Fresh snow, groomed runs and live music helped kick off the 2012 snow season at the official Perisher opening long-weekend.

Amidst the sounds of the Perisher Snowy Mountains of Music Festival, the resort showed off its variety and snow making capabilities with 13 runs, 11 lifts and two terrain parks open just days into the season.

Whilst the natural snowfall has been better than in recent years, it is Perisher’s upgraded snow making system that is giving it the edge this winter.

“I’ve lived here my whole life and I haven’t ever seen it this good this early on. It’s definitely going to be a good season,” said Jindabyne local and former Australian Freeride skier, Luke Kneller.

With the combination of its massive size and infrastructure, Perisher has ensured that it will be a bumper 2012 snow season for all visitors to the resort.

“With Smiggins, Guthega, Blue Cow and Perisher there is definitely a run for any level of skier or boarder at any age,” said snow reporter Alice Joyce.

And for those who are after a more exhilarating session, the potential is definitely out there.

“Last year I ended up finding patches of powder,” said Ash Dollin, winner of the 2012 Perisher Ultimate Skibum competition.

“It was unreal.”

But the Perisher opening weekend wasn’t just about skiing and snowboarding, and neither is a visit to the resort during the winter months.

The fourth 'Perisher Snowy Mountains of Music Festival brought folk, world and roots music to the village with a local an international line-up.

The festival showcased the choice of bars and restaurants around Perisher and started après scenes that will continue with live music and stand-up comedy throughout the season.

But if ski fatigue kicks in and live music doesn’t suit, there is always a trip to Tube-Town, an afternoon toboggan ride, or a hot-chocolate in one of the many village cafes.

It was the variety of Perisher that kept the guests smiling throughout the opening weekend and, with the resorts facilities and abundance of choice, it will continue to do so throughout the 2012 season.

As Luke Kneller put it:

“It’s a massive resort and there are endless opportunities."