By Linda Hughes
Think of it as a celebration of our military serving now and in the past. When the 2nd Annual Military Winterfest comes to Angel Fire, Feb. 18 – 22 there will be five days of snow-filled fun, live entertainment, savory food and special discounts for most everything. Last year, the event welcomed more than 600 active duty, retirees and families to its winter celebration. This year, organizers anticipate doubling participation.
Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve, veterans, retirees, dependent families and Gold Star families are eligible to participate but must have a valid identification card or other proof of service.
They’re coming to take advantage of discounted outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, sleigh rides, tubing, snowshoeing and s’mores parties. But they’re also coming to see Dana Bowman, a former U.S. Army Golden Knight and double amputee jump out of an aircraft while soaring over the ski mountain carrying an enormous American Flag.
“This year is unique in that we’ve extended festivities by three days and added many more family and non-skier activities,” said retired Air Force Lt. Col. Rick Sprott, Military Winterfest 2016 chair and board member, National Veterans Wellness & Healing Center Angel Fire (NVW&HC). “And, we’ve expanded the Vet-to-Vet ski and snowboard lessons, as well as bolstered our Adaptive programs for vets with disabilities.”
For Angel Fire Resort, Military Winterfest’s 5-Star Corporate Sponsor, this is an opportunity to showcase a mountain boasting 79 runs, three terrain parks, gladed tree runs, night time skiing and snowboarding, tubing, and a premier ski and snowboard school. ”A big draw – aside from the 210’ average snowfall weather and the spectacular Southern Rockies view from atop its 10,677’ summit – is our family friendly environment,” said Sprott. “Recognizing the family nature of the festival, we’ve added a snow dog performance show, snowman and snow angel contests, a s’mores and hot cocoa party, among other activities.” Adults will be able to enjoy several après ski activities too, he said.
In addition, organizers have planned a Twilight Colors Retirement Parade down the mountain, inter-service ski and snowboard races, and a dinner featuring live music for the first 230 people registered.
If you go…
To take advantage of the exclusive Military discounts and all Winterfest activities participants must register, Sprott noted. “Adding up all the exclusive military discounts, a family will save more than $200 each day.* For the budget-minded individual or family, Winterfest is a great vacation value! Many Angel Fire restaurants and businesses are also giving military discounts to Winterfest attendees.” Advanced online registration is available at Military Winterfest Online Registration.
The Resort is also offering lodging specials. To book lodging, lessons or equipment go to Angel Fire Resort Lodging, Lessons & Equipment or call 888-371-7344. Use Promotional Code: VETS. Additional Village accommodations listings are also available at Military Winterfest 2016.
Additional information on Military Winterfest 2016, as well as the complete schedule, can be found online at Military Winterfest 2016; write militarywinterfest@gmail.com; call 575-224-4848; or visit Facebook Angel Fire Military Winterfest 2016.
Key partners in Military Winterfest 2016: National Veterans Wellness & Healing Center of Angel Fire, event host and organizer; Angel Fire Resort, 5-Star Corporate Sponsor; and the Village of Angel Fire.
* The registration fees paid when attending Military Winterfest 2016 are tax-deductible and directly support the National Veterans Wellness & Healing Center! The Center provides treatment for military individuals and families that suffer with Post Traumatic Stress. Its creative therapies have been nationally recognized for their effectiveness in treating the “Invisible Wounds of War.” For more, see National Veterans Wellness & Healing Center of Angel Fire.