Kirkwood, CA – Kirkwood is getting ready to spring into summer this weekend with the California resort’s annual Independence Day celebrations and fireworks — and skiing and snowboarding.

This Saturday marks the beginning of the resort’s summer season. The weekend kicks off with the Volunteer Fire Department BBQ on Saturday afternoon and the Motherlode Cruisers Classic Car Show which will carry on through Monday, July 4th.  On Sunday, guests can enjoy live music by the Kingtones, the Bike Parade and Ice Cream Social, face painting, S’mores and plenty of other family activities in the plaza.  The highlight of the weekend may be the Sunday evening fireworks display, scheduled for 8:30 to 9 p.m. in the Village Plaza.

The weekend’s highlight may, however, be the summer skiing as Kirkwood will also be running Chair 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days for skiing and snowboarding on advanced terrain only, plus scenic chairlift rides and hiking. Tickets will be available at the Lodging Front Desk at rates of $35 for adults, $30 for juniors, $25 for seniors, $10 for senior plus and children, and $5 for sliders age 5 and under. 2011 Summer Passes and 2011-12 Winter Passes will also be accepted. Lift access will be walk on and walk off. Ski and snowboard rentals will be available at the Lodging Front Desk.

The opening of Kirkwood’s Mountain Bike Park has been delayed due to snow, however officials expect the park to open shortly and mountain bike rentals will still be available at a discounted rate for those wanting to enjoy a ride around the valley.

For those who have already packed away their winter gear, Kirkwood’s ropes course and climbing wall will be open all weekend operating out of the High Alpine Adventure Center (HAAC).  Mountain bike rentals will also be available at the HAAC.  Zip Tahoe will be offering tours at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on both days, reservations are required and walk-ins will be accepted only if there is space available.  Limited custom evening tours will be available for groups of 6 or more, reservations must be made by 12pm the day of.  Reservations can be made by calling Zip Tahoe at (209) 258-7330.

Other July 4th weekend opportunities to ski and ride will be available at Alpine Meadows, Squaw Valley and Sugar Bowl.