Winterfest brings fun back to winter

Kids know snow is meant to be played in. Sometimes, when kids become adults, they forget how much fun it can be. But this winter, Rod Bazinet is restoring the fun.  

Winterfest is returning to the shores of Moonlight Beach Feb. 15 to 17, 2013. 
 

“When you come out to the festival, you come out to play,” Bazinet, chair of Winterfest, said.  “Snow is made to be played in.”
 

Since its inaugural year, the festival has evolved and grown. Winter-lovers looking to enjoy the festivities can get a jump start by purchasing a limited edition collectible button now from www.sudburywinterfest.com.
 

The buttons were designed by local artist Gord Drysdale. Only 1,500 have been made. Once they are sold out, only wristbands will be available. Along with being a collectors item, the buttons also come with perks like admission to off-site venues and discounts and freebies at the fest. 
 

Some highlights of the second annual festival include opening ceremonies, fireworks, a groomed “bum slide,” an ice café, Sudbury crafters, skating on Lake Ramsey, dog sled rides, free ice fishing, snowshoes and a chili cook off.
 

“What better way to bring people out than food?” said Derek Young, a spokesman for the event.
 

Young said the festival is looking for five restaurants to come on board for the chili fest, competing for the title of the best chili in town. There are still some spots available for interested restaurateurs.  
 

“Whose got the best chili in town?” asked Young. Chili lovers can purchase a $5 chili ticket online to beat the lineups at the festival.
 

Another key attraction at Winterfest 2013 is the Human Dog Sled Race in support of its charity partner Northern Ontario Families of Children with Cancer, a non-government funded organization that helps families touched by any sort of child cancer with emotional and financial support. 
 

Capt. Dave DeLoye, commanding officer of  2912 Sudbury Irish Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, will also have cadets at the festival, showcasing their abilities as they set up a military winter survival exhibit. 
 

“Our cadets are certainly very excited for this event,” DeLoye said. 
 

Providing more interactive activities is just some of what festival-goers wanted, considering last years feedback. The issue of parking has also been addressed. 
 

Ward 11 Counc. Terry Kett said more parking lots have been created, thanks to Healthy Community Initiative funds. 
 

“It was the weakness we had,” Kett admitted with a laugh. 

On top of improvements to last year, more events have been added to the lineup, which now spans three days instead of two, thanks to plenty of  support from the community 

and volunteers. 
 

“People are really jumping on this,” Bazinet said. Talks are still underway about events and activities, slated to make the festival better than before. 
 

For more information, check out the Winterfest website. 

 
By Danika Morin