Alyeska Torch Light Parade and Fireworks
Photo by Timothy R. Grams
New Year’s Eve
Girdwood is the place to be on New Year’s Eve! The town comes alive with people descending upon the small town to enjoy the festivities. On the 31st of December, Alyeska Resort is only opened for day skiing while night skiing is closed to get ready for the New Year’s Eve entertainment. From 9 to 10 pm, Alyeska Resort hosts both a Torch Light Parade and Fireworks to celebrate the New Year!
Torchlight Parade - 9:00PM Start
The Torchlight Parade is an international tradition, and it started in Girdwood during the 1970s. It’s a local favorite with approximately 300 volunteer skiers and snowboards snaking down the mountain with bright, phosphorus flares.
The course starts at the mid-mountain level and follows a path to the Day Lodge, where a crowd waits to cheer them on. The smoke of the flares fills the area as each person extinguishes their torch.
Safety is paramount, and pre-planning is a must. Days before the event, skiers and riders sign waivers adhering to all the mountain rules. Participants arrive an hour early for the safety briefing and to load the lifts, which is the beginning of the magical evening.
Fireworks - 9:30 pm
After all the skiers and riders have descended the mountain from the Torchlight Parade, the fantastic Fireworks display begins compliments of Alyeska Resort. Viewers can see the beautiful display throughout the valley as the fireworks glow in the sky against the snowy mountain. There truly is no better way to ring in the New Year!
Location
The Torch Light Parade and Fireworks can be viewed from the Day Lodge on Alyeska Resort
