Amana celebrates winter Saturday

AMANA -- After enduring two storms that dumped a couple of feet of snow in the area and arctic temperatures that froze the state, residents may be seeking a way to enjoy winter.

The Amana Colonies are celebrating the season Saturday with their annual Winterfest.

The Chickdees will open the weekend Friday night at the Millstream Brau House from 6-9 p.m. Friday.

Saturday morning runners will pickup their packets for the Amana Freezer 5k from 8:30-9:30 at the Caring Studio at Hotel Millwright. Participants will run from Amana to East Amana.

Registration is open online at amanacolonies.com. Adults will receive free samples. A $50 prize will be drawn from participants who complete their passports.

Passports are available at any Amana winery and at Millstream Brewing Company.

Winterfest games and the Big Chili Feed will take place from noon until 4 p.m. at the Market Barn in Amana.

The volunteer fire department will supply the chili and will be served in the 2024 Winterfest mug while supplies last.

Competitors will show off their facial hair in the best beard contest at 3 p.m. at the Market Barn.

Millstream Brewing Company will feature marshmallow toasting from noon to 3 p.m.

Joel Berger will perform classic acoustic tunes from 6-9 p.m. in the taproom.