Clearfield YMCA hosts WinterFest on Jan. 31
Last year’s event. — Courtesy Parker Dam State Park Facebook page
Events include a polar plunge, frozen salami swing
By Andy Stine
astine@altoonamirror.com
CLEARFIELD — For those looking for a day to get outside and enjoy the winter weather, the Clearfield YMCA’s annual WinterFest is slated for Saturday, Jan. 31, at Parker Dam State Park in Penfield.
The event, which has previously been held over a two-day weekend, is reduced to just one day this year.
The day’s events kick off at 10 a.m. with the Freeze Your Gizzard 5K, a beloved Winterfest tradition that brings runners and walkers together to celebrate the season. There will be fun prizes for things like best costume, oldest runner, least amount of clothing, etc.
The course winds through scenic Parker Dam State Park and is geared toward participants of all ages and abilities. The race begins and ends at the Parker Dam beach house, where warm refreshments and Winterfest festivities await when those crossing the finish line.
Registration is $20; the deadline to enter is Jan. 24. To register, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/PA/Penfield/FreezeYourGizzard5KRace.
Ice skating, weather dependent, will be available, with ice skate rentals opening at 10 a.m. The ice skate swap begins at 10:30 a.m..
At noon, there will be an Arctic Blast Cornhole Tournament, which requires pre-registration with the YMCA.
The kid’s Snow Box Derby starts at 1 p.m., while historic ice harvesting gets underway at 1:30 p.m., followed by the frozen salami swing at 2 p.m.
The day’s events wrap up with the polar plunge at 4 p.m.
Those taking part in the polar plunge are asked to collect pledges for the feat, with the minimum total in pledges set at $25 for adults and $20 for those 12 to 21 years of age. Pledge forms are available on the YMCA’s website at clearfieldymca.org.
Other events throughout the day include a snowman building contest, ice bowling, ice putt-putt golf and ice skating. The ice events are weather dependent.
Representatives from Parker Dam will also be on hand with educational programming.
Check the event’s Facebook page ‘WinterFest 2026’ for event updates and schedule changes as the event moves closer.
The Clearfield YMCA is a charitable, nonprofit organization that provides opportunities to all individuals and families in the community through programs, services and activities that build healthy spirit, mind and body.
The Y is at 21 N. Second St., Clearfield, and can be reached at 814-765-5521 or through its website and Facebook page.
The Y is open from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Do you have a news tip or events happening in your community that you would like to share? Contact Andy Stine at astine@altoonamirror.com.