WinterFest in Blowing Rock has always been about giving visitors reasons to celebrate rather than hibernate a month after the holidays end. And its always been about fire and ice, in their many forms: bonfires, chili cook-offs, s’mores and warm hospitality, contrasted by the icy Polar Plunge into Lake Chetola, ice carving demonstrations, skiing and the crisp, January cold of the High Country winter.
WinterFest 2016, which has been named a AAA “Top Pick” and a Top 20 Event by Southeastern Tourism Society, runs between Thursday, January 28 and Sunday, January 31. And the 18th annual celebration is adding new fire- and ice-themed events, including a firewalk demonstration on Saturday and expanded ice carving displays Friday and Saturday. On Friday, ice carvings will be placed throughout the downtown for an Ice Walk, and on Saturday there will be an ice carving competition among several culinary schools. For details, visit blowingrockwinterfest.com/events.
In addition to the new events, activities include the Chilly Chili Cook-off, Polar Plunge, WinterFeast, events at BRAHM, Snowflake Parade, hayrides, bonfires, Shop ‘Til You Drop, WinterPaws dog show, Little Miss WinterFest, WinterFest Tasting & Charity Auction and WinterFashion show. The fashion show will feature tips and conversation in an interactive, friendly and casual environment.
Blowing Rock is accessible from anywhere in the region, less than two hours from Charlotte and Greensboro, three hours from Knoxville and Raleigh and five hours from Atlanta and Charleston. A wide range of accommodations is available; visit blowingrock.com/accommodations for details.
For more information or ticket purchases, visit blowingrockwinterfest.com or call 877.295.7801. Blowing Rock WinterFest is organized by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and presented by Hendrick Northlake Luxury Auto Mall.
December 2015
For information: Billie Rogers, Events Director
Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce
828.295.7851 billie@blowingrock.com