From early January through the first few weeks of February, the town that is “nicer” is hosting the 2020 Winterfest celebration. Spicer, home to 1,200 smiling residents, is continuing a tradition that fosters community and celebrates the unique town at the edge of Green Lake. And although the temperatures sometimes sneak into

The 2019 Spicer Ice Castle looks over Saulsbury beach, waiting for the kickoff festivities to begin.

the negative range, all event-goers seem happy to forget the cold and enjoy the festivities and each other’s company.

Saturday, January 25th is the official kickoff event for the 2020 Spicer Winterfest, beginning at 9:00 a.m. with a Frozen 5K. Participants will race along Green Lake from Zorbaz to the Green Lake Bible Camp, looping back around to complete the full 3.1-mile race. Walkers are welcome, so everyone can come and enjoy the brisk winter morning air. Past years have seen 200 runners trotting at the lake’s edge.

At 3:00 p.m. the festivities continue on Saulsbury Beach with Disney characters, burgers and hot dogs from the Spicer Lions, a hay ride, kick sleds from Prairie Woods, and a bonfire on the beach. While event-goers are encouraged to dress warm, there will be a large walled tent with

This runner conquered the 2017 Frozen 5K, sprinting by the finish line just outside Zorbaz.

heaters inside to keep visitors warm. And inside, there will be an ice bar where wine and beer can be purchased.

A live broadcast with Tim from Q102 will narrate the event for those still at home, leading up to the ice castle lighting ceremony and fireworks show at 5:30 p.m. After the oohs and aahs from the fireworks, there’s a Fire and Ice dance from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. to finish off the day’s events. The Dam Jammers will be rocking out the venue, with a $10 admission fee for adults and free admission for children. The proceeds will go to the Spicer Fire Department and Spicer Commercial Club.

Also on January 25th, Zorbaz on Green Lake will be hosting the 16th annual Polar Plunge! At 1:00 p.m., brave participants will jump into the frigid waters of Green Lake.

No testing the water here: these Polar Plunge participants jump right in to the icy waters without a moment’s hesitation.

The event is centered around Special Olympics Minnesota, with all proceeds going toward programming and events for more than 8,000 Special Olympics athletes statewide. Participants raise $75 (or more!) and launch themselves into the icy waters of Green Lake, often wearing goofy costumes for an added element of fun.

Throughout Winterfest there will be weekly events, including BINGO nights at Zorbaz, special wine evenings at Glacial Ridge Winery, and even a Super Bowl party at O’Neil’s. So regardless of how long you’re in town or what events you’re interested in, the 2020 Spicer Winterfest has plenty of festivities for you. So, head on over this month (or the next) to the town that is always “nicer,” and participate in a community event that highlights all the great things about winter in Minnesota and the Willmar Lakes Area.