McCall, Idaho is a beautiful lakeside small town located about two hours north of Boise. The town is beautiful throughout the year, but a great time to visit is during the McCall Winter Carnival— ten days that celebrate all things winter. The carnival started in the 1960s and over the years has grown into an iconic Idaho event that attracts over 60,000 people every year.
Details
This year’s theme: “It’s a Kids World!”
Dates: January 24 – February 2, 2020
Mardi Gras Parade
The Mardi Gras Parade is the largest spectator event at the McCall Winter Carnival. The parade actually started as the “Grand Parade” in the 1970s, but over time, dwindling attendance and a lack of interest from the community to get involved threatened to phase out this event. Before that could happen, locals resurrected the Grand Parade and initiated the Mardi Gras theme in the 1990s. Since that time, the parade has continued to grow and thrive, and the Mardi Gras theme stuck – now the official theme every year for the parade!
Attractions
The amazing snow sculptures are one of the main attractions during the Winter Carnival. The sculptures are scattered all over town, so you can either get a map to see where they are located or go on a scavenger hunt to find them. On the first Friday of the event, the local winners are announced, and on the second Friday the Idaho State Snow Sculpting Champions are awarded.
There are snow bike races, dog sled pulls, snowshoe golf, and live music on weekend nights. Fireworks light up the night over Payette Lake after both the opening and closing ceremonies. With over 100 events throughout the ten days, there’s no chance for boredom! Check the event calendar for details.
Other McCall Winter Activities
- Skiing or snowboarding at Brundage Mountain
- Sleigh ride to see elk
- Take a snowmobile to Burgdorf Hot Springs
- Try some local beer at Salmon River Brewing
Bonus: Stay at The Shore Lodge, a historic upscale lodge on the shores of Payette Lake.
