BOISE, Idaho — The McCall Winter Carnival, a century-old Idaho tradition that draws thousands to celebrate mountain life with ice sculptures and parades, is facing financial hurdles that could threatens its future.

The McCall Chamber of Commerce launched a fundraising campaign this week seeking $20,000 to help the festival stay afloat after absorbing significant losses and facing rising operational costs.

"It's a special event here for McCall," said Sheila Francis, executive director of the chamber. The carnival "celebrates McCall, the mountain life, snow and incorporates really exciting things, like sculptures. Those are a signature part of Winter Carnival, lots of community events, fireworks and the Mardi Gras parade."

Francis said the festival typically costs around $100,000 to exe

See Full Page