Mother Nature was certainly kind to us last week by blanketing the area in lots of pretty white fluff. Wisp has almost all of their slopes open, not to mention the tubing park and ice skating rink. It is definitely a great weekend to be coming into the area. If you want to experience a true ‘Mountain Winter Escape’, then I suggest that you head to Oakland Winterfest! This is one event that I always look forward to! Held in downtown Oakland, visitors will find a true winter wonderland. Going on its 5th year, the event is sponsored by various Oakland businesses and will be held from February 17th to the 19th. What might one find at this Winterfest? The highlight of the event are the amazing and unique ice sculptures that can be viewed throughout the town. Master carver, Bill Sandusky, from Frozen Assets Ice Carving Company will be returning for his 5th year to showcase his astounding talent. Local businesses are given the opportunity to purchase a sculpture that Bill will carve, generally, in an image pertaining to the business. He will do five live carvings on Saturday and “The Tribute to Oakland” on Sunday. The displays are well lit at night and on display until they melt. For the little ones, there is a ice sculpted bowling lane, an actual slide made out of ice, and in ice throne for them to perch on. They will also be able to take home a free personalized block of ice with their name in it. Other activities that will be going on are the snowman building competition, the crowning of “SnowFlake Toddler and Princess”, various craft vendors, and horse drawn sleigh rides by Pleasant Valley Dream Rides. Various dining establishments will be offering hot soup specials throughout the weekend as well. Still unsure? Think hot chocolate! Warm beverages and snacks can also be purchased at several locations throughout the town. If you are looking for some real old fashioned family fun then I highly recommend that you head to downtown Oakland this weekend to check out this excellent event. In the meantime, snow is on the ground, perfect for snow shoeing or cross country skiing. Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations is running some great specials for next weekend, so now is the perfect time to call to reserve your dream vacation home. In the meantime, we can’t wait to see you at the lake! http://www.deepcreekvacations.com/