Dancer Sammy Yelle brings colorful flair to the Winter Carnival Gala Parade on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023. (Enterprise photo — Aaron Marbone)

SARANAC LAKE — The application period for Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Gala Parade performers is now open.

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival will return Feb. 2-11 and feature a “Creepy Carnival” theme. The Gala Parade will take place on Saturday, Feb. 10.

“We encourage people to get their applications in early so they can join the festivities of Winter Carnival,” said Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Chairman Rob Russell.

There will be trophies awarded for first- and second-place floats and walking units in six different categories (Business, Civic or Volunteer Group, Youth Group, School Group, Independent Group, and 1 trophy for the Animal Group) as well as the Louis Fobare Trophy for Best in Parade. Parade participants are encouraged to start their planning now.

Entries are rated on the following:

¯ Theme (matches “Creepy Carnival” theme)

¯ Sound system

¯ Live music

¯ Choreography

¯ Costumes

¯ Float decoration

¯ Creativity

¯ Unusual items.

Applications are available online at saranaclakewintercarnival.com can also be picked up at the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce at 39 Main St.

Completed parade applications should be dropped off at the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce or mailed to the Winter Carnival Committee at P.O. Box 829, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, no later than Feb. 5.