Ice anglers on Pentwater Lake.
PENTWATER — The Pentwater Chamber of Commerce invites residents and visitors to enjoy winter along the lakeshore during Pentwater Winterfest, featuring outdoor recreation, arts, shopping, and family-friendly activities.
The main Winterfest celebration takes place on Saturday, Feb. 14, in downtown Pentwater, with additional events occurring the previous Sunday, Feb. 8.
Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026:
Ryan Williams Perch Derby, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. weather permitting on Pentwater Lake. The competition is open to participants ages 3–15. You must be present to win, and trophies will be awarded. Registration and weigh-in will be at the Pentwater Convenience Center and Port View.
Free Cross Country Ski Day, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Crystal Valley Ski Trails in the Manistee National Forest. The Oceana Cross Country Ski Association (OCCSA) invites the public to enjoy free use of adult and children’s cross country ski equipment on a first-come, first-serve basis. Photo identification is required to borrow the equipment, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. OCCSA volunteers will assist with fitting equipment and provide basic instruction. Trails range from easy to challenging — suitable for all experience levels. Parents of young children should plan to ski with them for approximately one hour. Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for winter conditions, including warm socks, hats, gloves or mittens, snow pants, and layered clothing. All skiers must be finished skiing, return equipment, and change back into their own footwear no later than 2 p.m. OCCSA is a volunteer-based, grassroots organization founded in 1996, maintaining trails at both Crystal Valley and Pentwater Pathways. For weather updates, map of trail and snow conditions, visit oceanaski.org or follow the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association on Facebook.
Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026
All day events
Free Fishing Weekend — Enjoy Michigan’s free fishing weekend with no fishing license required.
Ice Skating and Sledding – Village Green, weather permitting. Ice skates are available in limited quantities and sizes.
Downtown Shopping and Dining — Pentwater shops and restaurants will offer Winterfest sales and specials throughout the day.
Scheduled Events
Puzzle Contest, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. hosted by the Pentwater Library. Pre-registration is required — call 231-869-8581.
Snowman Scram 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, 11 a.m. Hosted by the Pentwater cross country and track teams. Register HERE
Step Inside a Winter Story, 1 p.m. at Storybook Village
Cocoa, Corks and Canvas, 2-5 p.m. Hosted by the Pentwater Arts Council. Enjoy cocoa, wine, and art at participating downtown businesses. Wristbands are $20 in advance at Green Isaac’s or Port View and $25 at the door. Minors are free with a paid adult. Proceeds benefit art education.
Live Music at Village Pub, 7:30 p.m.
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