February 18, 2012

What began in 1928 as a February celebration continues today: The Petoskey Winter Carnival. Held each February, this classic winter event brings families together for bumpjumping, cardboard sled races, hockey, sledding, ice skating at more. Unfortunately, the mild winter means that this annual event has been cancelled.

Petokey's Winter Sports Park hosts the Winter Carnival and tradition holds that bumpjumping is the highlight of the day. A bumpjumper is a seat perched on a ski and the rider holds onto the edge of the seat with the legs and feet held straight in front of the seat while traversing a course. Bumpjumping is a Petoskey tradition that brings out the young and the old.

The cardboard sled contest is a fun event for ages 12 and under and 13 an older in two divisions. The winners are named based on a combination of speed and creativity of sled design.

Throughout the day, the ice skating rink is filled with skaters; rentals skates are available. A Mite hockey game and a cook out with hot dogs, chili and hot chocolate continues throughout the day.

The Winter Carnival is a great winter celebration for the entire family.

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