Rockton Yeti Fest adding new winter events

Snow began falling again in late January, just in time to welcome back winter events to the Stateline. Wander in the Wetlands happens Monday, but one of the most popular events is Rockton's Yeti Fest.

Yeti Fest is billed as “a festival where the abominable snow people of Rockton and their friends come out to enjoy a mixture of winter related activities and is a celebration of all things winter and it all revolves around yetis.” Walk, play, or skate like a yeti during the 2023 Yeti Fest that runs from Feb. 8-11.

This year marks the eighth of this family-oriented event.

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Snow sculpting teams will be returning to wow everyone with their extraordinary talents.

An exhibition will feature stunning creations for all to enjoy. The champion team Vikings in Black,  composed of three half-Swedish brothers originally from Roscoe, was joined on Saturday, Feb. 4 by community volunteers (AKA Legion of Snow Sculptors) to build the blocks needed for the teams to sculpt from during “Block Building.” They even had a snow making machine.

All are invited to help build a giant community snow fort, snow men, or anything your imagination leads you to create.

Search for the live yeti while also taking part in a scavenger hunt that can be completed in downtown Rockton.

Stuffed yetis are set to be hidden in Rockton businesses. Once you spot the yeti’s name on a scarf, print off the scavenger card posted on the Yeti Scavenger Hunt Facebook page and write down the yeti’s name and location.

The Doggie Development Academy will be giving dog sled (mushing) demonstrations at various times on Friday and Saturday. Come out to meet dogs and their handlers at a meet and greet.

Adults can put on their best or cutest onesie to wear to a pub crawl on Friday night, Feb. 10.

Young and young at heart will want to come to the Yeti Dance Party on Saturday at Settlers Park. Dress appropriately to have fun while showing off your moves from 11 a.m. until noon.

Always a proven favorite is the Hot Cocoa Crawl which is coming back on Saturday, from 1-4 p.m. Tickets are on sale to allow participants a chance to try a variety of flavors in a commemorative mug, complete with a cool stirring spoon.

After you purchase your tickets, you can pick them up at the Village Municipal Center, (Village Hall) during office hours of 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., or the day of the event starting at 1 p.m. After tasting all of the hot chocolate brews in your custom yeti mug, stop into the Village Hall to vote on your favorite flavor.

New this year is the introduction of the first ever Yeti Fest Snowball where all are invited to relive the experience of their own high school dances, only without the acne and the social awkwardness that might have accompanied them in the past. Put this can't-miss event on your calendar for Saturday evening, Feb. 11 from 7-10 p.m.

Meet up with friends as you might have years ago at the Rockton American Legion (American Center). Dress in clothing similar to what you wore on your high school journey, or dress like the decade you wish you went to high school.

Dirty Pop will be singing songs from different eras. Attendees will qualify to win a prize sash for “Best Hair” or “Best Dressed.”

Later in the evening, if dancing caused you to work up an appetite, feel free to order carryout from local restaurants. Most importantly top off your Yeti Fest with a super experience that is certain to be remembered.

Local businesses will be open and offering yeti specials: eating, drinking or shopping.

Opening doors to imagination, Jill Rae Finally Art is putting together take-and-make or make-in-person in the shop kits full of different kits such as a scarf kit, Valentine bracelet, “Paint  a little Love,” making snow globes, an ice skating polar bear or fox acrylic painting kit.

Erica's Board Creations is hosting a walk-in board painting during Yeti Fest. Stop by on Saturday anytime from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. to create a new board. Styles and prices vary.

More details on specific events - times, costs, and ticket prices - can be found on related Facebook pages.

Ladies are invited to celebrate the sisterhood of friendship at the 2023 Galentine's Day. Rockton businesses will be open and welcoming best friends on Thursday Feb. 9 from 4 to 8 p.m. with special activities in each.

In-store discounts, specialty products, special bingo games, and permanent jewelry demonstrations just tap the surface of what is to be found.

• At Frosted Farmhouse, gift cards are being hidden in the shop.
• Anna from Simply Sweet will have her custom made cupcakes for sale.
• Valentine cookies created by Sweet Peach will be available.
• Rockton Reads is going to have a special ladies night out section.
• Make Valentines Day cards, art projects and more.

• Erica's Board Creations is setting up options of make and takes, wine and treats plus a photo booth.
• Kiss Glass is offering treats.
• Hi Beautiful Bridal is having a sale.