By Kate Bartlett
Mark your calendars for this Saturday, January 20 for the 10th annual Bemus Point WinterFest. This annual event is a celebration of winter as well as a fundraiser for the local snowmobile clubs. With activities for all ages, live music, Christmas Tree Bonfire and Fireworks at 6pm, it’s sure to be a fun filled winter day at the Bemus Point Golf Course. It is free, and open to the public and will be both an indoor and outdoor event.
WinterFest started in 2013 as a brainchild of the WinterFest Committee as a heartfelt gesture to give back to the local snowmobile clubs. Originating from a love for snowmobiling and a deep connection to the community, the event has grown into a cherished tradition over the past 10 years. Rachael Wiley-Steffen, a dedicated committee member, expresses her joy: “I’m thrilled that the community has embraced this event. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together, revel in winter, and support a fantastic cause.”
The event will take place at the Bemus Point Golf Course on Saturday, January 20th from 12-6pm and will feature local food and craft vendors, live music, 50/50 auction, Christmas tree bonfire, and one of the largest Chinese auctions of the season. “We are so grateful the community has helped up build such a lucrative auction with great swag. Every year, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude at the generous donations. We’ve collected an impressive selection so far and can’t wait to share with the community.” In addition to donations from local restaurants and shops, baskets also include snowmobile gear and other unique items.
The annual Christmas Tree Bonfire will take place starting around 12:30. “We love this event and the community looks forward to it every year. It’s a great way to help out and have fun at the same time,” says Rachael. It started as somewhat of a practical joke, when Bryce’s dad, Mike, played a prank on his friend Norm Skillman, owner of a local boutique. Mike placed a sign outside of Norms shop saying “Dispose of Christmas Tree’s here.” People started pilling their trees in the parking lot and Norm had to figure out what to do with them. Norm has since passed, and the bonfire is something the Steffans do in his remembrance.
Black Widow takes the stage at 1:30 playing until 5:30 on the outdoor stage on the golf course. Consistently voted Buffalo’s #1 Rock Band, Black Widow plays a diverse set of party, rock, dance, country and alternative songs with their raw talent and high-energy stage performance. “Lana and her band members are outstanding,” says Rachael. “They have a great following and bring an amazing energy to the festival. It’s become a tradition; the crowd jams out and we love it.”
This year, Campbell Dawson will once again be the event emcee, announcing events throughout the day and keeping pace for the festivities. As many as 25 vendors are expected at the outdoor market. “It’s a great winter market. Vendors bring their tents, generators and sometimes heaters. Shoppers stroll along and immersed in the winter weather, feeling cozy by the fire.”
The firework show sets off at 6pm, taking advantage of the early nightfall and closing the celebration with a bang. “The fireworks are more magical to me in the winter,” says Rachael. “The way they glisten over the snow and reflect off the lake with the crowd cuddling with loved ones to stay warm. It’s really spectacular.”
100% proceeds benefit the 5 local snowmobile groups: Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Club, Cherry Creek Sno-Goers, Ellery Sno Cruisers, Lake Effect Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club and Sunset Sno Drifters. “Even though we haven’t had much snow yet this winter, the clubs are still active. There’s still bills to pay and they work hard to sign the trails no matter the weather.”
Rachael’s favorite thing about the event is getting the community together to celebrate winter and support a cause she’s passionate about. “I just love bringing the community together. It’s become something everyone looks forward to. The entire committee works tirelessly for this event and we’re so grateful for each other.” Along with Rachael, WinterFest Committee includes her husband Bryce Steffen, Mitch Splawski, Jess Splawski, Jenna Head, Ryan Crandall…
For more information, follow the event on Facebook @ WinterFest 2024 or simply stop down to the Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House located at 72 Main Street in Bemus Point from 12-6 on Saturday, January 20th