One of the most anticipated winter events in Idaho is the annual McCall Winter Carnival. It has grown tremendously over the years bringing thousands to town for this fun winter tradition. There’s a few things you need to know before you go up to explore the fun with your family.
When is it?
This year it will be held from January 30th to February 8th, 2026 with dazzling snow sculptures, vibrant local art, live music, a vendor court overlooking Payette Lake, and a full slate of festive events to brighten the snowiest season. Indulge in savory food and drinks, enjoy days filled with winter fun, and cap it all off with the Mardi Gras Parade (Feb 7th!)—a highlight not to be missed.
What’s there to see?
One of the biggest highlights of the McCall Winter Carnival is the GIANT and insanely impressive ice sculptures around town (subject to weather, of course). The snow sculptures are some of the most popular attractions at the McCall Winter Carnival. Artists and community members work tirelessly to create works of art from snow and ice throughout the city. Sculptures should be finished by Friday, January 30th for judging and will remain in place for the duration of Carnival. Here’s the 2026 sculpture map.
One event your family won’t want to miss is Children’s Torchlight Parade on January 30th at 5:30 pm. Expect to find hot chocolate, snacks, and goodie bags. At 6:30, children will line up to walk with McCall Volunteer Firefighters to Depot Park Plaza where the Winter Carnival bonfire will be lit to start the 2026 celebration! Parents/guardians please note you will need to fill out a general release form for each child participating.
There are other events to attend such as Carnival Eve, a firework display, bingo (21+ only), Find Sharli mid-week scavenger hunt, and the Mardi Gras parade! Not to mention all the vendors and live music available.
Other Things To Do in McCall
Looking to ski or snowboard in the area while you’re there? Check out the local hill Brundage Mountain Resort or Tamarack Resort about 30 minutes away near Donnelly. Here’s a blog post from when my family visited!
Rather sled? You’ll find lots of great spots – even just down the little hill next to the lake during the Carnival!
Want some recommendations for food, drink, and shopping? The vendors at the McCall Winter Carnival include Coned Pizza, EyeCandyGear, Finish Line, Fireside Pine, Idaho Livin, Idaho Ski Furniture, KB’s Burritos, Laketown Clothing, MakeSmithy, MDHS Track & Field, Mustard’s, Renewal by Andersen, Salty Heifer Cattle Company, Seven Devils Delights, Smokehouse Grill, Spud Guts, Thor’s Chocolate, Victor Crafts, and Yeah Gurl Boutique
Hot Tips
- Be sure to read through this guide before you go and while you’re there.
- Follow along on Instagram and/or Facebook for updates.
- Sign the McCall Promise.
- Dress appropriately! You’ll be outside quite a bit so be sure you have layers and comfy, grippy shoes.
- “Don’t turn left.” (It’s kind of McCall’s slogan.) Turning left tends to clog up traffic so when possible, turn right (again and again) to get to where you want to go!
- Be patient and kind! It’s a busy couple of days!
- Have funnnnnnn!