What is WinterFest?

Metro Creative Graphics

For millions of people, the most magical time of the year begins in December and lasts into March. Though December is often characterized as the holiday season, it also marks the start of winter. WinterFest is a celebration of this festive time, and there are events to enjoy across North America.

WinterFest is the name of several winter festivals that are held in different parts of the U.S. and Canada. The event that takes place in Lowell, Massachusetts, may be one of the oldest WinterFests on record, having originated in 2001. Now there are annual celebrations in cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Beloit, Wisconsin; Gatlinburg, Tennessee; and Vaughan, Ontario, Canada, among others. WinterFest may be tied to sporting events, be centered on drawing people to Main Street, or even take place in amusement parks.

WinterFest activities vary by location. Life-sized snow globes, cooking contests, rides, merchant shops, live holiday entertainment, and ice skating are part of some celebrations. These events encourage visitors to get out and enjoy themselves during the winter, highlighting all of the best the cold weather has to offer.

Towns and cities looking to provide visitors with something entertaining to do throughout January and February can consider organizing their own WinterFest celebrations to maximize a lull in the calendar when people likely are seeking entertaining things to do together.