What do Red Hats, Polar Bears, and Classic Cars Have in Common?

July 5, 2004 — They will all, once again, be an integral part of the third annual Winter Break, from January 7-13, 2005. On the banks of the Colorado River, Laughlin, Nevada., will again host Winter Break, attracting seniors and retirees from across the country for a week of celebrating life at its best.

In 2004, over 3000 guests attended the second annual Winter Break. Beginning in 2005, the festival will expand in duration from four days to one week. A special weekend agenda will now be offered for those who might have a difficult time getting away during the middle of the week. The party atmosphere will continue into the following week with all the traditional Winter Break activities along with a few new ones. A schedule of events is available here.

The week-long festival mirrors a typical spring break for kids, re-lived 30-50 years later. In the mid-1800s, university students would take one week each spring to recuperate from the trials of academia. As women became more and more common on the campuses of America the atmosphere changed, and became more playful. Spring Break was still a way to escape the challenges of the classroom, but also grew to become a celebration of life without worry. And Winter Break is the same - "A Celebration of Life" and a "Place to Act Your Age - Give or Take 30 Years".

"The week will be filled with a variety of activities to fill each participant's day and to take their minds off the grind of everyday life," said event promoter Sue Arko. "Our menu of activities is designed to marry the memories of high school and university life with the activities seniors across the country enjoy now."

Once again, the Red Hatters will march down Laughlin's main thoroughfare in their purple dresses and signature headpieces, An organization whose only goal of its 10,000 plus chapters is to have fun will find just what they are looking for at Winter Break. Vintage Classic Cars will lead the parade, followed by all guests looking to show their "Young at Heart" spirit.

No Spring or Winter Break would be complete without some sort of mass zaniness, and the Laughlin event is no different. Now in its third year, Laughlin's Polar Bear club is looking forward to its next class of inductees who will trudge into the frigid Colorado River.

Talented and community service oriented senior women can enter the Winter Break Homecoming Queen Contest to be held in one of Laughlin's showrooms. Suzanne Myers, the 2004 Homecoming Queen will be on hand to turn over the title to the 2005 winner. New this year, a Homecoming King will also be crowned.

Festival goers will attempt to create the world's longest chorus line in front of several hotels on Casino Drive. The Las Vegas-based Silver Sensations will organize the 250 plus person kick line proving seniors are only as young as they feel.

Always a favorite John Noxom's Big Band will be performing at the Senior Prom for the third consecutive year. And there are many more activities, including line, square and swing dancing, yoga, belly dancing, wine tasting, health and education seminars, and cooking demonstrations from the resort destination's top chefs. Tours of the surrounding area will be available along with bingo, video poker, slot, and blackjack tournaments, singles receptions and coffee hours. Each event is planned to keep its participants feeling young and carefree.

For more information on Winter Break 2005 call 480-926-5547 or 888-278-9844.