Happy New Year!
The holidays may be over, but we’re far from finished with celebrations! Lake Chelan Winterfest is right around the corner, and this year, there’s a “Fire” and “Ice” theme to match each weekend.
Never been to Winterfest before? You’re in for a treat!
Lake Chelan Winterfest spans from January 17 – 26, with the first weekend of activities centralized in Downtown Chelan and the second in Downtown Manson.
It’s the ultimate winter escape, complete with ice sculptures, beach bonfires, fireworks, live music, and plenty of sips and eats.
Here’s what to plan for during the 2025 Lake Chelan Winterfest celebrations! And don’t forget—Mountain View Lodge is right in the heart of the action!
Preparing for Lake Chelan Winterfest
Before we dive into your itinerary, here are some tips & tricks to prepare you for your winter visit to the Lake Chelan Valley:
- Dress Warm!
It’s been a snowy winter! There hasn’t been a lot of snow, but it’s cold! To ensure you stay warm and toasty while you’re out exploring, we recommend warm coats, wool socks, mittens, gloves, and sturdy footwear. And don’t forget your swimsuit for the Polar Plunge.
- Book Your Room ASAP
Mountain View Lodge is only 7 miles from the Ice Weekend activities and within walking distance of most of the Fire Weekend activities, making it a desirable location for accommodations!
Secure your room ASAP so you can enjoy all the fun without having to get behind the wheel.
- Purchase Your Winterfest Button Online
Your Winterfest Button is your ticket to all the action! Purchase online ahead of time to make your weekend a breeze.
Winterfest Buttons get you access to most events across the valley, plus special discounts at participating shops and restaurants. You’ll even get 10% off your stay at Mountain View Lodge!
Now that you’re prepped and ready, let’s dive into everything to plan for!
Winterfest Weekend One: “Ice” (January 17-19)
Prepare to be dazzled as downtown Chelan transforms into a frosty wonderland during the first weekend of Lake Chelan Winterfest!
The festivities kick off on Friday, January 17, with the grand opening of the Ice Bar (tickets sold separately) at 5 pm, where you can sip on various adult beverages amidst glistening ice sculptures. Live music from Taste of Whisky and Whiskey Trail will keep the vibes lively throughout the evening.
Saturday, January 18, is jam-packed with activities for all ages. Start your day with cookie decorating at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, then explore the downtown vendor market for unique finds.
Indulge in the Bubble Brunch at Cider Press (tickets sold separately), featuring local sparkling wines and delectable bites.
Kids can enjoy Frosty’s Winter Trail, plus games, face painting, and crafts at the United Methodist Church. Apple bin rides and a snow slide offer thrilling fun!
Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Winterfest Wine Walk (tickets sold separately) from 12 pm to 5 pm, featuring local wineries.
As the sun sets, gather at Don Morse Park for an exhilarating Polar Bear Plunge, then warm up by the massive beach bonfire. A spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky at 6:30 pm, followed by more live music to keep the celebration going.
All weekend long, enjoy a Find Tsilly Scavenger Hunt to be entered for a grand prize, and be sure to pop into local boutiques and restaurants for special discounts with your Winterfest Button!
Discover the full Ice Weekend schedule.
Winterfest Weekend Two: “Fire” (January 24-26)
The heat is on in downtown Manson during the second weekend of Winterfest!
On Friday, January 24, the Fire Bar opens at 5 pm (tickets sold separately), offering a variety of beverages to fend off the winter chill. Kids can enjoy crafts and hot cocoa at the Lake Chelan Visitor Center in Manson, while DJ Asia spins tunes to ignite the night.
Saturday, January 25, continues the fiery fun with a downtown vendor market and family-friendly activities hosted by Thrive Teen Center.
Indulge in the Bubble Brunch at Cider Press (tickets sold separately), featuring local sparkling wines and delectable bites.
The Mystery Mitten Walk adds an element of surprise to your day, and face painting and character appearances at the Manson Chamber’s Visitor Center will delight the young and young at heart.
Live music performances by Glenn Snyder and Bryson Evans set the stage for the evening’s highlight: the Flames of Intention Ceremony, sponsored by Mountain View Lodge! Release your intentions into the universe as flames dance against the twilight.
The night culminates with a dazzling fireworks show over Manson Bay Park at 6:30 pm, followed by more live music to keep the energy soaring.
Don’t miss the 7th annual Viki Downey Polar Bear Plunge on Sunday at 1 pm before heading home. All proceeds benefit swim lessons for Lake Chelan’s youth.
All weekend long, enjoy a Find Tsilly Scavenger Hunt to be entered for a grand prize, and be sure to pop into local boutiques and restaurants for special discounts with your Winterfest Button!
Discover the full Fire Weekend schedule.
Book Your Winterfest Getaway at Mountain View Lodge
Mountain View Lodge is located right in the heart of downtown Manson, a quick walk to the Winterfest Fire Weekend activities and a short drive along the lake from Chelan.
With proximity to shops, restaurants, and the lake, it’s the perfect space to make your home base while you explore all the charm our valley has to offer during Lake Chelan Winterfest!
Book online or give us a call today to book your stay in the Lake Chelan Valley. We look forward to hosting you!