February 9th, 2009 – ARAMARK, the concessioner in Shenandoah National Park, has announced lodging openings for the 2009 season. The following accommodations will be available to park visitors: Skyland Resort (Mile 41.7) opens April 2, Big Meadows Lodge (Mile 51.2) opens May 22 and Lewis Mountain Cabins (Mile 57.5) opens April 10.     

ARAMARK is proud to invite visitors to experience all the park has to offer, with a host of exciting events at Shenandoah this year.  An overview of what’s happening at the properties includes:

Shenandoah Seasonings Culinary Workshops – Senior Executive Chef Peter Bizon will host cooking demonstrations that highlight a twist to traditional Southern cuisine native to the Shenandoah region while showcasing sustainable practices.  Dates for the workshops are June 7-9 and September 20-22 at Skyland Resort.  Details for the June workshop will be available soon on the website.  Book early to ensure your seat!

Shenandoah Valley Cloggers – this popular local dance group returns to Skyland providing an hour of lively entertainment for the Park visitor.  They perform a variety of dances to traditional and country music every Tuesday night April 7 through October 27 beginning at 7:30pm. 

Virginia Wine Tasting – Every Thursday beginning 3:00pm on April 9 a Virginia winery will be highlighting their award-winning wines.  A fee is charged which includes an assortment of cheeses & crackers plus a handcrafted Shenandoah glass.  Reservations are suggested.

Tea with the First Ladies: Lou Hoover and Eleanor Roosevelt – Historian Babs Funkhouser, director of the Museum of American Presidents, presents an informative narrative on the history of two of America’s most spirited women while desserts from the First Ladies’ favorite recipes (Lou Hoover’s Apricot Mousse and Eleanor Roosevelt’s Pecan Pie) and a variety of teas are served.  Reservations are suggested for this popular event held at Big Meadows Lodge on May 27, June 24, July 22, August 26 & September 23.

Shenandoah Mountain Guided Hikes and Rock Climbing/Rappelling Programs – The successful Guided Outdoor Adventure Programs will include more dates for park visitors.  The programs are led by the licensed and certified Shenandoah Mountain Guides.  The guided treks are available Tuesday and Thursdays, April 7 through November 5* and take the Park visitor to some of Shenandoah’s unique hiking destinations.  The rock climbing/rappelling programs are available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, May 11 through September 11 with Little Stony Man cliffs providing an unforgettable environment for learning.  Most program dates include one night’s lodging, healthy bag lunch, a map of area trails, plus all applicable taxes and utility surcharges.  Check our website for rates and booking details.

More information on all the activities and events in Shenandoah National Park is available on our website – www.visitshenandoah.com.

Amazing weekday specials are available throughout the 2009 season.  For more information or to book reservations, please call 800-778-2872 or visit us online at www.visitshenandoah.com.

About Shenandoah National Park
Established by Congress in 1935, Shenandoah National Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia contains nearly 197,000 acres of land with over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Shenandoah draws up to 1.5 million visitors a year with its rich history, unique geography and wildlife, as well as the panoramic vistas from the Skyline Drive. This National Scenic Byway, built during the Depression era, winds along the crest of the mountains through the length of the park, providing vistas of the sweeping landscape to the east and west.

About ARAMARK Parks and Destinations
ARAMARK Parks and Destinations, a division of ARAMARK Sports and Entertainment, provides a wide range of professional services, including property management, hospitality services and recreational support to specialty hotels, resorts, national and state parks, national forest service and other tourist destinations throughout the United States. ARAMARK Parks and Destinations seeks to create memorable experiences at destinations by bringing the best in environmental stewardship, sustainable cuisine and interpretive programs to the guests it serves. For more information on ARAMARK Parks and Destinations and each of its properties, visit www.aramarkparksanddestinations.com.