This site contains product affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, we may receive a commission.
Top Winter Festivals And Carnivals In North America 2025
Winter transforms cities and towns across North America into magical wonderlands, perfect for festivals and carnivals that embrace the season’s chill. From sparkling ice palaces to thrilling outdoor competitions and unique cultural traditions, these events bring people together to celebrate winter in all its frosty glory. Whether you’re drawn to heart-pounding snow sports, artistic ice and snow sculptures, or cozying up with hot cocoa after a parade, there’s something for everyone.
For travelers and locals alike, winter festivals aren’t just about braving the cold—they’re about finding joy in it. Picture yourself gliding across a frozen canal under twinkling lights, marveling at intricate sculptures carved from massive blocks of snow, or watching a ski jöring race that feels straight out of a bygone era. These festivals invite you to bundle up, join the fun, and make memories that warm you all winter long.
Here’s a guide to the top winter festivals and carnivals of 2025, organized by start date to help you plan your seasonal adventures.
January 2025 winter Carnivals
Stowe Winter Carnival
Dates: January 22-26, 2025
Location: Stowe, Vermont
Highlights: Celebrating 51 years of winter fun, this classic New England carnival brings the village of Stowe alive with creative ice carvings, outdoor competitions, and community spirit. Unique activities include the SnowVolleyball Tournament and SnowGolf, where players putt golf balls across snowy terrain. Families will love exploring professional ice carvings displayed throughout the town, and the festival’s après-ski events add a social flair to the weekend.
International Snow Sculpture Championship
Dates: January 20 – 29, 2025
Location: Breckenridge, Colorado
Highlights: Artists from around the globe transform 25-ton blocks of snow into breathtaking sculptures, creating an open-air art exhibit in the heart of Breckenridge. Artists are only allowed to use hand tools, creativity, and inspiration. No power tools allowed! Illuminated at night, the sculptures take on an otherworldly beauty. Wander the snowy streets, enjoy hot beverages, and take in live music as you explore these ephemeral masterpieces.
Reservations are required to attend certain days (usually Saturday) of the event, due to its popularity. Reservations are available online closer to the event.
Maryland Plunge
Dates: January 24 – February 1, 2025
Location: Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, Maryland
Highlights: The Polar Bear Plunge is not just about braving icy waters; it’s about raising funds for Special Olympics Maryland. Thousands of participants, from individuals to corporate teams, even schools and police, dive into the chilly Chesapeake Bay. The festive atmosphere includes live music, food vendors, and team-themed costumes, making this much more than a cold swim—it’s a heartwarming event with a purpose.
The goal for 2025 is raise $4 million for Special Olympics of Maryland.
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival
Dates: January 31 – February 9, 2025
Location: Saranac Lake, New York
Highlights: Known as the oldest winter carnival in the eastern U.S., this 128-year tradition is iconic for its handcrafted Ice Palace, built each year with ice blocks harvested from Lake Flower. The event includes exciting sports competitions, local performances, and two parades, including a memorable nighttime procession. Don’t miss the chance to skate on frozen lakes or enjoy warm drinks by the bonfires set up around town.
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Dates: January 23 – February 1, 2025
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
Highlights: With roots dating back to 1886, this carnival embraces winter with snow and ice competitions, including the Minnesota State Snow Sculpting Championship. The Klondike Kate Cabaret and the Royal Coronation Ball bring a regal touch to the event, while family-friendly activities like the ice maze and sledding hill add fun for all ages.
Winterlude
Dates: January 31 – February 17, 2025
Location: Ottawa, Canada
Highlights: Winterlude turns Canada’s capital into a snowy playground. Skate along the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink, or visit Snowflake Kingdom, where kids can slide down snowy hills and explore themed play areas. The ice sculpture competition attracts artists from around the globe, creating a dazzling outdoor gallery. In the evenings, enjoy cultural performances and food trucks offering local delicacies like BeaverTails.
February 2025 winter Carnivals
Steamboat Winter Carnival
Dates: February 7 – 9, 2025
Location: Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Highlights: This century-old carnival combines Steamboat’s ski-town charm with winter sports excitement. Ski jöring events—where horses pull skiers down snow-packed streets—are a thrilling spectacle. The Night Extravaganza showcases fireworks and ski stunts, including the legendary Lighted Man, who skis while covered in LED lights and fireworks. The snow sculpture competition and the unique skiing marching band add to the festivities.
Québec Winter Carnival
Dates: February 7 – 16, 2025
Location: Québec City, Canada
Highlights: The world-famous Québec Winter Carnival offers endless fun, from ice canoe races across the St. Lawrence River to snow bath challenges (yes, people in swimsuits rolling in the snow!). Bonhomme, the friendly snowman mascot, presides over the festivities, including nighttime parades, live music, and a massive Ice Palace that glows in the evening light.
Portland Winter Light Festival
Dates: February 7 – 15, 2025
Location: Portland, Oregon
Highlights: This artsy festival transforms Portland into a glowing wonderland. Light sculptures and interactive displays are scattered throughout the city, making for an enchanting nighttime stroll. The Illuminated Lantern Parade and pop-up performances at venues like the Willamette River bridges create a whimsical atmosphere.
Whitefish Winter Carnival
Dates: February 7 – 9, 2025
Location: Whitefish, Montana
Highlights: Rooted in Nordic mythology, this quirky carnival celebrates Ullr, the Norse god of winter. Highlights include the Penguin Plunge, where participants jump into freezing Whitefish Lake to raise funds for charity, and the Grand Parade with fantastical floats and costumes. Snow sculptures and art displays provide a creative touch, while local breweries host lively après-carnival gatherings.
Whitefish is located on the edge of Glacier National Park (check out my post on National Park Etiquette — Do’s And Don’t While Visiting) and offers many fun activities no matter when you visit. The area has lots of lodging, food, and drink options.
Fur Rendezvous
Dates: February 20– March 2, 2025
Location: Anchorage, Alaska
Highlights: Fur Rondy blends Alaskan heritage with modern-day fun. Watch the World Championship Sled Dog Races, join the Frostbite Footrace, or cheer on runners in the zany Running of the Reindeer. Traditional activities, such as fur auctions and native crafts, showcase Alaska’s rich cultural history.
April 2025 Winter Carnivals
Mammoth Mountain Pond Skim
Dates: April 20, 2025
Location: Mammoth Lakes, California
Highlights: Celebrate the end of winter with the wacky Pond Skim at Mammoth Mountain. Skiers and snowboarders don outrageous costumes and attempt to glide across a freezing pond. Spectators line the slopes to cheer on participants and enjoy the lively après-ski festivities at Canyon Lodge.
Other Great Winter Events Worth Checking Out!
- Lake Chelan Winterfest — January 17-26, 2025
- Aspen’s Wintersköl — December 12 – 15, 2024
- The World of Winter in Grand Rapids, Michigan — January 10 – March 2, 2025
- Lake Geneva Winterfest — January 29 through February 2, 2025
- Newport Winter Festival — Feb 14th-23rd 2025
- Bryce Canyon Winter Festival — February 15 – 1, 2025
- McCall Winter Carnival — February 21-23, 2025
- North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST — February 28 – March 9, 2025
Top Winter Festivals For 2025
These winter festivals capture the heart of the season with their unique blend of cultural traditions, outdoor adventures, and artistic displays. Embrace the cold, discover the beauty of winter, and make unforgettable memories at one (or more!) of these incredible events in 2025.
Travel Resources
The links above contain product affiliate links.
We may receive a commission at no additional cost to you
if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
But your support of Fork & Wander is greatly appreciated!
