There must be something to this whole get-your-friends-together-in-the-dark, hold out nasty smelling flares and snake all the way to the base in one long conga line thing. Why else would so many resorts offer a torchlight parade for participating or viewing?

Deer Valley Resort’s torchlight goes down December 30 at 6 p.m. on Big Stick ski run on Bald Eagle Mountain. Those friendly DV hosts will be handing out complimentary hot cider and cookies on the Snow Park Plaza.

Wolf Mountain in Ogden Valley hosts a family New Year’s Eve event that includes horse-drawn sleigh rides and the torch parade. The night starts at 4 p.m. with night skiing for $22 until 9 p.m. For an extra $15 add dinner and a sleigh ride before the torchlight. The parade and fireworks start around 9 p.m.

Gather on the Plaza Deck at dusk for bonfires and Snowbird‘s New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks. The newly remodeled Aerie Restaurant in the Cliff Lodge will have a special fixed menu and scheduled seatings.

Finally, head over to Alta Ski Area if you want charity attached to your torchlight experience. The parade follows the main cattrack to the Wildcat Base. They will have a “free-flowing” start time to minimize standing around in the cold. Families can participate then be at the base to watch the fireworks. Sorry, Folks, but no hot cocoa before the parade start. Instead, the money saved will go to the Utah Food Bank on behalf of all Alta skiers. Load the Collins lift at 5:15 p.m. and get off at the angle station. Children need to be accompanied by an adult and have their own headlamps or flashlights. Adults carry the torch. All participants need to be intermediate level or stronger. Open containers are not allowed so fill the Camelbak with Schnapps (and your own hot cocoa).

Happy New Year!