WinterFest offers healthy alternative to climbing the walls

Despite inclement weather, hundreds turn out for annual Island celebration, where everything is free

Kids enjoyed trying their hand on the school’s climbing wall.  Photo by Jenna Lookner.

THE ISLAND–A bit of winter weather wasn’t enough to deter approximately 600 attendees from  packing the 20th annual WinterFest celebration on Jan. 17, where all events were free.

Attendees chatted with neighbors and local organizations, enjoyed activities for all ages, and attended workshops offered by several island organizations. A performance by the Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers was among the offerings at the Reach Performing Arts Center. 

While the festival traditionally ends with fireworks and dinner in Stonington, inclement weather initially caused the Healthy Island Project, which organizes the annual event, to postpone the evening portion to Sunday. A lingering storm ultimately required organizers to reluctantly cancel, promising an even larger fireworks show when WinterFest returns in 2027. 

Above: A balloon arch by local resident Logan Melanio greeted WinterFest participants. Mira Carter, 17, left and Charlie Lincoln, 13 with Frosty. Kate Tomkins of Chickadee Compost. Stonington Public Library director Ethan Yankura discusses balloon animals with Abigail Lincoln of Deer Isle. Maine Service Fellow Holly Warner (left) and Stonington town manager Kathleen Billings. James Rutter, technology director at Haystack, at a table filled with creative arts. Photos by Jenna Lookner.