The Winter Carnival, proudly hosted by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club with Presenting Sponsor Yampa Valley Bank, brings the community together to celebrate athleticism, winter, and Steamboat’s Western ski heritage. Established in 1914, Winter Carnival began as a way to lift spirits during the long winter months and today continues to honor the snow sports that define Ski Town, USA. This year’s theme is Dream Like a Champion!
PRESENTING SPONSOR:
Join us for family events and activities at Howelsen Hill from Tuesday through Sunday and Street Events on Saturday and Sunday, a wildly entertaining show featuring children on skis and snowboards being pulled behind horses along snow-covered Lincoln Avenue.
Saturday night is the iconic Winter Carnival Night Extravaganza at Howelsen Hill, featuring athlete exhibitions, the America 250 – Colorado 150 Steamboat Drone Show, local athletes showcasing their skills illuminated by LED lights and flares, the Lighted Man and his pyrotechnics, the fiery hoop, and a grand fireworks finale. ADA Access: The Howelsen Lodge Parking Lot is available to anyone with a Handicap Placard and can be accessed at any time during the evening events. The Fireplace Room (downstairs in the Howelsen Lodge) is open to the public.
CLICK HERE FOR A PDF SCHEDULE
See below for detailed Street Events Schedule.
A 2026 $15 Winter Carnival button is required to spectate or participate at all Winter Carnival events, plus show your button at the Howelsen Hill ticket office for a ticket to ski or ride on Howelsen Hill February 4-8, 2026, FREE. Some events require additional registration or tickets. Proceeds support Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival and Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Buttons on sale at locations around town, see below for locations and will also be available at all Winter Carnival events
The button artwork contest winner for the 113th Steamboat Springs WinterCarnival is 15-year-old Soren Shepherd, SSWSC U16 alpi
ne ski athlete. A 113th Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival button is $15 and is required for entry/spectating at all events. Skiers and riders will also get FREE lift tickets to Howelsen Hill from February 4-8, 2026, with a button. Stop by the ticket office at Howelsen Hill for more information. Proceeds benefit the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival and Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Most locations accept cash or check; noted locations accept credit cards. Buttons will also be available at all Winter Carnival events, just look for the “Buy Your Button Here” signs.
Zero Waste At Winter Carnival Western Resilience Center is excited to partner with the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club to reduce waste at this year’s Winter Carnival. Waste reduction is among the most immediate ways to lower emissions throughout the region, and by implementing Zero Waste stations and on-the-ground support, this collaboration makes it easy for attendees to compost, recycle, and dispose of waste correctly. Keeping Winter Carnival fun, festive, and aligned with the values that help create thriving communities through collective action.
ON SALE AT THESE LOCATIONS
Click HERE for details.
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. HISTORY HAPPY HOUR
(All Ages, Olympian Hall, Howlsen Hill)
Tread of Pioneers Museum presents “Olympic Memories with Local Olympians”
LINK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
11 – 5 p.m. SKI TOWN U.S.A. THE HISTORY OF WINTER SPORTS IN STEAMBOAT SPRINGS exhibit and the original Lighted Man pyrotechnic suit plus Triumph & Perseverance: The Olympic Legacy in Steamboat Springs
(Tread of Pioneers Museum, downtown Oak Street)
3 – 9 p.m. MOUNTAIN TAP BREWERY – SSWSC Beer Collaboration
(Downtown, Yampa Street)
Stop by and try our collaboration brew in honor of TEAM USA. Open all week Monday – Sunday.
5:30 p.m. WINTER CARNIVAL ROYALTY DINNER – A celebration honoring the Winter Carnival Royalty and Grand Marshals.
(All Ages, Olympian Hall, Howelsen Hill)
Athletes consult with Mindset Performance Coach Luke Brosterhous to introduce the athlete to the Mindset Performance Program and understand their individual concerns and needs. Weekly opportunity to touch base with Luke during injured athlete training times.
2 – 6 p.m. AIRBAG DEMONSTRATION
(All ages, Base of Nordic Jumps, Howelsen Hill)
Watch as SSWSC freestyle, freeskiing, and snowboard athletes perform tricks and aerials, launch into the air, and work on tricks, landing in a 50’ airbag! Closed to the public, this event offers exceptional photography opportunities of airborne athletes!
4 p.m. SNOW SCULPTURE VIEWING
(All ages, Lincoln Avenue, Downtown Steamboat Springs)
Stroll down Lincoln to view hand-carved snow sculptures! Judging will take place at 4 p.m. on February 5, and winners will be highlighted with ribbons and announced at the street events on February. 7 and 8. Sculptures will be built on Feb. 5 by student and community teams inspired by the theme DREAM LIKE A CHAMPION. Vote on your favorite sculpture at @SteamboatCreates Facebook & Instagram. Voting closes Sunday, February 8 at midnight. REGISTER HERE.
4:30 – 5:30 p.m. CROSS COUNTRY OBSTACLE COURSE
(Ages 5-12, Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds, Downtown off of 5th)
A fun and entertaining non-competitive obstacle course for nordic and “wanna be” nordic skiers at Howelsen Hill. Spectators are welcome. Pre-registration is not required, but a release form must be signed or already be on file with SSWSC in order to participate.
4:30 – 5:30 p.m. SKI JUMPING JAMBOREE
(Ages 4-11, Hill Size Bump & 20, Howelsen Hill, Downtown off of 5th)
Kids can try the Bump Jump and 20-meter jump at the nordic jumping complex of Howelsen Hill for some flying fun on alpine equipment. Pre-registration is not required, but a release form must be signed or already be on file with SSWSC in order to participate.
4:15 – 6 p.m. FAMILY DUAL SLALOM SKI RACE
(All Ages, Howelsen Hill, Downtown off of 5th)
Everyone is a winner in this friendly competition. Come join our family fun by racing or bumping down the junior courses on Howelsen Hill Face. Go head-to-head on the GS-style race course. Pre-registration is not required, but a release form must be signed or already on file with SSWSC in order to participate.
5 – 6 p.m. STEAMBOAT CUP COOKIE JAM TERRAIN PARK JAM SESSION
(Ages 14 and Under, Howelsen Hill, Downtown off of 5th)
Open to both skiers and snowboarders. Located under the lights of the Howelsen Hill Terrain Park, this event is open to the public. A liability waiver must be signed or already be on file with the SSWSC in order to participate. Practice runs from 4:30-5:00pm, Jam Session from 5:00-6:00 p.m.
5:00 – 8:00 p.m. S’MORE FAMILY FUN PARTY
(All ages, Ticket Required, Howelsen Hill Party Tent)
Sponsored by: Moving Mountains
Food provide by: The Corner Slice
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Families, take part in the Winter Carnival Celebration! During the evening activities at Howelsen Hill, join us for a family-style chili and s’more party in the big white tent on Vanatta Ballfield. Just call it S’More Family Fun! Enjoy the outside ski activities, then head into the tent for warm chili, a DJ, and dancing! Complete with a bonfire and s’more-making outside! A Winter Carnival button and ticket are required. TICKETS go on sale on January 30 at 7 a.m. and usually sell out. Food is served on a first-come, first-served basis.
7 p.m. SYMPHONY OF CHAMPIONS – Celebrating the Olympic Spirit with Steamboat Symphony Orchestra
(Steamboat Strings Music Pavilion)
A special partnership with Steamboat Symphony Orchestra and Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club – Imagine your heart pounding as the Olympic Fanfare begins. Feel the pride as local Olympians march through the hall, take the stage, and inspire us with their presence. Let your Steamboat Symphony Orchestra lift your spirits and stir your imagination with music that celebrates excellence, unity, and the very best of our community during this Symphonic Winter Carnival, PURCHASE TICKETS HERE.
10 a.m. CHRISTY SPORTS SODA POP SLALOM
(Ages 11 and under, Howelsen Hill, magic carpet)
This is a fun race on the magic and big kid duals on the face carpet and is open to any skier or snowboarder ages 11 and under. Registration opens January 30 at 7 a.m. REGISTER HERE
12:30 – 3 p.m. WINTER CARNIVAL RAIL JAM
(Steamboat Resort)
Winter Carnival Button required, and Ikon Pass required to access the lift. Make sure to check out the caldron in Steamboat Square.
4:30 – 5:30 p.m. NORDIC JUMPING EXHIBITION
(SSWSC Athletes, Howelsen Hill)
SSWSC Nordic Combined and Special Jumping athletes jump the 20-meter, 30 meter, 45 meter,75 meter and 100 meter jumps.
5:30 – 6 p.m. SKI BALLET
(Howelsen Hill, the big magic carpet next to the nordic ski jumps)
Wear your sequins and stretch pants! A throwback to the mid-70s and once an official Olympic sport, ski ballet in its purest form included routines choreographed to music consisting of flips, jumps, rolls, spins, and leg crossings. In this Winter Carnival competition, anything goes, but costumes are mandatory! All competitors must attend a pre-competition meeting at 4:30 p.m. on February 6 to sign a waiver and receive a lift ticket by showing a Winter Carnival Button. Join the fun as a competitor or spectator at Howelsen Hill. REGISTER HERE
5-8 p.m. STEAMBOAT FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK
(Lincon Avenue, Downtown Steamboat Springs)
Free self-guided tour of local art galleries, museums and alternative venues in downtown Steamboat Springs. These businesses remain open the first Friday of every month for this favorite event of locals and visitors alike. Many offer changing exhibits, so there is something new to see each month. Free to the public, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Refreshments are served. Make sure to check out this year’s Winter Carnival Poster Artwork at Pine Moon Gallery (117 9th Street).
6 – 7 p.m. AMATEUR SKI JUMPING
(Ages 15+, Howelsen Hill)
Ski Jumping (on alpine equipment) under the lights on the historic ski jumps of Howelsen Hill. Prizes, jumping, and high-flying fun. Register ($25) the night of the event from 5 – 5:45 p.m. in the Fireplace Room at Howelsen Hill Lodge.
For more information, contact Pat Arnone at 970-734-8966.
6 – 8 p.m. JOHNSIE MEMORIAL DUAL SLALOM BICYCLE RACE
(Ages 12+, Howelsen Hill)
An exciting on-snow, mountain bike event. Most of the action takes place on the poma ride up to the top of the course, but this year the course will include more terrain and jumps to spice up the action. Come take a chance and ride the course or just spectate and watch the action. Event includes practice, qualifying, and final competition rounds. Register the night of the event 5:00-5:30 p.m. in the Fireplace Room at Howelsen Hill Lodge.
7. – 11 p.m. TITO’S MOUNTAIN SOIREE – SOLD OUT
(Age 21+, Howelsen Hill, in the Big Tent)
Presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Celebrate the 112th Winter Carnival at an 80’s themed dance party with an evening of libations, food, live music by the 6 Million Dollar Band, fire pits, and more. THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT Ticket Waitlist will open on January 26 at 10 a.m
8 a.m. 100-METER NORDIC SPRINT
(All Ages, Downtown, Lincoln Avenue)
The Steamboat Springs Nordic Council is looking for the fastest skate skiers in the Boat! They are hosting a 100-meter Nordic Sprint on Lincoln Avenue between 7th and 8th streets prior to the Street Events. The race will have male and female divisions as well as 13 and over & 12 and under age categories. Anyone interested can register for this free event at check-in the morning of the event with SSWSC Cross Country Program Director Brian Tate btate@sswsc.org or 970-734-7678 check-in day of event @ 7:30 a.m. at 7th Street.
8 a.m. – noon GEAR UP VENDOR VILLAGE
(9th Street, Between Lincoln Avenue and Oak Street)
Everything you need to get outside in cutting-edge style and comfort featuring local Steamboat-based brands and companies.
8:30 a.m. – 11 p.m. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS PANCAKE BREAKFAST
(Holy Name Enrichment Center, 524 Oak Street) Come enjoy pancakes, breakfast sausages, coffee and juice before diving into the day’s events.
9 a.m. – noon STREET EVENTS
(Lincoln Avenue, Downtown Steamboat Springs)
A wildly entertaining show featuring children on skis and snowboards being pulled behind horses along snow-covered Lincoln Avenue. Races include street slalom, ski joring, donkey jumps, 3-legged races, 25, 50, and 75-yard dashes, and the famous adult shovel race. The horse events are for children ages 6-14; there are also non-horse events for ages 1-14. Registration is closed for this event. Don’t forget your Winter Carnival button to spectate!
1-2 p.m. OLYMPIC HERITAGE TOUR with Olympian Ben Berend – Coordinated by the Tread of Pioneers Museum.
(All Ages, Howelsen Hill)
1 p.m. PRO ALPINE SKI JUMPING QUALIFICATIONS
(Howelsen Hill, Downtown off of 5th)
This is a must-see ski jumping event with participants launching off of the 100 meter on alpine skis and boots, rather than the usual ski jumping equipment. For more information, contact Pat Arnone at 970-734-8966, $100 entry fee.
1:30-3:30 p.m GIANT SKI RACE QUALIFIERS Open Practice (Everyone Welcome)
(Rodeo Grounds, Howelsen Hill)
Grab friends and family and give the Winter Carnival Giant Ski Race a try! Teams of six people can practice for the head-to-head race on Sunday on a pair of 25-foot-long Giant Skis downtown up Lincoln Avenue. Or if you just want to try it out come give it a shot with some friends. Challenge another business or family. Huge fun for both participants and spectators. A pair of Giant Skis is provided to each team at the start. You will want to provide your own ski poles and winter boots are recommended for best fit in the snowshoe style bindings. REGISTER NOW.
5-8 p.m FIRE & ICE: WINTER CARNIVAL NIGHT SHOW EXPERIENCE
(All ages, Ticket Required, Howelsen Hill Party Tent)
New this year, FIRE & ICE: Winter Carnival Night Show Experience. Upgrade your Winter Carnival Night Extravaganza with premium access in the heart of the action at the base of Howelsen Hill. Join Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club in the heated tent for an evening of fire, light, and winter spectacle, including food, drinks, and front-row views of the iconic 113th Winter Carnival Night Extravaganza. SOLD OUT | JOIN THE WAITLIST.
ADA Access: During the Night Show Events and Extravaganza, the Howelsen Lodge Parking Lot is available to anyone with a Handicap Placard and can be accessed at any time during the evening events. The Fireplace Room (downstairs in the Howelsen Lodge) is open to the public.
6 – 6:40 P.M. SSWSC ATHLETE EXHIBITION
(All Ages, Howelsen Hill)
SSWSC athletes demonstrate their skills as the sun sets behind Howelsen Hill!
6:45 P.M. AMERICA 250 – COLORADO 150 DRONE SHOW: Get ready for a milestone celebration that reaches new heights! Join us for Stories in the Sky, as brilliant drone choreography illuminates the night above Steamboat and Howelsen Hill, depicting stories of our state, country, and local community. It’s a spectacular tribute to America’s 250th anniversary and Colorado’s 150th birthday that you won’t want to miss.
Brought to you by the State of Colorado and The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission
(All Ages, Howelsen Hill)
7 – 8 P.M. NIGHT EXTRAVAGANZA
(All Ages, Howelsen Hill)
Presented by Yampa Valley Bank
Join us for this must-see highlight of the event at historic Howelsen Hill!
The evening kicks off with local athletes showcasing their incredible skills, illuminated by flares and LED lights. The spectacular Lighted Man will ski down Howelsen Hill, shooting fireworks from his pyrotechnic suit, while daring jumpers fly through a fiery hoop off the Nordic jumps! The night concludes with a breathtaking fireworks display that will light up the sky. It’s a night you won’t want to miss! Don’t forget your Winter Carnival button!
9 – 10:30 a.m. STREET EVENTS
(Downtown Lincoln Avenue)
A wildly entertaining show featuring children on skis and snowboards being pulled behind horses along snow-covered Lincoln Avenue. Races include street slalom, donkey jumps, the dog and dad dashes, and the shovel races! The horse events are for children ages 6-14; there are also non-horse events for ages 1-14. Pre-registration is required. Registration opens on January 30 at 10 a.m. Events fill up quickly. Participants may only register for one horse event during the weekend. CHECK BACK FOR REGISTRATION LINK. Spectators: Don’t forget your Winter Carnival button!
10:30-11:15 a.m. GIANT SKI RACE FINALS
(Downtown Lincoln Avenue)
Grab friends and family and give the Winter Carnival Giant Ski Race a try! Each team of six people races head-to-head against another team on a pair of 25-foot-long Giant Skis downtown up Lincoln Avenue. The event is huge fun for both participants and spectators. A pair of Giant Skis is provided to each team at the start. Team costumes required! The Giant Ski Race is a collaboration with Colorado Mountain College. You will want to provide your own ski poles and winter boots are recommended for best fit in the snowshoe style bindings. REGISTER NOW
11:30 a.m. DIAMOND HITCH PARADE (after Street Events)
(Downtown Lincoln Avenue)
The diamond hitch consists of at least four skiers. The skiers hold on to points of a rope tied in the shape of one or more diamonds. Animals, people or vehicles may pull the skiers down the snow-filled streets. Anyone is welcome to enter the parade. Pre-registration is required; deadline is February 3 at 6 p.m. Registration opens January 2, REGISTER HERE
1 – 2 p.m. PRO ALPINE SKI JUMPING FINALS
(By Qualification, Howelsen Hill, Downtown off of 5th)
This is a must-see ski jumping event, with qualifying participants launching off of the 100-meter jump again on alpine skis and boots rather than the usual ski jumping equipment. Watch as the jumpers try to break the hill record. For more information, contact Pat Arnone at 970-734- 8966, $100 entry fee.
February 5, 2026: Snow Sculpture Competition, REGISTER HERE.
February 5, 2026: Steamboat Cup – Park Jam, registration opens on January 28 and closes on February 4 at 4 p.m., MORE INFORMATION
February 5, 2026: S’more Family Fun Event, tickets on sale on January 30 at 7 a.m. PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
February 6, 2026: Christy Sports Soda Pop Slalom All Ages, registration opens January 30 at 7 a.m., free. REGISTER HERE
February 6, 2026: Ski Ballet, registration opens January 2, 2025, free. REGISTER HERE.
February 6, 2026: Johnsie Memorial Dual Slalom Bicycle Race, register 5-5:30 p.m. in the Fireplace Room in Howelsen Hill Lodge, FREE.
February 6, 2026: Tito’s Mountain Soiree Tickets on sale on January 2 at 10 a.m., is $175, including service fee, 21 and older only. THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT Ticket Waitlist will open on January 26 at 10 a.m.TICKET LINK HERE
February 6, 2026: Amateur Ski Jumping Register Friday, February 6, at Howelsen Hill. Register 5-5:45 p.m. in the Fireplace Room in Howelsen Hill Lodge. COST, $25.
February 7-8, 2026: Giant Ski Race, qualifier on Saturday at Rodeo Ground and finals before the parade on Sunday, REGISTER NOW
February 7, 2026: Cross Country 100M Skate Sprint Race on Lincoln Avenue: Saturday, February 8, 8 a.m. start. The start is located at 8th St. and Lincoln Avenue. Register on-site at 7:30 a.m. FREE REGISTRATION.
February 7-8, 2026: Street Events (Saturday and Sunday, February 7 and 8): Pre-registration is required. Registration opens on January 30 at 10 a.m. Events fill up quickly. Participants may only register for one horse event during the weekend. REGISTER HERE ON JANUARY 30
February 7, 2026: New this year, FIRE & ICE: Winter Carnival Night Show Experience. Upgrade your Winter Carnival night with premium access in the heart of the action at the base of Howelsen Hill. Join Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club in the tent for the Winter Carnival Night Extravaganza and an evening of fire, light, and winter spectacle, including food, drinks, and front-row views of the iconic 113th Winter Carnival Night Extravaganza. SOLD OUT | JOIN THE WAITLIST.
February 8, 2026: Diamond Hitch Parade (Sunday, February 9): Registration opens January 2, 2026. FLOAT REGISTRATION HERE
The button artwork contest winner for the 113th Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival is 15-year-old Soren Shepherd, SSWSC U16 alpine ski athlete. A 113th Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival button is $15 and is required for entry/spectating at all events. Skiers and riders will also get FREE lift tickets to Howelsen Hill from February 4-8, 2026, with a button. Stop by the ticket office at Howelsen Hill for more information. Proceeds benefit the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival and Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. Most locations accept cash or check; noted locations accept credit cards. Buttons will also be available at all Winter Carnival events, just look for the “Buy Your Button Here” signs.
ON SALE AT THESE LOCATIONS
Athletes consult with Mindset Performance Coach Luke Brosterhous to introduce the athlete to the Mindset Performance Program and understand their individual concerns and needs. Weekly opportunity to touch base with Luke during injured athlete training times.
SSWSC, The Vana
tta Group, Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, and Executive Title Services unveiled the artwork for the 113th Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival at Pine Moon Gallery on Friday, November 7, during First Friday Artwalk at 5:30 p.m. The 2026 Winter Carnival poster and artwork, titled “Time Flies,” was created by local artist Paulina M. Johnson. The original piece is currently on display at Pine Moon Fine Art Gallery in downtown Steamboat Springs.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Originally from Mexico City, via California and South Carolina, Johnson has been immersed in the fields of art and graphic design for over 20 years. She received a joint BFA from the Academy of Art College and the University of San Francisco in 1999. In 2017, she earned an MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. Paulina has been an ongoing educator and is currently an exhibiting partner at Pine Moon Fine Art in Steamboat Springs, CO. She lives and works in beautiful Steamboat, where she enjoys the mountains with her husband, two growing boys, and their pup Murray.
ABOUT THE ARTWORK
“There is something deeply profound about a place like Howelsen Hill,” said Johnson. “From dawn until nightfall, every day of the year, it is a place where people come together. For the Winter Sports Club athlete, it’s a place where grit and determination are put to the test, where success and failure intersect, and where empowering ascents precede daring descents, all underscored by the most genuine and raw of human emotions. As a parent, I have spent years staring up at this hill. This vantage point of Howelsen evokes joy, hope, and a reverence for time. “Time Flies”; is an ode to every athlete who has ever competed at Howelsen Hill and who now looks back with gratitude. It is a nod to all the time their families dedicate to watching, waiting, volunteering, feeding, driving, and celebrating their efforts. It aims to capture a beautiful, snowy stillness within the inevitable passing of time.”
ON SALE NOW
Posters are on sale now for $20, all proceeds benefit Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club at the following locations:
Registration is closed for this event. Don’t forget your button to spectate both days.
SATURDAY, February 7
9:00-9:35 a.m. – SkiJoring, 6-9 years
9:35-10:10 a.m. – SkiJoring, 10-14 years
10:10-10:45 a.m. – Street Slalom, 10-14 years
10:45-10:55 a.m. – 3-legged Race (50yd), 5-8 years
10:55-11:05 a.m. – 3-legged Race (75yd), 9-11 years
11:05-11:15 a.m. – 25yd Dash, 3-5 years
11:15-11:25 a.m. – 50yd Dash, 6-8 years
11:25-11:35 a.m. – 75yd Dash, 9-11 years
11:35-12:05 p.m. – Donkey Jump, 6-9 years
12:05-12:10 p.m. – Shovel Race, 18+
SUNDAY, February 8
9:00-9:35 a.m. – Street Slalom, 6-9 years
9:35-9:45 a.m. – 25yd Dog Dash, 0-5 years
9:45-9:55 a.m. – 25yd Dad Dash, 0-5 years
9:55-10:30 a.m. – Donkey Jump, 10-14 years
10:30-10:35 a.m. – Shovel Race, 18+
10:30 a.m. Giant Ski Race FINALS
11:30 a.m. – Diamond Hitch Parade begins *Events that require advance registration. Start Times are approximate
HORSE EVENTS
Ski Joring (Ages 6 – 9 and 10 – 14): Contestants with skis will race a flat course down the street while being pulled by a horse. The fastest time wins.
Street Slalom Ages 6 – 9 and 10 – 14): Contestants with skis will ski a slalom course through a series of cones while being pulled by a horse down the street. Fastest time wins. Anyone missing a cone or falling during the performance will be disqualified.
Donkey Jump (Ages 6 – 9 and 10 – 14): Contestant will attempt to jump off a 2-foot ramp while being pulled on skis by a horse down main street. Longest distance while maintaining a standing position wins.
Shovel Race (Ages 18 and over): Contestants will situate themselves in a shovel of any type and while being pulled by a horse, will race a flat course down the street. Fastest time wins. Anyone falling off the shovel during performance will be disqualified.
NON-HORSE EVENTS
Waivers must be signed by participants or their guardian the day of the event at the start line.
25 Yard Dog and Dad Dash
(Ages 5 and under) Children 5 years old and younger compete against one another while being pulled in a sled or toboggan (no metal runners allowed) by the family dog. All dogs must be leashed and led by the parent/dog owner during the dash. Following the dog competition will be the Dad Dash with Dad on all fours pulling the child. First one over the finish line wins.
3-Legged Race (Ages 5 – 8 and 9-11) Two people on skis tie legs together (ties provided) and race to finish line. The first pair over the finish line wins.
Obstacle Course (Ages 4-6, 7-10, and 11-14) Contestants on skis maneuver around a variety of obstacles and then make a straight dash to the finish line. First one over the finish line wins.
25, 50, and 75 Yard Dashes 25 Yard Dash for ages 3-5 years, 50 Yard Dash for 6-8 years and 75 Yard Dash for 9-11 years all on skis.
By Candice Bannister, Executive Director Tread of Pioneers
Introduced by Norwegian ski jumping pioneer Carl Howelsen, the first Winter Carnival events in Steamboat Springs took place in 1914 on Woodchuck Hill, the present site of Colorado Mountain College. The first Carnival introduced ski jumping and competitive skiing to the people of Steamboat Springs. Until then, skiing was mostly a mode of winter transportation in the deep Routt County winters. Officials estimated that 1,500 to 2,000 people gathered to watch the simultaneous jump by Carl Howelsen and James Pestrud that first year. The events were so popular that residents decided Winter Carnival should return annually. The mid-winter Carnival also serves as a fundraiser for the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. If only Howelsen could see the renowned club now—how proud he would be.
Though many people celebrate the Carnival that has evolved over the last century, few know just how this tradition came to be. It all started in 1913, in neighboring Hot Sulphur Springs, when Steamboat Springs resident and outdoor enthusiast Marjorie Perry (sister of Charlotte Perry, co-founder of Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp) stumbled upon the former Barnum and Bailey Circus Star Carl Howelsen, and his “Winter Sports Carnival” while on her trip from Denver to Steamboat Springs by way of the Moffat Railroad. Ms. Perry was so impressed by the ski jumping events she witnessed there, she convinced Howelsen to come to Steamboat for an exhibition. Howelsen’s son, Leif Howelsen, confirmed that as soon as his father saw the town, “he immediately knew that Steamboat Springs was the place for him. The mountains, the open valleys, the ranches, and the people, everything appealed to him.” Howelsen soon made Steamboat Springs his home and the town would never be the same again.
The depth of Howelsen’s influence cannot be overstated. His contributions to the sports of skiing and ski jumping form the foundation of the history of these sports in this state and country. Locally, not only was he the founder and coach of the first Steamboat Ski Club (now the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club) and the Winter Carnival, but he also built the first ski jumps on Howelsen Hill, set ski jumping records, taught countless residents how to ski jump and ski for fun and competition, and coached early competitors including Steamboat’s first Olympian ski jumper John Steele. Of all of Howelsen’s contributions to our community, perhaps his most impactful gifts were those he imparted to the local youth, summarized in this fitting tribute from the Steamboat Pilot: “During his time here, he taught the young riders to compete for the love of the sport, and has set an admirable example by never letting his medals get too heavy for him.”
Sources: The History of Skiing at Steamboat Springs by Sureva Towler and the Flying Norseman by Leif Howelsen.
Brian Harvey at Steamboat Radio conducted interviews of “Favorite Winter Carnival Memories.” Listen to them below! PJ Wharton’s favorite memory, presented by Yampa Valley Bank
Loris Werner shares his favorite memories, presented by UCHealth
Bobby Yaeger remembers generations pulling kids down Lincoln Avenue, presented by the City of Steamboat Springs
Bob Dapper’s favorite memory was attempting to fly off the jumps carrying a full sized flag! This memory is presented by Native Excavating
SSWSC Sport Development Director Blair Seymour discusses her favorite memory of her son, World Cup Racer Jett Seymour, participating in the Soda Pop Slalom. Presented by Deer Park Road Corporation
Local Jeff Temple shares memories of the Lighted Man, Presented by Smartwool
Steamboat local and creator of the World Record Breaking Firework, Tim Borden, shares his favorite Winter Carnival Memories presented by Steamboat Resort
Executive Director Candice Bannister, from the Tread of Pioneers Museum, shares her favorite memories about Leif Howelsen. Presented by Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty.
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