Greenfield’s 103rd Annual Winter Carnival is just around the corner, bringing a flurry of fun and excitement to the city from January 31st to February 2nd, 2025. This cherished community event will fill the weekend with activities and attractions for all ages, happening at various locations throughout the city.
The festivities kick off on Friday, January 31st, with live ice carvings downtown, where artists transform blocks of ice into stunning sculptures. Warm up at the library with hot chocolate, board games, and a family scavenger hunt. In the evening, the celebration officially begins with a torch lighting ceremony on City Common. The Parade of Lights will illuminate the streets, featuring creatively decorated vehicles, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at Beacon Field. Don’t miss the Downtown Defrost, where you can enjoy fire spinning and s’mores while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Saturday, February 1st, offers a packed schedule of activities. Youth basketball games at the middle school gym are free to watch, and families can enjoy sensory-friendly crafts and face painting at 20 Sanderson Street. The library will host a variety of events, including crafts, a scavenger hunt, and a board game social. At the same time, Gaudium Galaxy will offer karaoke and STEM activities for kids at 170 Main Street. For puzzle enthusiasts, a virtual jigsaw puzzle contest invites teams to compete from the comfort of their homes.
Later in the day, the Magic of Science show at Greenfield Middle School promises to entertain and educate with an exciting blend of magic and science demonstrations. Families can also join a dance lesson at Dawn’s School of Dance or participate in the Cribbage Tournament at the John Zon Community Center. In the evening, head to Beacon Field for a Glow Party featuring music, dancing, and glowing accessories.
Sunday, February 2nd, begins with Cookies with Olaf, a fundraiser featuring snowman-themed treats, warm hugs, and photo opportunities with Olaf himself. The Garden Cinema will present a free showing of "Happy Feet 2," while Gaudium Galaxy continues their kids’ activities at 170 Main Street. Families can also visit the YMCA for swimming and gym activities.
Beacon Field will be the hub of activity on Sunday, with sledding, a cookie bake-off, a chili cook-off, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and a vintage snowmobile show. The K9 Keg Pull promises adorable fun as dogs of all sizes race while pulling kegs. A highlight of the day is the Cardboard Sled Contest, where participants race their homemade sleds down Beacon Hill, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship. The weekend concludes with an awards ceremony recognizing winners from various events.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy sledding at Beacon Hill and participate in the Golden Carrot scavenger hunt, where adventurers help restore the snowman’s nose by finding hidden golden carrots around the city. The Winter Poetry Walk and Dogman Coloring Contest add even more opportunities for creativity and engagement.
Winter Carnival souvenirs, including travel mugs, hats, and apparel, will be available for purchase on Sunday at Beacon Field. Additionally, the Friends of Greenfield Recreation will host a raffle throughout the weekend, with proceeds supporting the event.
The celebration extends to Monday, February 3rd, with a special screening of the 1922 documentary "Nanook of the North" at the Garden Cinema. Tickets are $10.50 for adults and $8.50 for students, seniors, and veterans.
The Winter Carnival is made possible by the generous contributions of the community. Donations are still being accepted to support this much-loved tradition. Don’t miss this exciting weekend of winter fun in Greenfield!
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