MCCALL — If you make your way to McCall this weekend for the winter carnival, don't be frightened by the many sea serpents around town.
This year's theme is "Where in the world is Sharlie?" and this year's ice sculptures make it easy to find her. The artists showcased the legendary sea serpent in many different forms. Some towering, some spiky, and some you can even sled down.
Sharlie the lake monster is a local legend. She is said to inhabit Payette Lake, with sightings dating back to the early 20th century.
WATCH: Check out some of the jaw-dropping sculptures
Visitors were in awe at her detailed depictions.
“It’s unbelievable the artistic skills and abilities that some of these artists have. Like it’s a true gift that they have to be able to come in and be so creative and do things like this,” said Kacey Gartner, a Washington resident visiting.
RELATED | Volunteer firefighters lead children’s torchlight parade to kick off McCall Winter Carnival
Some of the sculptures also light up at night, so be sure to check them out both during the day and after sunset.
The McCall Winter Carnival has announced the winners of the 2026 snow sculpting contest:
-1st Place Amateur: Payette Lakes Middle School Art Club, sponsored by McCall Storage
-1st Place Professional: Bistro 45, sponsored by Sparklight
-2nd Place Amateur: Bella Kitchen, sponsored by Mountain Resort Realty
-2nd Place Professional: Ridley’s Family Market, sponsored by White Pine Wealth Advisors
-3rd Place Amateur: McCall Community Senior Center, sponsored by Best Western Plus McCall
-3rd Place Professional: Beside the Mill, sponsored by The Evergreen Hotel
Check out Idaho News 6's McCall Winter Carnival event guide below!
EVENT GUIDE: 2026 McCall Winter Carnival returns for a full 10-day celebration
