BELFAST — Belfast’s second annual Winter Whoopla Celebration saw an active second day on Saturday, Feb. 2, with a variety of activities available to participants, both indoors and outside.

Friday’s events included a formal Ice Ball, which was held at the Wentworth Center and featured live music and a formal dinner and dance. There was a teen night at the United Farmer’s Market, which included nerf battles, dance contests, music, and refreshments. Winter games were available for families at the public ice rink, which is located behind Waterfall Arts.  

Saturday held the largest number of activities with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. For hardier individuals, there were sledding, games, and snow sculptures in Belfast Commons, in addition to ice skating at the public rink, and snowshoeing and cross country skiing on the Rail Trail.

Those in search of cozier entertainment could choose from free movies at Colonial Theatre and kids arts and crafts at United Farmers Market.

While there are always plenty of options for refreshments and food at the farmers market, the Winter Whoopla Chili Cook-Off, and Corn-Hole Tournament provided a less common way to spend a frigid afternoon.

Seven teams competed in the chili cook-off, all with their own closely guarded secret ingredients. While some chose more traditional takes on the classic Superbowl side-dish, others aimed for more unusual flavor profiles.

Taste-testers, who ultimately decided the winning chili, paid $10 for their chance to sample the offerings, while the cost to enter the cornhole tournament was $30 per team. There were also beverages, including a variety of beer, available for those looking for something to accompany their chili.

The Saturday portion of the event also included a cabin fever sale involving participating downtown businesses, and a Christmas tree bonfire.

For those that missed Saturday or those who wish to extend their Whoopla merriment through the duration of the weekend, there are a number of events scheduled to take place Sunday.

These events include a pancake breakfast at the United Farmers Market, games and live action combat demos at the Boathouse and The Game Loft, and ice skating at the public rink. There is also a guided walk and birdwatching on the rail trail, as well as snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

More information about Sunday’s events.

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com