Zip Up the Neon, Give Back to the Community
Zip Up the Neon, Give Back to the Community
Snowbelt is bringing retro ski style and raffle prizes to Madigan’s on February 28, collecting coats and cold-weather gear for neighbors in need
Break out the neon, zip up that retro one-piece, and dig deep into the back of your closet - Snowbelt Cannabis is bringing the heat for a great cause with its upcoming Bad Ski Suit Party & Winter Clothing Drive, set for Saturday, February 28th at 9:00pm at Madigan’s, 36 Washington Street in Ellicottville.
Sponsored by Snowbelt and hosted at one of Ellicottville’s favorite downtown watering holes, this high-energy night promises plenty of fun, community spirit, and a meaningful mission: collect gently used winter clothing for those who need it most. The event will benefit two important local initiatives - the Caring Closet at Ellicottville Central School and the Little Valley United Methodist Church, both of which quietly work year-round to ensure area families have access to essential items like coats, hats, gloves, and boots.
“The idea was simple,” said Snowbelt co-owner Ashley Baron. “We work here, we play here, and we see firsthand how strong this community is when it comes together. Winter in Western New York isn’t just a season for skiing and snowboarding - it’s an opportunity to help others in need. If we can make it fun to give back, why wouldn’t we?”
Guests are encouraged to bring gently used winter gear - jackets, snow pants, sweatshirts, scarves, mittens, and more - to donate at the door. Each donation earns an entry into the night’s giveaways, and those who go all-in by wearing their raddest, baddest ski suit will score an additional raffle entry.
The Caring Closet at Ellicottville Central School was created to provide students in need with clothing and basic necessities in a discreet, respectful way. School staff recognized that some students were coming to school without proper winter attire, which not only affects comfort but also attendance and participation. The closet ensures that children can stay warm on the bus, during outdoor recess, and at after-school activities without stigma or hardship.
“The Caring Closet is one of those programs you don’t always see, but it makes a huge difference,” Baron said. “If a kid doesn’t have a coat, that’s not just inconvenient - it’s something that impacts their day-to-day life. We wanted to support something that directly helps local families.”
Donations will also be directed to the Little Valley United Methodist Church, which distributes winter clothing and other essentials to individuals and families throughout the region. As heating bills rise and temperatures drop, the demand for coats and cold-weather gear continues to grow.
“Not everyone has the luxury of buying new winter clothing every year,” Baron added. “If you’ve got something in your closet that still has life left in it, that could be exactly what someone else needs right now.”
Snowbelt Cannabis owners Ashley Baron and Ryan Peterson have deep ties to Ellicottville and the surrounding area. Since opening their business in Jamestown (about 35 miles from Ellicottville), they’ve made community involvement a priority, supporting local events, nonprofits, and small businesses. Hosting a benefit at Madigan’s felt like a natural fit - combining Ellicottville’s ski-town vibe with a playful twist.
The evening will also feature raffle prizes donated by local businesses and supporters. Items up for grabs currently include Holiday Valley lift tickets, a photo on canvas by Dan Aldrich Aerial Photography, Madigan’s gift basket, and gift cards from Enchanted Mountain Canna Co., EBC, and Mill Street Sports Pub. More prizes are expected to be announced leading up to the event. Guests can also get in on swag t-shirts, hats, and sticker giveaways throughout the night.
While the theme may be over-the-top and the ski suits gloriously outrageous, the mission behind the night is heartfelt.
“At the end of the day, this is about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Baron. “We love this town. If we can throw a fun party, and at the same time make sure someone stays warm this winter, that’s a win.”
So dust off that vintage onesie, round up your friends, and head to Madigan’s on February 28th. A little neon nostalgia - and a simple act of generosity - can go a long way.
