The Steamboat Winter Carnival is an Enchanting Festival Not to Be Missed
The Steamboat Winter Carnival is one of Colorado’s most beloved traditions. Each February, Steamboat Springs transforms into a winter wonderland filled with family-friendly activities, unique skiing events, and thrilling spectacles. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re pretty much a local, this guide will help you plan the ultimate family trip to this magical celebration.
At The Astrid, we love taking part in these iconic traditions and events that are distinctively Steamboat and won’t be found anywhere else! The Winter Carnival is celebrating its 112th year, showcasing the variety of winter sports and incredible skills that earned Steamboat Springs the title of Ski Town USAⓇ.
This year’s theme is “Let Your Light Shine!” and a button designed by local youth Louisa Crump is available for purchase to provide entry to numerous events throughout the carnival and also provides free lift access to Howlelsen Hill from February 5-9, 2025.
Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty unveiled the official 2025 Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival poster, which will remain on display until February 8, 2025, when it will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Foundation. You can also purchase a poster or limited edition print through Steamboat Sotheby’s.
The History of the Steamboat Winter Carnival
The Steamboat Winter Carnival has been a cornerstone of the town’s identity since 1914, making it one of the longest-running winter carnivals in the United States. Originally created as a way to combat the isolation of winter and celebrate the community’s unique Nordic heritage, the carnival has evolved into a stunning exhibition of Steamboat’s love for snow, skiing, and outdoor adventure.
The event began with a vision from Carl Howelsen, a Norwegian ski pioneer and founder of the first Steamboat Ski Club (now known as the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club). Given the nickname, “The Flying Norseman,” Howelsen brought his passion for skiing and ski jumping to the area, helping establish Steamboat Springs as an epicenter for winter sports. The inaugural carnival featured simple ski-jumping contests and community gatherings, but it quickly grew into a cherished tradition that draws thousands of visitors each year.
The Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club organizes the present-day event, this organization is the proud training hub that has produced over 100 Olympians since its founding. From its humble beginnings, featuring simple ski-jumping contests, to today’s extravagant parades and light shows, the carnival pays homage to the town’s rich skiing culture.
The carnival is not only a celebration of Steamboat’s rich skiing history but also a tribute to the strong sense of community and adventurous spirit that defines the town.
Steamboat Winter Carnival Events
The carnival’s schedule is packed with exciting activities for visitors of all ages. With events taking place over 6 days, there are sure to be plenty of ways for your whole family to enjoy (or take part!) in this Steamboat tradition.
From February 4-9, 2025, there will be parades, live musical performances, fireworks, kid’s activities, and many ski races. During the Street Events day, kids can participate in the crowd-favorite “Donkey Jump” or experience the thrill of being pulled behind a horse on skis.
The Night Extravaganza on Saturday is a must-see – watch as local athletes showcase their incredible skills illuminated only by flares and LED lights on Howelsen Hill. The night’s highlight is the astonishing Lighted Man, who will ski down the mountain while shooting fireworks from his pyrotechnic suit as daring ski jumpers fly through a hoop of fire!
We’ve included a brief schedule of the festivities below, but the events are all subject to change prior to the carnival. For the full schedule of up-to-date events, go to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club website.
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Olympic Heritage Tour at Howelsen Hill Lodge
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. – History Happy Hour at Olympian Hall
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
5:30 p.m. – Winter Carnival Royalty Dinner at Olympian Hall
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Steamboat Cup Cross Country Parent-Child Relay at the Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds
Thursday, February 6, 2025
2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Airbag Demonstration at the Nordic Jumps on Howelsen Hill
4:00 p.m. – Snow Sculpture Viewing on Lincoln Avenue
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – Cross Country Obstacle Course at the Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – Ski Jumping Jamboree at the Howelsen Hill Bump Jump and 20-meter Jump
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Family Duals at Howelsen Hill Junior Courses
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Powdertools Community Terrain Park Jam Session at the Howelsen Hill Terrain Park
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – S’more Family Fun Party in Downtown Steamboat
Friday, February 7, 2025
10:00 a.m. – Christy Sports Soda Pop Slalom at the Howelsen Hill Magic Carpet
12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Winter Carnival Rail Jam Open at Steamboat Resort (Christie Express)
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. – Nordic Jumping Exhibition at the Nordic Jumps on Howelsen Hill
5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Ski Ballet at the Howelsen Hill Magic Carpet
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Steamboat First Friday Artwalk in Downtown Steamboat
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – Amateur Ski Jumping at Howelsen Hill
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Johnsie Memorial Dual Slalom Bicycle Race at Howelsen Hill
7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. – Tito’s Mountain Soiree at Howelsen Hill (Tickets are currently sold out for this event, but you can join the waitlist here)
Saturday, February 8, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 100-meter Nordic Sprint on Lincoln Avenue
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Gear Up Vendor Village on 9th Street
8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast at Holy Name Enrichment Center
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Street Events on Lincoln Avenue
1:00 p.m. – Pro Alpine Ski Jumping Qualifications at the Howelsen Hill 100-meter Jump
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Giant Ski Race Qualifiers at the Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds
6:45 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. – Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Athlete Exhibition at Howelsen Hill
7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Night Extravaganza at Howelsen Hill
Sunday, February 9, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – Street Events on Lincoln Avenue
10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. – Giant Ski Race Finals on Lincoln Avenue
11:30 a.m. – Diamond Hitch Parade on Lincoln Avenue
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Pro Alpine Ski Jumping Finals at the Howelsen Hill 100-meter Jump
Steamboat Winter Carnival Tickets and Registration
Some events at the Steamboat Winter Carnival require tickets or pre-registration and are marked on the schedule of events on the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club website.
Winter Carnival Button
This is designed by a local student every year and is required for entry to all carnival events. The button is available for purchase for $15 at the Howelsen Hill Ticket Office and multiple businesses, such as FM Light and Sons and Old Town Hot Springs. The button grants the wearer entry to participate and spectate various events. The proceeds help support the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club. This button also gives you free lift access at Howelsen Hill for the duration of the carnival.
Some events require you to register for free online or at the event, and others require you to purchase a ticket online or in the Fireplace Room in Howelsen Hill Lodge. Be sure to pack your helmet and goggles, as all events require the participant to wear the appropriate safety gear.
For a complete list of registration events and ticketed events, please visit the “Special Ticketed Events and Registration Information” tab on the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club website. Registration for Free Street Events opens at 10:00 a.m. on January 31, 2025.
Know Before You Go
Planning your trip to Steamboat Springs can be simple and we have plenty resources to help ensure your vacation activities are just as memorable as the divine location.
Before you attend the Steamboat Winter Carnival there are a few things you should note.
Road Closures and Parking: Lincoln Avenue, the main street in Steamboat Springs, will be closed for street events. Arrive early to secure parking or use the free shuttle services provided by the city. Check Steamboat Road Closures for updates.
Weather and Mountain Conditions: Winter in Steamboat Springs can be unpredictable at times, ensure you dress in layers and monitor weather conditions using resources like NOAA Weather and the Steamboat Ski Resort Mountain Report.
The Astrid’s Tips: Make sure you plan some time to enjoy the nearby attractions like Old Town Hot Springs, Snow Bowl, or the Steamboat Art Museum. And don’t forget about delicious food! There are so many luxurious and unique restaurants in town, covering all types of food and drink menus. From Mexican to Latin Fusion, these restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients to create visually stunning and delectable dishes. They all provide a full selection of hand-crafted cocktails, local beer and wine, and a fabulous atmosphere.
Winter in Steamboat Springs is the Best Time of the Year
The Steamboat Winter Carnival is more than an event—it’s a celebration of community, history, and winter fun. From the exhilarating street events to the magical Night Extravaganza, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy. With this guide, you’re ready to plan an unforgettable trip to one of Steamboat’s most cherished traditions.
At The Astrid, we can’t wait to welcome you and your family to join us in this majestic mountainside town. With activities available all year, The ‘Boat is more than just a ski town, it’s the place you’ll soon call home.
We’re breaking ground this year (2025) on the most luxurious and bespoke ski-in, ski-out vacation homes Steamboat Springs has ever seen. With private garages, ski lockers, and a white glove concierge service, you will feel immediately at ease knowing that every detail has been taken care of.
To learn more about our current units for sale and receive the exclusive first look at our renderings and floor plans, sign up for The Astrid’s insider newsletter. We would love for you to embark on this adventure with us.
