SUGAR MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT, NORTH CAROLINA. NOVEMBER 28, 2011

   * Even if winter isn't your time of year, SugarFest has something for you. And if winter is your cup of tea, don't miss the North Carolina High Country's unofficial kickoff to the ski season. Now in its 9th year, SugarFest, December 10th and 11th, is a presentation of Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and the Tourism Development Authority of the incorporated Village of Sugar Mountain. "The unique collaboration between public and private sector has produced an alpine celebration that is surging in popularity every year," Sugar Mountain Resort President, Gunther Jochl said.

Monster Energy launches this season's event with a chance to win one of six RIDE snowboards to be given away SugarFest weekend. Text "RIDEBOB" to 35350 or visit www.sugarfestnc.com right now to enter for your chance to win.

Weekend festivities begin Friday, December 9th when the 18th Annual Pre-Season Ski Clinic introduces Olympic Gold Medalist Diann Roffe and U.S. National Super G Champion Keely Kelleher to an eager group of enthusiasts taking part in three days of personalized instruction on the slopes. The all-inclusive clinic is open to everyone and includes three days on the slopes, video analysis, tuning seminar, and a banquet Saturday night.

That weekend, in what has become a "can't miss" opportunity, ski and snowboard manufacturers roll out the newest equipment for an unmatched demo inventory that allows any lift ticket holder with a driver's license to sample the latest in ski and snowboard technology. "Anytime you come to the ski slopes it should be a good time," explained Sugar Mountain Resort President Gunther Jochl. "Events like SugarFest help us do that and hopefully create interest in winter sports."

Participating brands include Salomon, Volkl, Nordica, Burton, Head, Never Summer, K2, Atomic, Dynastar, Rossignol, Ride, Line, Fischer and Forum. Just bring your boots, register, and test drive the 'good stuff' from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The SugarFest demo is brought to you by Ski Country Sports.

At the 10,000 sq. ft. outdoor ice rink, 1992 Olympic Silver Medalist Paul Wylie, will perform his signature skate routines for the public on Saturday at 3 p.m. The approachable Wylie is a great showman who interacts with all the skaters, from beginners to expert.

At SugarFest, Après ski isn't a thing of the past. The fireworks continue with an impressive pyrotechnic display you can take in from the base lodge just before 6 p.m. as you kick off your boots and enjoy great food and warm drinks. Live bluegrass music from SugarFest's favorite local music group, BOSS HAWG delivers a footstompin' good time.

On Sunday at noon, come out and watch or throw down with some of the area's most daring and creative riders and skiers as they deliver thrilling entertainment during the RIDE Rail Jam Expression Session. First prize is another RIDE snowboard. Additional awards and prizes are courtesy of Alpine Ski Center and RIDE Snowboards.

To enjoy the total SugarFest experience, you'll want to spend a night or two on the mountain. All lodging agencies within the Village of Sugar Mountain offer discounted rates for slope-side and on-mountain accommodations so you can do just that. Sugar Mountain Resort Winter Value Packages are available too.

To learn more about SugarFest 2011, call 1-800-SUGAR-MT or go to www.seesugar.com and become a part of another Sugar Mountain fun-filled celebration.