Winter Fest 2020

Oakland’s 13th Annual Winter Fest 2020    The town of Oakland is gearing up for its 13th annual Winter Fest, slated for Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year’s event will feature the popular ice sculptures created by Bill Sandusky of Erie Ice Works LLC, special music, kids’ activities, and a return of last year’s highly successful Winter Fest Wine Walk.

The Wine Walk will begin at 11 a.m., and tickets will be sold at the gazebo in Oakland on the day of the event. They can also be bought online in advance by going to http://www.oaklandmd.com/winter-fest.html  The $15 ticket will provide the holder to taste approximately 12 different wines, which will be available at a number of locations throughout the town. Maps will be provided.

The art of Master Ice Carver Sandusky will again be featured along the streets of Oakland, and he will present ice-carving demonstrations. Among the items planned are the famous “ice chair” sponsored by Garrett Regional Medical Center and “ice slide” sponsored by GMS Mine Repair and Maintenance, and other interactive sculptures.
 
Free sleigh rides will be available from 11am-3pm, sponsored by the Garrett County Board of Realtors, and town shops and restaurants will be offering specials for the day. Live music will be performed by groups such as Aurora Celtic, Day Old News, and the Terah Crawford Band. Brenda’s Body Shop will present some routines, and Sound Fusion Entertainment will provide DJ services and music for the day. 

The Garrett County Arts Council will host a special artist talk at 3 p.m. in the Gallery Shop. Cathy Peacock, a Gallery Shop artist and oil painting teacher, will describe her painting technique, talk about her work, and discuss her approach to teaching. All are invited to this free presentation. The Oakland Historical Society Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p,m. on the day of the event, offering festival-goers a unique look at Oakland’s history with information and tour opportunities.
 
“This is a fantastic family fun, free event,” said Oakland Business Coordinator Nicole McCullough. “There will be plenty to do for adults and children. The Front Page Stage and parking area will have face painting and hot chocolate and there will be a special art activity provided by Angie Sincell of Eye for Art Gallery and sponsored by the Garrett County Arts Council and the Oakland Arts & Entertainment District. 

“We have several new shops and restaurants in downtown Oakland,” McCullough said, “as well as several museums and events specific to Winter Fest. Come on out for a great day in our great small town!”

? The day’s events are being presented by the Greater Oakland Business Association and the Town of Oakland. Organizations supporting Winter Fest include all participating businesses, the Garrett County Arts Council, the A&E District of Oakland, the Oakland-Mtn. Lake Park Lions Club, and more.  For further information, persons may call GOBA/Main Street at 301-334-2691 or visit www.oaklandmd.com/winter-fest.html.