GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Some changes have been made to the Greenfield Winter Carnival due to the cold weather on Friday.

Greenfield’s Winter Carnival returned on Friday through Sunday for its 101st anniversary, according to a news release sent to 22News from the Greenfield Recreation Department. This year’s celebration will feature many modern-day activities, but will also strive to honor the
festival’s rich history. The Winter Carnival has brought the community together at a time of year that can be long, cold, and dreary.

The festivities kicked off Friday with live ice carvings by local artists throughout downtown Greenfield. Sculptures will be placed throughout the weekend, and people can vote for their favorite in an online contest.

Christy Moore is the Recreation Director for Greenfield, she was out at 7:30 in morning to make sure each block of ice reached its destination along Main Street as sculptors got to work.

Meg Kupiec is a sculptor from New Hampshire. She and her husband were waiting for power to be restored to their electric chain saw. She said they’ve taken part in the winter carnival for about five years.

“You would think that being really cold, that’s great but there’s such a thing as too cold and today is too cold. You can shatter the ice actually,” said Kupiec. “We’re just really glad to be asked back every year. It’s a great little town and I think they do a great job with the carnival”

The events that are scheduled on Beacon Field have been moved to Greenfield Middle School.

There will be the official torch lighting on The Common at 4:00 p.m., followed by
festivities on Court Square, such as an ice bar with specialty crafted cocktails and mocktails, fire dance performances, and fire barrels to keep everyone warm. There will be a glow party, which has been moved to inside the Greenfield Middle School Cafeteria, with a DJ and LED dancing party robot at 5:30 p.m. Organizers are asking attendees to use the entrance at the back of the school for the party.

The Parade of Lights has been moved to Saturday night at 6:00 p.m. and will have illuminated vehicles that will travel from Newton School to Beacon Field with displays. After the parade, a warming fire and fireworks display will be at Beacon Field Other activities will be on Saturday which includes take-and-make craft kits and GZA at the Hawks & Reed Ballroom.

The festivities will continue on Saturday and Sunday as well, with events such as a Family Fun Fest, family dance lessons, and a snowshoeing hike through Highland Park.