Skiing in the dark at sub-freezing temperatures with flames in my hands doesn’t put me in the league of Evel Kneivel, but it sure is a fun way to dispense of the old year.

Cocktail parties, Ryan Seacrest, crowded bars, resolutions and forced conversation are traditions that don’t compare to saddling up to the Cougar Triple chair at Snow King and preparing for the New Year with fellow torch bearers. Cars line the road, kids are bundled up tight and families gather to witness the annual parade of lights and accompanying fireworks at the local hill.

Temperatures were a little brisk this year, but that didn’t seem to diminish the size of the crowd or the spirit of the skiers. A staple of every mountain ski town on New Year’s Eve, the annual torchlight parade is a fun tradition that brings out good friends, a festive environment and a perfect end to another good year.

Hope you enjoyed yours wherever you were.