Nearly every business in town will have a sculpture this year, explained James Gietzen, owner of JAG Entertainment, who produces the event.
"The festival is designed to bring people out of their homes during the winter months,” Gietzen said, “and businesses hope to attract them.”
Gietzen said distributing the sculptures throughout the downtown offers audiences a chance to see the art of the sculptors without the crush of crowds. He noted that visitors can enjoy the ice works at their own pace which can be a real advantage to families with younger children.
This year, the traditional attractions will fill the streets, including the exceptionally popular petting farm which draws huge crowds, Gietzen said. One added feature is the addition of two more warming stations.
“The Hot Spot near the Gathering sponsored by Ehlers will be open during the event as they usually are,” Gietzen said, “and there will be food vendors, drinks, face painting and bathrooms available there.” This year, two more warming stations have been added. One at the Plymouth Arts and Recreation Complex (PARC) on Main Street across from the library. Gietzen said that a hallway in the former school building will feature an art exhibit people can enjoy while getting out of the cold. “United Way will also be open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday with hot beverages and snacks,” Gietzen said. United Way is located at 960 Ann Arbor Trail.
The Rotary club sponsored Bingo game will return and the Party Tent which attracts a huge crowd will again be open in the parking lot behind E.G. Nick's on Forest Street.
“This is just a real community event, designed for families, but with attractions for everyone,” Gietzen said.
“Our only concern, as always, is the weather.”
