What happens when you bring together ice carving, a polar plunge, fashionable dogs, music, and delicious food on a winter’s day? That’s right — the long-running community celebration, Camden Winterfest! The Camden Public Library is delighted to announce that the 20th annual Camden Winterfest will take place on Saturday, January 28 from 11 AM – 2 PM with all of the classic traditions plus some exciting new additions.
It all kicks off on Saturday, January 28 at 11:00 AM in the Camden Amphitheatre. Visitors can watch teams of amateur ice sculptors and two professionals transform 300-pound, crystal-clear blocks of ice into sparkling masterpieces.
There will be food stands offering local fare including hot dogs provided by French & Brawn Market Place, and hot soup and cocoa provided by Marriners Restaurant. The food booths will be manned by volunteers from the First National Bank, and all proceeds from food sales will benefit the Camden Public Library.
At 12:00 noon, the public is invited to bring their dressed-up dogs to the center of the Amphitheatre for another installment of the beloved Doggie Fashion Show! The first 30 dressed-up pups to participate will win a dog-approved prize and ribbon award. Dog outfits can be as simple or elaborate as your dog likes!
At 12:30 PM, kids and families can join children’s librarian Miss Amy for a wintery Story Walk through Harbor Park. Creative winter crafts and face-painting will also be happening inside during the entire event from 11-2.
At 1:00 PM, the most dramatic of Winterfest traditions will take place: the Polar Plunge. Participants will run and splash into the frigid Camden Harbor to benefit Sundog Outdoor Expeditions. Watch from the comfort of your winter coat or brave the icy waters yourself! The top fundraisers who plunge into the harbor will win time in Native Sauna’s mobile sauna, which will be parked nearby.
Visitors can always pop into the Camden Public Library to warm up. While inside, be sure to browse the big book sale in the Rotunda, with most items priced $3 or less.
Camden Winterfest is made possible by the generous support of First National Bank, in-kind donations from Marriners Restaurant and French & Brawn Market Place, as well as a dedicated team of volunteers.
Find the official Winterfest flyer and the full schedule at www.librarycamden.org/winterfest2023. For the latest updates, follow the Camden Winterfest Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CamdenWinterfest.
