If you know me, you  know that I am not a fan of winter.  Not.  One.  Bit.  It’s cold, there’s ice, there’s snow, driving is a  pain, and pretty much all I like about it is that it gives me an excuse to stay home and write, read, play with the dogs, or clean the house.   However, I knew Winterfest would be a great day filled with fun activities and great people, so on January 25, 2015, I bundled up and went.  It was the best decision ever!!

IF ONLY WE HAD WINTERFEST 30 YEARS AGO!

We had lots of great activities when I was a kid, growing up in Oak Park.  The pool, miniature golf, the ice arena, Tot-Lot, the playgrounds, the park, and so much more.  But did I do anything during the winter except sled on the hill and check out books from the library?  Probably, but not that I can remember.  If we had Winterfest back then, it would definitely have been memorable!  There was something for everyone, every age, every interest. 

.      Kids and adults gathered to enjoy toasting marshmallows

Watching the ice carving was fascinating; how does he DO that?

           There were even horse-drawn carriage rides!

  Everyone loves the llamas…but I’m not so sure that llama loved me.  Is it just me, or does that llama look suspicious?  Maybe if I had given him some food, he would have been friendlier..

     There were bunnies to hold, and other animals to feed and visit.

Winterfest participants were also invited to skate at the ice arena for free, and of course the hill was a busy place all day!

Since it was a cold January day, however, we needed to warm up inside from time to time.  When I went in the Community Center, I was amazed at the wide variety of activities there.  And, just like the events going on outside, everything at Winterfest was FREE!

We were treated to entertainment by the extremely talented students in the Oak Park School District at all levels.  Take a look:

       There was also free chili and hot chocolate for everyone!

        Dawn Sketch of the Oak Park Arts and Cultural Commission prepared some fun art activities for the kids.

                   The balloon lady was super popular all day.

        Representatives from the Recycling Committee were also available to provide information and materials to residents.

         It was a great day for Oak Park families.

If you missed it this year, you won’t want to miss it next year!  And Summerfest is coming August 8-9, 2015 – I hope to see everyone there!!

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