KEENE, N.H. - See ice, snow, and styrofoam turned into works of art at the seventh annual Ice & Snow Festival sponsored by the Greater Keene Chamber of Commerce. This free event, which typically draws 3,000 enthusiasts of all ages to downtown Keene, will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Along Main Street and Central Square, snow sculptors and ice carvers, including three teams of students from local culinary schools, will compete for cash prizes. Memorable creations from previous years include an octopus made of ice, and Snoopy on his doghouse sculpted in snow, said Rosalla Rowe, commerce coordinator for the chamber. Winners will be announced at 3 p.m. in Central Square.
Children can make a snowman out of styrofoam balls and art supplies at Snowman Central. Snowboarders can compete in a rail jam to the sounds of a local DJ. Stonewall Farm will offer free horse-drawn wagon rides; the Fire Department will have an engine on hand; and local organizations will sell food and warm drinks.
Ice & Snow Festival, downtown Keene, N.H., 603-352-1303, keene chamber.com. Free, except for $5 entry fee for rail jam. Directions: Keene is 115 miles, or a little over two hours, from Boston. Take Interstate 93 north to I-89 north. Take exit 5 onto US 202/NH 9. Follow Route 9 for 40 miles. Turn left onto Washington Street, then right onto Central Square. Enter the next rotary and take the first exit onto Main Street. Parking is available along Main Street and Gilbo Avenue (off Main).
ELLEN ALBANESE
