By Darlene Brace
Join Rachael and Bryce Steffen, the proud owners of the Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House, for a delightful day at their annual Winter Festival. They invite you to be part of this fun celebration on Saturday, January 10th, from 12-6pm at the Tap House, located at 72 Main Street in beautiful Bemus Point. Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon celebrating winter in Chautauqua County with amazing winter festivities that promise a great time for the whole family. Come out to make great memories and be a part of the community as you embrace the winter season with them.
One of the highlights of this winter festival is the annual Christmas tree bonfire, which takes place in the afternoon. This tradition began years ago as an inside joke and has since blossomed into a beloved community event. After Christmas, area residents drop off their Christmas trees at the Tap House, and then during the festival a huge bonfire is created. The bonfire has become a highly anticipated part of the winter festival, illuminating the grounds and creating a beautiful scene, especially when snow is on the ground. Not only is it a beautiful sight to see, but it also helps keep everyone warm while they enjoy the outdoor activities.

If the landscape of the Tap House has a fresh blanket of snow, even more winter adventures await you. Snowmobile enthusiasts can glide across the hundreds of snowmobile trails that open on January 2nd, including the routes leading to the Tap House area. The Ellery Sno-Cruisers and other local snowmobile clubs are likely to host raffles and fundraising activities. It’s the perfect opportunity to support the snowmobile community while enjoying the frosty air activities.
If you’re seeking outdoor family fun, the sledding spot near the golf course’s hole #3 is a fantastic destination. Children will love the opportunity to build huge snow piles and make snowmen as well as making snow angels in the powdery snow. Since most of the activities will be outdoors, remember to keep an eye on the weather report before you come to the festival, and make sure you dress appropriately for the weather, so you can comfortably embrace the joys of winter.
Attendees always look forward to the live music at this festival each year. Outside on the deck, the popular local band Black Widow will return to entertain the crowd from 1-5pm. They mix it up with familiar rock tunes along with a little bit of pop and country music. Lana, the lead singer, has an amazing sultry and powerful voice that is sure to captivate you. Their music will get you moving to the beat and help keep you warm on this fun wintery afternoon.
When you have worked up an appetite, the usual Tap House menu will be available, which features a delightful array of options to suit all tastes. Guests can enjoy a variety of appetizers perfect for sharing, along with salads, soups, and classic favorites like pizza and wings. For those looking for something a bit more substantial, the artisan sandwiches, gourmet burgers, and eclectic bites entrees are delicious choices. They are also likely to have a variety of holiday food and drink specials. Additionally, there will be an outside beer trailer available (weather permitting) that allows patrons to purchase beverages while relaxing and enjoying the live music and outdoors activities. For your little ones, there is a dedicated kids’ menu designed to please them, featuring kid-friendly favorites such as hot dogs, grilled cheese, chicken fingers, mac and cheese, and more.
The Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House welcomes everyone, as it is not a private club. It remains open year-round, hosting a variety of events throughout the year for the enjoyment of the community. This year, their Winter Festival is sure to be a delightful day filled with winter-themed events. Attendees can look forward to fun activities suitable for all ages, live music, and the Christmas tree bonfire that has become a heartwarming tradition in the community. Be sure to mark your calendars for January 10th, and be ready to bring your family and friends for a fun filled day at the Bemus Point Winter Festival, for this great community event that celebrates the wonders of winter.
The Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House is located on Main Street in Bemus Point. To learn more visit them on social media.
