LAC LA BICHE – While the signature ice races and aircraft fly-in event were cancelled due to warm weather, and the pond hockey tournament was also moved inside the Bold Centre for the 2025 Lac La Biche Ice Festival, there was still plenty to see and do on the ice of Lac La Biche lake, including events put on by the Lac La Biche Back Country Riders snowmobiling club.
A pancake breakfast took place on March 1 and 2, as well as an introduction to snowmobile rider training was offered to riders of all ages and taught by members of the club. The Snowball Race competition, a live auction, as well as a vintage sled ride to and from the Lac La Biche Mission, also took place, despite the warm weather.
The Snow’n’Shine Vintage Sled Display returned this year. During the event, people could view classic sleds - with some dating back to the 1950s.
Cody MacDonald and his son, Austin, took part in the instruction that was offered. For the MacDonalds, participating in this event was a good experience.
“It’s a great way for people to learn, and I think they’re doing a great job of helping the kids get out, helping the kids learn, and giving adults a chance to learn about it as well,” MacDonald told Lakeland This Week.
He was anticipating seeing the ice races this year, but said cancelling them for safety reasons was a good idea.
“Safety is a little bit more important than anything else,” he said. “It’s been unseasonably warm the last couple of weeks.”
