SALISBURY, Conn.—The Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA) will marks 100 years of ski jumping at the historic Satre Hill during Jumpfest, taking place Feb. 6 through 8.
This centennial edition of New England’s oldest ski jumping event pays tribute to a legacy of athletic excellence, community spirit and winter revelry in the heart of northwest Connecticut.
As one of only six ski jump venues on the East Coast, Jumpfest draws top-tier athletes—including Olympic hopefuls and rising junior stars from across the country to compete in the Eastern Division National Ski Jump Competition. Spectators can look forward to action on all three hills: the 20-meter, 36-meter and 70-meter jumps, where competitors soar up to 200 feet at speeds exceeding 50 mph.
This milestone event also features a brand-new 36-meter jump built to Olympic specifications and a state-of-the-art lighting system that transforms nighttime and advanced snowmaking technology to ensure the fest goes on regardless of what Mother Nature has in store.
The festivities begin on Friday, Feb. 6, with complimentary admission to celebrate SWSA’s centennial anniversary. The evening starts at 7 p.m. with Target Jumping. As the night unfolds, guests will enjoy a fireworks display illuminating the winter sky.
One of the highlights of the evening is the ever-popular Human Dog Sled Race—a unique competition where teams test their speed and teamwork for a chance at victory and well-earned bragging rights. Interested participants are encouraged to register by Feb. 6 at info@jumpfest.org for a fee of $25.
On Saturday, Feb. 7, the spotlight will shine on the sport’s emerging talent as junior competitions commence at 9 a.m. on both the 20-meter and the newly introduced 36-meter hills. The excitement continues in the afternoon with the prestigious Salisbury Invitational, beginning at 1 p.m. on the renowned 70-meter big hill.
To cap off the day’s events, participants and guests are invited to the family-friendly Snowball Fundraiser at Lakeville Town Grove, where there will be live music by the Steve Dunn Band, raffles and pizza.
Sunday’s grand finale promises an action-packed day, beginning at 9 a.m. with the Nordic Combined race—a unique blend of cross-country skiing and ski jumping. The excitement continues at 11 a.m. as the 70-meter hill opens for athlete warm-ups and practice jumps, offering spectators a unique opportunity to observe the competitors’ technique, precision and athleticism up close.
The highlight of the weekend unfolds at 1 p.m. with the prestigious Eastern U.S. Ski Jumping Championships. Each jump is a testament to the athletes’ balance, flexibility and nerve, all displayed in a 20-second descent down the hill. To conclude the day, the awards ceremony will celebrate those who have earned their place among the best.
Festivalgoers can avail themselves of an array of food and drink options, ranging from classic cook shack specialties to gourmet BBQ served by Low N Slow Food Truck. To help visitors to embrace the winter chill, a dedicated hot toddy tent, the Norbrook Brewery beer tent, and comforting hot chocolate will be available throughout the event.
SWSA will sell 100th anniversary merchandise and a special historical exhibit will be on view at the Academy Building on Main Street, highlighting the rich legacy of ski jumping in Salisbury.
Tickets will be available at the gate and are $15 for adults on Saturday, and Sunday; Friday night, everyone gets in free. Kids 12 and under are admitted free all three days. The cost of the Snowball is $20 and includes a cash bar, music, raffles and pizza at 10 p.m.; kids under 12 get in free.
The ski jump complex is located at Satre Hill at 80 Indian Cave Road in Salisbury. Before setting out check http://www.jumpfest.org for updates, scheduled changes or more information or email the Association at info@jumpfest.org.
The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment.