Celebrated for over 62 years, the Whitefish Winter Carnival pays homage to Nordic traditions and legends that involve gods, yetis, and even a Queen of the Snows.
According to legend, Ullr was once the Nordic god of winter activities until he one day decided to lead his people in an extraordinary exploration of the world.
After centuries of wandering, the god, all but forgotten by his people and remembered only in the oldest of Nordic traditions, finally came to rest on Big Mountain with his last two loyal subjects.
Calling the mountain home, Ullr and his small court remained isolated for years and watched as men slowly migrated into the valley below. While at first disturbed by the presence of men, Ullr soon realized that this group of humans actively engaged in winter sports and even referred to Ullr as their patron.
Encouraged by once again receiving the worship of men, Ullr donned the attire of the people and went among them, ending his long self-banishment and isolation.
However, not everything was as amicable as it had seemed, and all came to a head when the valley was attacked by a group of yetis that also called the region home. Fighting alongside the men of the village, Ullr helped defeat the attacking invaders, earning himself the title of a true hero and king of the people.
Following the epic battle, the people of Whitefish vowed to hold the Whitefish Winter Carnival every year in honor of Ullr to pay homage to their new king and his royal court.
White Fish Winter Carnival Event Details
- Dates: The First Weekend in February
- Address: Whitefish, MT, United States, 59937
- Admission: Free general admission to the carnival, but some events require their own cover fee.
- Website: https://whitefishwintercarnival.com/
Facilities
While the Whitefish Winter Carnival Officially opens its gates on the first weekend of February, the town actually begins its festivities throughout January.
Pre-carnival celebrations include an adult-only Merry Maker, the coronation of each year’s King Ullr and his Queen of the Snows, a nightclub Disco Party, and the coronation of each year’s Prince Frey and Princess Freya.
Those visiting Whitefish for the carnival itself will kick off their weekend with a Penguin Plunge, which sees participants dipping into the freezing waters of Whitefish Lake, all while raising funds for local charities.
Following this iconic event, the whole town seemingly breaks into one massive festival. Popular attractions of the carnival include a snow sculpture contest, a grand parade, a kiddie carnival, a beer barter, a pie social, and a rotary pancake breakfast.
The festival offers free admission to most of its facilities, but certain events come with their own cover charge.
Throughout the festivities, visitors to the carnival grounds will be able to spot Ullr, his royal court, and other characters featured in the Whitefish Winter Carnival legend.
Guests can watch the tale come alive as these characters reenact the battle and stories that have helped the Whitefish Winter Carnival become one of Montana’s premier annual events.
Accommodation
Throughout the festivities, the entire town of Whitefish seems to be taken over by the winter spirit. Even the hotels seem to embrace the celebrations of the carnival, with many accommodations offering special services and amenities.
From shuttles to the festival’s many events to holiday packages that include access to many of the region’s famous attractions, the first weekend in February is the best time for booking your stay in Whitefish.
Be sure to check out some of the town’s top accommodation options below for the optimal experience attending the Whitefish Winter Carnival.
- Grouse Mountain Lodge
- Hampton Inn & Suites Whitefish
- Firebrand Hotel
- Lodge at Whitefish Lake
- Best Western Rocky Mountain Lodge
- Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort
- TownePlace Suites by Marriot Whitefish
- The Pine Lodge on Whitefish River