First Turns, Fresh Start: Holiday Valley Invites Beginners to Try Skiing and Snowboarding During Learn a Snowsport Month
First Turns, Fresh Start: Holiday Valley Invites Beginners to Try Skiing and Snowboarding During Learn a Snowsport Month
Special January pricing, beginner-friendly lessons, and fun on-mountain events make Holiday Valley the perfect place for all ages to discover skiing or snowboarding.
Winter is prime time to discover a new way to play outside, and January’s Learn a Snowsport Month invites beginners of all ages to step onto the slopes for the very first time. Across the country, ski areas are rolling out affordable lesson packages, beginner-friendly terrain, and supportive instruction to help newcomers build confidence and have fun in the snow.
While overall ski resort visitation has surged in recent seasons thanks to strong snowfall and longer operating windows, industry trends show that first-time participants continue to be one of the biggest growth opportunities in snowsports. Getting more people comfortable on skis or snowboards today helps shape the future of the sport tomorrow.
If you’ve ever been curious about skiing, dreamed of trying snowboarding, or simply want to shake up your winter routine, now is the perfect moment to give it a go. Right here in Ellicottville, Holiday Valley is leaning into Learn a Snowsport Month with special pricing, welcoming programs, and events designed to make your first turns on snow approachable, memorable, and downright fun.
LEARN TO LOVE WINTER
Holiday Valley’s signature beginner event is perfect for first-time skiers and riders. The Learn to Love Winter experience will offer two different dates this year: Friday, January 9th and also on Friday, January 16th. These are two separate event days, so when booking, it is for that day only. This beginner lesson experience includes:
1.5-Hour group lesson with expert instructors to build confidence.
Rentals + beginner area lift ticket. (A lift ticket gives you access to the Slippery Streets surface lift, Boardwalk surface lift, and the School Haus Chairlift.)
Skiing or snowboarding options for participants ages 4 and up.
Lessons begin at 10:30am and at 1:30pm.
These lessons are not available as walk-ups so make sure to register in advance.
This event is tailored for absolute beginners and is only $25! It offers a great chance to learn the basics, make new friends, and fall in love with winter.
Dash Hegeman, Marketing Director at Holiday Valley, listed a few things participants should keep in mind for their Learn To Love Winter lesson: “Give yourself time! Arrive a minimum of one hour before your lesson start time,” he said. “Go to the Holiday Valley Main Lodge Rental Shop to get your rental gear. Then make your way to Creekside Lodge to check in for your lesson. Be at the First-Time Lesson Flag at least 10 minutes before your lesson is scheduled to begin.”
For all guests that plan to enjoy the resort this Saturday, you’re in for a musical treat! “This Saturday, January 10th, after a day out on the slopes, make sure to swing by the T-Bar (upstairs in the Main Lodge) between 4:00-7:00pm to listen to the music of Henry’s Summer Kitchenette,” said Hegeman. “Or if you are over near the Yodeler Lodge, 42 North Brewing will be setting up a beer tasting at the Yodeler Bar for its Yodeler Winter Ale Apres Party between 3:00-7:00pm, where Ed Croft and Tina Williams will be playing music.”
Holiday Valley also offers daily Learn to Ski or Ride lesson packages throughout January that include equipment, instruction, and lift access. Group lessons for ages 12 and up are available at convenient times and provides a flexible way for families and adults to take their first turns on snow. If you’re planning a longer getaway, Holiday Valley’s midweek lodging packages (Jan. 1st through Mar. 12th) include perks like kids ski free with paid adult tickets - perfect for families ready to dive into winter fun.
“Beginners who are just getting started with skiing or riding should also make sure to dress appropriately for winter weather and be prepared for weather to change throughout the course of the day,” said Hegeman. “Waterproof gloves or mittens, and warm layers are recommended.”
We’re in the heart of the winter season, folks! Resorts are fully open, and snow conditions are excellent! So instead of enduring the winter blues inside, why not embrace the season with a new outdoor adventure? Whether you choose skis or a board, taking that first lesson this January could turn into a lifelong passion.
