WinterFest in Blowing Rock brings together the elements of fire and ice, set in the winter beauty of one of Travel & Leisure magazine’s “prettiest winter towns.” Bonfires, toasted marshmallows, warm hospitality and the Chilly Chili Cook-off provide the fire, while the Polar Plunge, ice carving, winter temperatures and skiing/snowboarding provide the cold contrast. Musical accompaniment provided by several live concerts.
WinterFest, which has also been named a AAA “Top Pick” and a Top 20 Event by Southeastern Tourism Society, runs from Wednesday, January 21 through Sunday, January 25, 2015. Events and activities are designed to appeal to day-trippers and overnight guests alike, with family activities a major focus of the 17th annual celebration.
Events and activities include the Chilly Chili Cook-off, Polar Plunge, Small Plate Crawl, WinterFeast, hayrides, bonfires, Shop ‘Til You Drop, ice carving, WinterPaws dog show, concerts, Little Miss WinterFest, Wine Tasting & Charity Auction at Green Park Inn and the WinterFashion show. For a full schedule of events, visit http://www.blowingrockwinterfest.com/event-schedule/.
Highlights for families include:
Bonfire at Memorial Park - Friday, Jan 23 at 5pm (or dusk, weather permitting) - FREE
Make your own toasted marshmallows or s’mores. All supplies provided. Sing along with campfire music by a local musician. Warm your toes and your heart! Presented by the Blowing Rock Boy Scouts Troop, the event WILL NOT take place in high wind, rain, or extreme cold.
Polar Plunge at Chetola Resort - Saturday, Jan 24 at 10am - FREE to watch
Watch fearless contenders take the Plunge. The Polar Plunge in Chetola Lake is one of the highlights at WinterFest. Agonize with your favorite “Plunger”, most in costume, while enjoying the antics and one liners of our new plunge emcee, John Carter! Judges will award the famous “Golden Plunge” award to the best costumes. Plungers begin jumping at 10:00 am but get there early for good viewing!
Hayrides - Saturday, Jan 24 10am until - FREE
Hayrides depart from the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, 132 Park Avenue behind the Blowing Rock Market. A crowd favorite, don’t miss this adventurous mode of transportation during Blowing Rock WinterFest!
Chilly Chili Cookoff - Saturday, Jan 24 11am-2pm - Adults: $7, Children (6 to 12): $5, Children 5 and Under: Free
Taste all the chili your heart(burn) desires – and enjoy live music to help the chili go down. The Cookoff features three classes of competition: Freestyle (chef’s best recipe, anything goes!), Restaurant, and Business. Event held at Blowing Rock Elementary School, 165 Morris Street.
Kids Activities - Saturday, Jan 24 11am until - FREE
There is sure to be fun for all ages at the Blowing Rock Parks and Rec Center beside Memorial Park and behind the Police Station, where the High Country Girl Scouts will be hosting activities for the little ones. This is going to be FUN!
Ice Carving Competition at Memorial Park - Saturday, Jan 24 12pm-4pm - FREE
Come see the U.S. Army Special Forces Ice Carving Team turn blocks of ice into works of art! Participate in the family friendly ” Wet T-Shirt Contest”. You’ve never seen one like this before! You’ll be amazed at the creations these guys do. A definite “Must See” event!
For more information or ticket purchases, visit http://www.blowingrockwinterfest.com/ or call 877.295.7801. Blowing Rock WinterFest is organized by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce.
