If you’re looking to shred the slopes on your next getaway, consider celebrating ski season in quaint Flagstaff, Arizona. This popular winter vacation destination sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet and its ski season typically stretches from mid-December to mid-April. After skiing, snowboarding or just drinking cocoa by the slopes, grab a meal at the award-winning Brix Restaurant in downtown Flagstaff or enjoy sightseeing and local hangouts in Heritage Square. But don’t miss Flagstaff’s festive side. Here’s the scoop on the town’s 2013 winter festivals:
January 19
Featuring more than 30 different varieties of local, regional and national brews, this tasting event jump-starts the winter festival season for craft beer aficionados. There will also be a best-in-show beer contest to truly recognize the microbrews that stand out from the crowd, as well as light hors d’ oeuvres and live music.
Mountain Dew – Urban Ski and Snowboard Festival
February 9-10
The family-friendly Dew Downtown Flagstaff brings the high-octane excitement of snowboarding and skiing into the heart of the city. Participants of all ages will show off their shredding skills as they jump over urban obstacles such as trash cans and guardrails. All activities are free and open to the public.
75th Anniversary Celebration of the Arizona Snowbowl
February 1-10
Though it’s been named “Best Flagstaff Attraction” by the Arizona Daily Sun before, this year’s 10-day winter celebration is set to top all past events with new improvements to commemorate its 75th anniversary. Watch the Snowbowl’s 75 birthday candles swoop down the mountain when the celebration kicks off on February 1. Other activities include a Fireside Chat, where Flagstaff’s famous skiers will share their stories of the slopes, and Throwback Thursday, where folks will don their favorite vintage ski outfits. Live music, beer tastings and a snowman competition round out the week’s events (with a full schedule available on the event’s website).
Photos Courtesy of Flagstaff Events, Arizona Snowbowl, Greenhouse Productions and AndorPro
