Saturday will be a huge day for the Skiyente Ski Club, the only all-women ski club in the U.S., with the big Maryanne Cup race in the morning and the annual King Winter party at night.

In the morning members will compete in the annual Maryanne Cup, named for founding member and racing great Maryanne Hill.

Later at 1 in the afternoon there will be a King Winter Parade on Govy Loop Road from the Mt. Hood Museum to Charlie’s. That will be followed with some creative decorating by the Skiyente members getting ready for the King Winter festivities.

Then at 7 pm a party crowning the one and only John Wilberding as King Winter will be held at Charlie’s Mountain View Restaurant.

Wilberding, 79, served with the Mt. Hood Ski patrol for 37 years before retiring in 2005, and earned renown as “Reverend John” for his role in so many big events on the mountain. Wilberding even set up his own congregation to perform outdoor weddings on Mount Hood. He will be honored Saturday night with words of praise, drinks and past King Winters in attendance.

There will be a Bachelor Auction, door prizes and live music by the rock band Thrill Ride.

Tickets are $15 and proceeds will benefit the Mt. Hood Museum, the Erin Nicole Scholarship and Skiyente charities.

Skiyente has been honoring King Winters (both men and women) since 1956. Past winners include Fred Noble, Betty Dodd and Sheri and Dale Parshall.

WHAT: King Winter Celebration

WHERE: Charlie’s Mountain View Restaurant

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, doors open at 7

COST: Tickets for $15

Last modified: January 28, 2014