The Hidden Gem of Winter Travel: Why More People Need to Talk About Black Ski Week at NBS Summit

3 weeks ago 60

When you think of ski culture, what comes to mind? Snow-covered mountains, après-ski lounges, and maybe a sprinkle of elite winter sports enthusiasts? But what if I told you there’s an entire week dedicated to Black excellence on the slopes, packed with culture, camaraderie, and celebrations? Enter Black Ski Week at the NBS Summit—the longest-running Black ski event in the country that has been bringing together thousands of attendees for decades. And yet, hardly anyone talks about it. Why is that?

What is Black Ski Week at NBS Summit?

Black Ski Week, hosted by the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS), is an annual gathering that has been around for over 50 years. At its peak, the event attracted between 20,000-25,000 attendees from across the nation, creating a vibrant winter wonderland for Black skiers, snowboarders, and those who simply wanted to enjoy the scene. While attendance has dropped to 5,000-7,000 in recent years, the energy remains unmatched. This is more than just a ski trip—it's a full-blown experience of music, networking, partying, and cultural celebration.

The Best-Kept Secret in Travel

For some reason, Black Ski Week is still a hidden gem, even within the Black travel community. Mainstream media rarely covers it, and unless you’re in the know, you might not even realize it exists. Other organizations have attempted to create their own versions over the years, but even those remain largely under the radar. The reality is, many people don’t associate Black travelers with skiing or snowboarding, but the truth is, we’ve been carving up the slopes for decades.

What to Expect at Black Ski Week

So, what actually happens at Black Ski Week? Imagine a family reunion meets winter getaway, where you can experience:

  • Epic ski and snowboard sessions – Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, you’ll see skiers of all levels.
  • Non-stop parties – Think themed nights, après-ski events, and all-out celebrations.
  • Networking opportunities – Business professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives come together, making it an ideal place to build connections.
  • A welcoming environment – Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, there’s still plenty to do. Many people come just to soak in the vibes, participate in social activities, and enjoy the community.
  • A legacy of tradition – Families have been attending for generations, passing down the experience to the next wave of attendees.

NBS Summit's Black Ski Week.

NBS Summit's Black Ski Week. (Photo Credit: Alex Jackson)

A New Wave of Attendees

While Black Ski Week has historically attracted an older crowd, there’s been a surge of younger attendees in recent years, thanks to word-of-mouth and veteran attendees bringing their children, nieces, and nephews. Now, a new generation—the 40-and-under crowd—is beginning to embrace this legendary event, ensuring that the legacy continues.

Why You Should Attend the 54th Annual NBS Summit

If you’ve never considered adding a Black ski event to your travel bucket list, this is your sign to go. Whether you ski, snowboard, or just want to experience the magic of being in a space dedicated to Black joy and adventure, you’ll leave feeling inspired. The 54th Annual NBS Summit is happening next year, and I urge you to be there.

Don’t miss out on a one-of-a-kind experience that has been thriving for over five decades. This is a travel experience unlike any other—one that combines sport, culture, and community in a way that deserves national attention.

So, will I be back? Absolutely. Will you be there? Let’s make it happen.


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