Steamboat Winter Carnival

February 5-9, 2025 | Let Your Light Shine | Presented by Yampa Valley Bank

The Winter Carnival celebration includes a variety of events that embrace Steamboat's western heritage and highlight our tradition of winter sports.

This unique event includes everything from kids pulled on skis behind horses down a snow-covered main street, to the Lighted Man at the Night Show Extravaganza whose battery-powered suit weighs 70 pounds.

Celebrate 112 Years of Winter Tradition in Steamboat Springs

Mention a parade and fireworks and people say that’s typical. Talk about adults on shovels being pulled down Mainstreet behind horses or skiers jumping through fiery hoops and people stop to listen. In Steamboat Springs we do things differently, and with the oldest, continuous Winter Carnival west of the Mississippi, this event is certainly no different.

About the Winter Carnival

The Winter Carnival, proudly hosted by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, was founded as a way to help residents cope with cabin fever during the height of the Colorado winter season.

The event continues to this day as a way to celebrate winter; as a reason for neighbors to gather; and as an opportunity, for everyone to experience a piece of Ski Town USA®'s history and tradition. 

Titos Mountain Soiree

The 2025 Tito's Mountain Soiree will be on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on January 2, 2025.

2025 Winter Carnival Street Events Schedule and Registration

Check out the events lineup and registration information. Registration for the non-horse events will be the day of the event at the registration tent located in front of 720 Fusion Fresh.

Event Ticketing

A 2025 $15 Winter Carnival button is required to spectate or participate in all Winter Carnival events, plus you will earn free access to ski or ride on Howelsen Hill each day from Feb. 5-9 — skiing is always FREE at Howelsen Hill on Sundays. Winter Carnival button must be presented at the Howelsen Hill ticket office to redeem the lift ticket. Some events require additional registration or tickets. Proceeds benefit the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival.

Plan Your Winter Carnival Vacation

Peruse our suggested itinerary for ideas on how to plan your Winter Carnival vacation with your family and friends. Let us guide you through the Winter Carnival event schedule, as well as experiencing all the winter activities Steamboat has to enjoy!

Winter Carnival Video Playlist

View our Winter Carnival video playlist below for an inside look at the amazing events that take place during the carnival, including an interview with Leif Howelsen, son of Carl Howelsen (founder of the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival), that shows us the history and tradition behind this wonderful event.