Better Than Ever: Winterfest Makes Its Return Next Month

WARREN, Pa. – Back and better than ever.

After a hiatus due to COVID and uncooperative weather, Winterfest makes its triumphant return to Chapman State Park on Feb. 4-6.

“We’re fortunate to be able to have the community support for bringing the event back,” said Savannah Casey of the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry. “COVID and the weather kind of put a damper on it, but we’re excited to bring it back and better than ever.”

Some of the events on tap include a canine weight pull, Fat Tire Bike organized ride and ice safety demonstration.

There will also be favorites like the Salvation Army Polar Bear Plunge, as well as sled races.

A full list of events and the schedule can be found here.

“We’re offering a couple of different types of events,” Casey said. “The events we have are very family-friendly, including the organized mountain bike ride. Very thankful to Andy (Georgakis) for that, as well as all the community members and volunteers dedicated to the event.

There will be numerous craft and food vendors as well.

“We’ve got four food/drink vendors and almost a dozen craft vendors,” Casey said of ‘vendor village.’ “They’ll be in the big white drop tent with heaters and lights.”

In addition, the YMCA is sponsoring a ‘family night’ on Friday (Feb. 4).

“The YMCA is also the premier sponsor of all the kids’ events,” noted Casey.

And the event is 100 percent being put on by the WCCBI.

“It’s fun,” Casey said. “John (Papalia, Director of Chamber Operations and Tourism) was involved with it a number of years ago. Not having had it for three years has given people a fresh look at it.”

Not only is the WCCBI appreciative of all the volunteer support, but also that of Chapman State Park as well.

“We would like to highlight Chapman for their willingness to go above and beyond,” Casey said. “They’re offering a lot of educational activities for the kids, bringing in outside personnel and really making it fun. They’re taking over pavilion two on the beach side.”

More information on Winterfest can also be found by visiting the WCCBI’s website here.