Sparky

Queenstown, New Zealand - Coronet Peak has lined up a full day of special events on Saturday to celebrate the 60th birthday of the New Zealand ski area. From tunes on the deck with DJ Dan beginning just after noon, to the close of night skiing ops at 9 p.m., Coronet Peak staffers will present a day full of special activities.

At 12:30 p.m., bring the kids to the deck for a free lollipop or balloon with the Clown and Kiwi. Birthday cake will be served and champagne poured on the deck at 2 p.m., with face painting for the kids.

MC Luna will announce paragliders launching from the top of Coronet Peak at 3 p.m. as aerials skiers put on an acrobatic show. As night skiing begins at 4 p.m., special food stalls open serving Indian food, sushi, waffles and roast rolls. Stilt walkers will hand out more lollipops and balloons, and a rail comp begins for a chance to win a 2008 season pass.

Coronet Peak's Snowsports School puts on a light show with a torchlight parade at 6:30 p.m. on the M1 run, followed by a fire dancing show with Fire Flame Productions at 7:30 p.m.

The special celebration will wrap up as night skiing draws to a close at 9 p.m.