Winona Ice Fest is set to kick off its inaugural edition, promising a thrilling celebration of the Winona Ice Park and the sport of ice climbing. Organized in collaboration with the City of Winona, the Recreation Alliance of Winona, and Big River Climbing Guides, this collaborative event invites climbers and enthusiasts to register for the festival, marking the beginning of an annual tradition.
Scheduled to take place from February 22nd to 25th, 2024, the festival will feature a diverse array of activities and clinics catering to climbers of all levels. The festivities commence on Thursday with half-day Intro to Ice Climbing Clinics offered at no cost to Winona residents. The evening brings climber check-in and a social gathering at Island City Brewery with live music at the No Name Bar featuring Mike Munson.
Friday is packed with Climbing Clinics from 9 am to 3 pm at the Sugarloaf/Ice Park Trailhead, providing participants with the opportunity to explore equipment demos from renowned brands such as CAMP, RAB, LaSportiva, Scarpa, Petzl, and more. The evening continues with climber check-in at ICB, social activities, and live music at the No Name Bar featuring Ghostland Radio.
On Saturday, the festival offers morning yoga at the brewery and additional Climbing Clinics at the Sugarloaf/Ice Park Trailhead. The evening program includes climber check-in at ICB, an Apres’ Climb Social at 2 Brothers with a BOGO discount for registered fest-goers, a chainsaw ice carving demo, the WIF Gear raffle, and the WIF Afterparty at the No Name Bar featuring special guests Texas Toast.
Registration for the Ice Fest goes to supporting the organization of the festival and offering registrants exclusive deals from local partners. Participants also gain access to the Saturday afterparty and receive a raffle ticket for the Saturday gear raffle. Climbing Clinics are available at a separate cost, covering all necessary equipment.
The festival extends its inclusivity by offering various clinics, including Intro to Ice Climbing, BIPOC Intro to Ice, Women/Trans/Femme Intro to Ice Climbing, Family Intro to Ice Climbing, and Advanced Movement Skills. A special mention goes to Free Thursday Intro clinics for Winona locals.
Registered festival-goers enjoy additional perks at local spots including Ridgelands Coffeehouse, Heirloom Bistro, 2 Brothers, Muddled Thyme, Winona Hatchery, and early access to register for clinics. The festival looks forward to an exciting debut, uniting ice climbing enthusiasts in Winona for a memorable experience.