Lead Photo Credit: Sun Valley Resort
Ski racing? Check. Live Music? Check. Cowboys on horses pulling skiers at full speed? Oh yeah, this is all happening and more when the Stifel World Cup Finals come to Sun Valley, March 21-27. Whether you’re a die-hard ski fan, an après ski enthusiast or simply looking for some top tier shenanigans, Sun Valley is about to deliver an unforgettable week of fun and festivities on and off the slopes.
Opening Ceremony & Downhill Bib Draw – March 21, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
Nothing says, “let’s get this party started” quite like elite skiers picking numbers from a bag. The action kicks off with the much-anticipated Opening Ceremony and Downhill Bib Draw at the Sun Valley Ice Rink. Athletes and fans will wait with anticipation as these skiers seal their fates. Will they draw a prime position? Or, will they have to deal with ruts all the way down? Only time will tell.
Don’t worry, even if you don’t fully understand how this time-honored-bib-drawing tradition works, DJ Mix Master Mike will be spinning tunes from 7 PM on to keep the energy high. It’s the perfect way to kick off a week of skiing, entertainment and après festivities.
Wild West Skijoring Invitational – March 24, 11 AM – 5 PM
Photo Credit: Sun Valley Resort
If you have never seen a skier yanked at high speeds behind a horse through a snow-filled obstacle course, then your life is about to change. Sun Valley’s Wild West Skijoring Invitational on March 24 at Champions Meadows is a can’t miss event.
Part ski race, part rodeo and all chaos, skijoring is a thrilling blend of horseback riding and skiing. Skilled riders, fearless skiers and gravity-defying jumps will have you on the edge of your seat and thinking, “there’s just no way this is legal.” Well, it is, and it’s the perfect winter sports Wild West tradition experience, you won’t want to miss.
Après Ski Entertainment: Worldcup Rebels Après Music – March 21-27, 12 PM – 5 PM
Let’s be real. At least half the reason your on the mountain is because you’re looking for good après. Great news — Worldcup Rebels Après Music at the Warm Springs Day Lodge, has you covered from noon to 5 daily. Order up an Aperol Spritz and catch incredible headliners keep the stoke high throughout the week.
Here’s the killer lineup:
March 27: Switchfoot (Warm Springs Plaza, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
March 21: DJ Mix Master Mike (Sun Valley Ice Rink, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
March 22: Paul Oakenfold (Warm Springs Plaza, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
March 23: 220 Kid (Warm Springs Plaza, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
March 25: DJ Logic (Warm Springs Plaza, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
March 26: G Love (Warm Springs Plaza, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
March 26: 220 Kid (Sun Valley Ice Rink, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
That’s right, count ’em. That’s seven days of pure après ski bliss, so hydrate accordingly.
Vendor Village at Warm Springs – March 21-27, 9 AM – 5 PM
Need new ski gear? Want to pick up some swag? Or, maybe you just enjoy wandering around looking at cool stuff. The Vendor Village at Warm Springs Plaza has you covered on all fronts. Top brands like Fischer, Atomic, Aperol, Casamigos, Hydroflask, and more are sure to catch your eye. Who knows, you may even win something really sweet at one of their daily giveaways.
Après Party & Slalom Bib Draw – March 26, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
The Après Party & Slalom Bib Draw at the Sun Valley Ice Rink is your chance to see the top 15 men and women slalom athletes draw their bib numbers, with a touch of Idaho flair. For a fun twist, there will be surprises from the Idaho Potato Commission (because, well…it’s Idaho). And, if you needed incentives other than partying with a giant potato mascot, there is live music from 220 Kid at 7 pm and fireworks to end the night with a bang.
Join the Celebration at Sun Valley’s World Cup Finals
With world-class ski racing, après ski madness and enough live music to have you dancing all week long, the Stifel World Cup Finals at Sun Valley is the place to be this March. Whether you’re chasing your podium dreams or just your next après ski cocktail, this week will certainly be one for the ages.
Pack your skis, your dancing shoes and maybe a cowboy hat—because this is not your average ski event. Book your trip now and get ready for a thrilling adventure both on and off the slopes!
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres