What is the NBS Summit (Black Ski Week)?
If you’ve never heard of Black Ski Week, aka the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS) Summit, then allow me to introduce you to the longest-running, Blackest, and most legendary ski gathering in the country. This year it was held in Keystone, Colorado at the Keystone Resorts. From the on-site restaurants, slopes and lodging, I can see why they picked this location. For 53 years, the NBS Summit has brought together thousands of Black skiers and snowboarders for a week of snow-filled adventure, epic parties, and pure Black excellence. And let me tell you—once you come one time, you’re hooked. Some folks have been attending for decades, passing down the tradition to their kids, nieces, and nephews like a sacred family heirloom.
But don’t get it twisted—while the OGs have been holding it down, the new generation (think 40 and younger) is starting to trickle in more and more. And how do they hear about it? Word of mouth—or more specifically, from their ski-loving aunties and uncles who have been attending since the 90s.
So, What’s the Vibe?
Imagine a family reunion, a winter festival, and an HBCU homecoming—all happening in the middle of a snow-covered mountain. It’s truly a congregation of Black joy, Black love, and Black adventure. Whether you’re there to hit the slopes or just hit the après-ski parties, you’ll feel the energy the moment you step foot on the mountain.
If you’re like me, you might have pulled up to NBS Summit with an ulterior motive—because let’s be real, a ski trip full of successful, adventurous Black folks sounds like prime matchmaking territory! I had my visions of meeting a ski bae, wrapped up in matching snow gear, sipping hot cocoa by a cozy lodge fire. But instead, I quickly realized that skiing wasn’t for me. One lesson and a few tumbles later, I gracefully bowed out. But did that stop me from enjoying the trip? Absolutely not!
You Don’t Have to Ski to Have an Amazing Time
While the majority of attendees do ski and snowboard, there’s a strong non-skiing crew who come just for the vibes. Trust me, even if you never step foot on a snowboard, you’ll still find plenty to do:
✔️ Themed Parties – Think all-white affairs, 90s throwbacks, and neon ski parties that go all night long.
✔️ Networking & Social Events – Black professionals from all over the country link up, making new friends and business connections.
✔️ Spa & Wellness Activities – If skiing isn’t your thing, hit the hot tub, book a massage, or relax in a mountain-view sauna.
✔️ Food & Après-Ski Lounges – Because what’s better than good eats, good drinks, and good company after a long day?
Why You Should Go Next Year
If you’ve never been to Black Ski Week, you’re seriously missing out. It’s an experience that blends tradition, adventure, and culture in the best way possible. Whether you’re coming to ski, party, network, or just soak up the energy, the NBS Summit is a must-attend event that will have you counting down the days until the next one.
Will I be back next year? Without a doubt. Will I attempt another ski lesson? Absolutely not. But will I be front and center at the après-ski party, looking fabulous in my snow bunny outfit? You already know.
Ready to Experience the Magic?
Tag a friend who needs to hit up Black Ski Week with you next year! And if you’ve been before, drop a comment with your favorite memory.
❄️🏂🔥 #BlackSkiWeek #NBSSummit #BlackTravelExperiences
