Snowfest
is Collier County Parks & Recreation Department’s signature event.
The event was established in 1985 with the concept of giving the community
the thrill of getting to play in snow in 80-degree weather. Starting out
with only 5 tons of snow and a few hundred people, the festival has grown
to become Collier County’s largest community even, attracting over
15,000 people.
The event has many attractions, but the leading attraction
is the 100 tons of snow. 1200 blocks of ice are trucked in and put through
an ice
chipper, which is magically transformed into snow. Other
attractions include a
full scale
carnival, entertainment, hands on arts & crafts, food vendors and Collier Rotary Club, Children's Bike and Christmas tree Giveaway.
The success of Snowfest depends
on a strong volunteer base. Over 75 people donated their time by volunteering
at Snowfest last year.
Snowfest
attracts individuals of all ages, from infants to Grandparents. Neapolitan
Family Magazine awarded Snowfest, The Family Choice Award
- “Best Fun For The Family - Festival or Event for Kids in February
of 2003.
Since its inception, many other Florida cities and counties have
contacted us about the event to establish their own snow festivals. The
department
is very proud of the success of Snowfest and strives to make each year
more spectacular than ever.
When did Snowfest begin?
1985
How many tons of Snow did you have when the event first started?
5 tons
How many people attended the first Snowfest?
A few hundred.
How is the snow made?
1200 Blocks of ice are put thru a chipper creating 100 tons of snow.
What should you bring
to the events?
Snow is cold. be sure
to bring mittens or gloves, hats & perhaps even boots.
|