Friday, January 31, Saturday, February 1, and Sunday, February 2, 2025: The weather today will be rainy with highs in the mid 50s, except in the upper 40s at higher elevations. Southwest winds will be 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph in the afternoon. There’s a 100% chance of rain. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with a chance of rain in the morning, then mostly sunny in the afternoon. Highs will be in the mid 30s with northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph. The chance of rain is 50%. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with highs in the mid 40s.
Deep Creek Lake area homeowners should be aware of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), specifically the H5N1 strain, which affects waterfowl nationwide. While rare in humans, the virus can spread through contact with infected birds or droppings, making vigilance important for community and wildlife safety.
To mark Deep Creek Lake’s 100th anniversary, the Maryland Park Service commissioned a stunning serigraph by artist Erick Sahler, capturing the lake’s natural beauty and the deep connection felt by all who visit.
The HabiChat: Winter 2025 edition is published! Read the linked article for details.
This weekend marks the close of some waterfowl hunting seasons, with remaining opportunities for resident Canada geese and light geese available. Hunters are encouraged to check online regulations for details. Additionally, Maryland youth hunters, veterans, and military personnel can participate in a special waterfowl hunting day on Saturday, February 8.
Garrett County Public Schools will begin accepting applications for kindergarten and Pre-K registration for the 2025-26 school year on February 10, 2025. Kindergarten is for children entering for the first time in September 2025, and Pre-K is for 3- and 4-year-olds. Registration will take place in April at each school. For more details, contact your school’s Registration Liaison or the Office of Elementary Education.
The Western Maryland Classic continues until tomorrow, bringing high school and college teams from around the country, the local area, and Canada to compete in an action-packed basketball event at Garrett College. Along with the logo I mentioned creating yesterday, I’m proud to share one of the commercials I created for the event.. it’s so cool to see it right next to Chipotle!
Mountain State Brewing Co. in Deep Creek Lake is still accepting reservations for their cozy igloos. This year, walk-ins are welcome Monday–Wednesday, though reservations are still available, while Thursday–Sunday reservations are required. ❄️
Registration for Rail Jam #2 on Saturday runs from 10:00 AM to noon in the Main Lodge at Wisp Resort. Skiers, snowboarders, and spectators are all welcome, whether you’re competing or cheering on friends!
It’s Marcia’s birthday on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Cashmere Clothing, and she’s the one giving out the gifts! Enjoy a free gift with purchase, plus special deals—spend $200 and get $63 off, or spend $300 and take an extra $63 off! With refreshments, party hats, and noise makers!
Come celebrate Groundhog Day on Saturday with Ranger Hannah and Ranger Peyton at 1:00 PM at New Germany Lake House for a fascinating presentation on the natural history of groundhogs and the cultural significance of their weather forecasting reputation! Then, spend your Sunday with Deep Creek Lake State Park Volunteers. Learn about hibernation and create a woodchuck puppet to take home, starting at 11:00 AM in the Discovery Room.
On Sunday at 12:00 PM, meet Deep Creek Adventure Bureau, Seth Dewitt, and Chris Nichols at Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club for Group Snow Trek, an informal hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, or fat tire bike ride on the Browning Trail System. The largest loop is 2.4 miles, but the length can be adjusted based on weather and group preferences. Fingers crossed that our snowpack remains!!
“Make a Gnome” at Deep Creek Pottery on Sunday from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM! Create a ceramic gnome with hand-building techniques, then return to paint it after it’s fired.
The Blessing of Throats in honor of St. Blaise will be offered at both Masses this weekend at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Parish. Bring your devotional candles to be blessed by Father Bill.
Exciting events and entertainment are happening at the state park—rain or shine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
