News & Stories
2022 Winter Festival & Luminary Loppet Recap
To everyone that came out to enjoy The 20th Anniversary of The Winter Festival: THANK YOU!
This year was so special as we got to celebrate 20 amazing years of The Winter Festival with over 31 different races split over two days, The Luminary Loppet and a great Luminary party. We had over 2500 participants in a myriad of cross country skiing, fat tire biking, skijoring, snowshoeing, and orienteering races along with the large crew in the Kubb tournament. We watched participants join for their first race ever and saw old friends coming back again to don a Loppet bib. There were over 16,000 registrants for the Luminary Loppet and Lake of the Isles looked more beautiful than ever thanks to the luminarians. We had to change how we did some things last year due to COVID-19 so being able to get together this year was a treat for all.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t shout out all of the volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to helping make this weekend a success. The Loppet Foundation wouldn’t be what it is without all of you and for that we say thank you. To everyone who signed up for an event: thank you! It was a joy to watch you give it all you had and we hope to see you at future Loppet Foundation events. To all those cheering on the sidelines: thanks for being willing to get a little chilly to cheer on the participants. Your cheers help keep everyone going in those tough moments and were icing on the cake for the triumphant moments.
We had amazing sponsors and partners who helped make this weekend a success. There were sponsored races, the festival village to meet sponsors at The Trailhead and sponsor booths at the Luminary party. Your help and support mean the world to us and we hope you enjoyed your time at The Winter Festival as well.
The Luminary had perfect weather to walk around Lake of the Isles and marvel at the ice art that had been created. There were stops for hot chocolateand a new ice installation in the form of the Chuck & Don’s Luminary Lane that was a fan favorite. The ice musicians, fire dancers and penguins all drew a crowd and were a hit. At the REI Co-op Luminary Party you were treated to the musical stylings of That Cover Band, treats from food trucks and drinks from Surly. It was great to see all of the smiling faces enjoying the evening.
This year was special, not only because it was the 20th Anniversary but because we were able to come together as a community to celebrate the best of winter and outdoor adventures. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.