This weekend, Grand Lake will be the epicenter of fun when the annual Winter Carnival hits town. This year’s event, “Under the Big Top”, features circus-themed activities such as “The Greatest Snowman on Earth” kids’ snowman contest, “Three Ring” snow golf and “Bring on the Clowns” bed sled races. There will be so many things to do, it may be difficult to fit everything in to one day!

According to Grand Lake Chamber Director, Samantha Bruegger, “Winter Carnival has been going on for 25+ years and it takes hundreds of volunteer hours to complete”, adding, “it is also a key fundraising effort for the town’s fireworks fund”. Each year, Grand Lake puts on four separate firework displays: at Winter Carnival, 4th of July, Constitution Week, and, New Year’s Eve.   

Fireworks Committee member, Judy Tumblin, told the Winter Park Times, “Our annual budget for fireworks is $60,000, and, we have been informed that the cost of fireworks will go up substantially this year. We are hoping to raise $1,500-2,500 at this weekend’s event”.

“Under the Big Top” Schedule for Saturday, February 9:

9:30 am “A Tea Ring Circus” tea pot curling at Grand Lake Center

10 am “The Greatest Snowman on Earth” kid’s snowman contest at Town Square Park

10 am – 2 pm “Three Ring” snow golf at Town Square Park

11 am “Circus Pony” kid’s steeplechase at Town Square Park

12:30 pm “March of the Penguins” parade

12:45 pm “Dumbo” parent/child sled pull

1:15 pm “Bring on the Clowns” bed sled races

2 pm “Cannon Ball” human bowling

6 pm “The Circus Freak Show” ball at Pancho & Lefty’s

8 pm “Ringmasters” fireworks over Grand Lake

Also on Saturday, the Ice Addiction ice fishing contest will be out on Grand Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park rangers host ski and snowshoe tours at 10 am and 1:30 pm, and, Kauffman House Museum will be open from 1 – 4 pm. There will be something for everyone in Grand Lake this weekend. To find out more, visit: grandlakechamber.com.