Perch derby, 5K race, sledding, skiing top Pentwater Winterfest activities

February 5, 2025

Ice anglers gather on Pentwater Lake to form a “Shanty Town” in this OCP file photo.

PENTWATER — Village of Pentwater residents and visitors are gearing up for the annual Winterfest celebration this weekend.

A highlight event is the 15th Annual Ryan Williams Perch Derby Saturday, Feb. 8, on Pentwater Lake — weather and ice conditions permitting.

The ice fishing competition runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is from 7-10 a.m. at the Pentwater Convenience Center and Port View Wine & Beer Market. The fee is $10 per adult or $5 per child — age 15 or younger. There are 100 percent cash and prize payouts for first, second, and third place prizes. The final weigh-in will be at Port View no later than 4 p.m.

Winterfest also features the Snowman Scram 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, which is a fundraiser for Pentwater Public School’s cross country and track teams. It starts at 11 a.m. Saturday at the school’s bus barn. In-person registration begins at 9:30 a.m., and all runners must be registered by 10:30 a.m. For more information and to sign up online, visit Snowman Scram.

Local shops and restaurants will feature special Winterfest promotions Saturday. Bring your sleds to enjoy sledding at the Village Green.

The Oceana Cross Country Ski Association invites the public to use its adult and children’s equipment for free on a first come, first serve basis Sunday, Feb. 9, from 1-4 p.m. at the Crystal Valley Ski Trails, at 1801 E. River Rd. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 

For more information about Winterfest, visit the Pentwater Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

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Eats & Drinks

Eats & Drinks

Eats & Drinks

Eats & Drinks