Photo: Contributed

Dignitaries, enthusiasts and skiers celebrated Baldy Mountain Resort's resurrection, Friday.

The snow-drenched kickoff at the ski hill near Oliver included speeches and a ribbon cutting.

"This is the most intense resurrection of a ski resort I've ever done, and this is my third resurrection," said managing director Joey O' Brien, one of the owners. "And I'm feeling excellent about it."

O' Brien thanked everyone involved in making the opening happen this year.

Osoyoos Indian Band Chief Clarence Louie wished the new owners the best, and said he's looking forward to a new Baldy.

MLA Linda Larson talked about the importance of winter tourism and how facilities like Baldy support the economy.

Also in attendance was Victor Tsao, another member of the ownership group.

The ceremony took place a day after the ski area opened, attracting about 350 people.

Thursday was also the first day of the First Chair Festival at the ski area. Running until Sunday, it features sledding, music, beer tasting and more.

The resort plans to stay open until April this year.