BOLTON, VT. Bolton Valley, where big mountain skiing and riding is among the most convenient and affordable, plans to open for the 2011-2012 ski and snowboard season on Saturday, Dec. 10, weather permitting. Snowmaking will begin in late November and skiers and riders make their way to the slopes for the first time this season, where a plethora of deals and activities are in place for the month of December.

One of Bolton’s special December holiday deals returns again this season for those who want to ski or snowboard free. On Sunday, Dec. 18, those skiers and riders who show up in complete Santa attire-not just a red coat or furry red hat, we’re talking the whole complete package head to toe-will earn a free lift ticket for that day.

From Dec. 19-25, Bolton will celebrate Happy Holiday Week with $25 lift tickets during a time when resort officials lower the daily lift ticket rate just before the Christmas holiday period. These $25 lift tickets, and $5 tickets for Nordic skiing, will be available at resort ticket windows. On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of that week, lift tickets are valid for skiing and riding until 8 p.m. as well. Ski and Stay packages start at $55 per person during Happy Holiday Week. New Year’s Eve fireworks and a torchlight parade will culminate December’s month-long celebration beginning at 8 p.m.

Bolton Valley Resort is Vermont’s most convenient and affordable big mountain skiing. Less than 10 minutes from I-89 and less than 30 minutes from Burlington, the family-friendly mountain offers skiers and riders of all abilities three mountain peaks with 70 trails and 6 lifts, plus 3 terrain parks including the Burton Progression Park.

Bolton Valley is the first in Vermont and the second in the U.S. to implement wind power as an energy source and is the recipient of the National Ski Areas Association’s 2010 Silver Eagle Award for environmental initiatives. Approximately 88km of high elevation Nordic terrain, a complete Sports Center and Indoor Amusement Center plus Vermont’s most extensive top-to-bottom night skiing and riding are just a few of the extras available to guests. All-inclusive, true ski-to-your-door lodging packages are from $79/person/night. For more information visit www.boltonvalley.com or call 877-9BOLTON.