(COLDWATER) - WinterFest will continue as planned this Saturday, but organizers are making several changes due to forecasted sub-zero temperatures.
The Coldwater Recreation Department announced that for safety reasons, carriage rides and sled dog activities have been canceled for this year's event. All other activities will continue, with many moved indoors.
Julie Santure, director of the Coldwater Recreation Department, said the decision was made with safety in mind.
"Unfortunately, due to the extreme cold, those activities have been canceled, but every other activity will occur with some slight changes," Santure said. "Safety for attendees and animals is our top priority, and we're excited that we're still able to have such a fun free community event."
The highlight of the day remains the popular Kiwanis Cardboard Sled Races, which will be held at Kiwanis Hill. To limit time outdoors, races will be run in heats to reduce cold exposure for participants and spectators.
This year's sled races will follow a streamlined schedule. All sleds must be checked in inside the Coldwater Recreation Center between 10 and 10:30 a.m., with races beginning at 11 a.m. Awards for sled design and race results will be presented inside the recreation center following the completion of all classes.
Sled race classes include:
- Class 1: Ages 8 and under, one or two riders
- Class 2: Ages 9-17, one or two riders
- Class 3: Adults and teams, one to five riders
Individuals, businesses, and service clubs are encouraged to participate. Race rules and registration information are available at coldwater.recdesk.com.
Inside the recreation center, WinterFest activities will run throughout the day and include free children's activities, hot cocoa and coffee, s'mores, inflatables, a balloon artist, a winter-themed selfie station, and more. The Branch District Library bookmobile and El Cuñado food truck will also be onsite, along with sponsor booths offering giveaways and information.
WinterFest is free and open to the public on Saturday, January 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will take place inside the Coldwater Recreation Center and at Kiwanis Hill in Heritage Park.
For updates or additional information, visit Coldwater.org or call the recreation center at 517-278-8566