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Don’t miss the 2021 Lake Chelan Winterfest

a family holding a sparkle with winterfest background

Lake Chelan’s Winterfest has been a major festival in the region since the 1980s. Don’t pass on this event if you want to experience a winter wonderland at scenic Lake Chelan.

From wine tastings to kid-friendly rides, the activities for this year’s Winterfest appeal to a variety of crowds. So, dress in your warmest winter layers (temperatures will range in the 20s and 30s) and head outside to enjoy the winter festivities from January 15 to January 18.

Catch the ice sculpture exhibit with the whole family

One of the Winterfest’s main attractions, the ice sculpture exhibit, rings the start of the festival. Beginning Friday, January 15, 22 ice sculptures that have been carefully formed by teams of skilled carvers using chainsaws, torches, and chisels will be on display throughout the valley.

Take a driving tour to marvel at these intricate carvings as soon as you can. This year’s Winterfest will only last a weekend, instead of the usual two, so don’t hesitate to make plans.

Taste the best wines and beers from the Chelan Valley

Tastings of the best wines, craft beers, and ciders that the region has to offer have always been a staple at the Winterfest. The lake’s proximity, moderate climate, and unique soil allow a wide variety of grapes to thrive and make conditions favorable for growing hops and fruits. That’s why Lake Chelan’s shores are home to at least 20 wineries, as well as 20 breweries and cideries.

Sample your way through the region’s wineries and breweries and take home bottles of your favorites.

Stroll around charming downtown Chelan or Manson

Just 7 miles apart, the neighboring towns of Chelan and Manson are the co-hosts of every Winterfest. Their historic downtowns provide great lakeside views and offer many shopping and dining options. Head to Chelan for a day of shopping at antique stores and boutiques. Pay a visit to downtown Manson to try a healthy selection of tasting rooms, coffee bars, and wineries.

Wherever you end up, your Winterfest button assures that you will get pleasant deals and offers from restaurants, wineries, and stores participating in this year’s Winterfest.

Treat your kids to fun activities

Filled with events for the whole family, Saturday, January 16, is set to be the highlight of this year’s festivities. Take your kids and let them participate in several kid-friendly events.

There’s Find Tsilly, where adventurous kids can team up with their parents in a scavenger hunt that will take them on a valley-wide search for the Winterfest lake monster and mascot. Meanwhile, small kids can line up to meet Disney’s Olaf in downtown Manson. And everyone, young or old, can pass the time until the fireworks show with wine barrel rides in Manson and apple bin rides in Chelan.

By 6 PM, the fireworks at Chelan and Manson will cap off the day’s events. Expect a colorful explosion of sound and lights against the dark hills and peaceful waters of the lake.

Winter on Lake Chelan may be cold, but it’s never dull. If you want to learn more about what makes Eastern Washington (and the area around Wenatchee, WA) attractive whatever the season, get in touch with Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate at 509.888.8887 or at info(at)cbcascade(dotted)com.