Ice-skating, hockey, sleigh rides and snow shoeing can all be part of your weekend plans. The Frozen Assets Festival on Lake Mendota offers the perfect opportunity to try something new, and gain a new respect for the lakes that make Madison beautiful year round. Hosted at the Edgewater, the festival includes both outdoor and indoor activities. The Clean Lakes Alliance sponsors the festival, which includes all kinds of free and low cost opportunities to enjoy the frozen lake, and learn new skills. While admission to the festival is free, the weekend is also a fundraiser. The Clean Lakes Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the water quality of the lakes, streams and wetlands of the Yahara River watershed. Funds raised through participation is some of the events support this work.
The annual event was expected to include a fat bike race and a 5K race. Ice conditions are just too slick to make those races safe this year, so they were cancelled. Even so, the thickness of the ice on the lake is excellent, and will lend itself well to the other events planned. Visitors can expect a wide range of demonstrations, including speed skating by Olympic Gold Medalist Casey FitzRandolph, figure skating performances, a visit from Bucky Badger, and more. Also look for the ice science lab, dance performances by a few area groups, and bold, beautiful kites flown right over the lake.
While there, be sure to enjoy some hot cocoa and s'mores, provided by Artisan Kettle Organic Chocolate and the Gehring Family Foundation. Ice skating is also free, with skates available to rent for $3. The Frozen Assets Festival is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p..m. A full schedule of events can be viewed here.
