Bells Are Ringing At Opening Of SIA Show

The Snowsports Industries America (SIA) Ski Show in Denver came alive in downtown Denver Jan. 27, 2011. Colorado's Governor John Hickenlooper, Denver Mayor Bill Vidal, SIA President David Ingemie, and other dignitaries rang European cowbells to kick off the four-day event. Gov. Hickenlooper said, "We want to make snow sports to Colorado what oranges are to Florida."

More than 19,000 buyers, sellers,  media, fill up 321,000 square feet of space. It's jammed with everything imaginable when it comes to playing on the snow, keeping warm or having fun outside. It's the second year the show has been in the Mile High City after nearly 40 years in Vegas. Vidal, Denver's new mayor, says it is a $30 million economic impact to the city.

Winter Park's President and CEO, Gary DeFrange is inviting everyone with the show to ski and ride Winter Park when it is all over. "This is a week when Denver and the State of Colorado are showcased as a place to ski and ride. This year, we've got the snow. Many resorts have more than 200 inches so far this season and we're only halfway through."

The show is not open to the public. It is where retailers and shop personnel come to order what they will sell next year at their stores and businesses.