Celebrate White Stuff At Carnival

Last year, the snow sculpture contest at the annual Winter Carnival in Sandpoint was canceled due to a lack of the white stuff. That definitely won’t be a problem this year.

The North Idaho city has been blessed with over four feet of snow, so this year the Winter Carnival is truly a winter carnival. The festivities, with a theme of “Warm Memories of Winter’s Past,” begin Friday and run through Jan. 26.

There’s something for everyone. Friday’s highlights include a Ms. Winter Carnival Contest and a Bop n’ Bowl to ‘50s and ‘60s music. Saturday features an all-day Chili Cook Off, and, just so the guys aren’t left out, a Mr. Winter Carnival Pageant.

There are several tasting events around town throughout the carnival, with a focus on fudge, wine, pasta, desserts and dishes from Sandpoint restaurants. On Sunday, kids and adults can dress up their dog, cat or other four-legged friend to win prizes.

And then there are events designed for those who are not faint of heart. The “Tight Fittin’ Ski Wear Contest” immediately springs to mind along with the Lip Sync Contest, both on Jan. 24. And there’s a Domino’s pizza-eating contest for those who just can’t get enough pepperoni, although a bottle of Maalox might be the appropriate dessert to follow the feast on Jan. 26.

This year’s Parade of Lights in downtown Sandpoint, on Jan. 24, will feature Northwest humor writer Patrick McManus as the grand marshal. McManus also will be present at the awards ceremony following the parade.

For more information on any Winter Carnival event, contact the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce at (208) 263-2161.

A schedule of events will be published in Friday’s Weekend section.

xxxx