After a two-year hiatus, Winterfest returns in full Feb. 17-25 with events for all ages and abilities. Winterfest has been a Rutland staple for 20 years, but what began as a 4-hour event one day in February has blossomed into a 7-day festival during winter break. This year, Winterfest is bringing back crowd favorites like sledding down Center Street, Human Foosball, and the Real Rutland Feud while adding some future favorites to the roster.
“Winterfest has been a long-standing tradition in Rutland and after a year off, we are excited to bring it back! Over the years the events have evolved and so many great memories have been created,” said Winterfest event co-chair April Cioffi. “Spark some joy and come play at Winter Fest!”
Coming together as a community in this challenging time of year is incredibly important for mental and physical health and is the reason for throwing a big winter festival. Most events are free, and some paid events are open to spectators for free.
“Hopefully, people are as excited and engaged as they were in the past,” said Winterfest event co-chair Russ Marsan. “With new people and new sponsors, Winterfest is undergoing a renaissance of sorts. There’s something for everyone to do: stuff for kids, adults and families. This year, there are 24 different groups including businesses, nonprofits, Rutland City, and the Town of Brandon: a good group of people.”
Things kick off Friday, Feb. 17 with a snowy story walk at Pine Hill Park.
On Saturday, Giorgetti Arena opens its doors for free ice skating from 5-7 p.m.
On Tuesday, Feb. 21, folks can sled down Center Street and play or participate in a game of Human Foosball. Teams of six compete for the glory. Registration is $50 per team and funds go to support Come Alive Outside. Spectators are welcome to watch the action for free.
Wednesday morning at 10 a.m., kids and adults can wear their P.J.s at the Paramount to watch a flick, then join in the Great Bigfoot Chase at the Rutland Free Library at 1 p.m.
Thursday evening at 6 p.m., cornholers of all abilities will compete in a mini tournament at the Rutland Recreation Center.
Friday night at 6:30 p.m., bring the kids or a date to Skate with Bigfoot.
The Loved Ones and Little Ones Dance wraps up Winterfest on Saturday, Feb. 25 along with the ever-popular Real Rutland Feud at 7 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre.
Tickets to the Loved Ones and Little Ones Dance are $15 per couple while tickets to the Real Rutland Feud are $30 per person. For more information, visit RutlandRec.com/winterfestevents or call 802-773-1853 or email aprilc@rutlandrec.com.
