Winterfest returns to downtown Chelan with carvings, cold plunges and winter fun

CHELAN — Winterfest season returns to downtown Chelan January 16–18 with Ice Weekend, the first of two themed weekends that make up Lake Chelan Winterfest.

Ice Weekend brings a full slate of winter activities to the heart of Chelan, centered on ice carving, family events, live music, and downtown shopping. Events are spread across multiple days, with activities taking place throughout downtown and at nearby parks.

One of the weekend’s signature attractions is live ice carving, with professional sculptors creating large ice pieces in public view. Completed sculptures typically remain on display through the weekend, giving residents and visitors a reason to stroll downtown even after events wrap up.

Family-friendly offerings include outdoor games, a snow slide, apple-bin rides, and kid-focused activities, while adults can take part in events like the Wine Walk and the 21-and-over Ice Bar.

A longtime Winterfest tradition, the Polar Bear Plunge returns to Don Morse Park, where participants take a quick dip in Lake Chelan before warming up with hot drinks and food nearby. Fireworks are also planned as part of the weekend schedule.

Many events require a Winterfest button, which acts as an all-access pass for select activities and unlocks discounts and specials at participating businesses throughout the Lake Chelan Valley during the festival period. Some individual events, such as specialty tastings or ticketed experiences, require additional admission.

Ice Weekend is designed to showcase downtown Chelan during the quieter winter season, encouraging residents and visitors to explore shops, restaurants, wineries, and breweries while enjoying seasonal activities.

A full schedule of events, ticket details, and button information is available through the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce’s Winterfest listings and you can buy buttons or tickets for specific events through strangertickets.com.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media