Black Ice Pond Hockey officials are confident the tourney will go on this weekend despite Thursday’s balmy weather.
But to make sure quality ice is available for the 95 teams who have paid to compete in the tournament, the youth games planned for Thursday evening have been canceled, said Black Ice chairman Chris Brown.
The decision affects about 20 teams, Brown said, but youth games will still be played on Friday and Saturday. The planned silent auction, interactive games and activities for the tent will also be canceled on Thursday.
“We want to give the event a fighting chance,” Brown said. He said Thursday’s forecasted 50-degree weather probably wouldn’t impact the ice too much on its own, but that skating on the ice could damage it.
He anticipates the rest of the week’s weather – which is looking to be in the high 20s to mid 30s – won’t cause issues.
Those still looking to get in on some winter fun Thursday can check out Intown Concord’s Winter Fest, which kicked off Wednesday. An ice bar will be featured at O Steaks & Seafood and Cheers Grille & Bar, and The Hotel Concord will feature a young professionals night with a cornhole competition throughout the week. People are also encouraged to check out the Winter Shopping Stroll in downtown.
Ice carving demonstrations and competition are also planned for Friday and Saturday.
Black Ice takes place Friday through Sunday. There will be food trucks available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bonfires will be start in the midafternoon on Friday and Saturday, and fireworks are planned for 7:15 p.m. on Friday.
A shuttle bus will be available on Friday and Saturday to cart people from the White Park area to downtown.
(Caitlin Andrews can be reached at 369-3309, candrews@cmonitor.com or on Twitter at @ActualCAndrews.)