CLINTON, Iowa — It'll be a weekend of family events, fine arts, races and a whole bunch more at the first annual "Embrace The Winter" festival coming to Clinton, Iowa, and Fulton, Illinois Feb. 2-4.
The three-day event is just the beginning of what Grow Clinton hopes will become an annual staple in the region.
"Tourism is usually down this time of year," Lesley Webster, director of placemaking & tourism for Grow Clinton, explained. "We're hoping to not only bring out community members but also people from the surrounding area as well."
More than 50 events and activities are planned for the festival. Those include:
Friday, Feb. 2
- Friday Night Lights
- Downtown areas in Fulton and Clinton will have fire rings for warmth and community.
- Community Glow
- Bring your glow sticks and head down to the riverfront! This year is a practice round, while next year, 'Embrace The Winter' hopes to set a world record!
Saturday, Feb. 3
- B-rry Scurry
- Four-mile run with pre-registration required
- Snow Trek
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
- Student Art Show & More
- Music, walk of fame, art and more
Sunday, Feb. 4
- Slip & Slide Bike Ride
- Community Candlelight Memorial Service
You can check out even more on the event's Facebook page.
Webster joined The Current on News 8 to discuss the festival and the impact she hopes it'll have on the local communities. You can watch her full interview in the above video.
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