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WinterFest is Coming! Sign Up in Advance for the Polar Plunge, WinterPaws Dog Show

If you didn’t get your fill of winter fun from our recent bout of low temperatures and fluffy snow, just hang in there! Blowing Rock’s WinterFest will be here before you know it — Jan. 26-29, in fact — and the town will come alive with more ways than one to tap into its winter wonderland.

All of your favorite events are back this year, along with some new ones! We’ll continue to keep you updated on all things WinterFest, but, for now, here are the details on the highlights of the weekend that require registration in advance and the information you’ll need if you want to participate.

The Polar Plunge: Saturday, Jan. 28

If you’re feeling adventurous and you’re up for some serious cooling off, jump right in to a frozen Chetola Lake as part of the annual Polar Plunge challenge and help support two local charities — Western Youth Network and the Hospitality House.

Be one of the wild and crazy do-gooders to sport a funky costume and take the plunge this year! WBTV’s John Carter will be on hand to emcee the festivities, and a “Golden Plunge” will be awarded to the jumper with the best costume.

Day-of registration will begin at 9 a.m. on Jan. 28 and the fee to participate is $35 per person. The first 75 participants will receive a “Freezin’ for a Reason” WinterFest cup. The plunge will begin at 10 a.m.

To register in advance, download and complete the entry form and return it to Billie Rogers at the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce or call 828-295-7851.unnamed

WinterPaws Dog Show: Sunday, Jan. 29

Sign your four-legged family members up to participate in the Watauga Humane Society’s WinterPaws Dog Show at the Blowing Rock Elementary School gym!

Registration at the door will begin at noon and the show will start at 1 p.m. Enter your pet for $5 per category or $25 all six categories: Most Unique Looking Mix of Breeds, Best Wiggle Butt, Most Clever Dog Trick, Cutest Looking Dog in the World, Best Winter Fashion Wear and Most Crooked Smile. The winner from each category will compete for the title of Best in Show and the grand prize! Raffle tickets for the humane society’s Valentine’s Day raffle will be on sale, as well as concessions – so come hungry!

Bring your friends who don’t have pets, too! Several shelter dogs will be on-site looking for a forever home. All proceeds will support the humane society.

Download the registration form here and contact the humane society for more information.