WinterFest 2017

2017

WINTERFEST WINTER EST BEER GARDEN POLAR PLUNGE WINTERFEAST WINTERTASTING & AUCTION

THURSDAY THURS TO SUNDAY SUN

JANUARY JAN ARY 26-29

ASU SNOWFLAKE PARADE SILENT AUCTION ICE CARVING DEMOS

BLOWING BL WING

ROCK WINTERFEST

A SUPPLEMENT TO

SPONSORED BY

WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

WELCOME TO

WinterFest ‘DON’T HIBERNATE, CELEBRATE’

By Jeff Eason eason@mountaintimes.com

F

or the 19th year in a row, Blowing Rock is welcoming visitors in January with the slogan, “Don’t hibernate, celebrate!”

It’s just our way of saying that you needn’t wait for warm weather to enjoy what the High Country has to offer. In fact, there are things that you can find at this time of year that you would never see in June, such as snowmen walking in a parade, folks leaping into a frozen lake, skiing

and beautiful ice sculptures lining Main Street.

Since 1998, the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce has been presenting WinterFest as a way for the people of the toSoutheast to enjoy honest-togoodness winter fun.

T This year WinterFest takes place from Thursday, Jan. 26 through Sunday, Jan. 29 and features loads of fun events for the entire family.

H Highlights of the celebration include the Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake, Beer Garden and Chili Challenge at the Inn at the

Ragged Garden, Little Miss and Teen Miss WinterFest Pageant, WinterFashion Show, WinterFeast, wine tasting and ice carving events, “Shop Till You Drop” merchants specials and much m more.

Win W WinterFest, which has been named a AAA “Top Pick” and a Top 20 Event by the Southeastern Tourism Society, is organized by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and p presented by Hendrick Northlake Luxury Auto Mall.

For more information, visit blowingrockwinterfest.com or call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

January 26, 2017

WinterFest

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WinterFest

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NEW LOCATION

at The Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge!

January 26, 2017

Happiness is a heavenly hayride TOUR BLOWING ROCK FROM BEHIND A TRACTOR

By Jeff Eason

T

eason@mountaintimes.com

here’s just something about touring Blowing Rock hayride style.

You get to sit back, relax and enjoy all of the town’s holiday and WinterFest decorations while sitting on bale of hay!

Free hayrides are offered from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28 and take off

Hours: Mon - Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm Sat 9:00am - 2:00pm

every ten minutes or so from the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, located at 132 Park Avenue in downtown Blowing Rock.

Sponsored by Country Boy Landscaping, the hayrides are one of WinterFest’s “must do” events.

For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

WHAT TO DO WINTERFEST SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

625 Chestnut Ridge Parkway Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.295.3482

Freedom to go anywhere this Winter.

Thursday, Jan. 26

Shop Til You Drop 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Doodlebug Club at BRAHM 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m.

WinterFeast at Timberlake’s Restaurant; Seatings at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Beer Tasting at Foggy Rock 6 to 9 p.m.

WinterFeast After Party at Twigs 8:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 27

Shop Til You Drop 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WinterFashion Show 11 to 2 p.m.

Cork & Canvas at BRAHM 4 to 6 p.m.

WinterFest Sip & Stroll 4 to 7 p.m.

WinterFest Ice Stroll 5 to 7 p.m.

Appalachian State WinterFest Snowflake Parade 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

Jazz at WinterFest with the Charlie Ellis Trio 7 to 10 p.m.

Pre-plunge Bonfire Party at Chetola 7 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Pancake Breakfast at Sunny Rock 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Appalachian Ski Mountain WinterFest Event 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Silent Auction and Raffle 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hayrides 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Polar Plunge at Chetola Resort 10 a.m. to Noon Free admission at BRAHM 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Little Miss & Teen Miss WinterFest Pageant 11 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Ice Carving Demonstrations in the park Noon to 4 p.m.

WinterFest Beer Garden & Chili Challenge Noon to 4 p.m.

Wine Tastings at Sunset & Vine Noon to 6 p.m.

Arctic Art at BRAHM 1 to 2:30 p.m.

WinterTastings & Wine Auction at Green Park Inn 3 to 5 p.m.

Cork & Canvas at BRAHM 4 to 6 p.m.

Bonfire at Chetola Resort 6 to 9 p.m.

Jazz at WinterFest with the Todd Wright Quartet 7 to 10 p.m.

2282 Hwy 105 South Boone, NC • (828)264-3626

www.RossAuto.com

Sunday, Jan. 29

Shop Til You Drop 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday Brunch at Foggy Rock 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WinterPaws Dog Show 1 to 3 p.m.

January 26, 2017

WinterFest

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WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

CREATIVE CARVINGS

WinterFest Ice Stroll

By Jeff Eason

F

eason@mountaintimes.com

or the second year in a row, Blowing Rock’s WinterFest will feature more than a dozen ice carvings in front of the various businesses along Main Street.

The official WinterFest Ice Sculpture Stroll takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27. The ice sculptures are creatively lit by lights and will remain until they melt away.

The ice sculptures are the creations of Travis Dale—one of only five Master Ice Carvers in the United States—and his talented team of ice carving artisans.

Be sure to enjoy a wonderful Friday night of ice carvings and ASU Snowflake WinterFest Parade.

Dale and his team will give ice-carving demonstrations in Blowing Rock’s Memorial Park from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 2957851 or visit blowingrockwinterfest.com.

PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

Sculptors with Artisan Ice Sculptures will create magnificent works of ice art for the WinterFest Ice Stroll on Friday and ice sculpture demos in the park on Saturday.

An ice cream cone made of ice in front of Kilwin’s during last year’s WinterFest celebration..

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January 26, 2017

WinterFest

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The ice will fly during the ice carving demos

O

ne of the highlights of any trip to Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebration is watching skilled ice carvers create beautiful sculptures from big blocks of ice.

This year Artisan Ice Sculptures, led by Travis Dale, will hold free ice carving demonstrations in Blowing Rock Memorial Park from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28.

Dale is one of only five Master Ice Carvers in the United States and he and his team will use power tools and blow torches to create masterpieces such as mermaids, dragons and ships on the ocean.

The Alpine Village Inn and the Homestead Inn in Blowing Rock will be housing the ice carving team during its WinterFest stay.

For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

Left, an ice sculpture piggy bank filled with pennies on Main Street. Above, ice carving demonstrations are always a hit at WinterFest.

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828 386 1201 Mon - Sat 5pm - close

WELCOME TO WINTERFEST!

THOUGH THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL SHERRY’S SERVICES AS A REALTOR ARE DELIGHTFUL! SO IF YOU HAVE A REAL ESTATE NEED LET HER KNOW

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1059 Main Street PO Box 2486, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 800-849-0147 (Toll Free) 828-295-4664 (Fax) 336-406-5851 (Mobile) sherry@BlowingRockProperties.com www.BlowingRockProperties.com

WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

HENDRICK NORTHLAKE LUXURY AUTO MALL All your luxury automotive needs right in your backyard.

Visit us online or at our 180,000 square feet state of the art facilities now conveniently locaed just minutes away off exit 19A on I-77.

Across the street from North Mecklenburg High School

To make an appointment please call 704-572-5110

NorthlakeAutoMall.com

WinterFest

January 26, 2017

PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

WinterFest mascots Chilly and Crystal stroll down Main Street during the ASU Snowflake Parade at last year’s WinterFest.

TWILIGHT’S LAST GLEAMING:

ASU Snowflake Parade to glow with lights TOUR BLOWING ROCK FROM BEHIND A TRACTOR

By Jeff Eason

F

eason@mountaintimes.com

or the second year in a row, the Appalachian State Mountaineer football team has won the Camellia Bowl in Montgomery, Ala. And, for the second year in a row, WinterFest is going to celebrate that victory with a special Appalachian State WinterFest Snowflake Parade.

The ASU Snowflake Parade will be held

on Main Street in downtown Blowing Rock beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27.

The parade is being held at dusk so that the lights from the floats and other parade vehicles can be part of the colorful celebration.

The parade is a joint effort by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce and Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

The ASU pep band will return to Blowing Rock for this year’s Snowflake Parade.

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WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

CELEBRATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

The list of parade participants includes the Camellia Bowl champion ASU Mountaineer football team and head coach Scott Satterfield, ASU cheerleaders, ASU pep band, ASU Chancellor Sheri Everts, various ASU departments, the Blue Ridge Mountain Club, Sugar Mountain, the Watauga Humane Society, the Blowing Rock Medical Park, Little Miss and Teen Miss WinterFest Pageant contestants, Chetola Resort, local classic car owners and others.

The parade starts at U.S. 321 near the Speckled Trout and winds its way down Main Street to the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.

For more information, contact Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation at (828) 295-5222.

PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

The ASU Mountaineers will once again celebrate a Camellia Bowl victory during WinterFest’s Snowflake Parade.

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January 26, 2017

WinterFest

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WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

Much aplomb about BRAHM BLOWING ROCK ART & HISTORY MUSEUM TO HOST MULTIPLE WINTERFEST EVENTS

By Jeff Eason

F

eason@mountaintimes.com

or the past five years, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum— or “BRAHM,” as we locals like to call it—has been providing a cultural smorgasbord of exhibits, special events and workshops.

During WinterFest, BRAHM will be offering a number of exciting programs for art lovers of all ages. Plus, the museum will have no admission fee on Thursday, Jan. 26 and Saturday, Jan. 28.

DOODLEBUG CLUB

PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

Children can learn basic art skills by joining the Doodlebug Club at BRAHM.

Preschool age children and their parent or guardian are invited to attend the Doodlebug Club at BRAHM from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. or from 1 to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26. For just $5, children will learn basic art skills such as how to hold a paintbrush, using scissors and the difference between primary and secondary colors.

Mediums vary from paint to chalk to clay.

After cleanup, the children will be entertained during story time. Space is limited.

To register, call (828) 295-9099, or email Jennifer@blowingrockmuseum.org.

CORK AND CANVAS It’s fine art and wine time! BRAHM will host two Cork and Canvas events during

Enter as strangers. Leave as friends.

Present this ad for a Complimentary Glass of Wine with Purchase of Entrée Expires 1/31/17

Check out our New Menu at www.StorieStreetGrille.com 1167 Main Street | Blowing Rock | 828.295.7075

WinterFest: from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 27-28. Participants will enjoy a relaxing painting session with instructor Thomas Thielman as they recreate Vincent van Gogh’s “Vase with Twelve Sunflowers.”

Canvases, paints, brushes, aprons, wine and snacks are all supplied by BRAHM, just bring your inspiration. The cost is $40 for BRAHM members and $45 for nonmembers. Advance registration is required and space is limited. The event is open to participants 21 and older. To register, call (828) 295-9099.

ARCTIC ART AT BRRRRAHM BRAHM will feature free admission all day on Saturday, Jan. 28. From 1 to 2:30 p.m. that day, kids can participate in an Arctic Art class where they will create a winter craft in BRAHM’s Education Center. Girl Scouts will be on hand to lead the younger children. The event is free.

EXHIBITIONS Current exhibitions at BRAHM include “A Town Within a Town: History of the Junaluska Community,” “Andy Warhol: Six Silkscreen Prints” and “Everyman Jack: Stories and Illustrations by Gail E. Haley.”

For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 295-9099.

January 26, 2017

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WinterFest’s Silent Auction and Raffle

MountainConstruction.com 828-963-8090 Remodeling/New Construction

By Jeff Eason

B

eason@mountaintimes.com

rought to you by Mountain Alliance, the Blowing Rock WinterFest Silent Auction and Raffle takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, with prize pick up later that day.

Come to the Blowing Rock American Legion behind the Police Station on Wallingford Street and bid on the many beautiful items, packages, and gift certificates donated by area retailers and businesses. You will find items ranging from lodging at area hotels and inns, spa day packages, packages to area parks, massage and wellness certificates, outdoor adventures, fly fishing lessons, theatre subscriptions, art work by local artists, gift certificates to area restaurants, and many, many more.

In addition, you can buy raffle tickets for baskets of goodies from your favorite shopping stops. Last year we had more than $20,000 worth of items from over 200 businesses, so there is truly something for everyone!

Proceeds from this fundraiser go directly to Mountain Alliance.

Mountain Alliance provides Watauga County high school aged youth with a safe and supportive environment in which they can develop an increased sense of self and their place in the community, a passion for lifelong learning, and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Mountain Alliance recognizes these attributes as essential

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

This year, for the first time, the WinterFest Silent Auction and Raffle will be held at the American Legion Hall on Wallingford St. qualities of active and engaged citizens. The organization is a community of high school students, teachers, professionals, outdoor and adventure-based educators, and supportive local leaders and citizens.

Creativity Quality Experience Visit our Web Site Photo Gallery & Call Today!

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January 26, 2017

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WINTERFEST SCHEDULE

Breweries On Site FRIDAY 3:00-6:00 PM

SATURDAY 12:00-4:00 PM

Blowing Rock Ale New Sarum

Green Man New Belgium Foothills Granite Falls

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

Natalie Nicastro will be on hand to lend her wine expertise to the public during the tastings at Sunset and Vine on Friday and Saturday.

WinterFest’s Wine Tasting and Auction

By Jeff Eason eason@mountaintimes.com

I

f you like fine wine, you will definitely want to attend WinterFest’s annual Wine Tasting and Auction, held this year from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Green Park Inn. Tickets are $30 per person and it is open to all people ages 21 and older with photo ID. The wine tasting will feature dozens of different styles of reds, whites, blushes and more, presented by many of the distributors who serve restaurants,

wine stores and grocery stores in the High Country.

The wine tasting begins at 3 p.m. and the auction, featuring wine and wine accessories, begins at 5 p.m.

One of the auction’s prized items is a SAVOR package, including tickets to SAVOR events and lodging for Blowing Rock’s celebration of wine, spirits and food in April.

For more information, or to order tickets for the WinterFest Wine Tasting and Auction, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

Winterfest Wine Tastings At Sunset And Vine

S

unset and Vine (formerly Christopher’s Wine and Cheese), located on the corner of Sunset Drive and Main Street, will host two afternoons of wine tastings during Blowing Rock’s WinterFest celebration.

Come by and try some great reds, whites, varietals and bubbly wine. The events will

take place from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27 and from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. There is no cost for these free wine events, but chances are you will taste something that you’ll just have to have a bottle of to take home with you.

For more information, call Sunset and Vine at (828) 414-9111.

990 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605 P (828) 414-9322 www.blowingrockmarket.com

Come by Saturday to sample more than 20 Wines....All Wines on Sale!

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WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

Jazz in January GREEN PARK INN TO HOST TWO NIGHTS OF LIVE MUSIC

By Jeff Eason eason@mountaintimes.com

T

he mountain region of North Carolina is closely associated with bluegrass and old time music.

But dig a little deeper and you’ll find a wealth of other styles being performed by a wealth of talented musicians.

The Green Park Inn will host two nights of live jazz during WinterFest.

The Charlie Ellis Trio will perform on Friday, Jan. 27 and the Todd Wright Quartet will perform on Saturday, Jan. 28.

Both performances are from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Chestnut Grille and seating is only available with dinner reservations. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Charlie Ellis Trio A jazz institution in Blowing Rock for decades, this incarnation of the Charlie Ellis Trio will be performing its last live concert at the Green Park Inn during WinterFest. The band features Charlie Ellis on piano, Mike Barlowe on drums and Rick Stapleton on upright bass.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Ellis owned and operated The Jazz Parlor, located in the Martin House in downtown Blowing Rock.

For six nights a week, music lovers could gather for great live jazz, food and drinks and stimulating conversation.

For the past decade, the Charlie Ellis Trio has performed at the Green Park Inn, filling the lobby with the sound of jazz versions of the Great American Songbook every weekend.

For the trio’s final live performance, a mobile recording unit will be on hand to tape the show for a future live album.

The Todd Wright Quartet Todd Wright, director of Jazz Studies at Appalachian State, is well known through the High Country through his numerous performances and weekly jazz brunch shows at Canyons. He has produced numerous albums including “Begonia,” “Christmas Time is Here” and “Reflections” (with pianist Frank Kimbrough). For more information, or to make reservations, call the Green Park Inn at (828) 414-9230.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Todd Wright Trio, featuring saxophonist Todd Wright, guitarist Andy Page and drummer Rick Cline, will perform at the Green Park Inn on Jan. 28..

January 26, 2017

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WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

WinterFashion Show spotlights

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PHOTOS BY JEFF EASON

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This year’s WinterFashion Show will feature “Spring Trends” on the runway.

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By Jeff Eason eason@mountaintimes.com

T

he annual WinterFest WinterFashion Show will take a bit of a left turn this year. In year’s past, the show has featured runway models wearing winter fashion shows. This time out the theme is “Spring Trends” with a look to getting in front of the curve of the upcoming warm weather

season.

The WinterFashion Show takes place at the Meadowbrook Inn and Suites in Blowing Rock from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27.

Tickets are $50 and the event includes a “Winter Warming” lunch and a cash bar.

Local models will be strolling down the runway wearing spring fashions from Finley House Couture, Footsloggers of Blowing Rock, J. Mclaughlin, Doncaster, Monkee’s, TazMaRaz, Almost Rodeo Drive, Celeste’s, J.W. Tweeds, Take Heart, Sister Act and the Gilded Lily by Patra.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

WinterFest

January 26, 2017

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WinterFest Beauty Pageant

By JJeff B ff EEason

F

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

The 6th annual Little Miss and Teen Miss WinterFest Pageant serves as a preliminary round for the statewide pageant in August..

eason@mountaintimes.com

or the sixth year in a row, WinterFest will host a beauty pageant for girls, from newborns to 19 years of age.

The 6th annual Little Miss and Teen Miss WinterFest Pageant will be held at the Meadowbrook Inn in Blowing Rock on Saturday, Jan. 28. Registration begins at 11 a.m. and the competition begins at noon.

The only required event at the pageant is the Winter Wear (anything cute, warm and fuzzy) category. Optional categories include Talent, Photogenic and Frozen Wear (anything from the Disney movie “Frozen.”).

The pageant will feature eight age divisions, beginning with Baby Doll Miss (birth to 18 months) and going through Teen Miss (ages 16-19).

Each contestant will receive a tiara and the winners will also receive designer trophies, monogrammed sashes and large crowns.

Elsa, from the Disney movie “Frozen,” will be on hand for photos and to crown the winners.

“A new and exciting addition to the pageant this year is that all contestants will be invited to ride on the Little Miss and Teen Miss North Carolina professional float during the night time parade Friday evening,” said Carolyn Marley, director of the pageant.

According to Marley, the Little Miss WinterFest Pageant serves as an official preliminary to the 31st annual Little Miss and Teen Miss North Carolina Pageant, which will be held August 4-6, 2017. Every contestant in the WinterFest Pageant will receive their beauty fee paid to the state pageant, and the Majestic winners will receive $150 paid credit toward the 2017 state pageant.

For more information or an entry form, contact Marley at (828) 295-3880 or email: Carolyn@ littlemissnc.com.

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Plunging for a purpose ICY DIP INTO CHETOLA LAKE TO BENEFIT WESTERN YOUTH NETWORK AND HOSPITALITY HOUSE

By Jeff Eason eason@mountaintimes.com

W

hen folks sign up for the annual WinterFest Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake, they are basically rolling the dice. Some o years, the weather is mild and the dip into the lake is roughly like taking a short cold shower.

Other years, however, are different. There have been Polar Plunges when the weather is so cold that crews have to use chain saws to cut through the ice just to make a hole big enough to jump in the lake. It is during those years that the intrepid plungers must be thinking, “What in the world have I gotten myself into?”

This year more than 100 people have signed up to take the plunge, will begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28 at Chetola Resort. The event is free for spectators. Plungers this year are raising money for the Western Youth Network and Hospitality House.

John Carter, news anchor for WBTV in Charlotte, will serve as this year’s emcee.

The event will include the infamous “Golden Plunger” prize awarded to the leapers with the best costumes.

For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851, or Chetola Resort at (828) 295-5500.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON Nothing says WinterFest quite like an icy dip into Chetola Lake during the annual Polar Plunge.

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WinterFest

January 26, 2017

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January 26, 2017

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PLUNGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Polar Plunge brunch Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort will host a special Polar Plunge brunch from 10 a.m. to noon. The event will feature a live feed so you can watch all of the Polar Plunge action while dining on a scrumptious brunch buffet.

The menu includes eggs Benedict, biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, hickory smoked bacon, sausage, smoked salmon, quiche, sliced pork loin with maple-bourbon glaze, tomato bisque and house salad with assorted toppings and dressings.

The Polar Plunge brunch is $22 for adults and $16 for children ages 12 and under, not including beverages or gratuity.

For more information, or to make reservations, call Timberlake’s Restaurant at (828) 295-5505.

Pre-plunge bonfire Chetola Resort will host a pre-plunge bonfire party by the lake from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27. The event will include a cash bar, music, s’mores, storytelling of “The Lost Plunger” and more.

This kid-friendly event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (828) 295-5500.

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

The Polar Plunge awards the best costumed divers with the “Golden Plunger” prize.

DEER VALLEY RACQUET CLUB Ask us about our 2017 No Initiation Winter Special

Kids Sports Performance Fitness Program Junior Tennis Academy Performance Gymnastics Program Indoor/Outdoor Tennis Indoor/Outdoor Pool Basketball Court

Contact us: 507 Bamboo Rd. / PO Box 1188 Boone, NC 28607 828.262.3337 tennis@deervalleyracquetclub.com

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WinterFest

January 26, 2017

JAZZ AT WINTERFEST

Reservations Required Charlie Ellis Jazz Trio Friday, January 27th

Todd Wright Jazz Trio 20 Drafts Import & Micro Brews

Saturday, January 28th With dining in the

New Patio Open (Weather Permitting)

Chestnut Grille

Serve Menu: Sunday-Saturday 11a.m. - Midnight

Serving 6:00-9:30pm Friday 7:00-9:30pm Saturday Music 7:00-10:00pm

Bar Open: Sunday-Wednesday ‘til Midnight Thursday-Saturday ’til 2a.m.

ESTD. 1882

Divide Tavern will also be open 5:00pm-until

Chestnut Grille

Divide Tavern

9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828.414.9230 | www.greenparkinn.com

WinterFest

January 26, 2017

Page 25

Weddings and Special Events at

The Blowing Rock Attraction Planning a Wedding or Special Event, make it a breathtaking event for your special day at The Blowing Rock Attraction.

Contact us for further information.

432 The Rock Road Blowing Rock, NC 28645 828.295.7111 brockattraction@bellsouth.net

SHAGGING AT THE ROCK

4TH ANNUAL BLOWING ROCK MUSIC FEST

August 12, 2017

September 16, 2017

tickets go on sale June 15, 2017

tickets on sale July 15, 2017

The Tams

The Original Drifters

Eric & The Chill Tones

The MagniďŹ cents Band

Harris Brothers

Shelby Rae Moore Band

Soul Benefactor

Elvis

Carolina Gator Gumbo Band and many more to perform!

WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

A High Country Favorite All ABC Permits • Nightly Food and Drink Specials Reservations Taken, but Not Required

Open All Day - Everyday 970 Rivers Street, Boone, NC • 828-264-7772 • www.CafePortofino.net Follow us on Facebook & stay up to date on special events and daily specials!

FILE PHOTO

Pancake lovers will enjoy a trip to Sunny Rock Eggs and Things during WinterFest.

Sunny Rock and Foggy Rock TWO OF BLOWING ROCK’S FAVORITE EATERIES JOIN THE WINTERFEST FUN

By Jeff Eason

T

eason@mountaintimes.com

wo of Blowing Rock’s favorite eateries are Foggy Rock Eatery and Pub and Sunny Rock Eggs and Things, located on Valley Boulevard.

Both restaurants are participating in Blowing Rock’s WinterFest this year with a number of special events.

Beer tasting

2082 Blowing Rock Rd • Boone, NC 28607 828-264-4660 • www.cfarestaurant.com/boone/home

Foggy Rock will host a beer tasting event in conjunction with Booneshine Brewery from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26. Be sure to drop by to taste some great local beers and grab a free beer koozie.

For more information, call (828) 2957262.

Pancake breakfast Get the day started right with a delicious pancake or two. Sunny Rock Eggs and Things will host a WinterFest Pancake Breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27 and Saturday, Jan. 28. The breakfast menu will include $4.95 for allyou-can-eat pancakes and $5.95 all-youcan-eat sweet potato pancakes. For more information, call (828) 414-9636.

Sunday brunch Foggy Rock will host a special WinterFest Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29. The menu will include breakfast items, lunch items, soup and sandwich specials.

For more information, call (828) 2957262.

January 26, 2017

WinterFest

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New Beer Garden and Chili Challenge

By Jeff Eason

T

eason@mountaintimes.com

he annual Blowing Rock WinterFest celebration features a couple of new wrinkles this year. One is ili the Beer Garden and Chili Challenge at the Inn at Ragged Gardens. The event takes place from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28 and will feature beer and spirit tastings, along ts and with chili from area restaurants t. live music under a heated tent.

Several local breweries will be on hand urging beer lovers to sample their wares. Area restaurants will have chili samples in a quest to earn the coveted “traveling hand� chili trophy, won last year by the Best Cellar. ames The event will also feature games such as Snowball Cornhole and Giant Jenga.

VIP ticket holders can enter the party at noon and will receive a grilled bratwurst and commemorative WinterFest cup.

Tickets are $35 to $50 and you must be 21 or older with photo ID to sample beer. For more information or to reserve your tickets, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

FILE PHOTO

WinterFest

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January 26, 2017

Good Eats: WINTERFEAST PROVIDES A SMORGASBORD OF DELICIOUS FLAVORS

By Jeff Eason

V

eason@mountaintimes.com

isitors to Blowing Rock often ask, “Where’s a good place to eat?”

To which, we locals reply, “Where do you want to start?”

There are literally dozens of great restaurants in the Blowing Rock area. In fact there are far too many to try in the space of a two or three-day visit to the village.

Fortunately, there is a solution to this quandary. WinterFest’s annual WinterFeast celebration is that one-stop where you will find a lot of great restaurants under one roof, at least for one evening.

WinterFeast takes place this year at

Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort on Thursday, Jan. 26. Seatings are at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m.

At WinterFeast, you simply grab your plate and wander, buffet-style, from one delicious offering to the next, return to your seat and enjoy some of the best dishes that Blowing Rock has to offer.

The roster of participating restaurants at this year’s WinterFeast includes Timberlake’s Restaurant, Canyons Historic Restaurant and Bar, Blowing Rock Ale House, Roots Restaurant, Chestnut Grille at Green Park Inn, Bistro Roca, Restaurant G at Gideon Ridge, New Public House, Rowland’s Restaurant at Westglow Spa and Resort, Woodlands Barbecue and Picking Parlor, Town Tavern, the Table

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

Diners will sample the best of Blowing Rock at WinterFeast on Thursday, Jan. 26. at Crestwood, Outback Steakhouse, Ugga Mugga Bakery and Savannah’s Oyster House.

Tickets for WinterFeast are $35 in ad-

vance, $40 at the door, and do not include beverages or gratuity. For more information, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.

The Village Inns of Blowing Rock are Hillwinds Inn, Ridgeway Inn and The Village Inn, three stylish accommodations conveniently located just steps from the shops and restaurants of Blowing Rock.

Each of the three inns offers a complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon reception. Accommodations include deluxe rooms, suites and cottages.

Pet friendly rooms available.

The Hillwinds Inn: 828.295.7660 The Ridgeway Inn: 828.295.7321 The Village Inn: 828.295.3380

www.TheVillageInnsOfBlowingRock.com

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

WinterFeast is where you can find a lot of great restaurants under one roof.

WINTERFEAST AFTER PARTY If you are attending WinterFeast, you’re probably going to need to burn off some calories afterward.

A perfect way to do that is by shaking your tail feathers at the WinterFeast After Party.

It will be held at Twigs Restaurant in Blowing Rock from 8:30 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, Jan. 26.

The event is free and will feature drink specials and live music with the Jacob Johnson Band.

For more information, call Twigs at (828) 295-5050.

January 26, 2017

WinterFest

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Hawaiian Plunge

The Spice & Tea Exchange® Purveyors of Fine Teas, Gourmet Salts and Sugars, Hand Mixed Blends, Spices, Herbs and Gifts.

PHOTO BY JEFF EASON

Polar plunge divers in exotic Hawaiian costumes prepare for their jump in the lake during last year’s Polar Plunge.

1087 Main Street, Unit 4 | Blowing Rock, NC Locally owned & operated | 828-372-7070 spiceandtea.com/blowingrock

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WinterFest

January 26, 2017

January 26, 2017

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PHOTO SUBMITTED

Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed pups at the annual WinterPaws Dog Show on Sunday, Jan. 29.

WinterPaws Dog Show CLOSES WINTERFEST 2017

By Jeff Eason eason@mountaintimes.com

D

og lovers agree, WinterFest saves the best for last. The final event of the four-day celebration of winter is the WinterPaws Dog Show. It is your chance to show off your furry friend or just come by to see some of the cutest dogs in the High Country.

The event takes place from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29 at the Blowing Rock Elementary School gym.

The WinterPaws Dog Show is also a fundraiser for the Watauga Humane Society.

There is a $5 entry fee per category or a $25 fee to enter your dog into all six categories.

Categories include: most unique looking mix of breeds, best wiggle butt, most clever

dog trick, cutest looking dog in the world, best winter fashion wear and most crooked smile.

The winner of each category will go on to compete for the title of Best in Show and winner of the grand prize.

There will also be raffle tickets for sale for the Watauga Humane Society’s annual Valentine’s Day Raffle, featuring thousands of dollars worth of fine jewelry. The event will also feature food and drink vendors.

One hundred percent of the proceeds of the WinterPaws Dog Show will go to the Watauga Humane Society. For more information, call Moment Schweiger at (828) 264-7865.

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WinterFest

January 26, 2017