The winter months are swiftly approaching and with them the incomparable B.C. ski and snowboard season. While some head back to school in the later months of the year, others head to the mountains and with the fresh powder comes fresh deals on winter sports apparel and gear.  Largely familiar to both would-be and seasoned ski bums, brands like Burton, Oakley, Salomon, Rossignol, Columbia, Volkl and The North Face provide some of the best gear out there and Whistler Blackcomb’s annual turkey sale in the heart of our own winter wonderland village is the perfect place to get started.

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Rather than grabbing binders, pencils and calculators this fall, grab yourself jackets, boots, and skis at the turkey sale. Winter is coming a little early this year and Whistler Blackcomb is the lucky recipient of some of that early bird snowfall, meaning a November 24th opening is in the cards for the 2016/2017 season. So it’s time to preview the scene and gear up! From Friday, October 7th to Monday October 10th, Whistler visitors can save up to 50 percent off of the above brand names and more in the Upper Village Daylodge at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. Before you stuff yourself with turkey on Monday, stuff your cars with all the “back to the ski hill” equipment you or your family may need. Those who cannot make it on the Friday have no need to worry about missing out, as those involved in the turkey sale will be prepared, replenishing winter goods selections on all four days.

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Whistler Blackcomb’s annual turkey sale weekend is more than just a sale, as it will also allow winter sport enthusiasts to get a head start on Season Pass and EDGE Card pick-ups on-site. The EDGE Card gives frequent visitors exclusive discounts and is both the economically-friendly and easiest way to ski and ride at Whistler Blackcomb. Part of Whistler’s charm is its cozy local scene, so familiarize yourself with the coffee shops and restaurants while searching for that perfect pair of skis or snowboard.. If you are planning on spending the weekend and taking in the local scene while getting a crack at the deals, accommodations are available starting at $119 per night at one of the many picturesque lodging locations scattered about the town.

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Whistler Blackcomb is no mediocre mountain, now holding the #1 resort position in North America and having been a host at the Winter Olympic Games in 2010. It is the ultimate place to introduce the kids to the world of snow and sport fusion as well as an ample spot to challenge and push your own skills. But there is no need to break the bank to do this. For those who want the ultimate deals of the weekend, the SWAP—or the “Sale With Awesome Prices”—is for the budget-conscious. The items may be pre-owned but are none-the-less guaranteed to be quality and perfect for both kids and adults. If you are looking for a fresh start and want to get rid of old equipment, just bring it to the tent and the retailers will sell it for you; no hassle, no stress, no problem.

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So get that shopping list ready, research what you and your family may need this season and put your game face on. School is about to be in session and the teacher is the mountain. Be prepared, geared up and hit those slopes in budget-friendly style!

This article is sponsored by Whistler Blackcomb.