• NuFriends Winter Getaway 2026

    Dates: February 19th – February 22nd, 2026

    Location: The NuFriends Cabins (1921/1929 Buds Ridge Way, Sevierville, TN)

    A curated 4-day mountain experience in collaboration with WahalaBoyz, blending adventure, connection, and Afro-vibes. We are taking over a private dual-cabin compound to bring good people together for the ultimate winter retreat.

    What’s Included

    • 3-Night Stay at the NuFriends Cabins.

    • Full Day Ski Pass (Saturday).

    • Catered Welcome Meal (Jollof & Wings).

    • Party Access: NuFriends.FM Day Party + Wahala Boyz Afro Vibes Party.

    • Logistics: Airport transfers and on-site vehicle access.

  • All final payments are due January 23rd.

    • The remaining amount is $390.

    • Please complete your ski trip reservation by using https://givebutter.com/nufriendski

    • Once on the site, go to tickets and purchase “Nufriends, Balance Paid”.

    • Reminders will be sent out one and two weeks prior.

    • Deposits are non-refundable (as of January 4th, 2025).

  • The NuFriends Shuttle (TYS)

    Your ticket includes a round-trip shuttle service between McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and our cabin compound.

    • Arrival (Thursday, Feb 19): The shuttle will depart TYS at 5:30 PM. Please aim for flights that land by 4:30 PM to allow time for baggage claim.

    • Departure (Sunday, Feb 22): The shuttle departs the cabin at 10:30 AM sharp to get you to the airport in time for flights departing after 12:30 PM.

    Where to Meet Us

    Once you grab your bags at Baggage Claim, look for the NuFriends sign near the "Ground Transportation" exit. One of our team members will be there to check you in and help with your luggage.

    Travel Tip: If your flight is delayed or you miss the scheduled shuttle, please message the NuFriends WhatsApp Group immediately. While we will try to accommodate, late arrivals may need to secure an Uber or Lyft (approx. $60–$80) to the ridge.

  • Once you’ve secured your spot, the NuFriends WhatsApp Group is your primary lifeline for the weekend.

    • Real-Time Logistics: Instant updates on shuttle pickup locations at TYS and departure times for the slopes.

    • Connection: Introduce yourself, find your roommates, and coordinate Friday morning excursions.

    • Direct Access: Have a question about the cabin or the gear? The hosting team is just one message away.

    Join here: NUFRIENDSKI 2026

  • The Main Event: Tastes from Africa

    The culinary highlight of our getaway is the Friday Night Welcome Dinner. We are bringing the flavors of the continent to the mountains for a catered, family-style feast designed to break the ice and fuel the weekend.

    • The Menu: Signature Smoky Jollof Rice, Suya-spiced Wings, and Golden Fried Plantains.

    The "Community Kitchen" Vibe

    Aside from our Friday night feast, guests are responsible for their own meals. This gives you the flexibility to explore the local food scene in Pigeon Forge or cook together at the ridge.

    • Fully Stocked Kitchens: Both Valley View and Modern Overlook feature high-end, chef-ready kitchens with all the appliances, pots, and pans you need.

    • Coffee & Basics: We’ll provide a "Starter Kit" in each cabin including coffee, tea, sugar, and basic seasonings to get your mornings started right.

    • Grocery Runs: We recommend stopping at the Kroger or Publix in Sevierville on your way in to grab breakfast items, late-night snacks, and your favorite beverages.

    The Bar & Hydration

    • NuFriends.FM Day Party: We will provide refreshments during the Friday Day Party.

    • BYOB: You are encouraged to bring your own spirits, wine, or local moonshine. We have plenty of fridge space and ice makers in both cabins.

    • Stay Hydrated: Mountain air can be dehydrating—especially after a night of dancing. We’ll keep a supply of bottled water available at the house.

  • On-Site Transportation

    Once you’re at the cabin, you don’t need to worry about driving. We have on-site NuFriends vehicles and dedicated shuttles for our group excursions:

    • To the Slopes: Morning shuttles to Ober Mountain.

    • To the Party: Late-night shuttles to the Wahala Party at Laurel Crest to ensure everyone gets home safely.

  • The Ski Day: Saturday at Ober Mountain

    Whether you're looking to shred the black diamonds or you've never seen a pair of skis in your life, Saturday is all about mountain vibes and new experiences.

    What’s Included in Your NuFriends Ticket:

    • Full-Day Lift Pass: Access to all open trails from morning until evening.

    • Rental Equipment: Skis, boots, and poles (or snowboard and boots).

    • Beginner Group Lesson: A professional instructor will teach you the basics—how to stop, turn, and glide—so you can hit the slopes with confidence.

    • The Aerial Tramway: Your pass includes the iconic cable car ride from downtown Gatlinburg up to the mountain resort.

    🏔️ What to Know Before You Go

    • The Shuttle: We depart the NuFriends Compound at 8:15 AM SHARP. Don’t be the one the group is waiting for!

    • The Lesson: Group lessons start promptly. If you are a beginner, this is mandatory—it makes the day 10x more enjoyable.

    • The Lodge: If you need a break, the Ober Mountain lodge has a food court, a bar for "après-ski" drinks, and shops to hang out in.

    • The Flex: Even if you aren't skiing the whole day, the views from the top of the mountain are the best in Tennessee. Get those photos!

    📦 Ski Day Packing List

    • Waterproof Outerwear: A warm winter coat and waterproof snow pants are essential. (Jeans are a no-go—they get wet and stay cold!)

    • Layers: Wear moisture-wicking base layers (no cotton). A light fleece over a thermal shirt is perfect.

    • Gloves & Socks: Waterproof gloves and one pair of medium-weight wool socks. (Do not wear two pairs of socks—it actually makes your feet colder by cutting off circulation!)

    • Eye Protection: Sunglasses or ski goggles. The sun reflecting off the snow is bright!

    • Sunscreen: Trust us, "snow burn" is real.

  • Local Guide: Distance from the Ridge

    Food & Social Hangouts

    • The Island in Pigeon Forge (15 mins): The main hub. Huge Ferris wheel, Margaritaville, and plenty of quick-service food.

    • The Old Mill Restaurant (18 mins): Famous Southern comfort food. Expect a wait, but the corn fritters are worth it.

    • Gatlinburg Strip (25 mins): The "main street" experience. High energy, street performers, and endless snacks.

    • Pigeon Forge Snow (15 mins): If you didn't get enough snow, this is indoor snow tubing year-round.

    Distilleries & Nightlife (Pre-Clubbing)

    • Ole Smoky Moonshine "The Barn" (15 mins): Located at The Island. $5 tastings and live music.

    • Junction 35 Spirits & Kitchen (16 mins): A modern distillery with great cocktails and a sleek industrial vibe.

    • Iron Forge Brewing Co. (14 mins): A massive local brewery with an outdoor fire pit and mountain views.

    • Dick's Last Resort (15 mins): If the group wants a chaotic, funny lunch where the staff is intentionally "rude" to you.

    Nature & Best Views

    • Metcalf Bottoms / Wears Valley Entrance (12 mins): The fastest way into the National Park. Great for a quiet river walk.

    • Anakeesta (25 mins): An outdoor "mountaintop" theme park. Ride the chondola up for the best sunset views in the area.

    • Gatlinburg SkyBridge (25 mins): Walk across the longest pedestrian cable bridge in the country—major photo op.

    • SkyLift Park (25 mins): Chairlift ride to a huge deck overlooking the mountains.

    Essentials & Caffeine

    • Kroger / Publix (14 mins): Closest spot to stock the cabin kitchen.

    • Dutch Bros Coffee (15 mins): Drive-thru for quick energy.

    • Espresso Yourself (16 mins): A rustic, sit-down cabin coffee shop in the heart of Pigeon Forge.