Frost Fest: Winter Resource Expo slated for Oct. 4

Community members will have a chance to learn more about a variety of winter outdoor recreational activities at the second annual Frost Fest: Winter Resource Expo at the Palmer Train Depot on Oct. 4.

Hosted by Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation and organized by Revel Treks and Tours, the event is designed to get people excited and informed about the different types of activities they can participate in throughout the winter ahead.

“The main goal of this event is convening all these outdoor recreation-affiliated organizations and providing a one-stop-shop where the community can come in and learn about what there is to do in the winter,” Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation Executive Director Taylor Raftery said. “If we can provide information so that people feel comfortable and safe being able to get out in the winter, which is just so important for our physical and mental health, then it's a big win for us.”

The free event, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., will provide gear demonstrations by various outdoor clubs like the Mat-Su Ski Club and Valley Mountain Bikers and Hikers. Local businesses such as Backcountry Bike and Ski will have gear to try out and Adventures by True North will be providing an ice fishing demonstration. Door prizes and giveaways available for attendees are provided by local businesses and nonprofits.

Revel Treks and Tours Owner Kierre Childers said the event is important for connecting Valley residents with a community and providing them with new opportunities to meet new people and try new activities. Families can also find information on signing their children up to participate in various winter sports teams.

“If you’re nervous about winter and what you’re going to do to pass the time, then this event is for you,” Childers said. “It’s definitely the place to find a new hobby or an activity or a club or social group that will make winter a little more manageable.”

The Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation uses the event as a way to gather information on what winter activities people want to participate in and how best they can serve the community through future grant funding and outreach efforts. Raftery said the event also provides the organization an opportunity to engage with the public face-to-face. A lot of the foundation's work occurs behind the scenes.

“Events like this mean so much to the individuals that are attending, but also the local clubs and organizations that are able to have this venue to make new connections and engage with the public,” Raftery said.

For those looking to try something new this year, or make a new set of friends, the Frost Fest: Winter Resource Expo will have something for the entire family.

“Everything to get you ready for winter,” Childers laughed, “which I know feels far away, but will be here before you know it.”

The event is supported by AARP Alaska, the Mat-Su Health Foundation and The People’s Paper.