Only 30 miles Northwest of Traverse City, the beautiful town of Bellaire, Michigan, is a scenic and activity-filled vacation destination. The first European settlers made their way to the area in the 19th century. The economy of the area was based on the lumber industry and the influx of Civil War vets with land grants, helped to populate the town. In 1879, Bellaire was named the county seat for Antrim County, and soon after, the railroad built a depot in town. Despite going through ups and downs during the early 20th century (like many American towns during the period), post-WWII brought new life to the area thanks to a new and rapidly growing tourism industry in the region. Currently, Bellaire has a population of over 1,500 and is one of the top vacation destinations in all of Michigan.
Every top vacation city has plenty of activities to offer visitors and Bellaire is no different. The natural surroundings and parks are lush, filled with wildlife, and are just begging to be explored. If the snow is still covering the ground, there are ample opportunities for Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, sledding, snowshoeing and downhill skiing. The town is also home to some great restaurants, unique shops, and friendly faces almost everywhere you go. You’ll also find wineries and breweries in close proximity to town that they offer tours and tastings for you to enjoy. Bellaire is home to a some fun local events and festivals the Shanty Creek Resorts Slush Cup.
Not only is Shanty Creek Resorts a top lodging provider with great amenities, top facilities and spacious rooms, they also host great community events. For nearly 50 years the Shanty Creek Resorts Slush Cup has been bringing people in from all over the region. This is a family-friendly event with a little something for everyone. You’ll be able to witness as skiers and riders attempt to traverse a 60’ pond on skis and snowboards. In addition, there will be a spread of great food options and drinks for all tastes. Bundle up, grab the family, and get ready to welcome spring in style at the Shanty Creek Resorts Slush Cup. We got the chance to interview Lindsey Southwell, the Director of Marketing for Shanty Creek Resorts, to talk about this fun event.
RAL: Tell me a bit about the event.
LS: This will be the 46th year of the cup. There are many different events, but the number of participants in the actual Slush Cup event is 80. The number of spectators we attract is much much more than that! Demographically we see primarily families and children but anyone interested should join us in all the fun events. This has been one of Michigan’s most popular winter events for over 40 years. Watch the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat as skiers and riders attempt to cross an icy 60′ pond. Some take it to another level with crazy costumes. Other events include a frozen fish toss, snow shovel racing and a seal slide, all part of the traditional wild and crazy weekend.
RAL: What makes this event unique.
LS: We have skiing or snowboarding across a pond on a ski hill! That’s just crazy! This is a great family event to close out winter and welcome spring to our beautiful community. Whether you're coming from close or far, you're going to have a blast at our Slush Cup.
RAL: Give me a breakdown of the activities, food and overall environment of the event.
LS: Here is a quick look of the events and timetable.
9a-1p Registration
11a Seal Slide
12p Frozen Fish Toss
1p Shovel Races
2p Slush Cup
The Slush Cup Event will be taking place behind Ivan’s Café. Ivan’s Café is a premier skier’s cafeteria with fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, soups, chili, wraps, and more. Plus all the traditional kid-friendly options like french fries, pizza, chicken fingers, and chips. Ivan’s will even feature Starbucks Coffee and assorted Starbucks beverages. Ivan’s is the place for après ski entertainment, with bartenders serving cocktails, craft beer and our SHOT-SKI!
Once known as The Kingdom of Schuss, Schuss Village remains an iconic Michigan ski resort favorite. Schuss village exudes an alps-inspired European charm with ornamental architecture from a bygone era. Home to Schuss Mountain’s 43 downhill alpine ski slopes and the Monster Terrain Park, a variety of ski-in/ski-out condos, Ivan’s après-ski restaurant. Winter getaways are warmed by friendly staff greetings and festive outdoor bonfires.
RAL: Tell me about the lodging at Shanty Creek Resorts.
LS: Lodging, like everything at Shanty Creek Resorts, is about variety. The three villages of Shanty Creek: Summit, Cedar River and Schuss, have well-appointed hotel rooms, multiple condominiums, and rental homes.
Here are some of the packages that we have available. We have great Ski and Stay Packages for as low as $89 per person.
Packages Include:
• One night’s lodging in a Lakeview Hotel guest room
• Breakfast
• Superticket lift ticket
• Complimentary skiing the evening of arrival (subject to slope hours)
• Group ski lesson
RAL: What does this event mean to the community?
LS: It is a fun event to participate in and/or spectate as a member of the community and for visitors alike. It’s a great place to connect with new people and have a great time.
The extra people that come into the community for the event, are a welcomed boost to the local economy. People spend money at the local shops and restaurants providing a boost during a typically slow season.
RAL: Why should people come to the event?
LS: It is an experience like no other, it's unique, fun, and a ton of laughs. A person can watch the Slush Cup just for the entertainment value alone or a person can participate in the Slush Cup for the challenge of accomplishing a pretty incredible feat. Either way, it’s a great way to make memories with your buddies, families or spouse!
For more information about the Shanty Creek Resorts Slush Cup, please visit their website.