Dec 31, 2023
Written By: J.Couch
We were still in Steamboat for New Years Eve. And New Year’s Eve at this iconic location is a celebration like no other, featuring the Snowcat and Torchlight Parade with a grand finale of a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the night sky. A celebration of snow, lights and fireworks!
The parade was not going to start until 5:30 so I wanted to get there early to get a good spot. When I showed up around 4:45 to 5 there were not a lot of people yet and the sunset was starting to put on a great show. I walked around for a bit but soon made my way up to the fence line to get a spot, which at that point was completely empty. All of the ski instructors that were participating in the torchlight parade were loading onto the gondola to make their way to the top.
As the sun set and it was getting darker, the crowd started to grow. Hundreds of people were showing up to see the display, too. I am not sure how many attended but, in the end, there were probably a couple thousand. The crowd seemed to be composed of people of all ages, backgrounds and probably even many different countries. Everyone was friendly and cheerful, and I could feel a sense of community and celebration. Despite the cold weather, everyone was bundled up and smiling, and I saw many families, couples and groups of friends having fun and taking pictures. The ski resort was playing music, there were many people singing along with many of the songs that were being played, it was a festive atmosphere for sure. There was also a variety of food and drink options available, from hot chocolate and popcorn to beer and wine.
Once the sun had set and it was fairly dark, the snowcats started coming down the slope directly in front of us. Instead of grooming the runs for the evening, they were decked out with thousands of colorful lights. They were coming down in a diamond formation but not moving really fast. I am not sure what I expected of this, but this seemed like it moved a little slow. But it was a sight to behold, seeing them all lit up, as they glided down the slopes like giant glowing caterpillars, creating a contrast with the white snow and the dark sky.
Not too far behind the snowcats were the Steamboat SnowSports instructors, performing the Torchlight Parade. It’s a synchronized skiing illuminated by the light of torches, or basically red aircraft marshalling wands. It resembling a river of red stars gracefully making its way down the mountain. It would have been neat if they were actual fire torches, but probably a safety hazard. They skied down the mountain in different formations, creating patterns of red light against the white snow. It was a mesmerizing show of skill and coordination, and I could hear the crowd cheering and clapping as they watched. It was interesting to see it right up front, but I think this part would have been a little better to view it from farther away. That way you would see them coming down from the very top, we could only see them on the last slope as they skied into the base of Gondola Square.
The grand finale of the night was the fireworks show, which started right after the torchlight parade. The sky was filled with bursts of color and sound, as the fireworks exploded in different shapes and sizes. The vibrant colors reflected off the snowy landscape, creating a breathtaking panorama. Some of the fireworks seemed to be synchronized with music, adding to the excitement and emotion of the moment. The fireworks lasted for about 15 minutes, and you could see them from just anywhere in the base area. The cheers and applause from the crowd echoed through the mountains, marking the end of one year and the beginning of another filled with hope, joy, and endless possibilities.
New Year’s Eve at Steamboat Springs Gondola Square is not just an event; it’s a magical experience that brings people together in the spirit of celebration. The Snowcat Parade, the glowing skiers, and the spectacular fireworks create memories that linger long after the last echoes of cheers have faded. In the heart of the winter wonderland, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of community, this celebration becomes a cherished tradition for those seeking a truly unforgettable start to the new year. We highly recommend visiting Steamboat Springs for New Year’s Eve, and experiencing the magic of the Fireworks and Light Up Snowcat Parade. It is a unique and unforgettable way to ring in the new year, and you will not regret it. Just make sure to book your lodging and dining reservations early, as this is a popular event and the town gets busy.
If you are planning to attend this event in the future, here are some tips to make your experience more enjoyable:
- Arrive early. The event is very popular and parking can be limited, so it is advisable to arrive at least an hour before the show starts. You can also take the free shuttle bus from downtown Steamboat Springs to the resort.
- Dress warmly. The temperature can drop significantly at night, so make sure to wear layers, gloves, hats and boots. You can also bring blankets or chairs to sit on and watch the show.
- Stay safe. Follow the safety guidelines and respect the boundaries set by the resort staff. Do not go near the snowcats, the skiers or the fireworks, and keep an eye on your belongings and children.
- Have fun. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event that you will remember for years to come, so make sure to enjoy every moment and capture some memories with your camera or phone.
Happy New Year!
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
