Winterfest In Benzie – February 14th!

Benzie County Michigan, January 8, 2009 – Crystal Lake Community Business Association members announced today that this year’s Winterfest celebration will be held Saturday, February 14, 2009.

This year’s schedule features event favorites like the kids fishing contest, frozen fish toss, turkey bowling, chili cook-off and fireworks display as well as some new activities and sponsorships.

Winterfest In Benzie - 2009 begins at 7:00 am as ice fishing anglers head out on Crystal Lake to net their trophy. A festival buffet breakfast at the Hungry Tummy begins at 8:00 am and snowmobile poker run begins at 9:00 am. A schedule of all events and times is available by going the association’s website, www.CLCBA.org

"The annual Winterfest celebration in Beulah/Benzonia has been a longstanding tradition in Benzie County. This year’s festivities promise to be the most fun and exciting ever,” Anne Ritchards, CLCBA President, said. “What a great opportunity to bring your family downtown or to meet up with friends. Come be a part of the fun on February 14 and bring your favorite Valentine to watch the fireworks and enjoy music while sitting by the bonfire.

A Winterfest favorite, The Chili Cook-Off begins at 11:30 am at the Pavilion in Downtown Beulah. Over a dozen entries are submitted from local Businesses and Individuals hoping to win bragging rights and the “Best Chili in Benzie”. For $3.00 Chili connoisseurs may sample the recipes and submit their ballot for the favorite. Prizes are awarded to the winners.

Area businesses will be open during the day offering seasonal specials. What a great time to get that last minute Valentine gift for your special guy or gal. All this is in addition to the 50/50 drawings held throughout the day.

Other activities during the day include the Rubber Duck Race on Cold Creek, the Frozen Face Race in Beulah, Air Boat Rides on Crystal Lake, Hay Rides along the lake, and the Winterfest parade, to mention a few.

Everyone loves a parade and the Winterfest In Benzie – 2009 parade is no exception! Smokey Bear and Frosty the Snowman are parade favorites for kids of all ages.

Especially important to remember is that this festival if free to the public and sponsored by the Crystal Lake Community Business Association and made possible with help from members, area merchants, organizations, and booster volunteers.

Come to Winterfest in Benzie - 2009 in Benzie County, Michigan, Saturday, February 14, 2009 and remember Shiver on the River in Frankfort, Michigan the following weekend, February 20 – 22, 2009.

For more information, contact Anne Ritchards 231.325.6642(A & J Coins) or Tim Quick 231.882.5103 (the Hungry Tummy)