Subscribe by RSS
Rockton Yeti Fest adding new events; Galentine’s Day and Wander at the Wetlands offering options for winter fun
Snow has been falling in late January; just in time to welcome back winter events in the stateline.
Join in a full evening to “Wander at the Wetland” and to take part in a full moon snowshoe and hike on Monday evening, Feb. 6 from 4:30 TO 8 pm. North Pointe Health & Wellness lights up the path at Nygren Wetland with luminaries. Guests can head out on their own or take a guided tour who will give information on the Natural Land Institute and the preserve.
Places to warm up include two bonfires and a winter themed greenhouse. Take in the best of nature at its purest during this free event. Treats, snacks, hot cocoa or coffee will be available for event guests.
Snowshoes can either be rented or bring your own. Registration is required online at https://www.naturalland.org./event/wander-at-the-wetland-full-moon-snowshoe-hike-2023/ or by calling 815-964-6666.
Please let organizers know if you plan to rent snowshoes and how many child size snowshoes you need. Adult sizes are expandable.
Yeti Fest is billed as “A festival where the abominable snow people of Rockton and their friends come out to enjoy a mixture of winter related activities and is a celebration of all things winter and it all revolves around Yeti’s.” Walk, play, or skate like a Yeti during the 2023 Yeti Fest that runs from Feb. 8-11.
This year marks the eighth of this family oriented event.
Snow sculpting teams will be returning to wow everyone with their extraordinary talents.
An exhibition will feature stunning creations for all to enjoy. The “Legion of Snow Sculptors” is looking for volunteers to build the blocks needed for the teams to sculpt from. Block building begins on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 9 am. This is dependent on current weather conditions at that time. Volunteers are welcome and can sign up on a separate Facebook page.
All are invited to help build a giant community snow fort, snow men, or anything your imagination leads you to create.
Search for the live Yeti while also taking part in a scavenger hunt that can be completed in downtown Rockton.
Yeti’s are set to be hidden in businesses. Once you spot the Yeti’s name on a scarf, print off the scavenger card posted on the Yeti Scavenger Hunt Facebook page and write down the Yeti’s name and location.
The Doggie Development Academy will be doing dog sled (mushing) demonstrations, which are scheduled at different times on Friday and Saturday. Come out to meet dogs and their handlers at a “Meet and Greet.”
Adults can put on their best or cutest onesie to wear to a pub crawl on Friday night, Feb. 10.
Young and young at heart will want to come to the “Yeti Dance Party” on Saturday at Settlers Park. Dress appropriately to have fun while showing off your moves from 11 a.m. to noon.
Always a proven favorite is the Hot Cocoa Crawl, which is coming back on Saturday, from 1-4pm Tickets are on sale to allow participants a chance to try a variety of flavors in a commemorative mug, complete with a cool stirring spoon.
After tickets are purchased they can be picked up at the Village Municipal Center, (Village Hall) the week before the event during office hours of 8 a.m. Until 4 p.m. , or the day of the event starting at 1 p.m. After trying all of the hot chocolates, stop into the Village Hall to vote on your favorite flavor.
New this year is the introduction of the first ever Yeti Fest “Snowball” where all are invited to relive the experience of their own high school dances, only minus the acne and the social awkwardness that might have accompanied the past. Put this can’t miss event on your calendar for Saturday evening, Feb. 11 from 7 to 10 p.m.
Meet up with friends as you might have years ago at the Rockton American Legion,(American Center). Dress in similar clothing that was worn on your high school journey, or the decade you wish you were in high school.
“Dirty Pop” will be singing songs from different eras. Attendees will qualify to win a prize sash for having the”Best hair,” and “Best Dressed.”
Later in the evening if dancing causes you to work up an appetite feel free to order carryout from local restaurants. Most importantly top off your Yeti Fest with a super experience that is certain to be remembered.
Local businesses will be open and offering Yeti specials on eating, drinking or shopping.
Opening doors to imagination Jill Rae Finally Art is putting together take and make or make in person in the shop kits full of different kits such as a scarf kit, Valentine bracelet, “Paint a little Love,”
making snow globes, an ice skating polar bear or using a fox acrylic painting kit.
Erica’s Board Creations is hosting a Walk in board painting during Yeti Fest. Stop by on Saturday anytime from 12:30 to 4:30 to create a new board. Styles and prices vary.
More details on specific events; times of each costs, and links for ticket prices, can be found on related Facebook pages.
Ladies are invited to celebrate the sisterhood of friendship at the 2023 Galentine’s Day. Rockton businesses will be open and welcoming best friends on Thursday Feb. 9 from 4 to 8 p.m.; with special activities in each. In store discounts, specialty products, and permanent jewelry demonstrations just tap the surface of what is to be found. At Frosted Farmhouse gift cards are being hidden in the shop and Anna from Simply Sweet will have her custom made cupcakes for sale. Make Valentines Day cards, art projects and more.
