CAMDEN — “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 famous Camden Winterfest!” said The Camden Public Library, in a news release.

The 21st annual Camden Winterfest will take place on Saturday, January 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with all of the beloved traditions.

The festivities begin on Saturday, January 27, at 11 a.m., 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 hot food available outdoors, served up by Winterfest volunteers, including hot dogs provided by French & Brawn, cookies from Megunticook Market, hot chili from the Bagel Café, and cocoa. The food booth will be run by volunteers from the First National Bank, and all proceeds from food sales will benefit the Camden Public Library and parks.

At 12 noon, the public is invited to bring their dressed-up dogs to the center of the Amphitheatre for another installment of the popular Doggie Fashion Show. Participants do not need to sign up ahead of time but should line up in the Amphitheatre at 11:45 a.m. The first 25 participants will win a dog-lover-worthy prize. Outfits can be as simple or elaborate as the dog prefers!

At 12:30 p.m., kids and families can join children’s librarian Miss Amy for a wintery Story Walk through the Amphitheatre and Harbor Park.

Visitors can always pop into the Camden Public Library to warm up, where Miss Amy will be leading creative winter crafts and face-painting.

At 1 p.m., 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. Brave the icy waters or watch from the comfort of your winter coat. All proceeds from the Polar Plunge are to benefit the Sundog Outdoor Leadership Initiative.

Camden Winterfest is made possible by the generous support of First National Bank, in-kind donations from French & Brawn Market Place, The Bagel Cafe, Megunticook Market, Laugh Loud Smile Big, and a dedicated team of volunteers.

Find the official Winterfest flyer and the full schedule at www.librarycamden.org/winterfest2024. For the latest updates, follow the Camden Winterfest Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CamdenWinterfest.