Fort Kent to sponsor snow sculpture competition

FORT KENT, Maine — When life gives you snow, and there is plenty of it in northern Maine, why not make snow sculptures? The town of Fort Kent may even award you a trophy. 

The parks and recreation department is sponsoring a snow sculpture competition and encourages people of all ages to join in the fun.

Those who do not build snow sculptures can enjoy touring the town to look at the creative designs during Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races weekend. 

“It’s a great event for the whole community, from young people to the older population,” parks and rec director Jason Nadeau said.

Community relations officer Cindy Bouley suggested the idea when she came across some photos of snow sculptures online.  

“I thought, ‘what a great way to use what we have plenty of here’ and maybe attract people to visit the area or have something to do in between the races,” Bouley said. 

Individual people and groups can register free of charge to enter the event. Public works director Tony Theriault is even willing to deliver piles of snow to those who ask. The town will also provide a location at which to build a sculpture if needed.

There is no theme for the sculptures, so snow artists can let their imaginations run wild. 

“We have some pretty creative people in town. Let’s see what they can dream up,” Bouley said. 

All snow sculptures will need to be completed by 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 5. A panel of judges will select a winner to receive a trophy and bragging rights. 

The town will also create a map of the sculpture locations so that people can view the artistic creations. 

To register or for information, contact jason.nadeau@fortkent.org or call 207-834-3730.