CARRABASSETT VALLEY – The tradition of camaraderie and competition continue this weekend as athletes gather at Sugarloaf/USA for the 33rd annual Special Olympics Maine Winter Games.

The Games begin Sunday with a snowshoe clinic for coaches and volunteers, while competition begins in earnest on Monday morning and runs through Tuesday.

Athletes will begin arriving at Sugarloaf Sunday, and many will take advantage of a hot chocolate-and-cookie pit stop in Farmington.

Once at the mountain, athletes will get the chance to compete in a variety of events including snowshoeing and skiing.

Special Olympics Maine is a year-round athletic training and competition program for people of all ages with mental retardation. Maine has more than 2,500 Special Olympic athletes, and more than 500 will compete at Sugarloaf.

Opening ceremonies and the Parade of Champions is set for 11:45 a.m. Monday.

In addition to the competitive events, organizers have lined up a number of other offerings for athletes, coaches and spectators.

The Victory Dance – this year’s theme is “Winter Wonderland” – is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Monday, while a torchlight parade and fireworks display will be held just before the dance.

Preschool students from Gorham have made many decorations that will liven up the atmosphere at the Victory Dance.

Other highlights: Snowmobile, sleigh and snow cat rides will be available for interested athletes; hot cider and popcorn will also be served most of the day Monday. The Games conclude with a Friendship Circle at noon Tuesday.