California's Palisades ski area has announced a four day ski and snowboard Freedom Fest from July 1-4th, culminating on US Independence Day. It's believed to be the first time in 12 years the ski area has planned to open in July.
Long known as "America's spring skiing capital", The Palisades is one of three US ski areas expected to be open into July thanks to the huge snowpack that built up through numerous winter storms. It's still lying more than 12 feet deep.
Skiing and boarding will be from 8am to 2pm daily with the main headline act so far announced being electronic dance music legend Paul Oakenfold performing on the Alpine deck from 1:30-3pm on the 3rd.
"This 4th of July, you won't want to miss Freedom Fest at Palisades Tahoe! For the first time in more than a decade, Alpine will be open into the summertime, giving you the opportunity to carve unforgettable memories. Indulge in the thrill of summer skiing and riding, and let the electrifying beats of EDM legend Paul Oakenfold and the rest of our exciting artist lineup set the rhythm of this historic celebration. Be sure to grab our limited-edition event T-shirt, a keepsake of this monumental occasion. This is more than a festival, it's an experience you can't afford to miss. See you on the slopes!" The Palisades enthuses.
Fellow Californian ski area Mammoth Mountain as well as Timberline in Oregon are expected to stay open into July. The last time there was this much snow lying on Western US ski slopes in late Spring 2011 around a dozen ski areas in the region reopened for the 4th of July weekend, including The Palisades. Six did so in 2019 but The Palisades wasn't one of them.