The annual WinterFest, organized by the City of La Porte Park and Recreation Department, returns in late January. Although several favorite events will not be held due to restrictions in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, we hope the community joins us in our annual WinterFest event. It will look and feel different than in the past; however, there are events available for everyone.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30
Kicking off WinterFest will be a Snowman Contest from 9 a.m.-noon at the Kesling Park Walking Trail (18th Street entrance). Entrants are to build their snowman at a designated spot along the trail. Register in one of three categories by submitting the participation form (available on our website or by calling 219-326-9600) to the Park Office (250 Pine Lake Avenue) or by email to pcarroll@cityoflaportein.gov. Judging will take place between 12:30-1 p.m. Winners will be chosen in each of the three categories: Individual Builder – 12 & Under; Individual Builder – 13 & Over; Family (up to 5 builders) and there will be a BEST IN SNOW awarded.
Children who are ready to thaw out their artistic juices will be excited to participate in a Snowflake String Art class which will take place from noon-1 p.m. in the Civic Auditorium Ceramics Room. This make-and-take art project is for children ages 8 and up and includes all supplies and instruction. Parties on the Gogh owner Kristi Chadderdon guide your child to a finished piece of art all will enjoy! The fee for the event is $10 and pre-registration is required. To register, call the Park Office at 219- 326-9600 before the January 25 deadline. Class size is limited to 8 participants. Class attendance is limited to instructor and participants. Enter the Civic Auditorium through the outside door at the corner of Woodward and Plain Streets. Masks and social distancing will be required.
Don’t like the wet outdoor snow? Here is a WinterFest event just for you! Join Parties on the Gogh owner Kristi Chadderdon during the Let It Snow Wall Hanging art project. The class will be held in the Civic Auditorium Ceramics Room from 2-4 p.m. The fee for the class is $35 and pre-registration is required by January 25. There is a limit of 8 participants. Register by calling the Park Office (219- 326-9600) with your credit card. Enter the Civic Auditorium through the outside door at the corner of Woodward and Plain Streets. Masks and social distancing will be required.
Joining the line-up in 2021 is a Glow In The Dark Scavenger Hunt. Come out to Fox Park at 5 p.m. for a breath of fresh air while combing the park for clues to complete your assigned riddle. The park will be used as a template for glow in the dark letters when combined will allow you to successfully complete your challenge. Wear your boots, bundle up and bring a flashlight for a new WinterFest event!
SUNDAY, JANUARY 31
Another new event is Frosty’ s Frozen Bike Ride! Participants are asked to be outside of Cummings Lodge at 2 p.m. for the start of the ride. This pop-up event requires no registration just a desire to be outdoors and a little skill to stay on two wheels. Check your tires, bundle up (layers are recommended), grab your helmet and let’s cruise the new multi-use trails together!
For more information on WinterFest, visit our website www.cityoflaporte.com/parks, follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/laporteparks or call (219) 326-9600.
