The annual WinterFest, organized by the La Porte Park and Recreation Department, returns January 28-30, with many of the events enjoyed over the past years as well a couple new twists to bring a blast of winter fun to town.
Friday, January 28
Ice Sculpture Demonstrations-FREE!
4-7 p.m.
Downtown La Porte 618 Plaza
Ice, ice, baby! Come and view creative sculptors bring a block of ice to life at Downtown La Porte’s Plaza 618. The chiseling and picking will be held from 4-7 p.m. with viewing available until Mother Nature takes them away! The Park and Recreation Department is currently looking for sponsors for this event, please contact Pam Carroll at pcarroll@cityoflaportein.gov if you are interested. Sponsored by New Age Telecom, Qubit Networks, NIPSCO, La Porte Seamless Gutters.
Saturday, January 29
Ice Fishing Derby
6 a.m.-2 p.m.
Blue Heron Inn
Haul in that big fish or just recall the one that got away! Put on your thermal underwear, cast those lines, compete for prizes and share your stories at The Blue Heron after the derby. Registration begins at 5 a.m. at 1110 Lakeside Street, La Porte. Fee is $40. Proceeds from this event will benefit the De Camp Band of Brothers.
Snowball Softball Adult Coed Tournament
9 a.m.
Lions Field
Dashing through the snow, turning double plays! Get your team together for our version of the “hot stove” league. Double-elimination tournament; limited to the first eight teams to register. Pre-registration required.
Family Yoga Class - FREE
10-11 a.m.
Civic Auditorium – Lower Level
Move those winter blues away! Come and join YogaKids® certified teacher Christie Trksak for an hour of super fun and active yoga class. Families will practice various poses for a complete exercise with a winter themed class that promotes learning with an engaging, whole-body approach! This class is FREE to all who attend
Snowman Contest – FREE
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Kesling Park Walking Trail
Do you want to build a snowman, a snowwoman or snow creature? During WinterFest, we will be judging for the best in three categories: Individual Builder - 12 & under; Individual Builder - 13 & Over; and Family/Group (up to 6 builders). There will even be a Best in SNOW! There is no fee to enter but you must complete an entry form which is available on the website or Park Office. Deadline to enter is Wednesday, January 26.
Glow in the Dark Scavenger Hunt – FREE
5 p.m. Fox Park Amphitheater
Join us for a breath of fresh air while combing the park for glow in the dark 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 your flashlight for the return of this fun WinterFest event!
Sunday, January 30
Horse Drawn Wagon Rides FREE!
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cummings Lodge
Jingle, jingle, jingle. Take a brisk ride through the beauty of wintry nature while enjoying the majesty of the equine. After a trot through Soldiers Memorial Park, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate by the fireplace. Sponsored by Huber’s Marine
