Blow your Alphorn

Things get a little noisy when people get together to pound drums and blow horns as they call upon the snow gods at the start of the winter season in serene Squaw Valley. In the long-held tradition of wild and wacky events, and in the desire for feet upon feet of fresh powdery snow, Squaw Valley USA will hold a series of free musical gatherings from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 21 and 28 in the Village Green. Guests of all ages are invited to puff their cheeks and pound away on drums as they participate in a homemade Alphorn blowing contest and informal drum circle program. Drums will be available for tapping on, but guests are encouraged to create their own Alphorns using PVC piping and a large funnel. Prizes will be awarded each week for the best-decorated horn and the longest continuous note. At 5 p.m. on Dec. 27, Squaw Valley will host real Alphorn players in a special demonstration. For more information or Alphorn building instructions visit www.squaw.com.