You Must Be Trippin'

Winter Carnivals to Get You Moving

January 22 2009 by Claudia Kunkel

Let's face it - this can be a tough time of the year. The holidays are over and as I write this, a good part of the country is in a very big deep-freeze. The winter doldrums set in and you wonder if you'll ever see spring again. Reading about all the sub-zero temperatures prompted me to think about what you could do when it's cold outside and cabin fever sets in. Well, there are places around the country that embrace the outdoors in all its icy beauty. Here are a few cities that do just that:

Saint Paul Winter Carnival, St. Paul, Minnesota - Begun in 1886, this carnival is a popular annual event from January 22 through February 1, 2009 that draws in people from the surrounding region. There are numerous activities and events to keep you busy starting with the Minnesota State Snow Sculpting Championship, a Sleigh Rally, Blues Festival and Queen of the Snows Fashion Show - just to name a few of the events taking place. The Carnival wraps up with a torchlight procession of floats through downtown St. Paul.
Winter Carnival, Steamboat Springs, Colorado - Begun back in 1914 as a way for ranchers and farmers to relieve the boredom and hibernation of the long, cold winters in the Rockies, this Winter Carnival takes place February 4 through February 8, 2009. This celebration is still an enduring tradition for neighbors and visitors alike to celebrate the rich western history and traditions of this popular ski town. You can find plenty of outdoor activities for any age starting with the Diamond Hitch Parade featuring the local high school band on skis, the Snowboarding Jam Session and numerous skiing events.
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, Adirondacks, New York - February 6 to the 15th, 2009. This Winter Carnival is supposedly the oldest winter festival in the eastern United States. This festival takes place in what was once a world-famous health resort. The original festival took place over the course of two days and now runs for ten days. The carnival starts out crowning a King and Queen in recognition of their volunteer efforts throughout the year. In addition to the usual array of sporting events of ski races and skating, this carnival also has volleyball in the snow and softball on snowshoes. The festivities end with two parades; one for the adults in unusual costumes and colorful floats and one for the children to show off their stuff.

All in all, not a bad way to spend your time if you happen to live in the vicinity of these winter carnivals. Just bundle up against the cold, pack the hot chocolate and embrace what Mother Nature sends your way!

If you know of any other winter carnivals or festivals, post a comment and let us know.

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