Steamboat Winter Carnival — Where Legends are Made
The 109th annual winter tradition returns February 9–13, 2022
High-flying skiers clearing hoops of fire, grown adults squealing down Main Street on shovels, kids on skis propelled by horses, fireworks booming in the star-painted night sky — this is how we celebrate our western heritage in Steamboat!
The 109th Annual Winter Carnival takes place February 9–13, 2022, marking the oldest continuous winter carnival west of the Mississippi. Sponsored by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club to help fund athletic programs and run by volunteers, this year’s Winter Carnival theme is “Where Legends are Made.”
The renowned February event began in 1914 to ease cabin fever and to gather with neighbors and celebrate the season.
Admission: A 2022 $10 Winter Carnival button or $15 buff is required for entry/spectating at all events. Your button or buff will grant you access to all events you register for and will earn you a free lift ticket at Howelsen Hill each day. You must obtain a physical lift ticket at the Howelsen Hill ticket office.
Events Not to Miss:
Opening Ceremonies
Wednesday, February 9
5:30 p.m.
Head to Olympian Hall to kick off festivities with the Winter Carnival Queen, her Court of Attendants, Little Princesses and the Grand Marshals.
Snow Sculpture Judging
Thursday, February 10
4 p.m.
Walk Lincoln Avenue and take in the hand-carved snow sculptures created by high school and community teams under the 2022 theme “Light up the Sky.”
S’more Family Fun Party
Thursday, February 10
5:30 p.m.
Visit the big white tent on Vanatta Ballfield at Howelsen Hill for a family-style chili and s’mores party complete with a bonfire, a DJ and dancing.
Nordic Jumping Exhibition
Friday, February 11
4:30 p.m.
See Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Nordic Combined and Special Jumping athletes catching big air on Howelsen Hill.
Johnsie Memorial Dual Slalom Bicycle Race
Friday, February 11
6 p.m.
More terrain and jumps spice up this year’s on-snow Howelsen Hill mountain bike course. Cheer from the sidelines or register the night of the event.
Tito’s Mountain Soiree
Friday, February 11
7 p.m.
Get your tickets to this totally rad 80’s-themed dance party with delicious food and cocktails, live music by the 6 Million Dollar Band, fire pits and more.
Street Events
Saturday, February 12
9 a.m.
Snowy Lincoln Avenue transforms into an all-day course for street slalom, ski joring, ring and spear and donkey jump events and the famous adult shovel race.
Night Extravaganza + Fireworks
Saturday, February 12
7:30 p.m.
This evening of entertainment includes local athletes displaying jaw-dropping skills while illuminated by flares and LED lights. Stay for the Lighted Man as he skis down Howelsen Hill shooting fireworks from his pyrotechnic suit while jumpers clear a flaming hoop.
Diamond Hitch Parade
Sunday, February 13
11:30 a.m.
A parade for the record books, skiers hold onto points of a rope tied in the shape of diamonds as animals, people or vehicles pull them down the snow-packed street.
Come see why National Geographic named the Steamboat Winter Carnival among the Top 10 Winter Carnivals in the World! View the full 2022 Winter Carnival Schedule.
Booking your Steamboat vacation and Winter Carnival accommodations has never been easier. Save on family and group deals and ski packages by booking with Steamboat Central Reservations or view our packages. We offer pass holder lodging specials, lodging + lift ticket packages, military discounts and more.
See you at the carnival!
