If you think Maine is only fun in the summer, you’re definitely not alone. But once the snow starts falling and the crowds head home, that’s when locals really start having fun. From racing down icy chutes to parading through town in earmuffs, locals have mastered the art of making something out of nothing. So if you’ve ever thought Maine winters sounded dull, these five offbeat winter traditions might just change your mind.
U.S. National Toboggan Championships
Photo courtesy of camdensnowbowl.com
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Mainers get bored in the winter, the U.S. National Toboggan Championships are your answer. Every year at the Camden Snow Bowl, teams pile onto old-school wooden toboggans and launch themselves down a nearly 400-foot chute at breakneck speeds, only to fly straight onto a frozen pond at the bottom. It’s loud, fast, slightly unhinged, and completely intentional. Add in themed costumes, cheering crowds, and the very real possibility of getting soaked in February, and you’ve got one of the most thrilling—and uniquely Maine—winter traditions around.
National Toboggan Championships at the Camden Snow Bowl – 20 Barnestown Rd, Camden, ME – Map It | Visit Website
Chester Greenwood Day & the Earmuff Parade
Photo courtesy of chestergreenwoodday.com
Every winter, the town of Farmington celebrates local legend Chester Greenwood, who patented the earmuff in 1873 after trying to keep his ears warm while ice skating. What started as a practical solution to brutal Maine winters has turned into a full-blown community tradition, complete with an earmuff-themed parade, costumes, music, and plenty of cold-weather cheer.
Where to watch – Main St, Farmington, ME – Map It
Winterfest Polar Plunge
Photo courtesy of camdenwinterfest.com
A beloved Winterfest tradition where brave participants sprint straight into icy oceans, lakes, or harbors while bundled-up spectators cheer from dry land. Winterfest celebrations pop up in towns all across the state, including places like Camden, Boothbay Harbor, Bethel, Freeport, and Rangeley, each putting their own spin on the festivities. Often done for charity, these plunges are equal parts community fundraiser, adrenaline rush, and rite of passage.
Can-Am Crown Races
Photo courtesy of can-am-crown.net
Held each year in Fort Kent, this international sled dog race brings mushers and their dog teams from around the world to race across miles of snowy terrain in some of the coldest conditions Maine has to offer. Spectators line the course bundled head to toe, cheering as teams glide past in near silence, guided by nothing but skill, trust, and a whole lot of heart.
Where to watch – For exact directions visit the Can Am Cow website| Visit Website
SNODEO in Rangeley
Photo courtesy of rangeleysnowmobile.com
SNODEO in Rangeley is a snowmobile-powered celebration that marks the start of the season, and it’s anything but low-key. What began as a gathering for riders has grown into a full weekend of events, including a chili and chowder cook-off, casino night, live auctions, guided rides, and a glowing parade of lights that winds through town. Snowmobiles line the streets, locals pack into restaurants and bars, and the whole region buzzes with winter excitement.
Want to sign up or watch the races?| Visit Website
