Winterfest is returning to Sylvan Lake this year with the new name of Ice Dragon Boat Festival on Feb. 16.
The name change comes to separate Sylvan Lake’s event from other municipalities who also call their winter event Winterfest, special events coordinator Denise Papineau said.
“Over the past few years, many municipalities in Alberta have taken on the name Winterfest for their winter festivities. We decided to set ourselves apart and highlight the uniqueness of our winter events.”
The name Ice Dragon Boat Festival was chosen to emphasize the unique attraction, she added.
“This is the only event of its kind in western Canada with teams coming to participate in the unique winter sporting event. As the event grows, it brings more athletes to Sylvan Lake and recognition to the sport of ice dragon boat racing.”
Ice dragon boats are equipped with skate-like blades so participants can propel themselves along the race lane using spiked ice picks.
During this year’s second annual competition, 38 teams will be participating, Papineau said.
“Registration is full and has been closed for this year’s event.”
However, while registration is full, people can still come out to cheer on the teams as they race throughout the weekend as well as partake in some of the other events going on around the community, she added.
“The weekend will have activities for the whole family and we encourage everyone to come out to watch, cheer, and partake in this remarkable experience.”
The Ice Dragon Boat Festival will take place from Feb. 16 to Feb. 18.
More information on the event is available to view on the website, visitsylvanlake.ca/icedragonboats.