Celebrate the 62nd State Winter Carnival in Willow
Contributed by Brenda McCain
The wonderful Alaskan tradition of the State Winter Carnival in Willow Carnival will continue February 2-4th 2024. The interesting and exciting events will be held inside and outside the Willow Community Ctr at 69.5 Parks Highway and take off on trails all around the community! This historic event has continued so long because there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.
It begins Friday February 2nd the Carnival Kick off Dinner.
Doors open at 5 pm with the local Artist’s Quick Draw and the start of the Alaskan Art silent auction.
Roast Beef dinner will be served at 6 pm. This dinner is usually a sell-out. Tickets must be purchased in advance at Newman’s Hilltop Tesoro or Willow Library. $23.00 age 16 and up, $12.00 age 8-15. Free age 7 and under.
The Carnival King and Queen will be crowned during dinner and the evening will conclude with a spectacular Fireworks display by Gorilla Fireworks.
Saturday & Sunday- 8 am-11:00 am Willow Elementary PTA will serve their famous breakfast.
Admission to the Carnival is free! Parking is $1.00 per carload, but every person gets a door prize ticket! Some competitions have an entry fee.
Daytime activities are 10:00 am – 4 pm.
Friday January 27th is Carnival Bingo. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Bingo starts at 7 pm
Saturday the Fire Dept is hosting a Family Dance.
Inside activities include Diverse stage acts, cribbage tournament, local vendors, ice cream eating contest, Pie Auction, Mini-raffle, Magpie shirts, Carnival kitchen and more.
Outside activities include Vintage snowmachine show, Outhouse races, Snowshoe softball, Kid’s Mushing game, Historic Sven Erikson 25 k run, ski, bike, skijor tour, Homesteader games, Poker run and other snowmachine competitions and much more.
This the THE State Winter Carnival and all are welcome to come celebrate winter in Willow
For full carnival schedule see: https://www.waco-ak.org/waco-events/