Winter Stoke 716 Brings Ski Films, Grateful Dead Music and Good Times to Western New York
Two nights, one incredible ski film and a great cause. Winter Stoke 716 is bringing the Western New York outdoor community together in Buffalo and Ellicottville this winter.
There's something special about getting the ski community together before the snow starts flying. The anticipation of first chair, stories from seasons past and the shared excitement for another winter on the slopes.
That's exactly the energy behind Winter Stoke 716, a new ski film and social event series coming to Buffalo on November 21, 2026, and then to Holiday Valley on January 16, 2027.
Organized by local outdoor enthusiasts Doug Bradley and Brandon Chase, Winter Stoke 716 combines a visually stunning ski film, the music of the Grateful Dead, great giveaways and a chance to support the Lounsbury Adaptive Ski Program.
And this isn't your typical night at the movies.
More Than a Ski Movie. It's a Winter Kickoff Party.
Bradley and Chase wanted to create something that captures the excitement of classic ski movie showcases while bringing a fresh, social atmosphere to the experience.
"Brandon Chase and I wanted to take the classic Warren Miller–style film night to the next level: less 'sit in a theater,' more full-on community party that brings the Western New York ski and outdoor crowd together while raising money for a great cause," Bradley explains.
The idea quickly gained momentum with support from Holiday Valley, The City Garage, The Boardroom and Atomic.
The result? Two evenings designed for skiers, snowboarders, outdoor lovers, music fans and anyone who enjoys a good time with good people.
Mountains of the Moon: Skiing Meets the Grateful Dead
At the heart of Winter Stoke 716 is Mountains of the Moon, a film experience created by professional skier, artist and filmmaker Chris Benchetler.
Shot almost entirely at night, the film takes audiences on a journey through mountains, rivers and oceans, blending remarkable outdoor cinematography with the unmistakable music of the Grateful Dead.
For Bradley, choosing the film was easy.
"I've always been a ski-movie junkie, and Chris Benchetler is one of the most respected names in the sport," he says. "I watched the trailer once and was hooked."
Benchetler is also known for his signature Atomic Bent Chetler skis, which are carried at The City Garage, and his Grateful Dead-inspired artwork, making the film a natural fit for the outdoor and music communities.
"And this isn't your typical ski flick," Bradley adds. "Much of it is shot at night in exotic locations, it's incredibly creative visually, and the whole thing is cut to a Grateful Dead soundtrack. It's as much an experience as it is a movie."
Two Winter Stoke 716 Events, Two Great Locations
Buffalo: Saturday, November 21, 2026
The Barrel Factory | 65 Vandalia Street, Buffalo
Kick off ski season in Buffalo's historic Old First Ward. The Barrel Factory's exposed brick, wooden beams and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect setting to celebrate the winter ahead.
Ellicottville: Saturday, January 16, 2027
Tannenbaum Lodge | Holiday Valley
By January, ski season will be in full swing. Spend the day skiing or snowboarding at Holiday Valley, then head to Tannenbaum Lodge for a night of film, music and mountain-town camaraderie.
"We chose two events on purpose: a pre-season kickoff in Buffalo to build the stoke, and a mid-January show in Ellicottville when the seasons in full swing," Bradley says. "That lets us reach two different crowds, and we're hoping to grow this into an annual series."
What to Expect at Winter Stoke 716
Both evenings run from 7 to 10PM, with plenty happening before and after the film.
Doors open at 7PM for an hour of socializing, Grateful Dead tunes, light bites and a cash bar. Guests can check out sponsor displays, enter giveaways and participate in a silent auction featuring some fantastic prizes like ski passes and a winter lodging package at Holiday Valley.
At 8PM Mountains of the Moon takes over the big screen with a high-quality audio and visual setup. After the approximately hour-long film, there's more time to hang out, catch up with friends and share stories from the slopes.
Prizes and auction items include Atomic Bent Chetler skis, a two-night Holiday Valley lodging package, a Holiday Valley Ultimate White Pass, lift tickets and gear from The City Garage and The Boardroom.
Giving Back to the Ski Community
Beyond the film and festivities, Winter Stoke 716 has an important mission: helping more people experience the joy of skiing.
Proceeds from the events benefit the Lounsbury Adaptive Ski Program, an Ellicottville nonprofit that provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy skiing and the freedom of being on the mountain.
"From day one, Brandon and I agreed this wasn't about making money," Bradley says. "It's about throwing a great party and giving back to the ski community."
After meeting with Sue Whistler and the Lounsbury team, the organizers knew they'd found the right organization to support.
"For years they've been giving everyone, regardless of ability (or disability), the chance to feel the thrill of sliding down a mountain in winter. That's what skiing is all about, and we're proud to support it."
It's a mission that fits naturally with Holiday Valley's commitment to sharing winter recreation with people of all abilities.
Get Your Winter Stoke 716 Tickets
Whether you're counting down the days until opening day or already making turns at Holiday Valley, Winter Stoke 716 is a great excuse to gather your friends and celebrate everything we love about winter in Western New York.
ADVANCE ADMISSION
$35
$40 at the door, plus applicable taxes and fees
Tickets are limited for both events, so purchasing in advance is recommended.
Bradley sums it up best:
"Come for the film, stay for the people, and help us get more folks on the hill. See you there!"
And if you're joining us for the January showing, make a full day of it. Hit the slopes at Holiday Valley, enjoy everything Ellicottville has to offer and finish the night surrounded by people who love winter as much as you do.
We'll see you on the mountain!