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Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
For snow sculptors, there is no greater competition then the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championships taking place February 1 - 5 in Lake Geneva, WI. The three-ton, 10-foot-high sculptures that adorn the lakefront are the most notable features of Lake Geneva's Winterfest, a celebration of family and fun along the banks of Geneva Lake. The centerpiece of Winterfest is the snow sculpting competition that attracts 15 three-member teams from as far away as Alaska to compete for the national title. Approximately 40,000 people visit Lake Geneva each year to see the snow sculpting competition and to enjoy Winterfest activities.
On Saturday and Sunday, families can enjoy horse drawn carriage and helicopter rides, and ice-skating on Geneva Lake from 9 a.m. until nightfall. And if the temperature is too cold or if Winterfest visitors need a break from the outdoor activities, musical entertainment and refreshments are available in the Riviera Ballroom.
In conjunction with Winterfest, Grand Geneva Resort will be holding its annual Winter Carnival on Saturday, Feb. 4. Scheduled events include ski school and ski patrol demonstrations, and various snow boarding and skiing competitions, plus a myriad of children's games and snow activities. Festivities conclude with a torch light parade and a fireworks display beginning at 8 p.m.
"Competing in the National Championships is an amazing challenge and one of the most unique experiences I've ever had as a sculptor," said championship sculptor David Andrews of Milwaukee. The event is truly a love affair for the participants as the teams labor for three days and nights in harsh temperatures to compete in a competition offering only glory and bragging rights. The U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championships offers no cash prizes, only the chance to be proclaimed the best by your peers.
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