HIGHMOUNT, New York ??” The 26th Annual Fall Festival and Craft Fair at Belleayre Mountain is scheduled for October 7 & 8, 2006, from 10 am – 5 pm both days. This Columbus Day weekend event is a highlight of the autumn season in the Catskills and visitors from all over New York flock to Belleayre Mountain for the festivities. With free parking and admission to the Festival, this is the perfect fall weekend event.

In addition to the 100+ arts and crafts vendors, live music, great food and Oktoberfest beer, and tons of kid’s activities, there are some exciting additions to the Festival this year. There will be hay rides for the whole family from the Overlook Lodge to the Sunset Lodge, going up and back the Roaring Brook trail. Rides on the Beast of Belleayre will be also be open to all, traveling from the summit of the Sky Ride to the Sunset Lodge. A Rail Jam Exhibition will thrill and delight as Belleayre freestyle skiers show off their skills.

Returning this year is the popular Ski & Winter Apparel Sale, with local ski shops offering deep discounts on gear and clothing. If you’re in the market for a new set of skis or a snowboard set up, this is the place to get fantastic deals. There’s no better way to outfit you and your kids in winter jackets or snow pants, hats, goggles and gloves.

With fall foliage typically at it’s peak of beauty this weekend, the Fall Festival is the perfect place to view it. The Sky Ride takes you from the Festival grounds to the summit of Belleayre Mountain, where the view is simply spectacular. The Sky Ride is $8 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and under, and $5 for seniors age 62 and over. The Sky Ride opens at 10 am and the last ride up is at 4:15 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

The Fall Festival is the last chance to take advantage of Early Bird specials on season passes to Belleayre Mountain for the 2006-07 ski season. If you purchase an adult or senior season pass on either October 7th or 8th, you’ll receive two “Bring A Friend” complimentary lift tickets and can take advantage of the Adult Weekend Workshop, a season-long ski school program, for free. Belleayre will also be offering deep discounts on lift ticket packages for the upcoming season. For example, you can purchase a 4-Pack of lift tickets, good anytime during the 2006-07 season, a $192 value, for only $99. The Fall Festival is the only place you’ll find this pre-season sale, so be sure to visit the Guest Services desk in the Overlook Lodge.

Make plans to visit Belleayre Mountain on October 7 & 8 for the 26th Annual Fall Festival and Craft Fair, featuring the huge Ski & Winter Apparel Sale. Hours of the Festival are 10 am – 5 pm, with free parking and admission.