1/24/14: Return of Winterfest Brings Free Winter Fun to Chestnut Ridge

Modified: January 23, 2015 3:58pm

Latest News

Date: 
1/24/14

Outdoor Activities, Hay Rides, Magic Shows Highlight Annual Winter Family Event

ERIE COUNTY, NY— Today, Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Deputy Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Forestry Dan Glowacki, Legislator John Mills (R-11th District), and members of the Orchard Park Town Board and Recreation Department in announcing that Winterfest 2014 will be held at Chestnut Ridge Park on Sunday, January 26th from 11am – 4pm. In addition to traditional winter family fun such as sledding, tobogganing, and snowboarding (all dependent on snow totals), this year’s event features curling, magic shows by magician Rian Lehman at 11:30 AM & 1:00 PM, and a judged snow sculpture contest from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

“Last year, over a thousand people came to Chestnut Ridge Park to enjoy Winterfest with family and friends, taking advantage of the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful park in the wintertime,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Again this year, there are many ways to enjoy the day at Winter Fest, including chances to try your hand at some pre-Olympic curling. There’s also sledding, marshmallow roasting, snow sculpturing, wood branding, and other activities. I want to thank the Parks Department and their partners for once again bringing this event to Chestnut Ridge Park.”

Erie County Legislator John Mills said, “Winterfest provides free entertainment for every member of the family with a variety of activities. I hope many families will come out and enjoy Chestnut Ridge Park, and make sure you are dressed for the elements.”

Director of Recreation & Youth Activities for the Town of Orchard Park Recreation Department, Ed Leak added, “The Orchard Park Recreation department is once again proud of collaborating with Erie County on behalf of the 2014 Winterfest. With the additional assistance from our corporate sponsors, this wonderful family event continues to benefit the entire Erie County community.”

Other happenings at Winterfest 2014 include demonstrations by the Hillcrest Fire Department, arts & crafts and hay rides, which are available from noon – 3PM for $3 a person. All other activities are free of charge. The concession stand at the Chestnut Ridge park casino will be open and offering refreshments for sale.

Presented by the Erie County Parks, Recreation, & Forestry Department in conjunction with the Orchard Park Recreation Department, sponsors for Winterfest 2014 include Wegman’s, Towne Auto, Dick’s, WBEN AM 930, Verizon, Erie County legislator John Mills, Southtowns Radiology, and West Herr.