Snodeo partially cancelled; some events still planned

MANAWA - The annual Manawa Snodeo set to take place this weekend at Bear Lake was canceled due to warm temperatures and unsafe ice conditions.

“The safety of our racers, spectators and families is our top priority and unfortunately the ice will not allow us to host the quality event you deserve,” organizers said in a statement.

While the full Snodeo won’t be held this year, a portion of racing and activities will take place on Feb. 28, in conjunction with the Northport Snowriders Lakecross event. Some events, including ProVintage and Kitty Kat racing, will not be included, but most other activities are expected to move forward.

The Snodeo has grown into a winter motorsports and family festival. It typically features snowmobile, ATV, motorcycle, and UTV racing, children’s activities and specialty exhibitions. The annual event draws thousands of spectators to Bear Lake, with proceeds supporting local scholarships and community groups. Weather conditions also caused the Snodeo to be cancelled in 2023 and 2024.

Despite having to cancel this weekend’s events, organizers said the “Snodeo spirit is strong” and pledged to make Saturday’s event memorable. Updates on the events and schedule are on the Manawa Snodeo Facebook page.