After taking 2024 off due to a lack of ice on area lakes, Palmer’s popular Ice Day on the Chain returned to Lake Julia last Saturday thanks to plenty of ice and a great deal of community spirit.

Once again, the popular winter activity drew a huge crowd of fun-seekers, with its ever-popular array of activities, from a fishing contest to the vintage snowmobile run.

A good number of classic sleds once again met at the Palmer Township Hall and made their way to the Ice Day festivities, with Jared Ganz and his 1970 Polaris Mustang taking top honors in their year’s competition.  Second place went to Dennis and Karen Pike and their 1973 Ski Doo Elite, while Robert Wipper rode his 1976 Sno-Jet SST 440 to a third place finish.

Back by popular demand was the ice golf tournament, as well as the tasty tradition of Johnsonville Brats grilled to perfection for all to enjoy.

The 8th annual event also had plenty of fishing for everyone to enjoy, as well as refreshing drinks provided by Paul Braun and Barbara Keenan of The Palmer House.

Sponsors of the day included Cutwater, Clear Lake Lions, Fleet Farm, Chuba Company, TCS, Royal Renovations, Barthel Heating and Air, Hubbard Electric, Wruck Companies, Scheels, BLCA, Palmer House, Johnsonville Brats and the Briggs Lake General Store.

The evening was capped off with a fireworks display that brought plenty of oohs and aahs from the crowd.  Plans are already in the works for the 2026 version of the event, which will be held (ice permitting) on Lake Julia on Feb. 7, 2026.