Sandy and David Burden, Timbers Resorts CEO and Founder, wave from the OSP chariot in the parade.

Steamboat History – Winter Carnival

One Steamboat Place participated in the 94th annual Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival over Presidents' Day Weekend this year, placing second in the Diamond Hitch Parade on Lincoln Avenue. The Steamboat Springs High School band kicked off the parade, leading the charge on skis. Despite the hail and sleet that showered the streets, spectators lined both sides of Lincoln Avenue for the festive community event.

Pulled by a single horse, the OSP chariot carried members of the OSP team with four skiers trailing off the back lined up in the requisite diamond-shaped position. Other parade participants included the Rugby Team who skied behind their horse-mounted teammate. All sported their striped uniforms, tackling one another as they schussed through the streets.

The Winter Carnival started in 1914 as a way to curb cabin fever during the midst of the ski season and has continued to this day as a way to celebrate winter. Despite having a gap since its inaugural year, the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival is the longest running winter carnival west of the Mississippi. Carl Howelsen, often acknowledged as the man who brought the sport of skiing to Colorado, started this tradition with cross country skiing races and jumping competitions. In its second year, the town added the ski-joring competitions where skiers were pulled by horses.

All of the events throughout Carnival weekend embrace Steamboat Springs' western heritage and highlight its tradition of winter sports. The highlight of the weekend is the Saturday Night Show Extravaganza with a huge fireworks display and the famous Lighted Man.

Proceeds from the weekend support the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club and its athletes.

Matt O’Donnell skied off the back of the OSP chariot in the Diamond Hitch Parade.

An old fashioned snowcat slides through the streets in the parade.

The Steamboat High School band marches on with skis strapped to their feet.

The Bank of the West bear pulls some impressive moves on the snow.

The OSP chariot glides down Lincoln Avenue.

OSP ownership representative Dan Howard hands out OSP ski straps to the crowds.

Members of the Steamboat Rugby men's league team.