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 between Wednesday, January 21 and Sunday, January 25. 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 blowingrockwinterfest.com/schedule.php.
New or Notable in 2015:
- Wednesday Through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.: High Country Small Plate Crawl. Grab a plate and sample some of the best bites in the area at dozens of independent restaurants that will create special small plate menus priced from $3.00 to $8.00. Lunch and dinner created by the restaurants’ chefs specifically for WinterFest. Crawl Passport required.
- Friday, 11:00 a.m.: WinterFashion Show: The best of Blowing Rock’s clothing retailers showcase lunchtime guests their best winter and spring fashion and accessories. At The Meadowbrook Inn on Main Street. Cash bar available: $27.
- Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.: Silent Auction & Raffle. Presented by Mountain Alliance at the Blowing Rock School cafeteria. Bid on many items, packages and gift certificates donated by local businesses. Items include lodging, spa packages, outdoor adventures, artwork and more. Proceeds support the efforts of Mountain Alliance (mountainalliance.org).
- Saturday, 2:00 p.m.: Wine Tasting & Charity Auction, Green Park Inn. Wines and heavy hors d’oeuvres followed by items up for auction, including wines, a Wine & Food Festival lodging package and more. $22 in advance; $27 at the door. Proceeds benefit Alzheimer’s Association
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.
BLOWING ROCK, N.C. (November 2014)
For information: Billie Rogers, Events Director, Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce
828.295.7851 billie@blowingrock.com