Winter Classic arrives this week

The 27th annual Whitefish Winter Classic kicks off Thursday with a party at the Craggy Range Bar & Grill.

VIPs and sponsors will mingle with NFL celebrities from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. A Poker Run gets under way from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Run through participating bars in downtown Whitefish to pick up playing cards for a chance to win great prizes.

Friday’s events are all about the children, starting with a meet and greet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Whitefish Mountain Resort where NFL stars will sign autographs.

The Play 60 Challenge is from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Whitefish High School gym with an autograph session to follow. Bring the family and meet Monte, the University of Montana mascot. Both events are free.

Saturday is the snow picnic for the NFL players at Whitefish Mountain Resort. All ages are invited to attend.

The Winter Classic Gala and auction is 5:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, featuring dinner and live and silent auctions including sports memorabilia, art and adventure packages. Immediately following the gala is an exclusive VIP party in the Boat Club bar.

The Classic concludes Sunday with a champagne brunch from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Whitefish Lake Restaurant. Advance tickets are $15; or $18 at the door; or $10 advance and $12 at the door for children 12 and under.

The Whitefish Winter Classic was founded by former Miami Dolphin and Montana Grizzly football player Doug Betters to raise money to benefit For The Children Inc., a nonprofit that provides financial assistance to families with pediatric medical related costs.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.whitefishwinterclassic.org or call 862-8146.