Every winter, a special community gathers at Sugarloaf for an event that is about much more than skiing and snowboarding.
The New England Visually Impaired Festival (NEVI Fest) brings together children, adults, families, volunteers, and guides from across the region for three unforgettable days of learning, connection, and adventure on the mountain. From February 9–11, Maine Adaptive is proud to once again host this long-standing tradition that celebrates what is possible when barriers are removed and opportunities are made accessible.
More Than a Ski Event
At its core, NEVI Fest provides individuals who are blind or visually impaired the opportunity to build skills and confidence on the slopes with the support of trained volunteer guides. Participants receive personalized ski and snowboard instruction tailored to their needs and goals, helping them navigate the mountain safely while gaining independence and confidence.
But ask anyone who has attended, and they’ll tell you the festival is about much more than learning to ski.
For many participants and families, NEVI Fest is one of the few opportunities each year to connect with others who share similar experiences. Friendships are formed, stories are exchanged, and families discover they are part of a larger community that understands both the challenges and triumphs of living with visual impairments.
A Community of Understanding
For Jasmine, a Maine Adaptive student, volunteer, and board member, the sense of belonging is what makes the event so meaningful.
“NEVI Fest is focused entirely on skiers with visual impairments, which creates an environment of shared understanding and belonging,” Jasmine explains. “There’s something really comforting and powerful about being in a space where everybody can relate to the challenges of being visually impaired, and all the volunteers and staff are oriented toward that.”
That shared understanding creates an atmosphere unlike any other. Participants are encouraged to challenge themselves, celebrate accomplishments, and support one another both on and off the mountain.
Empowering Families Beyond the Weekend
One unique aspect of NEVI Fest is its commitment to supporting not only athletes but also their families and caregivers.
Throughout the festival, family members have the opportunity to participate in specialized guide training, learning the techniques and communication skills needed to confidently ski alongside a visually impaired athlete. These skills often extend far beyond the event itself, allowing families to continue enjoying winter recreation together long after the festival ends.
For many parents, seeing their children surrounded by peers who understand their experiences can be just as meaningful as watching them succeed on the slopes.
As one parent shared:
“Tyler is so excited to ski alongside peers who truly understand his journey. While he’s met other visually impaired athletes before, having an entire event dedicated to supporting and celebrating blind skiers is an incredible experience for him.”
Celebrating Achievement
The festival concludes with a celebratory banquet where participants, families, volunteers, and staff come together to reflect on the accomplishments of the weekend.
Whether it’s a first chairlift ride, a new trail conquered, a stronger connection with a guide, or simply the confidence gained from trying something new, every achievement is worth celebrating.
Removing Barriers to the Outdoors
A core part of Maine Adaptive’s mission is ensuring that cost is never a barrier to participation.
Through the support of dedicated donors, volunteers, and community partners, Maine Adaptive provides lessons, lift tickets, and specialized adaptive equipment at no cost to participants attending NEVI Fest. Partnerships with organizations like Sugarloaf help make these life-changing experiences possible year after year.
Looking Ahead
For more than just a few days each winter, NEVI Fest creates a space where participants can challenge themselves, build independence, form lasting friendships, and discover a community that understands and supports them.
As we prepare to welcome families back to Sugarloaf, we look forward to another year of shared adventures, new accomplishments, and unforgettable memories on the slopes.
Because at NEVI Fest, the mountain is for everyone.