Winterfest returns to Beech

The annual Winterfest returns to Beech Mountain Resort Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 5 and 6.

The town of Beech Mountain will host the North Carolina State Championship Snowshoe Race on Saturday, Jan. 5.

On Saturday, parents get a break with a new event for kids. Snow Day Camp runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering winter activities for children. Snow Day Camp costs $25 and includes ice-skating, face painting, craft making and lunch.

For those who prefer to watch the snow from indoors, an acoustic bluegrass band will be playing in the Beech Tree Bar and Grille during the day. During the session break, karaoke will be held in the View Haus. Finally, from 7 to 10 p.m., area hip-hop group BPL will play in the Beech Tree.

Events for Sunday include the annual Cardboard Box Derby. Visual judging begins at noon, and the derby race begins at 2 p.m.

The Winterfest Rail Jam kicks off at noon, and the Roots Ride Shop Skateboard Competition will start at 3 p.m.

Sales on apparel and equipment will be held throughout the weekend, and demos of the latest ski and snowboard equipment will also be featured.

Other attractions, including a live ice-sculpting, inflatables, professional figure-skating demonstrations and figure-skating lessons, will also be held at the resort.

Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway in Beech Mountain. For more information, call (828) 387-2011, or visit http://www.beechmountainresort.com.