Wisconsin will be making its debut as host to more than a thousand snowshoe enthusiasts from across the globe when a world champion snowshoe race meets in Calumet County later this month.

The World Snowshoe Championships, U.S. Nationals Snowshoe Championships, and Open Championships will be held on Dec. 18-21 at the Ariens Nordic Center in Brillion, and organizers are excited about bringing the competition to a new audience in Wisconsin.

“The Ariens Nordic Center truly is a remarkable venue, and we’re so excited to see the U.S. and World Snowshoe Championships come to such a welcoming community,” said Matthew Dougherty, executive director of North Country Sports Council. “Wisconsin and Brillion are opening up their arms to the world, and this event will bring wonderful energy and opportunity to the area while inspiring future generations of athletes.”

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is partnering with The Ariens Sports & Entertainment Foundation Inc. and North Country Sports Council to support the event with a $110,000 Opportunity Attraction Fund grant. The grant program supports high-profile community events aimed at attracting new residents to Wisconsin.