Lava Hot Springs' Fire & Ice Winter Fest

February 6, 7 & 8, 2009

Beat the winter blues with a weekend of fun-filled adventure in beautiful Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, during Fire and Ice Winter Fest, the annual fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce, held February 6, 7 & 8, 2009.

Begin the weekend at 6 p.m. Friday with a sampling of Idaho wines and appetizers at the historic Riverside Inn located on the banks of the Portneuf River at 255 Portneuf River Road. Entry fee of $12 includes wine, appetizers and a wine glass. Call Nathleen at (208) 776-5504 for information and reservations.

Cap off your Friday evening off by showcasing your musical talents at the Wagon Wheel Lounge's Karaoke Contest beginning at 8 p.m. and continuing until we run out of contestants (225 E Main Street). Entry fee is $5 per song. Cash and merchandise prizes awarded to the evening's best entertainment. For information and registration information, please call Mike or Shelly at (208) 776-5224.

Saturday begins with the Barista Contest at Aura Soma Lava Espresso & Gift Shop at 196 E Main Street. Entrants have 15 minutes to create two espresso shots, two cappuccinos and two signature espresso beverages of choice. Come see the area's best baristas show off their creations in this dual of the java. For more information and contestant registration information, please call Scott at (208) 776-5800.

In the afternoon participate in the one-quarter mile Polar Bear Float down the Portneuf River for cash prizes. Yes, wetsuits are allowed for those who are warm-blooded and creative floats are encouraged. $10 entry fee. Tubes available at Mountain Mayhem (155 E Main). Not willing to brave the cold water, watch the excitement from the river walkway as this is sight not to be missed. See HYPERLINK "http://www.lavahotsprings.org" www.lavahotsprings.org for contest rules and registration information. Any questions, please call Sam at (208) 776-9792.

If floating the icy river isn't your thing, checkout the Lava Hot Springs Foundation's heated indoor swimming pool. Kids can test their skills on the rock climbing wall and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of water games and events. Or if you prefer to experience the great outdoors, try out the new Frisbee golf courses. Nine holes are located across from the indoor swimming pool and another nine holes are located at Lava Lions Park. For pool and golf information, please call (208) 776-5221 or (800) 423-8597. Another fun option, for the kid in you is to participate in the Blue Moon Bar & Grill's winter carnival games (100 S 1st Ave East). Please call Gayle or Patty for details at (208) 776-5077.

Warm-up throughout the day at the community fire located at Festival Center on Main Street and 2nd Ave East or participate in the Chili Tasting Contest at the Chuckwagon Restaurant (211 East Main) and Johnny's Café (78 East Main) where your taste buds will experience the heat of great home cooking. Better yet, bring your own pre-made chili and participate for cash prizes. Pre-registration required. See HYPERLINK "http://www.lavahotsprings.org" www.lavahotsprings.org for contest rules and registration information.

Throughout the day, explore Lava Hot Springs while participating in the Lava Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Treasure Hunt. Try your hand at deciphering clues to specific locations in the area in order to qualify to win great prizes donated by local merchants. Register for this event at the Festival Center on Main Street.

Saturday night try your hand at earning bragging rights (and great prizes!) by participating in the fun-filled action of Twenty-one and Texas Hold'em at Casino Night held at the Lava Community and Senior Center (Center Street - across from Olympic Pool). All ages invited. Wine and beer will be available for purchase. $10 entry fee. For more information, please call Mark at (208) 776-5221 or (800) 423-8597.

Sunday morning get off to a brisk start with the Running of the Bulls. Participants of all ages are invited to jog down Main Street in nothing but their swimming suits and flip flops. Swim suits in the snow? Why not? At the end, jump into the warmth of Idaho's World Famous Hot Springs.

All proceeds from entry fees benefit the Lava Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce. For more information, including registration details for the events, please see our website at HYPERLINK "http://www.lavahotsprings.org" www.lavahotsprings.org or contact Julie Hill at 208-851-2667.