While it wasn’t a white Christmas, there’s little doubt now that winter has arrived.
That means Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is preparing for its annual Winterfest, set for noon to 4 p.m. Feb. 6 at Lake Katherine, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights. The event is open to all ages.
“Winterfest is a fun event that encourages families to get outside and enjoy nature regardless of the weather,” Lake Katherine marketing director Charlotte Ward said. “Winterfest was inspired to get people outside in winter and remind the community that we are a natural resource for them in winter.”
Attractions are to include hayrides, animals, children’s crafts, face painting, snowman building, snowshoeing, an ice rescue demonstration, winter survival tips, ice sculpting, book readings and food vendors.
Admission is $5 per person, although children age 3 and under are free. All proceeds from the event are to benefit Lake Katherine’s educational programs and to support and care for the animals on site.
“Our goal is to raise money for the park and to show off all the wonderful things we have going on at the beautiful park all year round,” Ward said.
Winterfest 2015 drew 463 paying guests. Ward said 500 to 1,000 guests are projected to visit this year.
The event, organized by Lake Katherine staff members and a team of dedicated volunteers, costs an estimated $1,000 a year to run but continues to raise more than $3,000 each year, according to Ward.
“Like many winter festivals, we provide lots of fun for adults and children alike. However, Winterfest is unique because we continue Lake Katherine’s mission to connect people with nature,” Ward said.
Lake Katherine operations manager Gareth Blakesley said the fact that it’s winter is no reason to stay indoors.
“The festival actively embraces the winter season and reminds us that we can still go outside and connect with nature throughout the seasons,” he said.
Kelly White is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
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