Bridger Ski Foundation to host 51st Annual Ski Swap

Whether you’re looking for a new-to-you pair of skis or hoping to sell off some old gear, the Bridger Ski Foundation’s (BSF) Annual Ski Swap has a long tradition of attracting winter enthusiasts and their gear. The 51st Annual BSF Ski Swap will take place Saturday and Sunday, November 3rd–4th, at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds in Bozeman.
Skiers and riders will find the exhibition halls of the fairgrounds lined with carefully organized equipment, ranging from cross-country skis to fat powder skis, snowshoes, snowboards, poles, backpacks, clothing, boots, and more. The Ski Swap also brings in thousands of items from local retailers who sell last season’s rental gear and leftover inventory at the swap.
BSF takes a 20% commission if a consignment item is sold, and with thousands of items being sold, it is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit club, which provides ski programs for more than 600 youth and adults and also grooms an incredible network of Community Nordic Ski Trails for residents and visitors.
“But it’s more than just a fundraiser,” says Jenny White, director of marketing and communications for BSF. “This is a community event. It’s part of how we help the community (including our athletes) source affordable equipment and sell their used gear. It keeps skiing more accessible for everyone.” And, she adds, it’s a festive atmosphere where everyone – young and old – gets to celebrate the start of winter.
In addition to the swap, BSF will sell raffle tickets for a Bridger Bowl red chair at the event, and Toyota, the title sponsor, will have several giveaway contests, including an Orion cooler.
BSF Annual Ski Swap Hours:
Friday, Nov. 2nd from 10am–7pm: Drop off your consignment items. ($1 fee per item; cash only.)
Saturday, Nov. 3rd, 10am–6pm: Sale! $2 admission fee. (BSF members get in free at 9am)
Sunday, Nov. 4th, 10am–2pm: Sale! Free admission. (Some prices drop on Sunday.); 2–5pm: Unsold item pick-up.
Ski Swap Pro Tips
– BSF Membership perks. Anyone can purchase an annual membership to BSF, one of the perks being you get in to the Ski Swap free and early (9am on Saturday). Memberships are $25 for individuals, $35 for partners, and $50 for a family.
– Selling items? Clean them up so they sell better. Take your time filling out your paperwork at drop-off and be sure to note the size, color, and brand.
– Cash: You’ll need cash when you drop off consignment items in order to pay the $1 per item fee. You’ll also need cash if you’re paying the $2 admission fee on Saturday. (But don’t worry, you can pay for any items you purchase with a credit card.)
– Sunday deals. Many sellers opt to drop the price of their items on Sunday. Great deals can still be found on day two!
– Don’t forget to pick up items. If you have items on consignment, BSF posts a list of unsold items on their website on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 5th. Sellers must pick up their unsold items between 2pm and 5pm. Any items left unclaimed by 5pm on Sunday, Nov. 4th are permanently retained by Bridger Ski Foundation.
– Payout: BSF will mail checks to sellers for the amount of their sold item(s), minus the 20% consignment fee.
Bridger Ski Foundation is a nonprofit community ski organization offering educational and competitive programs in Nordic, Freestyle, Freeskiing, Snowboarding and Alpine skiing. They also groom an extensive network of community Nordic ski trails for the Bozeman public. BSF focuses on inspiring a lifelong love of skiing, athletic excellence, and personal growth. Learn more about the Ski Swap, membership opportunities, and other events at www.bridgerskifoundation.org