No matter the forecast, one Mid-Missouri family will be guaranteed a white Christmas — but the frozen flakes won’t be falling from the sky.
Once again, the Jefferson City Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department and Jefferson City Sub Shop are teaming up to bring a truckload of snow to one family’s doorstep Dec. 23.
The annual tradition of the Guaranteed White Christmas was created more than 20 years ago after a News Tribune photographer captured a photo of Jefferson City Sub Shop owner Kurt Schlueter and his son throwing snowballs behind the Washington Park Ice Arena.
The snowballs were made from the ice shavings made by the arena’s ice resurfacing machine. Phil Stiles, program manager of special events with the Parks Department, said that was the inspiration behind the event.
The winner of the contest receives a dump truck full of the ice shavings two days before Christmas, creating a localized winter wonderland even when it’s not quite freezing outside.
Last year, the winning Frahm family played in their snow on a 40-degree day.
To enter to win, those who live within 15 miles of Jefferson City can fill out an entry form available at Washington Park Ice Arena, The Linc or Jefferson City Sub Shop. Entries need to be turned in by noon Dec. 20.
On Dec. 20, a random winner will be selected and announced during the 6 p.m. weather forecast on KRCG, and the winner will be notified to set up their snow delivery.
The winner also receives a two-hour group rental for up to 100 people at Washington Park Ice Arena, with party subs provided by Jefferson City Sub Shop.