Chowder Chefs and Ice Sculptors Wanted for North Adams WinterFest

The 23rd Annual WinterFest celebration in North Adams is planned for Saturday, February 15. The day of fun for all ages is expected to draw over one thousand locals and visitors to the downtown. The Office of Tourism & Community Events is seeking more restaurants, businesses, organizations, or individuals to participate in the Chowder Cook-off, sponsor blocks of ice, and offer WinterFest specials or special events at their downtown business locations.

Applications are being accepted through Feb. 5 for the Chowder Cook-off. Please note that participants must prepare their chowder in a licensed commercial kitchen and provide a copy of their ServSafe Certification and Allergy Awareness Certification. Chowders are judged and voted on, and winners receive plaques and bragging rights.

For the ice sculptures, Suzy Helme tells us that this year’s creations will not be themed and sculptors will receive a $50 stipend per block. A winner will be picked by public vote through a social media poll that will run for a week following the event before the winner is announced. Ice blocks can be sponsored for $90 each.

To enter the Chowder Cook-off or to sponsor an ice block or volunteer to carve one, please contact the Office of Tourism & Community Events at 413-664-6180 or email tourism@northadams-ma.gov. The deadline for applications is Feb. 5.