Mackinac Island Winter Festival Promotes Family Fun Feb. 2-3

A football-playing turtle is pictured on Mackinac Island's Winter Festival button this year, as the Island event coincides with Super Bowl weekend. Each year, the turtle is engaged in a different activity. Buttons are available for $3 from elementary students at Mackinac Island Public School and at the concessions Saturday, February 2, and Sunday, February 3. Proceeds go to Mackinac Island Recreational Development to improve recreation facilities on Mackinac Island.

Summer games will turn into winter events at the 32nd Annual Mackinac Island Winter Festival Saturday, February 2, and Sunday, February 3. Taking place during Super Bowl weekend, the theme for this year's event is the Super Bowl. The Island version of the Super Bowl will be played in the snow Sunday. Residents can enter a snow sculpting contest using the theme to create representations of helmets, footballs, favorite players, and anything else that fits their football interest.

Beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday at Great Turtle Park, a warming fire, sledding, and games for all ages are planned, including snow bowling, broom hockey, and snow golf. Skiing and an egg hunt Saturday are among the family events planned. In the afternoon, children will find their way through a winter obstacle course. An evening hoe-down will be in Johnson Hall at Mission Point Resort, followed by music at Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub and the Village Inn Restaurant. A teen night is planned at Turtle Park.

Sunday events start at 10 a.m. with a brunch at the Mackinac Island Public School. A photography contest for the 2010 "Seasons of Mackinac" calendar, bake sale, and silent auction also are planned. In the afternoon, snow volleyball is scheduled and Mackinac Island's version of the Super Bowl will be played as flag football in the snow.

Snow sculptures must be completed by Friday, February 1, and will be judged. The winner will receive $100. The event is sponsored by Mackinac Woodworks.