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In Winter festival, how do I make a cone of nuts?

The Market Stall (where you get gloves) offers nuts as well once you’ve merged it up to the next level

Merge until you make Christmas ornaments then merge the ornaments to make a paper lantern the add it to the tree to make pine cones

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19 Best Winter Festivals in the U.S. (and 1 Bucket List-Worthy Event in Canada)

The celebration doesn't stop when Christmas is over.

Here's our list of the 20 best winter festivals across the United States (including one in Canada). We hope this roundup inspires you to pack your bags and hit the road for a fun winter getaway!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Gatlinburg New Year's Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks Show

When: December 31, 2023

What to Expect: This dazzling event at the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle is jam-packed with fun, including live music, a midnight ball drop, and a stunning fireworks show. Make plans to check out the family-friendly activities and holiday specials downtown at local restaurants and businesses, and nature trails and hiking.

For more information, visit gatlinburg.com .

Chelan, Washington: Lake Chelan Winterfest

When: January 12-21, 2024 What to Expect: Enjoy fire and ice among the hilltops of wine valley. There’s something for everyone—beach bonfires, polar plunges, fireworks, a snow slide, live music, and soul-warming drinks at the "ice bar."

For more information, visit lakechelan.com/winterfest .

Plan Your Visit

Aspen, Colorado: Wintersköl

When: January 11–14, 2024

What to Expect: A four-day festival in a historic ski town, Wintersköl celebrates Nordic culture and the best of outdoor activities. Get ready to see a torchlit descent down Aspen Mountain, glittering fireworks displays, snow sculptures, a soup contest, a craft beer festival, a snow sculpture competition for children, and even a dog fashion show.

For more information, visit aspenchamber.org .

Plan Your Trip

Grand Rapids, Michigan: World of Winter

When: January 12–March 10, 2024

What to Expect: With more than 100 free family-friendly events and activities, this nearly three-month-long festival highlights the beautiful of winter in Downtown Grand Rapids and includes pretty outdoor art installations, ice skating, food, local culture, and more.

For more information, visit worldofwintergr.com .

Stowe, Vermont: Stowe Winter Carnival

When: January 18-20, 2024

What to Expect: Take the kiddos to the carnival and ski your way to the ski-in movies. Plus, watch pro and amateur artists carve creations throughout town or check out a game of snow volleyball! Plus, find cozy local accommodations at the The Trapp Family Lodge , a 2,600-acre mountain resort in the European tradition by the family that inspired The Sound of Music .

For more information, visit gostowe.com .

Breckenridge, Colorado: International Snow Sculpture Championships

When: January 22–31, 2024

What to Expect: You'll want to plan winter getaway to see massive hand-carved works of art made from 25-ton blocks of snow without power tools. It's a snowy extravaganza that includes snow sculptures, skiing, and...more snow sculptures in an open-air art gallery in the historic downtown area. This international gathering takes place in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

For more information, visit gobreck.com .

Québec City, Canada: Carnaval de Quebec

When: January 25–February 11, 2024

What to Expect: The largest winter festival in the world, visitors can expect an ice palace, snow sculptures, inner tube sliding, skating, and ice swimming, and lots of chances to spot Bonhomme , the carnival's mascot.

For more information, visit carnaval.qc.ca .

St. Paul, Minnesota: St. Paul Winter Carnival

When: January 25–February 3, 2024

What to Expect: The oldest winter festival in the United States includes grand parades, a puzzle contest, snow sculpting, ice fishing, a winter orchid show, parties, and other family fun in the heart of St. Paul. Plus, don't miss the annual crowning of carnival "royalty!"

For more information, visit wintercarnival.com .

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin: Lake Geneva Winterfest

When: January 31–February 4, 2024

What to Expect: Watch snow artists from across the country compete in the National Snow Sculpting Championship, and enjoy local food and drinks , bonfires on the lake beachfront, exciting winter activities like skiing, zip lines adventures, and ice castle displays, and art from the Lake Geneva area. For more information, visit visitlakegeneva.com .

Whitefish, Montana: Whitefish Winter Carnival

When: February 2–4, 2024

What to Expect: This ski town celebrates the height of snow season with a grand parade, a "Penguin Plunge," a pancake breakfast, and other events centered around a yearly theme, which in 2024 is "The Greatest Show on Earth." With the circus inspiration comes the promise of "unparalleled thrills, unbelievable spectacles, and unfathomable wonders."

For more information, visit whitefishwintercarnival.com .

Portland, Oregon: Portland Winter Light Festival

When: February 2–10, 2024

What to Expect: Portland's spectacular Winter Light Festival is an annual event organized by the Willamette Light Brigade, a nonprofit arts organization, presented for free with the goal of bringing together the diverse community of the city during wintertime. Previous festivals have held incredible light parades and interactive exhibits, so we can't wait to see what the group puts together this year! For more information, visit pdxwlf.com .

Saranac Lake, New York: Saranac Lake Winter Carnival

When: February 2–11, 2024

What to Expect: The country's longest-running winter festival doesn't mess around. There's curling competitions, contests for the longest icicle, ski racing, and skating. They'll also light the ice palace and host the annual spaghetti dinner.

For more information, visit saranaclakewintercarnival.com .

Ottawa, Canada: Winterlude

Where: Ottawa, Canada

When: February 2–19, 2024

What to Expect: A beyond-the-border celebration of Canadian culture and, of course, winter. Go ice skating on the famous Rideau Canal Skateway, and be sure to catch the unique Ice Dragon Boat Festival.

For more information, visit ottawatourism.com .

Steamboat Springs, Colorado: Steamboat Winter Carnival

When: February 7–11, 2024

What to Expect: A Western-flavored celebration of ski culture, complete with horse-and-ski races and other rodeo-inspired activities.

For more information, visit steamboatchamber.com .

Newport, Rhode, Island: Newport Winter Festival

When: February 16–25, 2024

What to Expect: Festivities usually include more than 100 events over 10 days, from live music to polo matches on the beach.

For more information, visit newportwinterfestival.com .

Bryce Canyon City, Utah: Bryce Canyon Winter Festival

When: February 17–19, 2024

What to Expect: This traditional cold-weather event is packed with adventurous fun for the whole family. From ski clinics to snowshoeing and outdoor photography classes and dancing. Plus interactive classes like archery, astronomy, and cross country tours.

For more information, visit rubysinn.com/bryce-canyon-winter-festival .

Anchorage, Alaska: Fur Rendezvous

When: February 22–March 3, 2024

What to Expect: Dogs, reindeer, and more furry friends gather with their owners in Anchorage, Alaska. Be sure to catch snowshoe softball, the always-hilarious "outhouse" races, and multiple sled-dog races.

For more information, visit furrondy.net .

McCall, Idaho: McCall Winter Carnival

When: February 23–25, 2024

What to Expect: The seasonal gathering celebrates the joy of winter! It was inspired by the 1924 Payette Lake Winter Games, when a train from Boise brought 248 visitors to McCall. Attendees can expect over-the-top snow sculptures, fireworks over Payette Lake, a McPAWS Monster Dog Sled Pull, snowshoe golf, Mardi Gras Parade, lots of live music, and tasty food.

For more information, visit visitmccall.org/events/winter-carnival .

Tahoe City, California: North Lake Tahoe SnowFest

When: February 29–March 10, 2024

What to Expect: Head to North Lake Tahoe for one of America's largest mountain winter festivals. Each year over 40 events like the BridgeTender Fat Friday celebration, Snow Sculpture Contest, Dog Pull (pictured on the left), Polar Bear Swim, Snow Golf Tournament, and much more take place to raise funds for local nonprofits and student scholarships.

For more information, visit tahoesnowfest.org .

Hanover, New Hampshire: Dartmouth Winter Carnival

When: February 2024 (TBA)

What to Expect: A college campus-style fest that dates back to 1911 and typically includes a polar bear plunge, races, and an ice sculpture contest. You can always count on a fun theme too— recent years' themes include "Mission: Winter Carnival - License to Chill" and "Winter Caaarrrnival: Shiver Me Timbers."

For more information, visit dartmouth.edu .

Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living , where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop.  

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• Michigan Winter Festivals

Top 30 Michigan Winter Festivals 2024, Events and Family FUN Things To Do December, January, February, March 

By Sherry Trautman

Article: Top 30 Michigan Winter Festivals 2024, Events and Family FUN Things To Do January, February, March + Map | World of Winter, Winter Carnival, Nordic Fire Festival, Plymouth Ice Festival, Tip Up Town and More!

• Author: Sherry Trautman  
• Publisher: Travel-MI  | Date Modified: January 2, 2024

Happy winter, my friends!  Let's get outside to enjoy lots of Michigan winter festivals including ice festivals, World of Winter, snow festivals, ice fishing festivals, polar plunges, Nordic Fire festivals with ship burning ( what? ) and all things winter! I'm so freakin' excited to attend these festivals this year, especially the Nordic Fire Fest ! 

Chris and I are born and raised Michiganders and we attend as many events in person as we can because it brings a more authentic review and recommendation to you!  

• Grab even more Michigan winter events and activities in December,   January , February and March ! 
• Things to do in Frankenmuth in winter
• Top Michigan Ski Resorts
• Where To Go Snow Tubing
• Ice Skating in Michigan !

Find FUN Michigan Winter Festivals Near You on Our Map!

Table of Contents (Michigan Winter Festivals By Date)

• December Michigan Winter Festivals
• January Michigan Winter Festivals
• February Michigan Winter Festivals

March Michigan Winter Festivals

Best december michigan winter festivals, winterfun festival | downtown pontiac michigan.

WinterFUN Festival – Santa & Mrs. Claus Meet & Greet

When: Sat, December 2, 2023 12:00pm – 3:00 pm.  Parade is at 11:00 am.

Where: Downtown Pontiac, 30 N Saginaw St Suite 406, Pontiac, MI

The WinterFUN Festival is a great opportunity for families to enjoy a Gallery of Ice with live ice carving competition, a petting farm, live Santa reindeer, s’mores and much, much more.

Run Elf Run: December 2, 2023 at 8:00 am - 11:00 am

Annual Parade : December 2, 2023 at 11:00 am - 1:00 pm in Downtown Pontiac Pontiac, MI. Enjoy about 100 fun costume characters, colorful floats from The Parade Company, professional balloons, marching bands, fire trucks and more. The parade route will begin on Cesar E. Chavez Ave at the Oakland Livingston Human and continue down Saginaw Street until the end at Pontiac City Square.

The City of Houghton Winter Wonderland (Michigan's Upper Peninsula)

When:   December 2, 2023, 4:00 pm .

Where: Near the Michigan Tech Lakeshore Center (600 E Lakeshore Dr, Houghton, MI 49931) and Dee Stadium (700 E Lakeshore Dr, Houghton, MI 49931)

Come on out to the city of Houghton for their annual Winter Wonderland! Attractions include free horse-drawn carriage rides, hot chocolate, a bonfire, and an appearance from Santa! Plus meet Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf!  Open skating at the Dee Stadium from 5-6 PM.

Midwest Winter Festival 2023-2024 | Kalamazoo | Cosplay, Concerts and FUN!

When : December 29, 2023 – January 1, 2024

Where: Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center, 100 W Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, MI.

Dokidokon is excited and honored to host a brand-new winter convention! Enjoy a weekend of cosplay, concerts, vendors, panels, workshops, special guests, and more!

Best January Michigan Winter Festivals

Winter at valade’s fire and ice festival | medieval fun | | detroit.

When : January 5, 2024 - January 7, 2024

Where:  Robert C. Valade Park, 2670 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207

Enjoy oversized fires, sleds, s'mores, games, drinks, food, and more. Lots of events in January and February including signature themed weekends, winter wellness activities, and more!

Medieval fun with a chilly winter flair! Enjoy oversized fires, turkey legs and an ice carving competition. Try archery, ax throwing, take your picture on the famous Iron Throne made of ice! Frozen's Elsa and Renaissance Fair performers will be wandering the park for additional photo opportunities. The signature moment of the weekend is Fire and Ice Tower - a 7 foot ice structure that will become a giant bonfire once lit at 6pm on Saturday. So much fun for the whole family!

2024 World of Winter Festival (Grand Rapids) | The Largest Winter Festival in The US! | Southwest Michigan

When:  January 12-March 10, 2024 Where : Throughout Downtown Grand Rapids! You can start at Ah-Nab-Awen Park, 220 Front Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

World of Winter is a super popular Grand Rapids winter festival held throughout downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan January 12-March 10, 2024.  Chris and I love walking the downtown area "finding" each of the incredible art installations as it feels like a wintery wonderland! 

And World of Winter is FREE to the public! There are several events and fun activities to keep us busy this winter in west Michigan. It's one of our favorite Michigan winter festivals!

Grand Rapids is a top vacation spot to visit and makes for an excellent winter activity road trip to experience Michigan's outdoors! 

--->See our World of Winter Guide ! Walking map, schedule, events and more!

2024 Hunter Ice Festival (Niles Michigan) | See Incredible Ice Carvings | Southwest MI

Where: Downtown Niles, Southwest Michigan

When : January 12-14, 2024

The Hunter Ice Festival features the Niles Frigid 5k, beer tasting event, timed ice sculpting competition, ice cream, and Downtown merchants will offer free hot refreshments in their "warming stations" and much more! 

• The festival showcases more than 150 ice sculptures throughout the downtown area.

Hunter Ice Festival History : Per the Hunter Ice Festival Blog , the festival pays tribute to the history of Niles Michigan's Hunter Brothers Ice and Ice Cream Company.  They created delicious ice cream at the turn of the century, but also cut ice blocks out of Barron Lake and shipped it pretty much everywhere!

Winterfest at Pier Park | Grosse Pointe Farms

When:   Saturday, January 13, 2024, 12:00-4:00pm

Where:  Pier Park, 350 Lake Shore Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236

• Winterfest will have a petting farm, ice carving demonstrations, ice skating, plenty of food trucks, putt putt golf and live entertainment! Such a fun Michigan winter festival, perfect for kids and adults alike! 

Rochester Frost Festival 2024

Where:  Downtown Rochester, MI 48307

When:  Friday, January 19, 2024 and Saturday, January 20, 2024

Ice carving competitions, Themed Ice Sculptures throughout Downtown Rochester. See Live Ice Carving Demos and the famous  Big Bright Light Show

Motown Magic Festival | Detroit | FUN Michigan Winter Festivals

When: January 19-21, 2024

Come celebrate Detroit at Motown Magic weekend at Valade Park! There will be a local vendor market, Detroit Pistons park takeover, and a classic Motown soundtrack courtesy of local DJs and dance groups. 

Mackinaw City Winter Festival | Northern Michigan This January! | Outhouse Races!

Where : Mackinaw Crossings front parking lot, 248 S Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701

When:  January 20-21, 2024. Races begin at 11:00 am. but get there early to register if you are participating.

Mackinaw City's 31st  Annual Winter Fest is a blast!

It's so fun watching the Outhouse Races in the Shepler's Ferry Parking Lot across from the Dixie Saloon. There's also a Kids BIG Freeze obstacle course at the Mackinaw Crossings front parking lot (behind Igloo’s). Fill your belly with a chili cook-off!  Enjoy the festive atmosphere while taking in the scenic Mackinac Bridge and Mackinaw City's charming downtown. It's definitely worth a visit this winter! 

Grab our Mackinaw City guide  to help plan your trip! We recommend spending the entire weekend in this lovely Northern Michigan vacation spot. It's the perfect location to experience St. Ignace too.  

• There will be after and during party celebrations at the Dixie Saloon , too. Great Northern Michigan winter festival.

2024 Tecumseh's Annual Ice Sculpture Festival | South of Detroit

When :  January 20 and 21, 2024

Where:  Downtown Tecumseh,  MI 49286. Tecumseh is located in southeast Michigan, just south of Detroit.

Come on out to downtown Tecumesh to see over 50 ice sculptures during the Tecumseh's Annual Ice Sculpture Festival! The Michigan Avian Experience will be there to show their majestic birds. Play the Scavenger Hunt through the participating merchants and enjoy The Chocolate/Beverage Walk through the downtown businesses. Yummy AND Fun! Win-win!

2024 Tip Up Town Winter Festival (Houghton Lake in Northern Michigan) | Kids Day, Polar Bear Plunge and Beer Tents!

Where: The southern DNR boat launch, off of M-55 near the Pines theater and Pineview Golf Course in Houghton Lake, Michigan. 1625 W. Houghton Lake Dr. Houghton Lake, MI

When:  January 20, 21, 27, 2024

Learn More: Schedule at Tip Up Town!

So guys, if you love a good hometown winter festival and carnival, come to Houghton Lake for Tip Up Town USA! 

• This fun family friendly winter carnival involves a polar plunge (my personal favorite), ice fishing contests, beer tent, snowmobile drag races, pony rides, kids games and activities, an ice slide and lots of fun!

The Houghton Lake Chamber has applications for the Queen contest, rules and more info. Great Northern Michigan winter festival.

2024 Zehnder's Snow Fest (Frankenmuth Michigan)

Be sure to attend this year's Zehnder's Snowfest , it's one of Chris and I's favorite Michigan winter festivals!

Where: Main Street, Frankenmuth

When : January 24, 2024 - January 28, 2024

Learn More: Guide to Zehnder's Snowfest

There are so many fun things to do at Zender's Snowfest! See world class ice carving, enjoy the warming tent, a fireworks display, petting zoo and children’s activities and more! What a fun Frankenmuth Michigan winter activity. Oh, and this is a free event!

• Plus you can get Zender's world famous chicken dinner, visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland and experience lots of fun winter things to do in Frankenmuth  with kids. 
• Make it a quick winter getaway! Grab our Frankenmuth Michigan guide !

2024 NCAA Central Regional Skiing Championships | Michigan Tech (Upper Peninsula)

When :  January 24-25, 2024

Where : Michigan Tech's trail system is located right across the street from the Student Development Complex, or the south end of the Michigan Tech campus on MacInnes Drive.

The championship spans two days and will take place on Michigan Tech's world-class Tech Trails. 

Grand Haven Winterfest in West Michigan | See The Famous Cardboard Sled Race!

When:  January 25-28, 2024 Where : Mulligan’s Hollow, 600 Y Dr, Grand Haven, MI

Grand Haven Winterfest is January 25-28, 2024 in Grand Haven! Come on out for some silly winter fun and good times! Join in on their World Famous cardboard sled race!

• So many fun family activities such as snow volleyball, bon fires bash, ski and snowboard competition, kids day, family dog pull, glowbowl, euchre tournament and so much more! 

We recommend catching a ride on their FREE shuttle service from downtown parking (Franklin and 1st, 2nd or 3rd streets) out to Mulligan’s Hollow for the events on Saturday . Such a fun west Michigan winter event!

There are so many fun things to do in Grand Haven !  Make it a winter couples getaway as Grand Haven is one of Michigan’s most popular travel destinations.

Winter Fest | Coldwater, MI | Family Friendly Winter Activities | South Michigan

Where:  Heritage Park, 1776 Heritage Dr Coldwater, MI 49036

When: Sat, January 27, 2024, 10 AM – 3 PM

Cardboard Sled Races, Horse Drawn Wagon Rides, Sled Dogs, Live Wood Carvings, Inflatables, Kid’s Crafts, Hot Cocoa & More!

Best February Michigan Winter Festivals

Plymouth ice festival - see incredible ice sculptures.

Where:  Kellogg Park in downtown Plymouth, Michigan. W Ann Arbor Trail, Plymouth, MI 48170 When:  February 2-4, 2024

February 2-4, 2024 marks an incredible winter festival where you can watch over 50 ornate ice sculptures created by world renown ice carvers !

The Plymouth Ice Festival is one of the largest free ice festivals in Michigan, you won't want to miss it! Grab our guide!!

2024 Annual Ice Breaker Festival | South Haven Michigan (West Michigan) Top Michigan Winter Festival

When: February 2, 2024 - February 4, 2024 Where: Downtown South Haven

Chris and I love the annual Ice Breaker Festival in South Haven . It's held annually on the first weekend of February in West Michigan.  This fun winter festival showcases a chili cook-off, cardboard sled races, pub slide, frozen ice fling, Break the Ice 5k, Snowsuit Fashion Competition, Curling, and many more exciting activities throughout downtown South Haven .

• Chris and I highly recommend turning this event into a couples weekend getaway . We HIGHLY recommend staying overnight at the South Haven Bed and Breakfast, Carriage House At the Harbor  as we had an exquisite time.  The rooms are so cozy with fireplaces, comfy beds and incredible views of the marina. Plus the breakfast is out of this world good. It's walking distance from downtown South Haven, the South Haven Pier, Stanley Johnson Park and the Michigan Maritime Museum. 

On Saturday, February 5th is “Heat the Streets ” get ready to GET TOASTY as three fire pits will be hot and ready for s’more roasting! YUMMY!  Also on Saturday, be sure to enjoy the Professional Chili Cook-Off !

• Try beginner curling lessons !
• Try your hand at the Ice Breaker Festival's Annual Frozen Fish Fling at the South Marina! 
• And you can't miss the annual Cardboard Sled Race on Saturday afternoon at the Coast Guard hill!   
• Glide across the ice at the covered outdoor ice skating rink in downtown South Haven! 

So many fun Michigan Winter Festivals and things to do in winter!

One of the highlights of this annual event is watching incredible ice sculpting ! See more than 40 blocks of ice, weighing 300-600 pounds each, transform into works of frozen art! The Ice Breaker Festival in South Haven should be at the top of your list! 

Plus, South Haven is a top Michigan must-see destination as it has one of the pretties beaches in the country...even in the winter!

2024 Heikki Lunta Winter Festival (Negaunee, Michigan's Upper Peninsula)

When: February 2, 2024 - February 3, 2024 Where: Downtown Negaunee

Heikki Lunta Winter Festival is a celebration of all things winter in Michigan's Upper Peninsula! Featuring Irontown Rail Jam, snowshoe lantern tours, fish fry, fat tire races, fireworks, a parade and fun all weekend long. So come out and embrace the winter spirit of Michigan's Upper Peninsula!  

• Grab our guide to Michigan's Upper Peninsula !
• Frozen Waterfalls in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

2024 Chilly Fest in Beautiful Port Huron, Michigan | Top Michigan Winter Events!

Where:  McMorran Place is located at 701 McMorran Blvd, Port Huron, Michigan

When:  February 2-3, 2024

Celebrate winter in the Blue Water Area! Visitors of all ages will enjoy Visitors of all ages will enjoy outdoor activities, s’mores station, carriage rides, a chili crawl and much more!  PoHo Hot Cocoa Run, Carriage Rides, and the Fuzzy Penguin Hunt too! Super popular Michigan winter festivals!

• Grab the Chilly Fest schedule . Located in southeast Michigan.
• While you are there, check out our Port Huron Guide! Discover what to do in this lovely small town in Michigan's thumb. 

Winter Blast | Royal Oak Michigan | Fun Michigan Winter Festivals!

When : February 2-4, 2024

Where : Centennial Commons (221 E 3rd St, Royal Oak, MI 48067) and the Royal Oak City Center (219 S Main St, Royal Oak, MI 48067)

This fun, FREE admission community event offers live music, free ice skating, ice sculptures, learn to ski/snowboard experience, zip line, food trucks, kids adventure zone, free family activities and several other things to do!

EVENT HOURS:

• Friday, February 2: 4PM-11PM
• Saturday, Febrary 3: 11AM-11PM
• Sunday, February 4: 11AM-8PM

30th Annual 2024 Ice Breaker Festival | South Haven Michigan

When:  February 2-4, 2024

Where: Downtown South Haven. Begin on Phoenix Street!

Downtown South Haven in West Michigan is the COOL spot for winter fun! This family friendly Michigan winter festival has breathtaking ice sculptures, Chili Cook-off, Cardboard Sled Race, Pub Slide, outdoor ice skating, Disc Golf Tournament, S’mores Roasting, Snowsuit Fashion Competition, Frozen Fish Fling, and several more events and activities throughout downtown South Haven. Perfect date night or family activity!

See sculpting of around 40 blocks of ice, weighing 300-600 pounds each! Be sure to enjoy the Pub Slide, with food, drink, and entertainment specials offered at participating bars and restaurants all weekend long.

• More fun things to do in South Haven, Michigan !

2024 Michigan Ice Festival | Munising (Upper Peninsula)

When : February 7-11, 2024 Where : Munising, Michigan. Many events are at the Community Center, Mather Auditorium. Headquarters: Central Elementary School, 101 E Chocolay St, Munising, MI 49862

Michigan Ice Festival offers ice climbing gear demonstrations, climbing classes for ice climbing enthusiasts and tons of opportunities to learn about ice climbing in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.  Check the Michigan Ice Festival schedule, it's jam packed. We recommend scheduling early. 

• Make it a Michigan weekend getaway! Explore the nearby Upper Peninsula Frozen Waterfalls and see what to do in Munising !  If you are short on time, be sure to see Munising Falls as it's worth the visit, especially in winter! Chris and I have traveled, explored, dined and stayed in Munising several times and it's one of my favorite Upper Peninsula towns!

2024 Michigan Tech Winter Carnival in Marquette: See Breathtaking Ice Sculptures in the Upper Peninsula!

Where:  Michigan Tech's Campus in Marquette When:  February 7-10, 2024

Learn More: Michigan Tech's Winter Carnival

Winter Carnival is one of the most WOW inducing Michigan Winter Festivals! Head to Michigan Tech's campus in Marquette (Michigan's Upper Peninsula) to see incredible snow sculptures created by Michigan Tech's students during Winter Carnival.  They will seriously blow your mind!  There are also tons of fun winter events such as:

• Curling 
• Sleigh Rides
• Cross Country Skiing 
• Downhill Skiing
• Snowboarding 
• Human Dog Sled Races 
• Ice Bowling and more!

A trip to Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula makes a perfect winter activity road trip! You can explore the cross country ski trails and nearby frozen waterfalls all while experiencing Michigan's outdoors! 

2024 Family Winter Fun Fest | Bay City Michigan 

When : Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Where: Center Court at  Bay City Town Center, 4101 E Wilder Rd, Bay City, MI

Kids zone, entertainment, food, vendors and more!

2024 Michigan Nordic Fire Festival This February | Charlotte Michigan (Near Lansing)

Where:  Eaton County Fairgrounds, located at 1025 Cochran Ave, Charlotte, MI.   When: February 23-25, 2024

The super popular  Nordic Fire Festival is February 23-25, 2024 and the  Ship Burning (Knörr Blόt) is on Friday at 7:00 PM!   The Mid-Winter Feast (Þorrablót) - Sunday February 25, 2024 at 12:00 pm- 2:00 pm. 

It's a fun affordable Michigan event this winter! Fun for couples, friends and family!

Learn More: Schedule of Events, Photos and Things to See at Nordic Fire Festival!  

Fun events include:

• Demonstrations
• Reenactments
• Viking Camp
• Musical performances
• Fire Performers

Festival Hours: Friday 5pm-11pm Saturday 10am -11pm Sunday 11am- 4pm

Last year, Chris and I turned this into a quick winter getaway by spending the night nearby and then we drove north to explore Lansing! We had so much fun exploring their museums and you can tour the Lansing State Capitol! Grab our guides:

• Fun Things to do in Lansing Michigan
• Tour the Michigan State Capitol !

While visiting Michigan Winter Festivals in the Upper Peninsula, be sure to check out the Best Places to See Frozen Waterfalls in Michigan's Upper Peninsula!

The Big Freeze Winter Festival in Escanaba (Michigan's Upper Peninsula)

Fire and Ice night, carriage rides, ice fishing derby and winter fun during the Big Freeze Winter Festival in Escanaba. It's a top-rated Upper Peninsula event that is definitely worth attending. 

2024 DATES TBD

• February 17, 2023 , 5-8 pm at U.P. State Fairgrounds, Ruth Butler Building, 2401 12th Ave N, Escanaba, MI. FIRE & ICE NIGHT. Enjoy a Chili Challenge & live Ice Carving performance by Food Network's Randy Finch, 50/50 raffle, silent auction, LIVE music and more!
• February 18, 2023 , 4:00 AM - 2:00 PM. at Little Bay De Noc for the ICE FISING DERBY! Register early! Lots of prizes. PLUS 12 pm -6 pm at the U.P. State Fairgrounds, Ruth Butler Building, 2401 12th Ave N, Escanaba for kids crafts, carriage ridges, bonfires with smores and more!

So much fun in Michigan's Upper Peninsula!

So many questions in my head!

• So I asked Jason from Visit Escanaba, "How are the ice tents and shanties brought out on the ice? Please tell me more about this!"   He says, "The ice tents are easy to set up and provide protection from the cold, but once the ice gets really thick and people can bring vehicles out onto the ice we will start to see bigger and heavier shanties (like the green one) set up."

He continued saying, "The fisherman will drag the shanties out onto the ice, usually with a side-by-side. People usually have their own but, there are businesses set up to accommodate those who do not have the necessary equipment"   

So during their festival, you can still ice fish even if you don't have a shanty. 

2024 Indian River Winterfest

When :  February 2024 tbd Where : Cooperation Park 5454 S. Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI. 

Winterfest is easily accessible by both snowmobile from the rails to trails and by vehicle.

Indian River Winterfest offers family fun! Enjoy Pond Hockey Tournament, Free Ice Skating, Sledding Hill, Entertainment, Refreshment tent with music.

2024 Annual Suds & Snow Festival at Timber Ridge Resort (Traverse City in Northern Michigan)

When : March 2, 2024 from 1-6pm Where:  Timber Ridge Resort, 4050 E Hammond Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686

Annual Suds & Snow is an afternoon with beer, wine & cider plus great eats from local restaurants & food trucks.  Event is for guests 21+. 

• The annual themed Suds & Snow event includes a 1/2 mile hike through the woods of Timber Ridge Resort to enjoy two live-music stages with local musicians, several breweries serving craft beers, wine, & cider, and local food trucks.

This Traverse City winter microbrew event is sure to be Northern Michigan’s ultimate “Party in the Woods” with the fun theme of Mardi Gras!

Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival | Jackson Michigan | Annual Beer Event in Southwest Michigan

Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival, 21+ only.

Where : American 1 Credit Union Event Center, 128 W Ganson St, Jackson, MI 49201

When : March 9, 2024. Doors Open: 12:00 PM

Come on out for the 13th annual Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival with fire pits, live ice sculpture demonstrations, corn hole,  food trucks, music, retail vendors & so much more in the downtown Jackson Michigan area. This fun beer event will have over 150 craft beers, ciders, meads, and wines and of course, lots of tasty food choices like pizza, burgers, brats and BBQ!

General admission tickets are $40 in advance and you will receive 10 tasting tokens. Tickets purchased on the day of the event are $45.

Lots More Fun Michigan Winter Events and THINGS TO DO...

• Go Snow Tubing This Winter! We've listed the best places in Michigan!
• Check out the Plymouth Ice Festival !
• Our Favorite Michigan Winter Getaways

By: Sherry Trautman

  Author | Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander... read more about Sherry Trautman 

About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

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We're Sherry and Chris the founders of one of Michigan's most comprehensive and Top Travel Blogs!

Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry. In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

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Provincetown in the Winter

A calming, peaceful oasis.

In the new season, after the intoxicating mix of holiday lights and sugar rushes, you can find respite in this quiet corner of the world. Here, you can pass a contemplative evening sitting by the fire, find new friends at trivia night, or even share a table at a delicious pop-up dinner.

Explore Provincetown in the Winter

The Joy of November in Provincetown

Provincetown in December

New Year’s Eve in Provincetown

What’s Open in Provincetown in the Winter?

• Arts & Culture

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Visitor’s Guide

Winter Events in Provincetown

Shopping, lights, and Santas dashing down Commercial Street in Speedos—it’s the holiday season with a Provincetown flourish. Late November and December feature the return of Holly Folly , which offers prizes for shoppers, the Gay Men’s Chorus, and, yes, a Santa Run in festive (but skimpy) swimsuits. And if skimpy santa suits in December are not enough, Provincetown starts the New Year with its Polar Bear Plunge—and the slightly more weather-appropriate Lite Bright Bike Ride.

Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum’s Annual Lighting Ceremony

Holly Folly

First Light Provincetown

The beauty of provincetown in the winter.

Provincetown’s harbor in winter.

Yes, some Provincetown restaurants are open year-round! This includes the celebrated Canteen , which changes up its menu to offer cozier options (like this matzo ball soup). Photograph by The Canteen .

The Canteen also hosts a holiday pop-up shop next door. Photograph by The Canteen .

The holiday pop-up shop features several local businesses and artisans, along with snacks and treats. Photograph by The Canteen .

The holiday pop-up shop in 2019 included Provincetown shop The Captain’s Daughters . Photograph by The Canteen .

Local trees and wreaths are also available. Photograph by The Canteen .

Some downtown businesses and bars are open year-round. The community comes out for local trivia nights and restaurant pop-ups.

Long-time favorite local spots know how to stay cozy, no matter the weather.

Postcards from Provincetown

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The best winter festivals in the U.S. to see ice do magical things

Find tons of frozen fun at the best winter festivals in the U.S., where ice brings on the holiday magic

Some places, you don’t want to break the ice—like the winter festivals held around the country where master ice carvers spend weeks creating full-scale, frigid creations from massive blocks of crystal-clear ice blocks. And while sculptures are often the star of the show, these events held at parks, hotels, and downtowns across the country typically have enough going on for a full day of fun with ice slides, performances and even sometimes fireworks. From a 20,000-square-foot depiction of A Charlie Brown Christmas in ice form to full-blown LED-light ice castles primed for exploring with tunnels and mazes, these art winter festivals in the U.S. are where man meets Mother Nature—and you’re sure to be blown away.

RECOMMENDED: The best ice rinks in the USA

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Best winter festivals in the U.S.

1.  ICE! | Kissimmee, FL

More than 40 master ice sculptors from around the world spend weeks chipping away at 2 million pounds of ice to create an icy wonderland inside the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center near Orlando, Florida. Get bundled up in a blue parka and enter ICE!, a 20,000-square-foot space kept at a chilly 9 degrees Fahrenheit to see the story of A Charlie Brown Christmas depicted in ice. The icy attraction includes ice slides, brightly colored ice sculptures, the chance to see your favorite Peanuts characters in 3D ice, and photos with Santa. ICE!

Runs Nov. 17, 2023 to Jan. 3, 2024

2.  Fire & Ice Winter Festival | Ely, NV

Since 2003, White Pine County has hosted a winter festival of arts and athletics during the third weekend in January. During the Fire and Ice Winter Festival , teams have nearly three days to handcraft ice sculptures in Veteran's Park. Festivities include community art, ice bowling, ice horseshoes, ice disc golf tournaments, and ski, snowshoe and fat bike races. Highlights are the ice sculptures and a fireworks train.

The Fire and Ice Winter Festival runs Jan. 12-14, 2024

3.  Ice Castles | Nationwide

Ice Castles is an ephemeral frozen attraction that annually pops up across the country in Colorado, Utah, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York and Wisconsin. Hundreds of thousands of icicles create LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, ice slides, ice mazes, and fountains. Most locations offer festive sleigh rides through a scenic trail that leads to the castle. Ice Castles are built in each location and each weighs over 20 million pounds of cold, hard, ice. Castles typically open in January and remain open until late February or early March, depending on the weather. At the time of writing, the 2024 dates have not been announced yet.

4.  World Snow Sculpting Championships | Stillwater, MN

Sanctioned by the International Association of Ice and Snow Sculpture, the World Snow Sculpting Championships hosts snow sculpture teams worldwide. Each team creates an elaborate snow sculpture in Lowell Park and the winner is crowned world champion. The festivities include snow sculptures, a wild rice cookoff, and the world's 'coolest' block party.

The World Snow Sculpting Championships runs Jan. 17-21, 2024.

5.  Zehnder’s Snowfest | Frankenmuth, MI

For more than three decades, Zehnder’s Snowfest has been hosting a winter festival featuring snow sculptures and intricate ice carvings made from single and double blocks of ice. Professionals, college students, and high school students compete in separate snow sculpture contests and college students compete in an ice carving contest. Zehnder’s Snowfest also includes a petting zoo, fireworks, and a 100-block ice carving exhibition.

The 33rd annual Zehnder’s Snowfest runs Jan. 24-28, 2024.

6.  Meltdown Winter Ice Festival | Richmond, IN

For more than a decade, the annual Meltdown Winter Ice Festival has featured the creations of ice carvers and artists who transform 20,000 pounds of ice into intricate ice sculptures. During the winter weekend, ice sculptures are placed throughout the city center. The highlight of the event is the Meltdown Throwdown where ice carvers battle in front of a live audience. Festival fun includes a scavenger hunt, a photography show featuring photos from past Meltdowns, and open carvings to watch master ice artists at work.

The Meltdown Winter Ice Festival is held during the last weekend in January.

7.  International Snow Sculpture Championships | Breckenridge, CO

For more than three decades, teams of snow sculptors have come to Breckenridge, Colorado, for the International Snow Sculpture Championships. Each four-person team has five days to transform—by hand—25-ton snow blocks into works of snow art. The result is a temporary snow art gallery in downtown Breckenridge.

The 34th annual International Snow Sculpture Championships are run Jan. 22-26, 2024, with a Viewing Week from Jan. 26-31, 2024.

8.  Snow Daze Festival | Kenosha, WI

Held annually, the Snow Daze Festival is a day-long winter festival notable for its intricate ice sculptures in front of restaurants, shops, and businesses throughout downtown Kenosha, Wisconsin, less than 60 miles from Chicago. After viewing the ice creations, revelers can glide across the ice at the outdoor ice rink at Veterans Memorial Park.

The Snow Daze Festival is Jan. 27, 2024.

9.  World Ice Art Championship | Fairbanks, AK

Since 1990, the World ICE Association has hosted an annual ice sculpting competition in Fairbanks, Alaska. The World Ice Art Championship has grown from a one-week event hosting eight teams to a month-long event hosting 70 teams who compete in five competitive events: single block, double block, and multiple block. Local school children compete in the youth classic carving a sculpture from one 1,800-pound block of ice. There is also an amateur open for anyone who wants to try ice carving.

The World Ice Art Championship competition runs from Feb. 17-Mar. 3, 2024, with the playground open from Feb. 17-Mar. 31, 2024.

10.  Lititz Fire & Ice Festival | Lititiz, PA

The Lititz Fire and Ice Festival is a 10-day celebration of all things fire and ice. Restaurants and bars get fired up with festival foods and drinks while festival-goers stroll through town to admire elaborate ice sculptures on Main Street, Broad Street, Juniper Lane, and at the entrance to Lititz Springs Park. A maker's market featuring local arts and crafts, a Winter Funderland of children's activities, and a photography exhibition round out the festival's offerings.

The Lititz Fire and Ice Festival runs Feb. 16-25, 2024.

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Winter in Lake Placid

Your perfect winter day awaits.

As America’s original winter vacation destination, Lake Placid offers the perfect balance of snowy adventure and lodge-style luxury. Wake up in your own cozy cabin , with the aroma of freshly brewed hot cocoa mingling with the crackling of a fireplace. White-capped High Peaks frame your view, transporting you right back to nostalgic winters of old. 

Olympic heritage abounds in Lake Placid with the Olympic Legacy Sites . Glide across the historic Oval , the very same venue that has hosted numerous Olympic speed skating events, and feel the history beneath your skates. Get into the woods with snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails that weave and connect across the region. Need more winter fun? The surrounding towns of Keene, Ray Brook, and Wilmington offer unique views of towering mountains, snow-covered valleys, ice flows on rushing rivers, and plenty more snowy trails to explore. 

Main Street relaxation 

Off the trails and onto Main Street, experience pampering unique to the charming downtown of Lake Placid. Visit spas and salons  for services including acupuncture, cupping, skin care services, aromatherapy, and more. For athletes and snowbound adventurers, schedule a massage after a long day of outdoor play. For dinner, indulge in Lake Placid’s rich culinary scene. Sample locally crafted wines, fresh seafood, or simply enjoy some dessert and drinks by the fire. 

Whether you're enjoying the views from Whiteface Mountain, or indulging in world-class entertainment , the tranquil ambiance of the region beckons you to unwind and embrace a classic winter in Lake Placid. 

Plan your perfect winter getaway today.

Grab your skis or board, because Whiteface Mountain is offering up to 45% off pre-booked lift tickets!

A checklist of seasonal perfection you can fit into 72 hours in Lake Placid this winter.

Check in, then experience Mt. Van Ho in all its glory, from skiing to hot chocolate with a hint of Nordic flare.

Feel the rush of winter. Race across the frozen lake with your own dogsled team, see new heights in a gondola ride, and curl up by the fire.

Perk your senses in the morning with handcrafted coffee, spend the day enjoying endless shopping, skating, and snowshoeing, then cap it all off with a creative cocktail.

Whether you're cozying up by a fire, ice skating for the first time, or getting pampered at the spa, find your perfect way to wind down.

From lounging fireside with hot cocoa to a reserved table with your skiing buds, find the perfect way to après after a day on the mountain.

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Valid Jan. 11

Celebrate 2024 with 24% off, grand adirondack hotel.

Winter adventure and snow-kissed peaks beckon! Celebrate 2024 with a 24% discount on stays Sunday-Thursday through March. Rate is 24 percent off our Retail rates. Rate is fully prepaid and non-refundable. Available select weekdays through March 2024...

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Town house lodge by the lake.

Package Details Surprise your significant other with a romantic evening waiting for you on the day of your arrival!

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Mirror lake inn resort and spa.

Stay and Nordic Ski with an Olympic Gold Medal Recipient!

Valid Jan. 8

Adirondack a la carte, high peaks resort.

Complete your Adirondack Vacation with a $150 dining credit to Dancing Bears!

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Enjoy breakfast and dinner at one of our five star restaurants. Packaged with your stay!

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What better way to connect and relax with your partner after a long day on the mountain than to enjoy an in-room spa experience for two?

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Valid feb. 29, solar eclipse viewing party, moose lodge boathouse restaurant.

Specialty cocktails featuring Angel's Envy whiskey, delicious buffet offerings, live music and a prime viewing spot to experience totality.

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Stay and sip, eastwind lake placid.

Unwind in comfort with a luxurious hotel stay while enjoying the added delight of two complimentary cocktails.

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7 Amazing Winter Festivals To Experience In 2022

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Winter is a time of celebration across much of the United States and Canada. Winter festivals showcase some of the world’s best artists, while also celebrating local culture and folklore. Here are a few winter festivals worth checking out in 2022.

International Snow Sculpture Championships — Breckenridge, Colorado

Artists from around the world flock to Colorado’s high country for the International Snow Sculpture Championships . For 5 days starting on January 24, competitors will create art from 12-foot, 20-ton blocks of snow. Teams are not allowed to use power tools to make their creations, only hand tools! The public is allowed to watch the carving for free and once the sculptures are complete, they remain on public display for about a week. Visitors can vote for their favorite, and be sure to catch the sculptures at night during the grand illumination light display. 

World Ice Art Championship — Fairbanks, Alaska

In the 1930s, Alaska celebrated spring by hosting winter carnivals. Today, that tradition remains with the internationally-known 2022 World Ice Art Championship running from mid-February until the end of March. More than 100 artists from across the globe work to create exhibition pieces, but only a handful get to compete. Competitions range from single-block ice art to double blocks, all the way up to 9 blocks of ice in which teams of four have 5 days to create a winning masterpiece. Tickets start at $17, but a senior discount brings them down to $12. You can buy them here .

Ice On Whyte Festival — Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

The Ice on Whyte Festival is a 10-day festival starting at the end of January. Walk through the ice sculpture garden created by top Canadian artists, then learn how to do it yourself by taking a Chippers ice carving class. There are carving lessons for both kids and adults. Don’t forget to reward yourself for all that hard work at the Ice Bar featuring local beers and cocktails, and fuel up at the on-site food truck. Tickets start at $6 and you can grab them here . 

Quebec Winter Carnival — Quebec, Canada

The Quebec Winter Carnival has been around in some form since the late 1800s. The modern-day carnival launches February 4, when the city’s mayor hands over the keys to the city to the carnival’s mascot — the Bonhomme. He’s a large snowman wearing a red headpiece and belt, and he only comes around during the 3 weeks of the carnival. This year, revelers can search the city for items belonging to Bonhomme in order to win prizes. There’s also a hockey tournament, dance party, ax throwing, slides, and obstacle courses. The event is free to the public.

Lititz Fire And Ice Festival — Lititz, Pennsylvania 

The Lititz Fire And Ice Festival starts February 18 and runs for 10 days in the small town of Lititz, Pennsylvania, outside of Lancaster. The annual event features ice carvings, food and drink vendors, as well as local merchants. The festival kicks off this year with a private launch party on February 17. Ticketed guests will dazzle in live ice sculpting demonstrations, entertainment, plus food and drinks. There are different fun themes throughout the festival, including a kids-themed day. Be sure to grab a punch card to visit all the local restaurants and breweries for specially-made festival cocktails. Fill up your card and vote for your favorite!

Icestravaganza — Davenport, Iowa

Animals are the focus of Icestravaganza in Davenport, Iowa. The event takes place from January 14–16 this year and features more than 30,000 pounds of ice displays inside LeClaire Park. You can walk through the sculptures, or to stay warm, this year you are able to drive through the viewing area. Most of the creations are of zoo animals, including lions and tigers. There’s also an ice carving demonstration, hot chocolate tent, local vendors, and local beers and food available. Not all of those attractions are open all of the time, so be sure to check the calendar of events before you go.

Winterlude — Ottawa, Canada 

Canadian culture comes to life during the first 3 weekends in February during Ottawa’s Winterlude . The free festival includes a large snow playground called Snow Kingdom and features ice sculptures. You can also lace up and skate the famous Rideau Canal Skateway; it’s named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Local museums also put on special programs, but be sure to check the entrance costs. 

As with any outdoor winter activity, be sure to dress warm and take breaks inside heated areas when needed. Since the vast majority of events take place outside during the winter months when weather can be harsh, it’s always best to check in with the event before you go to make sure everything is still running!

For more on winter travel , check out these stories:

• 9 Incredible Ice Castles To Visit This Winter
• 4 Can’t-Miss Outdoor Adventures During January
• 14 Essential Items You Should Always Have in Your Car This Winter

Amy’s passion for traveling and writing started at a young age. She grew up traveling with her family -- visiting three continents by the time she was 16. She’s always looking for her next trip and isn't happy until she has at least one (or two) on the horizon. She is most fulfilled when she’s exploring new areas like a local and finding good deals on travel and activities.

Amy studied broadcast journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She started her career as a TV news producer in Tulsa and Denver, winning 4 Emmy Awards for her work. She’s also worked in production for HGTV and as a spokeswoman for a small Colorado mountain town.

Amy is married with two young kids. Both kids got their passports before age one, as it’s her goal to instill the travel bug in them from a young age. If you can’t find Amy at an airport, you can find her trying out new restaurants, reading, or running.

These 3 Wisconsin towns are among the 'coziest' winter travel destinations in America

As temperatures continue to drop and the sun keeps setting earlier this winter, many Wisconsinites will probably begin dreaming of a warm, tropical vacation.

But, these destinations might change your mind and have you planning a day trip to a cozy winter wonderland instead.

Right in time for December, New York Travel Guides just released its 2023 list of the "110 Coziest Winter Towns in America for a Magical Getaway." Travel Guides writers researched 575 American small towns and evaluated them based on their popularity among online searchers and photographers in the wintertime, as well as their "cozy" winter weather ― average high temperature, total winter snowfall and snow frequency.

Most importantly, though, towns were evaluated based on their "cozy activities and atmosphere." The presence of Christmas or winter festivals and each town's appearance and number of performing arts theaters, places to stay, cozy restaurants and coffee shops were factored in.

Three Wisconsin towns made the list, making them perfect for your next winter weekend adventure. Bayfield, up north near the Apostle Islands, was named the 19th-coziest winter town in America. Meanwhile, much closer to Milwaukee, Cedarburg earned the 29th spot, and Lake Geneva took 39th.

So, what makes these three towns such great winter destinations? Here's what to know.

Enjoy Christmas lights and snow sports up north in Bayfield

More than six hours from Milwaukee at the very top of the state, the historic small town of Bayfield sits on the shores of Lake Superior, just a ferry ride away from Madeline Island. Although only just over 500 people call the town home full time, it receives thousands of visitors year-round for its beaches, water sports, restaurants, resorts and more.

Bayfield is New York Travel Guides' 19th-coziest small town in America to visit for a "magical getaway" this winter. According to Travel Guides, one of the town's best winter events is the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Downtown Bayfield, where "you can see beautiful holiday lights and listen to music."

The ceremony is part of Bayfield's "Hometown Holidays" event line-up in November and December, which also features a small-business shop crawl, special late-night shopping hours , a ferry visit from Santa, and recurring music and improv performances.

The fun continues in March with Bayfield WinterFest , which includes a Polar Plunge in Lake Superior to benefit  Bayfield Recreation and Fitness Resources  or a non-profit of your choice.

Throughout the winter, Bayfield boasts a wide range of outdoor activities , including cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, downhill skiing and snowboarding.

After a fun day in the cold, Travel Guides recommends visitors check out Wonderstate Coffee for a warm beverage and fresh, local baked goods. You can also enjoy the town's many locally-owned stores, bars, breweries and restaurants, including Copper Crow Distillery , the first Native American owned distillery in the United States, according to the Bayfield town website.

Just north of Milwaukee, Cedarburg has multiple winter festivals to explore

If the six-hour drive to Bayfield doesn't fit with your schedule, Cedarburg ― which Travel Guides named the 29th-coziest American small town for a winter getaway ― is only 30 minutes from Milwaukee.

One of the main events is the widely acclaimed "A Cedarburg Christmas," where families can visit a life-sized Santa's workshop , meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and participate in a wide variety of other holiday events. Other Christmas festivities include Christmas movies all December long at the historic Rivoli Theatre, "Enchanted Christmas" events at the Cedarburg Art Museum, festive musical performances and the Santa's Dash Away 5K run .

Christmas lights lovers can enjoy "Illuminate Ozaukee," a drive-thru holiday light show on select nights in December at Cedarburg's Zeunert Park. Cedarburg is also home to the Holiday Art Fair presented by the Cedarburg Artists Guild , where you can find work from over 40 local artists in a wide variety of mediums.

Once Cedarburg's many Christmas festivities have wrapped up for the season, Travel Guides recommends visitors check out the town's Winter Festival , which takes place in February. Fest-goers can enjoy or participate in an indoor marketplace, craft beverages, a chili cookout, an ice-sculpting contest, a dog pull contest and more.

After all the festival fun, Travel Guides encourages you to treat yourself with a Christmas caramel apple from Amy's Gourmet Apples , Cedarburg's local gourmet candy company.

Come see giant, illuminated ice castles in Lake Geneva

The year-round resort destination of Lake Geneva , about an hour from Milwaukee, was named the 39th-coziest American small town for a "magical" winter getaway by Travel Guides.

Travel Guides recommends checking out "Winter Realms" at Geneva National Resort and Club . "Winter Realms" is an immersive, outdoor Ice Castle experience, featuring giant, colorfully-lit ice caverns and archways. You can also see and experience horse-drawn rides, ice volcanoes, igloos, tubing activities, ice sculptures, ice slides and ice thrones at "Winter Realms."

In early February, visitors can get in on the fun at Lake Geneva's Winterfest , which hosts the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship. "Witness 15 state-champion teams at work during an epic three-day competition where their artistry is put to the test in creating remarkable, larger-than-life snow sculptures," Visit Lake Geneva writes. Winterfest-goers can also enjoy the Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, bonfires on the beach, live entertainment and more.

All winter long, Lake Geneva is also home to plenty of snow sports activities. Go skiing and snowboarding on the Grand Geneva Resort's hills . Or try sledding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing or ice-skating at the resort . You can even experience winter zip-lining over snow-covered trees with Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures.

If you prefer to stay inside, Lake Geneva hosts numerous indoor winter events and performances, including holiday-themed horse shows and magic shows , a "parade" of over 40 decorated Christmas trees at the Geneva Lake Museum , and the Grand Geneva's "Gingerbread House Walk" and decorating competition.

15+ Maine Winter Festivals You Won’t Want To Miss [2024]

Maine is known for its cold, harsh winters . But that doesn’t mean we don’t know how to have fun in the cold! In fact, there are always Maine winter festivals and celebrations happening all winter long throughout the state.

There are so many incredible festivals and celebrations all winter long in Maine, but if I had to pick my top three (all listed below), they would be:

❄️ Gardens Aglow in Boothbay Harbor at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens ❄️ The Sparkle Celebration in Freeport ❄️ The Belfast Ice Festival (because Belfast is pretty much tied for my favorite cool town in Maine)

It’s so hard to pick, but these are the ones I go to over and over.

In this post, we’ll list fifteen (+) of the most popular winter festivals in Maine. Most offer live entertainment , food & drink , ice carving , and, of course, lots of lights .

15+ Maine Winter Festivals You Won’t Want To Miss

The descriptions can get a little repetitive because of so many common events. Make sure to visit the page of any festival you think sounds interesting in order to find out more. So, get ready to plan some winter fun and shake off that cabin fever!

1. Auburn Winter Festival –Lewiston-Auburn

After a couple of COVID years, there isn’t much information on this except that it’s held in January in Auburn (or Lewiston-Auburn , really). However, there are tons of winter activities in the area, and they will probably team up with Lewiston to put together a fantastic winter festival.

Keep an eye on their page (and we will too) for updated information.

2. Bath Winterfest –Bath Feb 24, 2024

Home to one of the nation’s most important shipbuilding sites, Bath, Maine is a charming little maritime city that celebrates the winter months. The Bath Winterfest February 10 & 11, 2023.

As with most winter festivals in Maine, you’ll find a variety of family-friendly activities , including a parade , live music , winter disc golf, and ice sculptures all over town. There are plenty of opportunities for hot chocolate.

Seriously, there will even be fire breathers there on the first night when they hold the lantern parade! Where else are you going to see that live and in person!

3. Boothbay Lights –Boothbay & Boothbay Harbor

The Boothbay Lights is a six-week celebration of lights that takes place in November and December . This festival features a variety of family activities, including an outdoor ice skating rink, caroling , and a visit from Santa Claus .

One of the highlights of the festival is the lighted boat parade , which takes place December 2nd. There’s gingerbread things, storytime, shopping, and just about any other Christmas thing you could think of–even a pot buoy Christmas tree!

If you’re looking for a unique winter festival experience in Maine, head over to their page (link is in the title) and check out everything they have to offer.

This is also the best time to visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden because it’s Gardens Aglow time! If you are planning to be in the area, you have got to see this! We have a whole post about everything you need to know to visit this AMAZING place.

Check out Gardens Aglow. If you don’t plan early, you might miss out!

4. Camden Winterfest –Camden Jan. 27, 2024

[I’m checking and checking for 2024 info and haven’t found it yet. I’m sure it’s happening, and I’ll keep looking!]

Camden’s Winterfest is a can’t-miss event for anyone in the area. The festival features a variety of activities and attractions, including ice sculpting , a chili cook-off , and live music . They have a doggie fashion show, which is actually always a popular event.

Winterfest is held every year on the first weekend in February.

Since you’re in Camden, you can also head to Mt. Battie , where you can actually do ice climbing, or keep your feet on the ground with some cross-country skiing . Prefer downhill skiing? Head over to the Camden Snow Bowl.

If you are really brave, you can participate in the Polar Plunge in Camden Harbor.

The fact that Camden happens to be in one of the most scenic areas of Maine doesn’t hurt, either. Attend this amazing festival as part of a romantic weekend getaway , and take a couple of day trips using the itineraries from Belfast and Boothbay Harbor.

5. Carnavale Maine –Portland

[Still waiting on 2024 info for this.]

Carnaval Maine is a five-day festival held in Portland, Maine every February /March. This year it is March 7-12. It’s a celebration of winter with music, food, and fun for families all day long.

All we do know is that there will be a brews igloo where you can get a beer. A heated igloo I would imagine.

We don’t know where it will be held yet, either. They haven’t released a schedule of events, just some teasers, like the igloo info, that there will be live musical entertainment, ice sculptures, at least one bonfire, and a few other things. No details, though. Currently, it is 2/15/2024.

It’s held on the Eastern Promenade , which is a pretty cool spot for a festival, especially since you ride the Narrow Gauge Railway out there.

It is going to be held on the working waterfront from now on.(2023)

You’ll find activities from live performances to face painting and everything in between. This year, you’ll find theater, comedy, ice sculptures, food trucks, and performances by Maine Academy of Modern Music students, and much more.

In the evening, you can expect to find plenty of beer from Maine craft brewers , some wine tasting–most from Maine’s own vineyards, and cocktails along with local cuisine .

Carnavale is a major winter festival in Maine.

6. Fire and Ice Festival –Kennebunkport (Dec)

The Fire and Ice Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in Maine. It is held every year in Kennebunkport. The festival features a variety of live ice sculpture demonstrations, as well as fire performers .

There is also a variety of food available, and you can order your drinks at the Festival’s ice bar . The Fire and Ice Festival is a great Maine winter festival that offers something a little bit different. Their tagline is:

“ BLAZING BONFIRES, COOL ICE BARS & SCULPTURES, AND CREATIVE FOOD & DRINK. “

Sounds like a pretty good festival to me!

Check out this detailed Kennebunkport Fire and Ice post for more information.

7. Gardens Aglow –Boothbay (Nov-Dec)

Gardens Aglow is just an amazing , amazing festival of lights held at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. It coincides with Boothbay’s Festival of Lights, so you will get twice the magic if you go to Gardens Aglow during the Festival of Lights.

If it’s too cold, you can head into the restaurant, gift shop, or just grab a hot chocolate to warm up with.

I have an entire post about Gardens Aglow , so if you are looking for one of the best holiday light displays in Maine, head on over to the post to see what is so incredible about this particular place.

That’s right, I’m putting this twice (three times if you count the section above!). Know why? Because it’s possibly twice as good as any other light festival in Maine!

8. Ice Festival & Ice Carving Championship- -Belfast (Feb.)

This festival has everything from ice sculpture contests to sledding , snowshoeing , and of course, food and drink . It also happens to be located in one of the coolest little coastal towns in Maine.

The 2nd Annual State of Maine Ice Carving Championship is just one of the activities you can find in downtown Belfast during the Ice Fest.

There will be ice bars where you can have a drink (hopefully Darby’s will be serving Cosmos!) in between participating in one of the many outdoor activities happening during the festival.

If you’re visiting from out of town, make it a weekend and plan on a day trip or two. You’ll also find great local restaurants and plenty to do in this great little town if you just want to stay here. 

9. Ice Harvest Festival –South Bristol (Feb.)

The Ice Harvest Festival is an annual event held in South Bristol, Maine. It celebrates the tradition of ice harvesting and features a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. There is an ice sculpture contest , live music , and plenty of food and drink to keep you warm.

The festival is a great way to experience a piece of really cool Maine history and have some fun in the process.

10. Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude –Kennebunkport

Held November 30th-December 10th (2023), Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude is one of the most popular winter festivals in Maine. It’s also a major tourist event . The festival runs for ten days and features a variety of events, including caroling , ice sculpting , an outdoor market , and a tree lighting ceremony.

There is also a Santa Parade and a visit from Santa himself on the final day of the festival. Christmas Prelude is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some time with friends and family.

11. Maine Pond Hockey Classic Feb. 9-11, 2024

Living in Maine , there are plenty of times when the temperature doesn’t break 32° for weeks at a time. Mainers are optimists, so it just makes sense to take advantage of these wonderful conditions.

Hence, this amazing pond hockey tournament . Pond hockey is one of the greatest winter activities in Maine . It offers everything an outdoor winter sport should: crisp air, fast hockey , and friendly competition .

I know this isn’t technically a festival. However, like the snowmobile races, the atmosphere is one of a festival . The tournament lasts for days , there is a beer garden right out on the ice, and people are having an amazing time . Close enough to a festival for me!

12. Snowmobile Races –Turner (One Lunger 100) (Feb.)

[Still looking forward to the 2024 info!]

This is serious Maine. The races are held in an open field, on a half-mile track. It’s basically really old snowmobiles competing, and it’s awesome ! Bring a folding chair and a blanket , because you’ll need to sit and you’re going to get cold.

There are fires scattered here and there to help warm you up, and there are usually a few food trucks so you can get something hot to eat . It’s hard to explain how much fun these races are because they don’t really sound fun.

You can’t race these, but you can rent snowmobiles for a fun winter vacation.

It might be a stretch calling this a festival, but the atmosphere is like a festival , so I’m going with it.

13. Somerset Snowfest –Somerset County (Feb. 16-24, 2024)

This winter festival offers a variety of popular winter activities like an ice fishing derby , a kite-flying derby , and a winter triathlon. But THEN, it throws in a couple of really unique activities . Think kayaking is only for summer?

Think again. You can drag that kayak out of storage and enter the downhill kayak race ! It also hosts the Northeast’s only equestrian skijoring competition . (That’s when someone is pulled on skis by horses!)

This is a pretty cool Maine winter festival where you’ll get to participate in, or at least watch, some one-of-a-kind events . The towns of Skowhegan, Canaan, and Madison come together to put this winter festival on.

14. Sparkle Celebration –Freeport

Each year, Freeport hosts one of Maine’s most popular holiday celebrations, the Sparkle Celebration, in concert with L.L. Bean’s Northern Lights celebration. The festival opens with the Parade of Lights , and Santa appears to bring the town’s animated Christmas tree to life!

If that tree inspires you to go get your own, here’s a list of places in Maine where you can cut down your own tree .

The week-long festivity includes a decorating competition and gift certificate giveaways with the Stealth Elf. The Sparkle Stroll is a fun way to see all the downtown decorations. Visitors will also enjoy a Frosty Frolic with food trucks, holiday music, and tasty treats.

There is even a Holiday Around the World walk where you can learn about important holidays in various cultures. You can also enjoy free ice skating at Discovery Park , free hot chocolate , and there are even heated benches if you want to rest!

Read more about the Freeport Sparkle Celebration.

15. Westbrook’s Winterfest (March 2, 2024)

Only in its fourth year, it already gets several thousand visitors. Where else can you find a 35′ tall inflatable winter slide?! (Fondly known as Mt. Everest.) The festival is held at Riverbank Park, and activities usually happen between 10am and 2pm. There are tons of the typical events here (food vendors, photo booth, face painting, petting zoo, etc.), but you’ll also find some unique things to do, besides, of course, sliding down Mt. Everest!!

There’s ice skating–but on synthetic ice! How cool is that? A craftsman carving the Grinch out of a tree, but with space inside for a fire to roast marshmallows or make S’mores. There will also be a fire hula hooper and a river rescue demonstration, which should be amazing!

16. Fire on the Mountain at Sugarloaf (Feb. 2-4, 2024)

This is Sugarloaf’s annual tribute to the Grateful Dead. Bands from all over the country show up to play Grateful Dead music and celebrate the iconic band. Some of the musicians have shared stages with members of the Dead, so pretty legit.

You can purchase tickets for specific shows, and there are a bunch of free shows during the day. It looks like the shows are all at the resort itself, but don’t forget you also have The Rack, which is right down the entrance, and it’s an amazing place to grab some food and hang out in a really cool atmosphere.

17. Norway Snowshoe Festival (Feb. 16-17, 2024)

Norway, Maine was apparently once the snowshoe capital of the country. Who knew? Each year they celebrate by holding the Snowshoe Festival by starting off with a community dinner on Friday night leading into some fun activities on Saturday, like a 5k and a snowshoe tug of war.

Conclusion: 15+ Maine Winter Festivals You Won’t Want To Miss

(This picture is not from Maine, but bush Alaska, where I taught for a short time.)

No matter what type of winter event or festival you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Maine. From fancy events like Fire & Ice to traditional community celebrations and unique events like the One Lunger 100 Snowmobile Races, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

No matter what you choose, it will add up to days of winter fun.

So get out and explore the ‘real’ Maine and do something a little different during the holiday season (which is really all winter long) by joining in on one of our awesome winter festivals.

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Meet the heart and soul behind Wandering Through Maine – a true New Englander at heart, originally from NH, who found their forever home in the beautiful state of Maine. Maine called to them like a lighthouse beacon, and they've embraced it wholeheartedly ever since. This blog isn't just a guide; it's a heartfelt invitation from someone who's walked the trails, sailed the waters, and knows Maine not just as a place on the map, but as a vibrant community and an adventurer's paradise that they call home.

11 Winter Events that Highlight the Season in Wyoming

Home » 11 Winter Events that Highlight the Season in Wyoming

When the weather turns colder and snow covers the ground, Wyoming becomes a winter wonderland .

Always one of the best places to travel in winter, the snow gives new outdoor opportunities to our beautiful landscapes and gives our towns new events to celebrate. From widely recognized events like Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s Kings and Queens of Corbet’s to charming small-town winter carnivals, you will find these winter events well worth a trip to our state.

If this year’s Wyoming winter activities and event dates are not reflected on the event pages, please check back later or visit our events page .

1. New Year’s Eve Ball Drop – Cheyenne

Where: 1 Depot Square Capitol &, W 15th St, Cheyenne, WY 82007

When: December 31st

While it might be smaller than Times Square, join Cheyenne on December 31st at their remodeled train depot to ring in the new year with a 75-foot ball drop. The night includes music and fireworks.

While in town, try another classic Wyoming winter activity, such as watching ice sailing in Curt Gowdy State Park or warming up with a bit of Wild West shopping at The Wrangler .

2. Ice Fishing Competitions – Sweetwater County

Where: Flaming Gorge & Fontenelle Reservoir

When: January & February

If fishing is more your style, join Sweetwater County for ice fishing competitions on the Flaming Gorge Reservoir . They host the Burbot Bash in January and the Labarge Ding-the-Ling Derby in February. Join the fun in teams of up to four and compete for prizes. Youth and adult categories make this event fun for the whole family.

3. International Pedigree Stage Stop Dog Race – Western Wyoming

Where: Jackson Town Square, 10 E Broadway Ave, Jackson, WY 83001

When: January

The International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race begins in Jackson and goes through other communities in western Wyoming. Over ten days from late January to early February, mushers and their teams compete in eight races. Local towns host the race in a new place every night, including Lander , Pinedale , Big Piney , Kemmerer and Alpine .

These communities welcome you to get a glimpse of the race and celebrate with carnivals, dog parades, kid races and more, making this one of the top Jackson Hole winter activities.

4. Sheridan WYO Winter Rodeo

Where: Sheridan County Fairgrounds, 1753 Victoria St, Sheridan, WY 82801

When: February

Held every February in Sheridan , you will find family sled day, skijoring, fat bike races, hockey games and more. This winter festival is full of competitive spirit and fun. You can’t go wrong whether you decide to participate in an event or cheer from the sidelines.

For even more fun Wyoming winter activities, saddle up to the Mint Bar for a classic cowboy cocktail, or forge your own path with snowboarding or skiing in the Bighorn National Forest .

5. Saratoga Skijoring Races

Where: Buck Springs Arena, 30 Buck Springs Road, Saratoga, WY 82331

One of the best places to travel in winter is the small mountain town of Saratoga . Enjoy fast-paced skijoring races where contestants compete on skis or a snowboard and are pulled through a track by a horse and rider.

Held at the Buck Springs Race Track every February, you can watch around 90 daily races. Between the races, you can enjoy the Hobo Hot Springs , which are open to the public year-round.

Learn more about the fascinating sport of skijoring and which Wyoming winter activities hold competitions.

6. Sundance Winter Festival

Where: Downtown Sundance, WY 82729

For a fun twist on skijoring, join Sundance for their Wild Horse and Tube Race every February. While you can still catch traditional skijoring at the winter festival, you can now register for the tube experience.

In this take on the sport, the horse and rider pull you in a tube instead of on skis. If you still have a thirst for outdoor fun while you’re in town, treat yourself to a hike at Sundance White Ranch Park or explore indoors  at Crook County Museum.

7. Pinedale Winter Carnival

Where: Downtown Pinedale, WY 82941

Join Pinedale in February for amazing Wyoming winter activities at their annual carnival . Enjoy skijoring, a blizzard bash and more. Enter the Cardboard Classic, where you can create your own sled out of cardboard, duct tape, glue and paint.

See if you can build a sled worthy of the course and snag a prize in the process. After the festivities, pay a visit to the White Pine Ski Resort or kick up your boots at Cowboy Country Distilling .

8. Kings and Queens of Corbet’s – Jackson

Where: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Village, WY 83025

An annual favorite Jackson Hole winter activity is a competition that brings some of the top skiers and snowboarders in the world to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort . Watch as these incredible athletes compete in a freeriding course, which allows them to choose their own lines down the mountain.

The course begins at the top of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s Corbet’s Couloir with up to a 20-foot drop, giving competitors ample air to do some stunning tricks. It’s a one-day event in February for an all-out fight to obtain the title of King and Queen. Once the festivities wrap up, don’t hesitate to press on and find what to do in Yellowstone in winter or bring the outdoors in at the National Museum of Wildlife Art .

9. Snowmobile Hill Climb – Jackson

Where: 402 E Snow King Ave, Jackson, WY 83001

When: March

Semi-professional and professional snowmobilers flock to Jackson every March to participate in the World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb . The race is a narrow course climbing up the summit of Snow King with a 1,500 vertical feet incline.

This four-day event tests each rider’s strength and endurance as they race for the best time, making it among the most exciting of all of the Jackson Hole winter activities. As a spectator, you can enjoy concessions and snowmobile brands showing off their newest gear.

10. Old Faithful Area Guided Snowshoe Tour – Yellowstone National Park

Where: 2051 Snow Lodge Ave, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

When: December-March

Wondering what to do in Yellowstone in winter? Treat yourself to an unforgettable trek through the stunning snow-covered landscape with a snowshoe tour.

Old Faithful Snow Lodge provides guided snowshoe tours amid the dense forests and deep basins surrounding Old Faithful, allowing visitors to sightsee and spot animals while safely navigating the frozen terrain. These tours last around 3 hours and traverse primarily flat land, making them accessible and fun for every family member.

11. Cody Ice Climbing Festival –  Cody

Where: 1240 Beck Ave, Cody, WY 82414

Rock climbing is a worldwide phenomenon, and Wyoming has world-class climbs that call outdoor enthusiasts in droves. However, a new world opens up when the snow falls — the wintry world of ice climbing . Cody is one of the best places to travel in winter, a fact that is driven home by its annual Ice Climbing Festival held every February.

This event features incredible climbing opportunities for ice devotees from around the globe. Additionally, they demonstrate the latest gear and share tips and experiences over free beers for all, all festival long. Stop in for the ice climbing, stay for the music, prizes and the taste of home cooking.

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10 Most Epic U.S. Winter Festivals Worth Braving The Cold For

Wear a hat and gloves to these primarily outdoor events.

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival

Usually, colder temperatures outside have us getting cozy and entertained indoors. Yet winter festivals can draw us back outdoors for some fun activities that fit with these chilly times. They may have some interior activities, but overall they draw attendees outdoors for some pretty cool public demonstrations and feats of skill. Whether we’re looking on or joining in on the fun, here are 10 of the coolest winter festivals across the United States worth braving the cold for.

Related: 'Frozen' In Real Life: This Is Where Winter Lovers Can Find The World's Largest Ice & Snow Festival

10 Lake Geneva Winterfest, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Happening in early February, this Winterfest turns snow into building material for some incredible-looking snow sculptures. The five-day winter festival is the location for the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship, the only competition of its kind in the country. Fifteen qualifying teams will come to Lake Geneva for a 72-hour public competition where their artistic talents will focus on creating a larger-than-life gallery of amazing snow sculptures. Winterfest has become a favorite destination for tens of thousands of visitors and a beloved annual tradition for many people each winter. In addition to the snow sculpting competition, Winterfest features many winter-themed activities, including bonfires and s’mores on Riviera Beach and a Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk.

9 Stowe Winter Carnival, Stowe, Vermont

The Stowe Winter Carnival will return in 2023 for its 48th winter season in mid-January. Stowe is a great destination to visit in summer and also a popular winter sports stop. This Northern Vermont town will again usher in this festival with major activities for attendees of all ages. The activity schedule will include zany sports events, ice carving competitions, and a Snowvolleyball Tournament. Watch professional ice carvers shaping elegant and masterful Ice carvings throughout the carnival's village on Demonstration Day. Plus, the event will also host the 22nd annual NICA-sanctioned Ice Carving Competition.

8 World of Winter Festival, Grand Rapids, Michigan

The annual World of Winter Festival applies the subject of "outdoor art" to this type of seasonal event. The yearly festival features 40 interactive art exhibits, 50-plus ice sculptures, games, and special events all over downtown to support their mission to get more people outside during the winter. Potential contributors are encouraged to submit their public art proposal for the event via the festival's website. The World of Winter Festival runs from early January through early March, Downtown Grand Rapids transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland and this year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. All programming and activities are free and geared toward families and adults.

7 Fur Rendezvous Festival, Anchorage, Alaska

Since 1935, the annual 10-day Fur Rendezvous Festival , more commonly known as “Fur Rondy,” has been held in downtown Anchorage. The event celebrates the best winter sports and also harkens back to the days of trappers and miners when the groups offloaded their wares from the winter. The festival is also timed to coincide with the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race on the first Saturday in March. It even includes its own version of running with the bull but instead sprinting down Anchorage’s 4th Avenue with a herd of reindeer trotting behind you. Suit up for more action-packed events like snowshoe softball and the outhouse races, where Alaskans don wacky costumes and decorate their outhouse on skis to see which sled is the fastest.

It even includes its own version of running with the bull but instead sprinting down Anchorage’s 4th Avenue with a herd of reindeer trotting behind you. Suit up for more action-packed events like snowshoe softball and the outhouse races, where Alaskans don wacky costumes and decorate their outhouse on skis to see which sled is the fastest. There's also a snow sculpture competition, carnival rides, food vendors, Alaska Native craft markets, and a fireworks display.

6 Great Northern Festival, St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Great Northern Festival draws attendees to Minnesota with a concept that could be presented as a budding, sustainability-focused SXSW in the snow! The Great Northern is all about performance, experiencing the outdoors, public art, and climate education all while embracing the cold.

The festival brings thought-provoking art displays, illuminating live performances, meaningful conversations about climate change; and outdoor activities and events, including the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships, City of Lakes Loppet (a cross-country ski and other winter sports festival), and St. Paul Winter Carnival.

One of the festival’s cornerstone events is the Luminary Loppet , a magical night on the Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis. Plus, the 2023 festival will have new stand-out experiences. At the festival eve kick-off event, appropriately called Chill Out , travelers will experience a winter village complete with invigorating live music, mouth-watering food, specialty cocktails from Vikre Distillery , warm beverages, sauna activations, and captivating large-scale projections. Plus, no winter festival would be complete without a new Wim Hof Method cold immersion experience and sauna village.

Related: Music Festivals Are The Best Reason To Visit Europe This Winter

5 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, Saranac Lake, New York

Taking place in mid-February in New York State’s Adirondacks region, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival will take its 126th year in 2023. It became a part of Saranac Lake's history as a 19th-century major health resort in order to promote winter outdoor sports and games. In 1897, the area's Pontiac Club sponsored a one-day formal winter carnival, which became the origin of what is now the present-day carnival.

As a family-friendly event, this 10-day event includes sports, performances, two parades, and three sets of fireworks. Games of skill will involve snowshoe softball, cross-country skiing, fry pan tossing, and snow rugby. Yet, the major attraction at this carnival is a life-sized ice palace. This palace has been part of the carnival since 1898, with a structure continuously built except during World War I and II and the Great Depression. Royalty, so to speak, occupies this palace, as locals are chosen to be part of a royal court linked to it.

4 Oregon WinterFest, Redmond, Oregon

Touted as the Northwest's biggest festival, the Oregon WinterFest takes place as a mid-February three-day extravaganza. The weekend fest will feature a "Central Oregon Light Exhibit," which puts on an incredible illuminating feat known as "Light, Ice & Fire Exposition." It consists of ice carving demonstrations and a cozy fire pit, and fire sculptures. There will also be a Wonderland Marketplace that features local and regional merchandise. As an entertainment schedule for the 2023 edition is still being developed, one new activity will involve a "Hot Cocoa Run." This chocolaty theme race will consist of a fun 5K with a full Hot Cocoa bar at the finish line with toppings and Oregon-based company Crater Lake Spirits. Kids, too, will also have a similar race to participate in deliciously. A "Mini Marshmallow Run" will have kids ages 3-10 gathering all the ingredients for a cup of cocoa at this fun run.

3 Wintersköl, Aspen, Colorado

Referred to as Aspen’s annual “toast to winter,” Wintersköl will return in 2023 to mark the event's 72nd consecutive year. It was founded in January 1951 when locals in Aspen decided to celebrate this Rocky Mountain town's unique alpine lifestyle by putting on a broad-ranging weekend of festivities. The four-day celebration, which still happens in January, has an event schedule listing mountain activities, snow sculptures, a torchlight descent down Aspen Mountain, and fireworks, among other happenings. Each day of 2023 has been arranged to feature all-day demonstrations of snow sculpture designs along Aspen's Mill Street Mall. The designs are to be created by Colorado artist Thomas Barlow.

2 Fire & Ice Winterfest, Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

The Fire & Ice Winterfest is usually held over the first full weekend of February in this quaint resort town known for its natural spring-fed hot pools. While their event page is still being updated for the February 2023 edition, some activities have been announced. Festival-goers can watch or participate in the event's Winter Parade down Main Street, which kicks off the opening of the Fire & Ice Winterfest. It's also encouraged to look for the Abominable Snow Man. Other highlights include a Polar Bear Costume Judging and Party, a Children's Water Carnival, and a Penguin Race Fundraiser. Another event activity is called "Dusk: The Torch Light Ski," involving local daredevils skiing down what are known as the “L” mountains with lit torches.

1 Lititz Fire & Ice Festival, Lititz, Pennsylvania

In this central Pennsylvania town, the Fire & Ice Festival is a 10-day showcase in mid-February, bringing out food selections from downtown Lititz’s restaurants and, on some days, popular food trucks. Interactive ice carvings will be placed standing beside a fire show put on with the help of companies from Rock Lititz Campus , a production community that is a location for live events companies. The kid-friendly daytime Winter FUNderland will offer activities, bouncy attractions, and more things for children to do. Other returning events will include a scavenger hunt, a photography exhibit, and a Maker’s Market. An interesting version of a Fire & Ice-themed pub crawl will involve downtown Lititz bars and restaurants featuring fire or ice-themed drinks.

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White nights festival - russia's biggest celebration.

World festivals mark global events that are a must-see for any dedicated traveler. Although lesser known than major global favorites like Carnival or Burning Man , the White Nights Festival in Russia is a collision of culture, arts and music that provides one of the richest experience around.

Every May through July, the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia, come alive with colorful celebrations and performances by some of the world's most talented artists. The White Nights Festival is an international arts festival that takes place during the season of the midnight sun, when the Northern Light shines at both dawn and dusk, allowing the millions of festival-goers that visit each year the opportunity to celebrate all day and all night long.

A Cultural Celebration of Music and Arts

The festival celebrates the arts of opera, ballet, and classical music and is kicked off with the "Stars of the White Nights" at the world famous Mariinsky Theatre. The program presents the company's most exceptional productions, with performances by leading Russian and international artists, and combines famous historical productions along with new premieres and contemporary pieces. This year's program kicks off on May 27th and has featured nationally renowned productions like Swan Lake in the past. During the festival there are daily evening performances of either ballet or opera at the theatre and classical or opera musical performances at the Mariinsky Concert Hall. The series of performances always features some of the biggest names in the arts world, including famed Spanish tenor Placido Domingo, Russian operatic soprano Anna Netrebko , and Los Angeles Opera conductor James Conlon. Ballet performances have included revivals of Russian choreographer George Balanchine's classics, as well as contemporary dance versions of The Nutcracker and Cinderella. The performances are all widely attended and visitors' best bet would be to purchase tickets online in advance.

Carnivals - Fun for the Whole Family

Carnivals also occur during the White Nights Festival and allow both children and adults to delight in traditional games and fine food. The largest carnival is held in the suburb of Peterhof, where historical figures and events are reinterpreted by costumed actors. Carnivals at the Catherine Palace and in the Pavlovsk suburb of St. Petersburg are also known for their highly artistic reproductions of the historic events that took place at those palaces. For music lovers, St. Petersburg's Palace Square becomes home to some of the international music world's biggest stars during the festival. The large square has been used for official military parades and massive demonstrations, and has also been the site of recent concerts by legendary musicians like Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones.

Fireworks and Finales

The culminating event of the festival is the Scarlet Sails celebration, which is a massive event to celebrate the end of the school year that is known for its spectacular fireworks display and a water show that features boats full of pirates battling on the Neva River. Musical acts and motorboat and rowing races are also highlights of the celebration. The tradition began in St. Petersburg after the end of WWII, when several schools in Leningrad united to celebrate the ending of a school year in connection with symbolism of the popular children's book "Scarlet Sails" by Alexander Grin. At the first celebration a boat with scarlet sails sailed along the English Embankment and the Admiralty Embankment towards the Winter Palace.

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Picnic Afisha Festival (August 3)

How to get there: subway station – Kolomenskoye, Prospect Andropova 39

When:  August (3 August 2019)

Price: 4000-8000 rubles (€54-€108)

• Olga Fedoseevna Sergeeva - Russian Folk Song
• Solncestoyanie Festival (21-23 June)
• The Mir Sibiri Festival (12-14 July)

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View when driving from Yelisovo airport to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

The first myth I want to disprove is that getting to Kamchatka is extremely costly. It’s not. Going between February and April, a return flight from Moscow can be had for 11,000 roubles (US$380 / £220). Not bad for 18 hours total flying time. In summer the flights are more expensive but still, if you book them a few months in advance, can be got for 16,000 roubles return.

It’s true, many people will tell you that March and April are the worst months to visit because the snow is starting to melt and everything’s a bit sloshy and dirty in settlements. On the other hand, these are great months for the independent traveller! During winter zimniki (temporary winter roads made of compacted snow or simply frozen river surfaces) open up all over Kamchatka, granting access to communities that in summer are totally isolated. Hitch hiking is possible right from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the very north of the peninsula. Alternatively, vehicles can be hired in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky from tour firms. Also in the winter or early spring months places can be reached that are away even from the zimniki, either by snowmobile or by the use of cross country skis. For example, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Eurasia’s largest active volcano, can be accessed from the village of Klyuchi without the need even for a guide by a traveller with a pair of cross country skis. Bears do not wake up until mid-April so this is not a danger, but bears almost never attack anyone anyway.

The main disadvantages of winter travel in Kamchatka are that it is cold, there is no greenery and there are no bears, which some people come here especially to see.

The second myth I’d like to dispel is that travel around the peninsula requires hiring a helicopter. As mentioned above, in winter you can get almost anywhere by hitch hiking. I even hitched a lift with bear hunters on snowmobiles from their village to a reindeer herder encampment 100km away. In summer snowmobiles are replaced by horses, and transport is reduced from long distance ice-road journeys to irregular inter-settlement all-terrain vehicle trips. Hitch hiking is possible on these all-terrain vehicles though.

Throughout the year there are fairly expensive public helicopter flights to all settlements which are nevertheless much cheaper than hiring your own helicopter. There is also one permanent, year-round dirt road leading halfway up the peninsula. Some distance after the town of Milkovo, about 350km north of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky , it forks. The right fork leads to Klyuchi , site of Eurasia’s largest active volcano, and further to the port town of Ust-Kamchatsk. The left fork leads to the indigenous Even villages of Anavgay and Esso. Daily buses go from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Klyuchi , Anavgay and Esso, costing about 1000 roubles each way. In winter a zimnik passable by lorries heads north from Anavgay 36 hours to the otherwise isolated town of Palana. From Palana more zimniki head further north to yet more isolated settlements. From the peninsula’s very northernmost settlements there are even EXTREMELY irregular snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle connections with Magadan Oblast and Chukotka. Another zimnik, only passable by all-terrain vehicle, heads from Anavgay to the village of Ust-Khayryuzovo on Kamchatka’s west coast.

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