Imagine skiers dressed up in crazy costumes, bombing down a hill, trying to build up enough speed to skim all the way across an icy pond. That’s what the Slush Cup—held every April at Alyeska Resort—is all about. The fact that very few people make it across just adds to the fun.
When & Where?
The Slush Cup has been an Alyeska tradition for over 40 years and is part of Spring Carnival, which is held over the third weekend of April. The pond skimming happens at 4 p.m. on that Saturday, and it’s the year’s biggest event—skiers clamor to be one of the 50 people chosen to participate, and thousands of people turn out to watch it. And while it gets quite rowdy, families and kids will enjoy the spectacle. The costumes can be outrageous—everything from the Incredible Hulk to Sarah Palin. In fact, they have to be outrageous—half of the participants are chosen during a costume contest the night before.
It’s a fun event to plan a trip around: Spring is a great time to go skiing, and Alyeska is Alaska’s premier ski resort. So enjoy the snow and the mountain during the day, then make your way to the Slush Cup by 4 p.m. (Come a little early for the “Idiot Swim,” where people swim across the same icy pond.) There’s no seating, so come prepared to stand, but you may want to walk around anyway and check out the food vendors, face painting for kids, and some arts and crafts for sale. Either way, the Slush Cup is decidedly an event you don’t want to miss!
Stay & Play (Then Relax)
Stay at the Hotel Alyeska and you'll be just steps away from the festivities. Then, make sure to reserve a spot to relax and unwind in the Nordic Spa.
