Winter Park Resort is preparing for a landmark 2025-26 winter season, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Mary Jane mountain base on January 10, 2026 with a season-long series of festivities.

To kick off the season, the resort will launch “Send’er November” happening every weekend between Nov. 8 and 22, which offers rewards to early-season visitors. Pass holders who ski twice in November will reap benefits including early access to Mary Jane, membership to the private ski patrol text alert list, new terrain openings and five transferable Early Ups tickets for expanded ski lift access.

“Early season can be super fun,” said Jen Miller, the resort’s public relations manager. “We just want to bring some of that excitement.”

To round out Send’er November, Winter Park will host a series of events:

• Nov. 8: High Stakes & Hot Laps – a rail jam and poker run with cash prizes up for grabs.
• Nov. 15: Hot Doggin’ & Haute Moves – an amateur ski ballet contest with cash prizes.
• Nov. 23: Mini Mary Jane Mogul Showdown – a throwback challenge course with bumps, blades, synchronized skiing and retro rules.

Costumes are encouraged for all of these contests, and more information will be released on social media as the dates approach, Miller said.

The ski resort invested $37 million this year to upgrade its snowmaking system, resulting in higher efficiency, reduced energy use and earlier terrain openings, including high alpine areas and terrain parks up to 10,800 feet, according to a September press release. Miller said she expects this improvement to deliver a longer, more reliable ski season with enhanced sustainability.

On-mountain dining is also receiving upgrades with new menus, expanded food choices and a reimagined restaurant, Ptarmigan Kitchen + Bar, taking over Doc’s space at the base area. Family incentives return as well, including free lift tickets included with kids’ ski lessons, a learn-to-ski guarantee and affordable pro tip sessions for advanced skiers.

For transportation, the Winter Park Express ski train will offer special trips during holidays. Beginning Dec. 19, the train will offer round-trip service to the slopes on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 4. In partnership with CDOT and Amtrak, regular service will continue Thursday through Sunday, from Jan. 8 to March 29. Prices remain unchanged from the 2024 winter season.

On Jan. 10, the official birthday of Mary Jane, the resort will host a celebration in honor of its 50th year. Details have not been finalized, Miller said, but the resort team is cooking up a plan.

“It’ll be a really good weekend to come to Winter Park,” Miller said.