Winter X Games begin Thurs., and will prob. be off the hook as always. I'm stoked to see what "first ever" bangers get thrown down this year.

Jan. 27-30 is the SIA 09 Snowsports Trade Show...
SIA is a giant annual biz conference for the snow industry / giant party in Vegas. Every snow company reveals their new gear to release the following season - FYI, the new gear is usually being donned by some gorgeous model. Every shop in the country sends buyers to check out the new gear and put in orders for what they want for winter 10.
While it's supposed to be an "industry" event, the general public shouldn't shy away from the festivities. Parties, concerts, comps... there's a lot of fun to be had, and if you've always wanted a job in the industry this is the place to meet the right people. You might even be able to weasel a pass through your local shop or snowsports.org.

"Established in 1954, SIA annually produces the SIA SnowSports Trade Show, the largest snow sports industry trade show and networking environment, while delivering invaluable data/research, support, marketing products, services and programs. SIA continues to work collectively with our members; alpine, snowboard, AT, telemark, cross country, snowshoe, apparel and accessories companies, retailers, reps, resorts, regional and national associations and Buying Groups. Guidance from these different sectors of the industry make SIA what it is today, an organization representative of suppliers, retailers and reps all with the goal of getting more people on snow more often and making sure they are properly equipped and dressed to give them the best experience of snow sports."