Remember this last year? For years we have battled putting a lot of stoked climbers into spaces that don’t necessarily hold large numbers of stoked climbers and last year was no exception. We appreciate all of the great feedback from participants and have made a concerted effort to address some of the overcrowding issues. (did ya hear we are not having classes on the Dryer Hose or the Ampitheater?)
Yes New Headquarters Again!
Last year the Michigan Ice Fest relocated to a new headquarters located at the American Legion Hall. We were welcomed with open arms and the members
took very good care of our Ice Fest family. One problem is that with the increase of participants we were severely overcrowded….yep we outgrew the Legion in one year! With the blessing of the Legion, our new headquarters for 2017 will be at the Central Community Center!
With our additional space we should be more organized and certainly more comfortable without being overcrowded. The Central Community Center will be home to registration, demos, vendors, mini presentations and more!
One change that will come with the new headquarters is there will be NO ALCOHOL allowed inside the school. So that brings us to…
After parties- Yes We Are Going Home!
After the presentations and films we will be hosting after parties at a few of the local bars. This will be your chance to hang out, have a drink and talk to the pro athletes. The headquarters and store will still be open during the parties so if you need anything for the following day this is a great time to stop by.
Wednesday – Shooters Bar
Munising’s original brew pub, Shooters Firehouse Brewpub is an homage to the volunteer fire department. A typical Upper Peninsula establishment, this will be the perfect place to welcome climbers after a long first day on the ice!
Thursday – East Channel Brewery
Munising’s newest brewery, the East Channel Brewery offers a variety of unique brewed beers “made with water from the freshest lake in the world!”
Friday – 387 (formerly Sydney’s)
We are going home! For decades Sydney’s was the home of the Michigan Ice Fest and to be honest we kind of miss them. Based on participant feedback, last year’s after party was just too darn crowded. This year we are going to gather upstairs at 387, the new name of Sydney’s, and laugh and tell stories just like we use to! The Ore Dock Brewing Company will be there with some free beer as well as a cash bar. Come meet our athletes, catch up with old friends, and enjoy one of the finest beers brewed right here in the U.P.
Saturday – 387 (formally Sydney’s)
You asked for it and this year we are going to deliver! Saturday 387 will be closing down for the 2017 Michigan Ice Fest and we will be taking over the building! Ice Fest participants will have access to the entire building providing plenty of room for everyone. Once again free beer from the Ore Dock and, YES, a band and dancing!
Please spread the word, big changes but we think everyone will like what we have in store for the fest….as you all know, nobody throws a party like Michigan Ice!