SAM Magazine—Boston, Mass., Nov. 16, 2016—Thousands of snowsports enthusiasts nationwide have attended a handful of pre-season ski shows in search of great deals, info on what's new, and of course, stickers.

The Boston Ski and Snowboard Expo Nov. 10-13 was a lively gathering of resorts and retailers who were all happy to spread the word of a better winter to come as New Englanders still wait for the season to kick into gear.

According to show organizer Bernie Weichsel, the event attracted about 40,000 people—down nearly five percent year-over-year, which, “Given the season we had last year here in the East, is not bad!” said Weichsel. He also mentioned that exhibitors were very satisfied, with most hitting their sales goals.

As usual, New England resorts had the biggest presence. State trade associations Ski Vermont and Ski New Hampshire each created social spaces that showcased their respective brands, with member resort booths occupying the perimeters.

Both organizations hosted well-attended media events on Thursday at different venues located nearby the expo. Members of the media socialized with resort communicators over cocktails and culinary delights, with story pitches and a collective excitement for winter echoing through each room.

Out West, the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Expo in Denver Nov. 4-6 welcomed about 20,000 visitors. Like Boston, attendance was down roughly five percent year-over-year, a strong showing in light of Denver's unseasonably warm weather this fall. And while Vail Resorts skipped the show, other areas came out in force, most visibly Crested Butte—which sponsored the popular mechanical bullriding arena and the even more popular aerial trampoline show.

The event featured other activities for attendees, including a ski ramp, obstacle course, aerial ropes course, cross-country and biathlon areas, and a Burton LTR indoor program. The retail sales area was humming throughout the show as well.

After a back-to-normal winter in the Northwest, the SkiFever and Snowboard Show in Portland, Ore., saw a huge uptick in attendance compared to years' past. Friday was up 35 percent, Saturday was up a whopping 50 percent, and Sunday saw 30 percent more visitors. Event organizers report that the retailers were very happy, with sales also up a great deal. The coinciding Brewfest, featuring free tastings of Deschutes Brewery beers, and a parade of Oregon wines at Winefest helped raise the visitor totals.

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