"What happens when you bring together ice carving, a polar plunge, fashionable pets, spectacular kids' activities, fun music, and delicious local food on a winter’s day?" said Camden Public Library, in a news release. "That's right - Camden Winterfest."

The 23rd annual Camden Winterfest will take place Saturday, Jan. 31, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with all of the beloved traditions including ice carving, polar plunge, doggie fashion show, music, hot food, and kids activities.

This year, Winterfest will once again kick off with a cold splash. The 8th Annual Polar Plunge FUNdraiser, put on by Sundog Outdoor Leadership Initiative, will take place at the beginning of Winterfest due to the tides. At 10:30 a.m., Polar Plungers will run and splash into the frigid Camden Harbor to benefit Sundog's outdoor youth programming. Join the brave or watch the show from the comfort of your coat. Sign up for the plunge at sundogoe.com or librarycamden.org.

"After the drama at the harbor, hurry back to the Amphitheatre for delicious hot local food served up by volunteers from First National Bank," said CPL.

Chili, soup, grilled hot dogs, cookies, cocoa, and more will all be on the menu, donated by local businesses. Check back at librarycamden.org/winterfest2025 for a list of donors. All proceeds from food sales will benefit the Camden Public Library and parks and make Winterfest possible. 

Registration is now open for ice carving teams. Winterfest is your chance to transform a crystal-clear, 300-pound block of ice into a sparkling sculpture. No experience is necessary, and tools will be provided. Sign up for an ice block on your own or with friends, a group, school, or organization.

"It's a blast for all ages," said CPL.

Ice carving teams can register for $60/block to help cover the cost of ice. Reserve your block at librarycamden.org/winterfest2026 as soon as possible, as spots are very limited.

If you don't want to commit to a sculpture but want to try out the traditional ice carving hand tools, then you can drop in at the new Mini Ice Block Station. No registration is required, and participation is free.

"This activity is perfect for all ages who want try out carving for a few minutes," said CPL.

If you prefer to be on the sidelines, then you can watch the professional and amateur ice carvers with hot food and drink in hand, while DJ Matt Brown plays his music. 

The public is also once again invited to bring their dressed-up dogs (or cats, if they are willing!) for the Doggie Fashion Show. Pet(s) can be as elaborately or sparsely dressed as they prefer. There is no pre-registration. Participants should line up for the show at 11:30 a.m. The show begins at 12 p.m. There will be prizes.

Visitors can always pop into the Camden Public Library to warm up and enjoy live jazz in the rotunda, according to CPL. Children's librarian Miss Amy will be leading creative winter crafts and face-painting in the Picker Room.

At 1 p.m., kids and families can join Miss Amy for a wintery Story Walk through the Amphitheatre and Harbor Park. Ice carving, food, and music will continue until 2 p.m.

Camden Winterfest is made possible by the generous support of First National Bank, in-kind donations from local businesses, as well as a dedicated team of volunteers.

Visit www.librarycamden.org/winterfest2026 to sign up for ice carving or the polar plunge, and for the full event information. You can also follow the Camden Winterfest Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CamdenWinterfest.