Fireworks to kick off Special Olympics

VERNON — The 2016 Special Olympics New Jersey Winter Games will kick off its multi-day competition with the opening ceremony at Mountain Creek on Monday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. and last through the early afternoon on Wednesday, Feb. 3.

The opening ceremony begins on Monday night behind the Red Tail Lodge at Mountain Creek in Vernon, N.J. Spectators are invited to watch as the Flame of Hope will be carried down the slope to light the Special Olympics New Jersey cauldron at the base of the mountain.

“We’re honored to once again host this incredible event," said Bill Benneyan, president of Mountain Creek. "For more than 30 years, the Special Olympics has been a highlight of our season, and Monday’s opening ceremonies and fireworks will be a special event this year, as we celebrate Vernon Winter Carnival during our 50th Anniversary season. We wish the best of luck to all the Olympians.”

Over the course of the two day event, nearly 300 athletes will compete in alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing at Mountain Creek, and speed skating, held at Skylands Ice World in Stockholm, N.J.

The Special Olympics New Jersey Winter Games is the culminating event for the winter season of sports, and those who have qualified to compete here have spent the last eight or more weeks training and competing at the local level.

For more information visit MountainCreek.com/events.