Winter games abound at Gurnee's Frosty Fest
Residents are invited to join Gurnee Park District staff for a little free winter fun on Friday, Jan. 22, at Frosty Fest. Take part in winter activities including dog sled demonstrations by Adopt a Husky, visits with Frosty the Snowman, carriage rides, ice sculpting, a snowman-building contest, music and crafts. Kristi Chirempes, cultural arts, special events and community relations manager, tells us what you need to know.
Q. How long has this event been in existence? How has it changed, and what is new this year? A. The event is in its second year. It evolved from the village's holiday tree-lighting ceremony. New this year is the dog sled demo, sponsored by Adopt A Husky.Q. What's the highlight of the event? What makes it different from other similar events? A. This event celebrates the joy of winter through free activities that everyone in the family can enjoy. Let the park district staff show you how much fun winter can be!Q. What kind of activities will appeal to kids and families? A. The entire event is geared toward children and families. Activities are all free and include a snowman-building contest, with prizes awarded in three categories; a snowball-throwing contest; ice canvas painting; ice sculpture; visit and photos with Frosty the Snowman; arts and crafts; horse-drawn carriage rides; and a performance by the Viking Junior High jazz band inside the dance hall.Q. What kinds of food and beverages will be for sale?A. Food is free, including coffee and hot cocoa provided by Caribou Coffee, while supplies last.Q. Tell us about the volunteers and organizers who pull this together. Are there any sponsors? A. Caribou Coffee is providing refreshments; Club Z! in-home tutoring and Prairie Orthodonics are general event sponsors.If you goWhat: Gurnee Park District's Frosty FestWhen: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22Where: Viking Park, 4374 Old Grand Ave.Cost: FreeMore info: gurneeparkdistrict.com or (847) 623-7788.True17241972The Gurnee Park District holds Frosty Fest Friday night from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Viking Park, with visits with Frosty the Snowman, toasted marshmallows and ice-sculpting and snowman-building contests.George LeClaire | Staff PhotographerTrue