LUDLOW, Vermont — First-time or beginner skiers and snowboarders visiting Okemo Mountain Resort between Dec. 1 and 19 are welcome to take part in a complimentary learn-to-ski or learn-to-snowboard program at no cost.

Okemo’s Learn-to Ski/Snowboard for Free Program is designed to generate excitement for snow sports and encourage trial at the start of the winter season. Okemo’s beginner package includes a free combination lower-mountain lift ticket, a free level 1 or 2 beginner group lesson at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m., and free special introductory-level rental equipment (skis, boots, poles, or boots and snowboard). The Learn to Ski or Snowboard for FREE Program is available for ages 7 and up, at no charge every day, Monday, December 1 through Friday, December 19, 2008.

“Last year, 1,600 people learned how to ski or snowboard through this program and we’re expecting to introduce more than 2,000 beginners to snowsports this year,” says Okemo Ski + Ride School Director Dan Bergeron. “There’s no better time,” he said. “With lots of beginner terrain open this early in the season, our staff is enthused and ready.”

Reservations are encouraged and may be made by calling (802) 228-1600. Those without reservations may participate on a space-available basis. Program attendees should plan to arrive at the Okemo Express Rental Shop, located in the Okemo Clock Tower base area, about an hour before lesson time. This allows time for program registration and equipment fitting. Although free of charge, a beginner-package ticket is required to participate and a credit card deposit is required for rental equipment. Upon completion of the program, participants qualify for a free First Tracks Plus card, entitling them to a $10 savings on group lessons and rental equipment on weekends and holidays, and $20 savings on group lessons and rentals on non-holiday weekdays, all season long.

Okemo Mountain Resort offers an ideal setting for beginners. The resort is renowned for snow quality, surface conditions and learn-to-ski programs. In its annual Top 50 Reader Resort Survey, SKI Magazine named Okemo Mountain Resort one of the top ten resorts in the East, and one of the best in North America for grooming (sixth), family programs (fifth) and terrain parks (seventh). Ranked eighth in the East overall, the popular southern Vermont resort also made the top-ten list in 11 of the Reader Resort Survey’s categories: snow, grooming, lifts, service, weather, access, on-mountain food, lodging, dining, family programs and terrain parks.

Okemo’s professional teaching staff shows a true commitment to fun instruction while building confidence and encouragement to help conquer on-snow challenges. Additional ski and snowboard instructional programs are available, at a reasonable fee, for every age and ability level.

To learn more about Okemo Mountain Resort, call (802) 228-1600 or visit www.okemo.com.