The 15th annual 1883 Black Ice Pond Hockey Championship and Festival is full steam ahead for a puck drop on Friday.
Despite a high temperature of 48 degrees in Concord just this past Thursday, a cold snap is expected to thicken the ice and allow skaters to hit White Park.
If the weather does not cooperate, the tournament will move indoors at Tri-Town Ice Arena in Hooksett on March 20 to 22.
The new skate house at White Park, called the Merrimack Lodge, is now open, and the heated spectator tent will also remain for spectators.
Eight teams will look to defend the title after winning their respective divisions last year.
Last year’s winners were: CHS ‘92 / Rath Young Pignatelli (Men’s 50+ A), West Pond Hockey Club (Men’s 50+ B), Double Runnahs (Men’s 35+), Mr. Rooter (Men’s 18+ Open), Lyndon Lumberjacks (Men’s 18+ A), Concord Turnkeys (Men’s 18+ Rec), Miss Conducts (18+ Open Women) and Lake Daze Brewing Company (18+ Rec Women).
On Thursday, Jan. 22, U-10 players will be the first ones to skate under the lights in an inter-squad competition with open concessions and a spectator tent.
Friday will feature a full slate of games from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with bonfires, ice sculptures and a fireworks show to kick off the weekend.
Saturday will feature more Black Ice Pond Hockey games at the Youth Hockey Shinny Tournament for U-8 teams on the youth rinks.
Sunday will be the final day when teams play for all the marbles.