NewEnglandville's Favorite Winter Events

JAN. 19-27: STOWE, VERMONT (pop. 4,339)
Stowe Winter Carnival. Winter fun, just when you need it most. Now in its 39th year, this lively event continues to offer a roster of fun-filled, zany, and entertaining activities, such as snow volleyball and snow golf, plus ski races, a kids’ carnival, an ice-sculpting competition, a family block party with live music, and more. 802-253-7321; gostowe.com/winter-carnival

JAN. 26: BROOKFIELD, VERMONT (pop. 1,222)
Ice Harvest Festival. Try a little history to go along with your family fun. See how ice was harvested on Sunset Lake at the turn of the century, watch ice-cutting and ice-boom demonstrations, try your hand at the ice-hauling contest, and see how well you can maneuver on handmade snowshoes. Admission is free. 802-276-3959; randolph-chamber.com/festivals

JAN. 27: ROCKLAND, MAINE (pop. 7,291)
Pies on Parade. Who doesn’t love pie? Don your stretchy pants and puffy jacket, shelve the diet, and enjoy your walk through town, sampling more than 45 varieties as you go along: sweet and delicious fruit pies, savory meat pies, and everything in between, all provided by area restaurants, inns, and businesses. Reserve your ticket early–pie is popular. 207-596-6611; historicinnsofrockland.com

FEB. 2: JAFFREY, NEW HAMPSHIRE (pop. 5,476)
Monadnock Arts Auction. Going once, going twice … Raise your paddle to get in on the action, or just enjoy watching the back-and-forth–and viewing all the fine art up for auction. It’s a reason to get all dressed up (black tie optional), so head to Shattuck Golf Club for a night of delectable appetizers, desserts, champagne, and some very lively bidding. 603-532-4549; jaffreychamber.com

FEB. 8-10: CAMDEN, MAINE (pop. 5,254)
National Toboggan Championships. Two-, three-, and four-person teams, most folks dressed in creative costumes, add to the festive atmosphere of this competition on the wooden Jack Williams Toboggan Chute at Camden Snow Bowl. Come watch their daredevil antics, or put a team of your own together to compete for the crown. 207-236-3438; camdensnowbowl.com

FEB. 9-10: MEREDITH, NEW HAMPSHIRE (pop. 5,943)
Ice Fishing Derby. For those hardy souls who love the sport and love to compete, it’s a weekend of ice fishing when both bragging rights and cash prizes are on the line. Get in on the fun and camaraderie and your chance to reel in the biggest catch. Purchase your derby pass, and hit the area lakes! 603-279-7600; meredithrotary.com