Charcuterski Is the Ski Trend You Didn’t Know You Needed—Here’s How to Nail It
Forget everything you thought you knew about ski snacks, because the slopes are getting a serious culinary upgrade this season.
The trend is called “charcuterski,” and yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a portable charcuterie board you unpack at the most stunning viewpoint you can find.
Skiers and snowboarders have been all over this on social media, ditching sad granola bars for artisanal meats, fancy cheeses, and even champagne with a view.
The concept couldn’t be simpler: load up a backpack with your favorite charcuterie essentials and find a scenic spot to feast between runs.
But here’s the thing—you don’t need a five-star hotel to pull this off.
Hard cheeses and presliced options travel way better than anything soft or crumbly.
Dried fruits beat fresh ones since they won’t leak or bruise, and sturdy crackers are your best friend.
Throw in some chocolate-covered nuts or cookies for a sweet finish, and you’ve got yourself a mountain picnic worth posting about.
Now let’s talk drinks, because no charcuterski is complete without a proper toast.
Canned cocktails, local beers, or even a mini bottle of bubbly will elevate your midday break into a full-on après experience.
Find a sunny spot with panoramic views, lay everything out on a clean surface (some people literally use their snowboard), and enjoy.
This is the kind of small luxury that makes a ski day unforgettable—and honestly, it beats a crushed PB&J every single time.
Remember These Other Chaotic Ski Traditions?
Charcuterski might be the latest thing, but ski culture has always had a weird and wonderful side.
If you’ve spent any time on the mountain, chances are you’ve seen—or participated in—at least one of these.
Gaper Day
You know that one day at the end of the season when everyone shows up dressed like absolute clowns?
That’s Gaper Day, and it happens every April 1st at resorts across North America.
We’re talking neon onesies, mullet wigs, jorts, speedos, and anything else that screams “I have no idea what I’m doing.”
It started back in the ’80s and ’90s when skiers would celebrate the final day of the season by hitting the slopes in jeans.
Over time it evolved into a full-blown costume party where looking ridiculous is not just accepted—it’s the whole point.
The Shot Ski
Ever seen four people lift an old ski with shot glasses attached and tip it back in perfect unison?
That’s the shot ski, and it’s been a staple of après culture since the 1970s.
The origins are a little fuzzy (fitting, really), but it probably started in some ski town bar where old gear was plentiful and inhibitions were low.
Now they’re making a major comeback thanks to TikTok and DIY party culture.
Chaotic, messy, and guaranteed to end up on someone’s Instagram story.
Pond Skimming
This one’s for the brave (or foolish)—bombing down a slope at full speed and trying to glide across a freezing pond without sinking.
The tradition reportedly started in 1928 when two friends in Banff came across natural pools of snowmelt and couldn’t resist the challenge.
Now resorts host massive end-of-season events where costumed skiers attempt the crossing while crowds lose their minds.
Some make it across dry and bask in glory—most faceplant spectacularly and emerge soaking wet to even louder cheers.
If you haven’t witnessed a pond skim in person, add it to your bucket list immediately.
Skiblades
Remember those tiny short skis from the ’90s that everyone made fun of?
They’re back, and TikTok is obsessed with them.
Turns out they’re lightweight, easy to learn, and perfect for pulling off tricks that look great in short clips.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking to goof around or just want to try something different, skiblades are having a serious moment again.
The Bottom Line
Ski culture has always been about more than just the sport—it’s about the rituals, the traditions, and the ridiculous fun that happens on and off the mountain.
