WILMINGTON, N.Y. --- It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas at Whiteface Mountain, in Wilmington, N.Y.

On Sunday, Dec. 9, 558 skiers and snowboarders dressed as Mr. or Mrs. Claus, participated in the group photo and received a free lift ticket during the fourth annual Santas Ski Free Day at the Olympic mountain.

Those who did not have a jolly red suit donated a new toy (valued over $10) or a gently used winter coat and received 50% off a lift ticket for the day. More than 100 toys and jackets were collected by volunteers from the Boy Scouts of America and the Saranac Lake Key Club and will be distributed to individuals in need

Whiteface Mountain is off to a great start to the skiing and snowboarding season. The Olympic mountain opened ahead of schedule, Saturday, Nov. 17, and today 46 trails are open for all levels and abilities.

Video and photos of Santas Ski Free Day at Whiteface Mountain, courtesy of ORDA/Whiteface Lake Placid, can be found HERE. Video can be downloaded HERE.

Whiteface’s First tracks program has started for the season.  Skiers and riders can take an early morning guided run Saturdays and Sundays before the lifts and trails open to everyone else. First Tracks is limited to 14 intermediate and above level skiers and riders. For more details, or to register, email the mountain’s guest services desk, ski@whiteface.com.

-- ORDA --

Established in 1982, the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) was created by the State of New York to manage the facilities used during the 1980 Olympic Winter Games at Lake Placid. ORDA operates Whiteface, Belleayre and Gore Mountain ski areas; the Olympic Sports Complex at Mt. Van Hoevenberg; the Olympic speed skating oval, Olympic jumping complex and Olympic arena. As host to international and national championships, the Authority has brought millions of athletes, spectator and participants to the region, resulting in significant economic development.