Winter at Sugarbush isn’t just about carving the first turns, it’s about the moments that follow. The sound of a guitar echoing off the lodge walls, friends raising a glass to the season ahead, and that unmistakable energy when the mountain comes alive again. From Mt. Ellen’s Big Kicker to ringing in the holidays with The SugarBash, the early season at Sugarbush hits every note just right.
Whether you’re chasing pow turns by day or chasing good vibes by night, here’s what’s happening across Sugarbush this early season.
The Big Kicker — Featuring Slam Trans-Am
Saturday, November 22 | 5:00–9:00 PM | Mt. Ellen Base Lodge
Event Type: Free | Family Friendly | Outdoor Rail Jam & Live Music
Kick off winter at The Big Kicker, Sugarbush Resort’s annual start-of-season bash at Mt. Ellen. Expect live music, bonfires, a rail jam hosted by the Sugarbush PARKS crew, and an unbeatable mountain atmosphere as skiers and riders celebrate the return of winter in Vermont.
Event Highlights:
- Live Music: Rock out with Slam Trans-Am, New England’s raddest 80s tribute band, live in the Green Mountain Lounge.
- Rail Jam: Watch or join the action outside Mt. Ellen Lodge, please bring your pass if you plan to ride!
- Bonfires & Films: Stay warm by the fire and enjoy ski and snowboard films projected on the Coca-Cola inflatable movie screen.
Dark Star Project & Zach Nugent’s Dead Set
Saturday, November 29 | 1:00–7:30 PM | Castlerock Pub, Lincoln Peak Village
Event Type: Free | Indoor Live Music | Après & Evening Vibes
Calling all Deadheads—this night’s for you. Settle into the groove Dark Star Project takes the stage from 1:00-4:00PM, followed by Zach Nugent’s Dead Set from 4:30–7:30 PM. Expect deep cuts, classic vibes, and plenty of Vermont après energy inside the Castlerock Pub.
Soul Rebel Project
Saturday, December 6 | 1:30–4:30 PM | Castlerock Pub, Lincoln Peak Village
Event Type: Free | Indoor Live Music | Après & Evening Vibes
Good vibes only. Soul Rebel Project brings their high-energy blend of roots reggae, rock, and funk to the Castlerock Pub for an afternoon of rhythm and soul. Expect infectious grooves, soulful vocals, and the kind of feel-good mountain party that defines winter in the Mad River Valley.
SugarBash Celebration — Featuring The Talking Dreads
Saturday, December 13 | 7:00–10:00 PM | Gate House Lodge, Lincoln Peak Village
Event Type: Free | Holiday Sweater Party | Live Music & Dancing
It’s not winter at Sugarbush without SugarBash, our annual early-season blowout. Right after the Wall of Fame Celebration, join us in the Gate House Lodge for live music, dancing, and mountain-town celebration featuring The Talking Dreads—a reggae-infused Talking Heads tribute that keeps the dance floor moving all night long.
Fan-Favorite Ugly Sweater Contest: Prizes for the best (and worst) holiday looks.
New Year’s Eve Party — Featuring The Grift
Wednesday, December 31 | 9:00 PM–Midnight | Gate House Lodge, Lincoln Peak Village
Event Type: Free | Live Music & Dancing | Ring in the New Year
Ring in 2026 surrounded by snow, friends, and live music from The Grift, one of Vermont’s most beloved bands. Join us after the fireworks for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve at Sugarbush Resort, where the mountain turns into the ultimate party backdrop.
Plan Your Early Season at Sugarbush
From live music and rail jams to bonfires and holiday bashes, Sugarbush Resort’s early season events set the tone for winter in Vermont. Make a weekend of it — ski by day, dance by night, and wake up ready to do it all again.
Looking to stretch your stay? Deep December lodging deals are back, with up to 50% off select nights at Clay Brook Hotel & Residences and The Lodge at Lincoln Peak, plus $99 lift tickets when you book direct. Rooms start at just $159/night, making it the perfect excuse to kick off the season in style — ski hard, stay cozy and save big.
And don’t forget, it’s never too early to lock in your 25/26 Season Pass or grab a few TBD Tickets for those spontaneous powder days. Whether you’re here every weekend or just chasing that next bluebird day, Sugarbush has you covered from opening turns to après encore.