(COLDWATER) - WinterFest will going on Saturday in Coldwater.
However, organizers are making some modifications to the popular event due to forecasted sub-zero temperatures.
Coldwater Recreation Department Director Julie Santure says the carriage rides and sled dogs will not be a part of this year's event due to the extreme cold, but every other activity will occur with some slight changes.
The highlight of the day remains the always-popular Kiwanis Cardboard Sled Races. To limit exposure to the cold, races will be run in heats at Kiwanis Hill, reducing time outdoors for both participants and spectators.
This year's sled races will feature a new and streamlined format. All sleds need to be checked in inside the Coldwater Recreation Center between 10 ad 10:30 AM, with races starting at 11 AM.
This year's sled classes will be: Class 1: Ages 8 & under, with 1 or 2 riders per sled; Class 2: Ages 9-17, 1 or 2 riders per sled; and Class 3: Adults & Teams, 1-5 riders per sled.
Individuals, businesses, and service clubs are encouraged to participate.
Participants should follow all rules and regulations and register for the race at https://coldwater.recdesk.com/
WinterFest will be buzzing with activity inside the Recreation Center all day long, including free kids' activities courtesy of the Eby Center, free hot cocoa and coffee provided by the Children's Museum, free s'mores provided by Sunrise Rotary, a wintery selfie station, inflatables, a balloon artist, and more. The Branch District Library bookmobile and El Cunado food truck will be onsite, plus many of the sponsors will have tables inside with free giveaways and information.
For more details, updates or questions, please visit Coldwater.org or call the Rec Center at 517-278-8566.