HSA Snowball REVIVED AT Jack Frost | Opening Weekend 2026

Jul 13
3 min read

A Night to Remember at Mount Hotham

Some traditions are simply too good to leave behind.

After a break since COVID, the HSA Snowball made its long-awaited return for Opening Weekend 2026, bringing together locals, visitors, industry friends and familiar faces from across the mountain for one unforgettable evening at Jack Frost Bar & Restaurant.

And what a way to welcome winter.

For one night, Hotham swapped ski jackets and snow boots for suits, gowns and polished shoes. It's not often you see Mount Hotham dressed to impress, but the Snowball once again reminded us just how special this mountain community can be.

Guests were welcomed with a cocktail on arrival before making their way through the photo booth, surrounded by spectacular gala décor that transformed Jack Frost into an elegant alpine celebration.

Old friends reunited, new friendships were made, and together we celebrated the beginning of another winter season.

The food was delicious, fast flowing and plentiful and Head Chef Tiana impressed guests with a glimpse at her new Parmesan Pasta Wheel experience

A Show Nobody Will Forget

As the evening unfolded, DJ Eddy kept the dance floor full before introducing one of the night's biggest surprises.

Special guest "Bruno" appeared with his accordion, and within minutes the room had transformed into a traditional Austrian alpine celebration.

Guests linked arms, laughed their way through lively folk dances reminiscent of the Ländler, and embraced the kind of spontaneous fun that makes mountain communities so unique.

It was one of those moments you simply couldn't have planned—and nobody wanted it to end.

Even Mother Nature Joined the Party

Outside, Mount Hotham looked picture-perfect beneath her favourite white blanket of fresh snow.

Some say we celebrated so enthusiastically that we danced every last snowflake off the mountain before she disappeared for more than a month! Thankfully, the memories last much longer than the snow.

View & Download from the Photo gallery

Damian captured hundreds of fantastic moments throughout the evening.

Whether you were striking a pose in the photo booth, dancing with friends or simply enjoying the celebration, we hope you'll find a few favourites to remember the night.

Browse the Party snaps here, download and post your favourite photos. #jackfrosthotham don't forget to tag us in your favourites.

And finally... THANK YOU

Events like the HSA Snowball are only possible thanks to an incredible group of people who generously give their time, creativity and support.

A heartfelt thank you to:

Stoffy for the spectacular gala décor
Castran HSA major sponsors
Greg Price and that chat we had in 2025 to "bring back the ball"
Sharon & Ross Easey our fabulous door b*tches
Damian for capturing every memorable moment behind the camera
The HSA committee, volunteers, sponsors and everyone who helped bring this wonderful tradition back to life.
DJ Eddy and Bruno for endless unique entertainment