JACKSON HOLE, WYO – It was a difficult decision to pull the plug permanently on the historic Jackson Hole Cutter Races. But the Jackson Hole Shrine Club has announced it will introduce the “Jackson Hole Shriners Winter Carnival” instead of the annual fundraiser.
The carnival will take place February 17- 18, 2018, at the same Melody Ranch location. The idea behind the carnival is to host a weekend of family-friendly outdoor activities. Carnival goers can expect fun-class fat bike racing and skijoring with dogs, along with a variety of kid’s activities, great food, beer and cocktails, music, and fantastic raffle prizes.
Bottom line: the cutters may not run, but a child is going to walk if the local Shrine Club has anything to say about it.
“While it saddened all members of the club to face the reality of the Jackson Hole Cutter Races ending after so many years, we’re really excited to still be able to bring out community a fun event,” said JH Shrine Club president McNeill Watson. “Between our skijoring event taking place the weekend of February 10-11 and the new Winter Carnival concept, we know that we will be providing amazing events for everyone in the valley, while continuing to raise funds for a truly remarkable cause.”
In addition to the Winter Carnival, the Shriners plan to host the Cutters Ball on the evening of Saturday, February 17. Last year the ball substituted for the race scrubbed due to weather and raised some $17,000. Tickets will include dinner, a drink token, live music, and access to silent auction items. Location and ticket prices for this event will be announced soon.
The JH Shriners Winter Carnival will need volunteers to stage the event. If you are interested in volunteering, or have questions regarding either the Winter Carnival or Jackson Hole skijoring, please contact event manager Virginia Powell Symons at (307) 413-0174 or email her.
