NEWRY – Sunday River’s Santa Sunday is expected to bring skiing and riding Santas to the slopes on Sunday, Dec. 4. The sixth annual event is a fund-raiser for the Bethel Rotary Club and is part of Santa Weekend at the resort.

Santa Sunday participants don a full Santa costume and donate a minimum of $10, which goes toward the Bethel Rotary Club’s annual Christmas drive to purchase gifts for children in need.

In return, they receive free skiing and riding for that day and two additional lift tickets that are valid until Dec. 16. In past events, more than 200 people have registered.

Santas gather at South Ridge at 11 a.m. for photos. Preregistration is required and participants must adhere to rules in order to participate, including the costume requirements. To register, go to www.sundayriver.com.

The annual Santa Ball will be held at the White Cap Lodge. The James Montgomery Blues Band will perform as part of the Bud Light Concert Series. Those in Santa costume receive free admission.

A variety of holiday events are also scheduled in Bethel that weekend, including the Taste of Bethel and Theme Wreath Auction at Telstar High School from noon to 2 p.m. For information, visit www.bethelmaine.com.

Information on ski packages is available at www.sundayriver.com or by calling 800-543-2SKI.