Raleigh Winterfest 2014

Written by Amber -

This is us at Winterfest with our friends Chris & Drienie. Let's be honest... The scarf, hat & coats were really more to stay dry in the rain since it wasn't that cold. We're still getting used to dressing for southern weather...

On Saturday, Chad and I went to our first downtown festival in Raleigh: Winterfest! Despite the rain, and even though it was 55°F (MUCH warmer than any "winter" celebration these northerners have had!) we very much enjoyed our experience. It turns out, you don't have to be able to see your breath to make it feel like Christmas. *wink, wink* 

It was festive & fun to see all the Christmas lights adorning the downtown streets, the ice skating rink, local food options on display, hot chocolate, live music, carnival rides, news station coverage, elementary school choirs, carriage rides, wine & beer garden and even a sledding hill. We were SO intrigued by the "snow-maker" that we must have stood and watched for at least a half hour. I've never seen anyone make snow before! ...It's always been more about how to remove it that is more of the issue for us up north. Haha!

As we wandered the City Plaza, Chad and I walked through the gingerbread house contest entries (WOW!), tried some local BBQ, and chatted with vendors and other friendly people out braving the rain with us. We met Sara at The Cupcake Shoppe tent. Hello, delicious treats! Anyone planning for a local party or special occasion, check them out! Wedding cakes and cupcakes, brownies, custom cookies and so much more. I especially loved their peppermint chocolate dipped marshmallows (pictured below). Yumm!

Nancy McFarlane, the mayor of Raleigh, spoke a few words from the main stage later in the evening and lead the countdown to the lighting of the city Christmas tree, which was followed by Christmas carols. What a neat event!