CAMDEN — “With the holidays wrapped up and winter in full swing, it’s time to prepare for the frosty fun of Camden’s Winterfest Week, February 5 to 13!” said Winterfest organizers, in a news release.

After last year’s cancellation, the Camden Public Library and its partners announce the return of this long-running community celebration in 2022 with family favorites like ice sculpting, music, and hot food, as well as new traditions like the Doggie Fashion Show, Polar Plunge, and a Story Walk.

It all kicks off on February 5, at 11 a.m., in the Camden Amphitheatre, where visitors will be able to watch teams of amateur ice sculptors transform 300-pound blocks of ice into artistic masterpieces. There is still time to form a team and reserve a block of ice.

“Ice carving is immensely rewarding and surprisingly easy,” said organizers.

Visit librarycamden.org or the library for an ice-carving team application form (limit of 10 teams).

At noon, the public is invited to bring their dressed-up dogs to walk the “catwalk.” Participants will receive a ticket for a chance to win a goodie basket donated by Loyal Biscuit Company and a tote bag full of gourmet dog food donated by Fromm Family Foods.

Visitors can pop into the Camden Public Library to warm up and view a new fiber art exhibit by local artist Bobbie Tilkens-Fisher. While inside, be sure to browse the big book sale in the Rotunda, with most items priced $3 or less.

There will be a food stand in the Amphitheatre where everyone can cozy up by sipping and nibbling on hot foods and baked goods from local restaurants and bakeries. The food booth will be manned by volunteers from the First National Bank. All proceeds from food sales benefit the Camden Amphitheatre and Harbor Park.

Families can join children’s librarian Miss Amy at 1:15 p.m., for a Story Walk through Harbor Park and enjoy a take-and-make activity kit. At 2 p.m., the bravest and hardiest can take a Polar Plunge into the icy waters of Camden Harbor in a wintery spectacular event to benefit Sundog Outdoor Expeditions. 

Depending on snowfall, there will be free snowman building throughout the Amphitheatre and sledding in Harbor Park. All of the festivities are made possible by the generous support of the First National Bank.

The fun continues at the Camden Opera House on Thursday, February 10, at 7:30 p.m., with a Winterfest concert featuring the Pete Kilpatrick Band, with special guest Dan Blakeslee. Choose-your-own spaced reserved seats will be $22 in advance/$25 day-of-show.

The week culminates with the U.S. National Toboggan Championships beginning on Friday, February 11 and running through Sunday, February 13. Visit their website: camdensnowbowl.com/toboggan-championships for full details on the Toboggan Nationals.