WHISTLER, BC, December 10, 2008 - Whistler Blackcomb's PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola will officially open to the public December 12, 2008. A live webcast of the grand opening will broadcast at whistlerblackcomb.com starting at 10:30am PST on Friday, December 12, if you want to watch the first passengers get inside.

While preparations are in the final stages for the launch, fresh snow is providing the final touch. In the past week 23 centimetres has fallen and up to 10 centimetres is in the forecast this Friday. Adding to that, the snowmaking crew has turned over nine million gallons of water into snow within the last week.

The live webcast will get underway at 10:30am PST and will include a surprise visit as Red Bull drops in and gives wings to the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola Launch. At 11am the ribbon will be cut and the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola departs from each of the Whistler and Blackcomb terminals with its first guests on board.

The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola Grand Après in the village will close the day with a community-wide celebration featuring live art, a performance by entertainer Norman Foote for the kids, fireworks and a Red Bull DJ to kick the unofficial celebrations off at Whistler Blackcomb's famed après bars Merlins, Dusty's and the Garibaldi Lift Company. Hope to see you there.