Each year for two weekends in January the Lake Chelan Valley celebrates the season with Winterfest! Favorite activities include Polar Bear Plunge, Fireworks, Ice Sculptures, Wine Walk and Ice Bar, plus a Fire Bar. Family friendly activities like Kids Crafts, Apple Bin Train Rides and Snow Slide, as well as the Find Tsilly Scavenger Hunt bring guests to the Valley for a chance to make amazing memories in the Valley!
In 2025, the two weekends span January 17-26th, with the first weekend "ICE" with activities in Chelan, and the second weekend is "FIRE" in Manson.
Winter transforms Lake Chelan into a true winter wonderland. Think snow-dusted mountains, frosty grapevines, and the whole town glowing with festive lights. It’s like stepping into a real-life snow globe. Winterfest takes that cozy winter magic up a notch with insane ice sculptures, glowing fire pits, and plenty of opportunities to chill (literally) with your favorite people while staying warm around bonfires. Insta-worthy moments guaranteed.
There is something for everyone!
Winterfest is like the ultimate winter mashup of fun. Families? You’ve got apple bin rides, the ice slide and a whole schedule of kid-friendly activities. Adrenaline junkies? Test your bravery with the infamous Polar Bear Splash. And for those who just want to vibe out? There’s bonfires and live music all over the place. Whether you’re making memories with the fam or enjoying a romantic getaway, Winterfest offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Wine Not?
You already know Lake Chelan is all about the wine, and Winterfest definitely delivers. The Wine Walk is your chance to sip your way through Chelan’s best wineries while strolling through the festive downtown shops. Feeling fancy? Check out the Bubble Brunch—it’s all about local sparkling wine and a boujee brunch spread. If you’re craving something a little extra cool (literally), hit up the Ice Bar for some frosty drinks in an ice-carved atmosphere that’ll make you feel like you’re in an Arctic lounge.
What else are you doing in January?
Let’s face it, January can be a bit of a post-holiday slump. But Winterfest? Total mood booster. It’s packed with epic activities, killer food, and live entertainment that will have you saying goodbye to the winter blahs. Whether you come for a day, a weekend, or the whole two-week party, Winterfest is the perfect way to shake off the winter blues and jump into the new year with something fresh and fun.
Lake Chelan Winterfest is your ultimate winter escape.
Packed with ice and fire elements held over two back-to-back weekends in January, you’ll enjoy live ice carving, Washington’s largest beach bonfire, and incredible fireworks lighting up the winter skies. Sip local wines, dance to live music, and dive into cozy, family-friendly fun. Whether you’re here for the chill of ice weekend or glow of fire weekend, Winterfest has it all!
