen this year,” said Whistler-Blackcomb spokesperson Kate Mason. “The more people come the more snow we will have and hopefully it will stop the rain we are experiencing right now.”
In addition to the tradition of sacrificing skis in a bonfire, the party includes a spectacular fireworks show, live music featuring the Dank Nuggs Band and DJ PHD, fire dancers and a free barbecue dinner from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Prizes will be awarded for best Viking costumes and partygoers donating money or a canned good to the Whistler Food Bank will receive a mini ski for sacrifice.
The Ullr party is a family-friendly event open to the whole community.
Security and bag checks will ensure the event remains
alcohol-free. Admission is free and a free gondola ride is offered from the
Skiers Plaza to Base II. No parking will be available at Base II.
Ullr after parties take place at the Longhorn, Garfinkel’s, Blacks and Merlin’s.
