All Life Is Local: Get Out! and Get Frosted for FREE at Franklin

By Peggy Robin

There’s a free winter festival that’s been running for the past two weekends at Franklin Park – and I’ve found out about it in just in time for the final weekend.

It’s the FROSTED AT FRANKLIN winter festival, and there’s lots of good stuff planned for Saturday and Sunday (December 16 & 17).

Here’s the general description:

Walk into a winter wonderland as Franklin Park transforms into a luminous display of lights and festive activations…. Santa Claus will return on Saturday, December 16, 2023, for one last enchanting appearance ensuring every wish is granted and every heart is filled with the warmth of the season.

Here are the other activities scheduled for Saturday and Sunday:

Ice Sculpture Island

Date: December 16-17
Time: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Step into a world of frozen imagination on Ice Sculpture Island. Marvel at shimmering ice sculptures defying time and temperature. Skilled sculptors bring the ice to life with chainsaws and chisels, a mesmerizing dance between art and the elements. Live ice sculpting demonstration.

Frozen Candy Island

Date: December 16-17
Time: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Roam free in the sugary dreamscape of Frozen Candy Island. Wander through a land of confectionery delight, where giant gumdrops live and are ready to be savored. It’s not just an activation; it’s an invitation to a world where winter magic meets confections, leaving memories that sparkle long after the event melts away.

The Illuminated Story of Baby & Momma Bear

Date: December 16-17
Time: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Embark on a heartwarming journey through “Baby and Momma Bear.” This captivating story comes to life through enchanting illumination, revealing the bond between a mother bear and her cub. Read stories by students from Strong John Thomson Elementary School, adding community warmth to the winter wonderland.

Holiday Lane

Date: December 16-17
Time: 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Embark on a harmonious celebration on Holiday Lane, weaving traditions of Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Christmas into joy and harmony. It’s a reminder that, regardless of the holiday, the true essence lies in the bonds we create and the joy we share during this festive season.

Frosted Maker’s Market

Unleash creativity in Frosted Maker’s Market, where the season’s magic comes alive. From wreath-making to screen printing, punch needling to gingerbread house crafting, each workshop is a celebration of creativity. Immerse yourself in the joy of crafting, surrounded by the scent of evergreens and warm beeswax. Workshops include:

Explore the art of candle creation with material at your fingertips, you’ll create your own candles, infusing them with your chosen scents. The gentle glow of candlelight is not only a symbol of warmth but also a medium for expressing your creativity. Our experienced candle-making artisans are on hand to share their expertise, ensuring your candles turn out as beautifully as you envision.

Beginners Crocheting Workshop

Date: Saturday, December 16 and Sunday, December 17
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $10

Are you ready to embark on a creative journey into the enchanting world of crochet? In this session, we’ll be diving into the art of crochet to craft charming star ornaments. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience with yarn and hooks, this workshop is designed to be a stellar introduction to crochet, guiding you through the steps to create beautiful and celestial ornaments. Get ready to weave your magic with yarn, as we explore the stitches and techniques needed to bring these twinkling stars to life. Let’s stitch together and discover the joy of creating something delightful with our hands!

Snow Globe Main Stage

Experience an immersive journey on the Snow Globe Main Stage. An enormous snow globe showcases a winter landscape. Performers in exquisite winter costumes twirl and dance, creating a harmonious celebration. Weekend performances featuring Matthew Critteden and the Washington Performing Arts Men and Women of Gospel Choir, Brad Linde and Frenchie Davis, Justin Trawick and Kyaira. Stay tuned for more details.