In the 1970s, at the Berkeley, California REI, the tradition of roasting twinkies to coax snow to fall from the sky began. Today, many stores, and even REI HQ, get creative in their requests from Ullr, the Norse ski god.
REI Denver Flagship
The Denver store partnered with Steamboat Resort for the annual Pray for Snow pre-season bash. Skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers and anyone else anxious for the white stuff donned their best retro skiwear and brought snow-filled thoughts to the party. For the grand finale, a giant unicorn made of twinkies was set aflame to appease the snow gods.
REI HQ in Kent, WA
At REI’s Headquarters, everyone knows: Winter is Coming. The twinkie roast and Pray for Snow party is an annual HQ tradition. Employees sat atop an “iron” throne (made of skis rather than swords) to send their snow prayers skyward. There was a twinkie-eating contest, followed by the traditional twinkie roast.
REI Seattle Flagship
Seattleites donned their best retro skiwear and headed to the flagship store to summon the snow. Attendees enjoyed s’mores, beer, old-school ski flicks, and of course, roasted twinkies. If that wasn’t enough, there was also an 80’s themed arcade to keep the stoke high.
Several more Pray for Snow parties have taken place in REI stores around the country. If you missed the one near you, don’t let that stop you from appeasing the snow gods! Hold your own Pray for Snow Party and share your photos.
Have any seasonal snow traditions? Share them in the comments below.