CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — With both kids and adults having busy schedules these days, family time is at a premium. Family sports like skiing is a great way to bring everyone together, and NickelodeonT and Sugarloaf/USA have teamed up to create a series of special family festivals this season.”It’s a great partnership and a fantastic way to get young children excited about skiing and snowboarding,” said Karen Greene, Sugarloaf brand manager.

During Kids and Teens Ski Free Week presented by Nickelodeon on February 5-11, youth ages 6-18 ski free when you book 3-5 midweek nights. Families can ski together as well as participate in scavenger hunts and the Jelly Fish Relay during the day and then enjoy evening activities such as Nick Tunes Karaoke Night, Nick Activity Night with games and bounce houses, Nick Movie Night and more.
On February 10, the band Hot Peas ‘N Butter, as seen on the Noggin Network’s Jack’s Big Music ShowT, will perform live. Nickelodeon characters SpongeBob SquarePantsT and Dora the ExplorerT will make special appearances all week long.

SpongeBob and Dora return to Sugarloaf at the peak of the season for the Nickelodeon Winterfest 2007 March 4-8. Ski and Stay packages start at just $85 per person. The week will be filled with more family-oriented activities, including a concert by Jack’s Big Music ShowT band Dirty Sock Funtime Band on Wednesday, March 7.

For those looking for more on-hill excitement, Turbo Tubing is offered Tuesday through Saturday nights. Additionally, family skating and sliding is offered at the Outdoor Center evenings until 8 pm.

Youngsters will also be excited to ski or ride using the new line of Dora skis and SpongeBob skis and snowboards. These skis and snowboards are available for rent or purchase exclusively at Sugarloaf and the other resorts of the American Skiing Company.

For more information or Sugarloaf’s Nickelodeon festivals or to book your next great winter family vacation, call 1.800 THE LOAF or visit us online at www.sugarloaf.com/nick.html.