62nd Annual Willow Winter State Carnival dates announced

The Willow Area Community Organization (WACO) has announced the dates for the 2024 Willow State Winter Carnival, and it will be coming Feb. 2 to Feb. 4.

This annual event draws crowds from all over Alaska. It's jam-packed with fun activities such as the iconic Outhouse Races, antique snow machines, Iditarod qualifying dog sled races, crafts, and vendor booths- all to brighten spirits in the coldest days of winter.

Nominations are now open for the Carnival King and Queen. Nominees should be long-time Willow residents who have a history of being actively involved in the community. Residents can nominate a couple as King and Queen, or a single man as King and a single woman as Queen, but not just a King or just a Queen, nominate both.

People submitting nominees are also asked to prepare a brief statement about why they are nominating the King and Queen. It is very important to include contact information for the nominees.

Nominees will be notified regarding the nomination before putting them on the ballot. Email nominations to Berna at: luckyone081884@gmail.com. Nominations will be taken December 29, 2023 – January 3rd, 2024.

The Willow State Winter Carnival also serves as the primary fundraising event for the Willow Area Community Council. Funds raised from the carnival support culturally valued groups and activities through the maintenance of the Willow Community Center.

WACO issued the following statement in social media post announcing the widely-cherished community event, “Thank you for helping continue this Willow tradition of recognizing those who have contributed to our community!”

The carnival planning committee meets at the Willow Community Center on the third Monday of each month at 6 p.m.