The American Legion’s 32nd annual Chili Cook-Off tests chili chefs’ skills on Saturday, Jan. 20.

Nancy Edmonds Hanson

Snow or no snow, Frostival is a go … with plenty to do in coming weeks. The good news: A) Meteorologists predict a warming trend, and B) the fun includes outdoor and indoor options to fit nearly everyone’s taste, from outdoor treks along the river, a scavenger hunt and disc golf tournament to chili feeds and a hot dish contest for lovers of heat.
The F-M area’s annual celebration of winter got off to a frostier-than-anticipated start in West Fargo last week, when Mother Nature supplied subzero temperatures and minus-40 wind chills to show off the season’s muscle. Coming days are expected to be more conducive to fun for all as Moorhead’s doings begin with (indoor) activities this Saturday.
A few anticipated highlights are missing, though, thanks to snow-scarce days so far this winter. The biggest change has been cancellation of the annual snow-sculpting contest sponsored by the Moorhead Business Association. “They tried to arrange for snow-making equipment, but everything was already reserved,” Holly Heitkamp, the city’s parks director, explains.
But she’s looking on the bright side. “Although the snow sculptures and sledding hill will not be possible, there are many other fun events.” She adds, “At this point, the weather forecast looks to be above-average temperatures ahead. That will give families the opportunity to get the kids outdoors to enjoy winter.”
Recreation coordinator Josie Gereszek adds, “Obviously, we’ve had to make some changes. The weather has thrown us more curve balls than in years past. Fresh snow has been a hot commodity this year.”
That means Fun at the Frozen Fortress, the big family day at Viking Ship Park on Saturday, Jan. 27, won’t have its usual sledding hill. Plans for free rentals of snowshoes and cross-country skis and River Keepers’ planned snowshoe hike also look shaky at this point.
In February, the snow painting party and Trail Day at M.B. Johnson Park may suffer from lack of the white stuff. But, one way or the other, the horses will be on hand for what’s billed as “sleigh rides” at M.B. Johnson Park. “Technically, they’re pulling a carriage,” Gereszek points out. “This season, wheels are our friends.”